15 Best Greek Islands for Beaches

All of the Greek islands have their own unique charm, but what are the best Greek islands for beaches? Beach lovers rejoice – if you want your summer travel plans to involve copious amounts of white sand, sun loungers and beachside tavernas this year then these 10 islands won’t disappoint.

Naxos

Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades island chain and is slowly gaining a name for itself thanks to its low-key charm and some of the best big sandy beaches in Greece. If you want to stay close to the main town and harbour then the sheltered crescent of Agios Georgios has everything you need close to hand (and gorgeous sunsets over Paros), but the big stars are the luminescent colours of Prokopios, Agia Anna, and Plaka which are just down the coast. If you’re prepared to explore further you’ll be rewarded with empty beaches, some of them wild and windy.

Paros

The twin sister island of Naxos sitting directly to its west, pretty Paros has similarly spectacular beaches. Naoussa is one of the most beautiful whitewashed towns in Greece and is surrounded by several great beaches. Just a short drive away, Kolymbithres sports white sands with unusual rock formations. You’ll find watersports and lively bars at Santa Maria and a more chilled vibe at Monastiri, whilst windsurfers flock to Chrissi Akti.

Mykonos

Mykonos draws crowds for its nightlife but is also one of the best Greek islands for beaches. Paradise and Super Paradise are the main party beaches on Mykonos; big sandy with 24/7 nightlife.

If you’re looking for something a bit more relaxed then nearby Ornos and Platys Gialos are traditional resort vibes and suitable for families, or Elia which has the longest white sand beach on Mykonos. Trendy little Psarrou is Mykonos’ most bijou beach, but for seclusion try Agrari, Lia or Fokos.

Ios

The Cycladic island of Ios is one of Europe’s top destinations for white sand beaches, especially if you want a side order of nightlife. Better value for money than pricey Mykonos, the 2km beach at Mylopotas is home to the island’s beach parties. Gialos and Koumbara are two more sandy beaches close to the main town Chora.

For picture-perfect beauty away from the crowds head south to Kalamos or Papa.

Corfu

Corfu is one of the most popular islands for a beach holiday thanks to its lush green scenery and countless Blue Flag beaches.

The general rule here is that the beaches on the east coast are calm and pebbly, whereas the west coast is home to long sands and dramatic cliff beaches. There are plenty of beach resorts with great beaches in the north, and there are long stretches of quiet sands and smaller villages in the south.

Skiathos

The green and beautiful island of Skiathos is part of the Sporades island chain. The golden crescent of Koukounaries is one of the most beautiful in the Aegean. Head west to Banana Beach for beach bars and sunsets. Lalaria has some intriguing rock formations. Agia Paraskevi and Vromolimnos are similarly stunning organised sandy beaches backed by forest. The north coast is best for nature and the clothing-option crowd.

Koufonisia

The word is out on Koufonisia, a small island close to Naxos which is part of the Little Cyclades group of islands. It’s worth the journey for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters and secluded boho charm. Hike a bike and cycle around to discover the beaches of Megali Ammos, Pori, Platia Pounda and Fanos.

Crete

Crete is one of the largest islands in the Mediterranean so it’s not surprising that it has some of its best beaches. And what beauties they are. The lagoons and pink sands of Elafonisi and Balos are some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.

Generally speaking, the north of the island is more developed, whereas along the southern coast you’ll find more rugged and remote beaches.

Milos

Spectacular Sarakiniko is the poster child of beaches on Milos, the Cycladic island known for its weird and wonderful lunar rock formations. But you’ll find lovely beaches and quiet resorts around the rest of the island too.

Golden sandy beaches are found at Tsiagrado, Paleochora, Plathiena and Provatas. Firiplaka and Firopotamos are picturesque but have pebbles. Along with Sarakiniko, another unusual beach is Paliorema with its abandoned mining facilities.

Kos

It doesn’t get much press these days (in fact I think it’s due a revival), but the Dodecanese island of Kos has long been a favourite with beach lovers.

Kos Town has the long organised strip Theodorou, as well as Lambi to the north. Tigaki is possibly the most beautiful on the island, with its 10km of fine sand. It’s popular but long enough that you’ll always be able to find a spot for yourself. Mastichari, Marmari, Kardamena and Paradise Beach are the other main resorts set on beautiful beaches. When solitude is needed make for Kefalos or Limnionas.

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