Top 5: Greek Beaches

In a country strewn with great beaches, it’s nearly impossible to pick just a handful as deserving of the superlative “best.” But these five beaches embody the best of Greece’s many stretches of sand: They’re not too crowded, they’re clean and they’re simply stunning.

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Lalária Beach on Skiáthos

At Lalária beach on Skiáthos, white pebbles meet clear water and the beach is protected by steep cliffs. There’s also a rock arch and sea grottoes a short distance away.

Tholos Cove, Tílos

Tholos cove, Tílos, is reached after a short walk next to the chapel of Áyios Pandelímon. You’ll then sit on this beach largely undisturbed, for it’s much less popular than others nearby. Instead, you’ll have the cove and the view of the castle of Agriosykía all to yourself.

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Skiáthos’ Vromólimnos

Skiáthos’ Vromólimnos beach also deserves a spot on the list for its lovely perch on the Kalamáki peninsula and its pristine sand. It’s also quiet, given you have to walk a little way from the nearest bus stop to get here, but there are numerous cafes waiting when you do arrive.

Atháni, Lefkádha

Atháni, Lefkádha, is one of the best beaches in the Ionian sea. Here, blue and turquoise water lap at a beach backed by tall cliffs. You’re four kilometers removed from the nearest town of Yialos, so don’t expect a crowd.

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Avlémonas, Kythira

Avlémonas, on the east coast of Kythira island, is enveloped in a rocky bay with delightful coves for swimming.