What are the best beaches in Athens?
With its location close to the sea, Athens offers the best conditions for a wonderful day of sun, beach and sea. From the center of Athens you can reach several beaches in about an hour by public transport.
In Greece, the beach chairs and umbrellas of the beaches are usually free of charge if you purchase something there. However, some private beach clubs charge entrance fees.
Read here our recommendations for the most beautiful beaches near Athens.
1. Varkiza Beach
One of the most beautiful beaches near Athens is Varkiza Beach, located 22 km south of Athens. On a beautiful bay, the usually less crowded Varkiza Beach delights with its rugged beauty. Crystal clear waters, coarse-grained sand and rugged shores invite you to relax and sunbathe. The turquoise sea is a wonderful place to swim. The only drawback is that there is no natural shade.
Nearby is the exclusive Varkiza Resort beach club, one of the largest beach clubs on the Athens Riviera. It offers amenities such as restaurants, beach bars, sun loungers, water sports activities, volleyball courts, and a play area for children. However, entrance fees are charged here.
2. Schinias Beach
Another beach that definitely belongs on the list of the best beaches in Athens is the quiet Schinias Beach in Marathon Bay. The picturesque sandy beach, surrounded by numerous pine trees, is located 47 km to the north of Athens. Thanks to the shady trees right by the sea, you don't need any sunbeds and can spend the whole day on the beach without any worries.
The crystal clear water and the picturesque scenery do the rest to guarantee an idyllic day at the sea. If you wish, you can visit the adjacent Schinias National Park.
3. Vouliagmeni Beach
Vouliagmeni Beach just 20 km south of Athens is a popular destination for a beach day with its white sand and sparkling sea. The beach is equipped with showers, changing rooms, beach bars, play areas for children, umbrellas and beach chairs, and free wifi.
Although there is no sea, there is a beautiful lake just three minutes walk from Vouliagmeni Beach: Lake Vouliagmeni with a depth of 14 meters. The crystal clear water is said to be good for rheumatism and arthritis. There are comparatively high entrance fees for the private area, but the facility is very well equipped.
Also, 900 meters away from Vouliagmeni Beach is Akti Vouliagmeni Beach, which is considered the best beach in Athens for families with children. Thanks to the inflatable water park and a pirate ship playground, fun for the little ones is guaranteed. Sunbeds are included in the entrance fee.
4. Astir Beach
Astir Beach is one of the best, but at the same time most expensive beaches on the Athenian Riviera. Located in Vouliagmeni, Astir Beach is considered the beach of the rich and beautiful. It gained this fame also due to visitors like Brigitte Bardot and Jackie Onassis.
The well-kept beach is characterized by a picturesque bay and classy restaurants. If you want to be really pampered, you can enjoy waiter service at your own luxury sunbed or even a spa treatment.
5. Porto Rafti
The beautiful natural landscape of Porto Rafti is one of the reasons why the beach is so popular. Especially in high season, it can get very crowded at this beach southeast of Athens.
Young Athenians in particular prefer Porto Rafti, which delights with idyllic stretches of beach such as Erotospilia, Panorama or Avlaki. Crystal clear water, a rocky coastline and several beach bars with rhythmic music characterize this lively place.
6. Glyfada
Just 14 km south of Athens is the coastal suburb of Glyfada, a seaside resort with luxurious stores and a variety of entertainment options. Many locals are drawn to the public sandy beaches on the coast of Glyfada as they are easily accessible, well equipped as well as free of charge.
Glyfada is also famous for its nightlife and upscale beach clubs along the main coastal road Poseidonos Avenue, which turn into clubs after dark.