From Turquoise Waters to Postcard-Perfect Views
Greece is blessed with over 13,000 km of coastline and over 200 inhabited islands, which means choosing “the most beautiful beach” can feel impossible.
But after exploring the country from Crete to Lefkada, three beaches stand out as absolute must-sees — places where the water is so blue it looks unreal, and the scenery is straight from a dream.
Whether you’re island-hopping or planning a mainland escape, these three beaches deserve a top spot on your bucket list.
🏖️ 1. Sarakiniko Beach – Milos
📍 Location: Northeastern Milos, Cyclades
Best for: Unique landscapes, photography, swimming
Why It’s Famous
Sarakiniko Beach is unlike anything else in Greece. Instead of the typical golden sand or pebble shores, Sarakiniko is covered in smooth, white volcanic rock sculpted by wind and waves into surreal shapes. The stark white backdrop contrasts with the deep turquoise Aegean Sea, making it one of the most photographed beaches in the world.
What to Expect
- No traditional sandy beach — instead, you sunbathe on natural rock “terraces”.
- Crystal-clear water perfect for snorkeling and cliff jumping.
- A lunar-like landscape that feels like stepping onto another planet.
How to Get There
From Adamas port, Sarakiniko is about 10 minutes by car or scooter. Public transport is limited, so renting a vehicle is best.
What Makes It Special
- Iconic “moon beach” look — truly unique to Milos.
- Clear, calm waters great for swimming.
- Incredible photo opportunities at sunrise and sunset.
💡 Insider Tip: Bring reef shoes if you have sensitive feet — the rocks can be slippery in some spots.
| Sarakiniko Quick Guide | Details |
|---|---|
| Island | Milos |
| Best Time to Visit | May–June or Sept–Oct |
| Beach Type | Smooth white rock |
| Facilities | None — bring your own supplies |
| Access | Car/scooter from Adamas |
🏝️ 2. Elafonissi Beach – Crete
📍 Location: Southwestern Crete
Best for: Unique pink sand, shallow turquoise lagoons, families
Why It’s Famous
Elafonissi isn’t just a beach — it’s a dreamlike lagoon where soft pink sands meet crystal-clear waters. The color comes from crushed seashells, creating a magical, otherworldly effect.
What to Expect
- A shallow lagoon perfect for wading and safe for kids.
- A protected Natura 2000 area with rare plants and nesting sea turtles.
- A small island you can walk to through knee-deep water.
How to Get There
From Chania, it’s about 75 km (1.5–2 hours by car). Roads are winding but scenic. Public buses run in summer, but a rental car offers more flexibility.
What Makes It Special
- Pink sand that looks surreal in sunlight.
- Calm, shallow water ideal for non-swimmers.
- Stunning sunsets over the Cretan Sea.
💡 Insider Tip: Visit before 10 AM or after 5 PM in summer to avoid crowds. Bring snacks and water, as the facilities are basic.
| Elafonissi Quick Guide | Details |
|---|---|
| Island | Crete |
| Best Time to Visit | Late May–early July, Sept |
| Beach Type | Fine sand, shallow lagoon |
| Facilities | Sunbeds, umbrellas, snack bars |
| Access | Car or summer bus from Chania |
🐚 3. Porto Katsiki – Lefkada
📍 Location: Southwestern Lefkada
Best for: Dramatic cliffside setting, swimming, sunbathing
Why It’s Famous
Often ranked among the best beaches in Europe, Porto Katsiki is tucked under dramatic white cliffs that plunge straight into the electric-blue Ionian Sea.
How to Get There
One of the rare “famous” Greek beaches you can reach by road.
From Lefkada Town, it’s about 45 km (1.5 hours). The final stretch is narrow and winding — parking is available above the cliffs.
What Makes It Special
- Intense blue waters that look unreal in person.
- A wide stretch of white pebbles, perfect for sunbathing.
- Excellent swimming and snorkeling conditions.
💡 Insider Tip: Bring water shoes — the beach is pebbly. The stairs to the beach are steep, so wear comfortable footwear.
| Porto Katsiki Quick Guide | Details |
|---|---|
| Island | Lefkada |
| Best Time to Visit | June or September |
| Beach Type | White pebbles |
| Facilities | Sunbeds, umbrellas, snack bar |
| Access | Car + stairs down |
📌 Quick Comparison Table
| Beach | Best For | Beach Type | Crowd Level | Swim Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sarakiniko | Photography, unique rocks | White volcanic rock | Moderate | Excellent |
| Elafonissi | Families, pink sand | Fine sand lagoon | Crowded midday | Very calm/shallow |
| Porto Katsiki | Swimming, sunbathing | White pebbles | Moderate-high | Excellent |
✨ Final Thoughts
Greece has hundreds of breathtaking beaches, but Sarakiniko, Elafonissi, and Porto Katsiki are in a league of their own. They combine world-class beauty, unique landscapes, and unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re climbing Sarakiniko’s moon-like rocks, wading through Elafonissi’s pink sands, or diving into the deep blues of Porto Katsiki, these are moments that will stay with you forever.
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