ATHENS BEACHES
Aug 03, 2023
Athens is known for its rich history, ancient ruins, and vibrant city life, but what many people don't realize is that it also boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. From sandy stretches to pebble coves, Athens has something for everyone.
Below are a few of our favourite beaches in Athens and what you can expect to find there.
The beaches in Athens are split between organised and non-organised beaches.
Organised means you will have to pay for entry, and your sun loungers while non-organised is bring your own everything!
If you are planning a trip to the beach during the weekends, make sure you book well in advanced as most beaches will book up fast during summer!
How to get to the Athenian Riviera
The best way to get to the Athenian Riviera is to jump on to Uber and order your ride to the beach.
From central Athens the ride will take around 20-30 minutes depending on how far down the Riviera you travel down. The cost will be from €18.
You can also get down by the tram, but during the hot summer, being stuck on a Athenian tram is probably the last thing you want to do!
Voula Beach
Voula Beach is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. This sandy beach is located in the southern suburbs of Athens and offers a variety of amenities such as sun loungers, umbrellas, and showers. There are also several beach bars and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a refreshing drink.
Varkiza Beach
Varkiza Beach is a hidden gem that is located just a short drive from Athens. This pebble beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and secluded location. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a variety of amenities such as sun loungers, umbrellas, and showers. There are also several beach bars and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a refreshing drink.
Highlights of Varkiza are Holy Spirit or Coyoacan Playa beach bars
Krabo Beach
A nice secluded beach located in the Kavouri area. This beach is a must visit during summer. The beach provides sunbeds, great location and grewat food and drinks. The beach is sand and there is a entrance fee.
Akanthus Summer Club / Nalu
The Alimnos area is the first section of the Athens Riviera. The area has 4-5 beach bars along its stretch of beach but for me, Akanthus or Nalu are the pick of the bunch.
The beach has small little pebbles with crystal clear water. You will need to pay for entry in to the beach and you will also need to pay for your sunbed (the usual task when going to the beach in Athens). You do get a drink included with the sunbed purchase. Unlike Krabo the food is your standard Greek beach food, club sandwiches and watermelon. Its always busy so book ahead!
LakeVouliagmeni
Vouliagmeni Lake is a stunning natural wonder located in the heart of Athens' Riviera. This hidden gem is a must-visit destination for travellers looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
The lake is fed by underwater thermal springs that have said to provide a therapeutic healing property to ailments you may have.
The lakes temperature sits at around 25 degrees celsius (77 F), and can be swum in all year round.
The prices vary depending on the day you go and the type of sun-bed you are after. So it is best to check their website for the pricing information and the opening times to the lake.
Astir Beach Club
Astir Beach in the southern suburb of Vouliagmeni is a top destination for those seeking a luxurious beach experience in Athens. The beach is 300 metres of coastline in the crystal blue waters of the exclusive Laimos peninsula, and 20km from central Athens.
The pricing of the sun beds will vary from the day of the week you wish to go and the row you choose (Yes, the rows closest to the water are more expensive).
Prices can start from €70 for 2 sun beds and an umbrella.
The beach holds the all important Blue Flags, which guarantees crystal clear and clean swimming water.
KAPE beach
Kape beach is probably the one beach you have to visit. Its the one cove on the Riviera that feels like you are actually on a Greek Island. its only an hour drive from central Athens and is semi-organised. The semi bit is that there is food and drink you can buy, but the actual beach does not have any umbrellas or sun-beds.
This one secret beach has become very popular for the locals so it will be busy on the weekends. If you plan on going to kape beach, best get there early to swim the the crystal clear waters.
Porto Rafti
Not really part of Athens, but a 30-40 minute drive gets you away from the craziness of the Athens Riviera to a small village called Porto Rafti.
We have a guide on how to get there, where to swim and where to eat and drink
Take a look at our Porto Rafti guide, it might be the best kept secret in Athens.
How to Book Sun Beds
TheLIST: Download this app and you will be able to book not only your sun-beds but also tables for restaurants and bars in Athens
Link to APP: https://thelist-app.com/
Summerize: The original sun bed booking APP. Does the same as TheList app.
Link to APP: https://apps.apple.com/gr/app/summerize/id1118851157?l=el