There's no shortage of perfect beaches in Greece: crystal-clear mint-green waters, limestone-covered backdrops and stretches of sand in almost every colour of the rainbow that you have to see to believe. It would be difficult to list all the gems of the Mediterranean peninsula, but we've hand-picked our favourite selection of breathtaking beaches that are well worth a visit. Here are the best beaches in Greece...
Ahh, Anthony Quinn Bay seduces travellers every year who come to Faliraki for its exceptional rocky coves with explosions of colour from the lush vegetation that surrounds the inlet. This picturesque bay is named after the Mexican-born American actor who starred in Zorba the Greek and The Guns of Navarone, where Anthony fell in love with this picture-perfect gem. Anthony Quinn Bay is 4 km south of Faliraki and around 16 km from the centre of Rhodes.
Balos beach is characterised by its translucent turquoise waters framing a pink-tinted seabed. The sand here stretches outwards, forming shallow sandbanks that separate the sea into multiple shallow lagoons. If you want to soak up the sun all day, parasols, sun loungers and refreshments are available on the beach.
Typical beach perfection: rolling pink sand dunes covered by a crystal-clear lagoon in every shade of blue. Elafonisi beach is the crème de la crème of Crete, and perhaps the best for Greece in general, as there are plenty of competitors. With the beauty and atmosphere of the Caribbean, the only drawback is the unpleasant crowds, especially during the high season. If you want to relax and breathe in the magnificence of Elafonisi, we recommend that you get there before midday to grab a spot on the sun lounger, or go during the low season.
This pristine stretch of sand is only accessible by car, taxi or boat from the city. Imagine towering rock faces, fringed by a snow-white shoreline and a natural rock arch, perfectly resembling a sculpted work of art. Lalaria is undoubtedly as photogenic as the most beautiful beach in the Maldives.
Let's be honest, it's no surprise that the famous wreck beach makes the list. Also known as Smugglers Cove, after the wreck's rusty home on Navagio's pearl-coloured shores, the bay is surrounded by sheer white cliffs offering stunning views. The wreck was once a cargo ship that was mistaken for a drugs vessel and was recovered by the coastguard in 1960. For a memorable photo, follow the path from the Volimes to the magnificent viewpoint overlooking the turquoise jewel.
Red Beach is undoubtedly one of Santorini's most beautiful coastal strips. The electric blue waters are surrounded by blood-red rock formations and pink sand and pebbles, making this beach a unique wonder in Greece. Nestling to the south, near the ancient village of Akrotiri, once you've tired of paddling, you can explore the famous Minoan archaeological site in Akrotiri town centre, just off the bay.
Arguably one of the most beautiful beaches on Corfu, Rovinia beach is sure to impress: a lush oasis surrounded by dense vegetation, secluded from the world, to melt away all stress. Relax on a crescent-shaped stretch of sand and pebbles and immerse yourself in natural bliss.
At first glance, you may notice how alien-like Sarakliniko looks compared to a typical beach anywhere in the world. The bay is covered in ice-white rocks, shaped over the years by wind and water, and the surrounding sea ranges in colour from deep azure to pale blue to mint green. Photos don't do this beach justice - you have to see it to believe it.
Lively beach bars, pulsating dance clubs and a bucketload of turbo beats are nestled on the golden sands of Super Paradise Beach. Set against a backdrop of rolling hills and floral displays, visitors can bask on sun loungers and join in thrilling watersports. Throughout the summer, the beach hosts exciting events like Paradise Fridays and Sundays, adding to its lively atmosphere.