When it comes to seaside vacations, Greece offers some of the best options. With its coastline bathed by three different seas, Greece caters to various preferences, whether you prefer calm shores, thrilling waves, or diverse beach types.
Exploring the Ionian Islands
To the west, Greece's coastline extends into the Ionian Sea, where you'll discover charming resorts on the Ionian Islands like Corfu, Lefkas, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos. These islands boast beaches that vary in length, some stretching for hundreds of meters or more.
When it comes to seaside vacations with children in Greece, the Ionian Islands boast the perfect beaches. These sandy shores, occasionally dotted with pebbles, offer gentle slopes into the water, making them ideal for swimming. Corfu, in particular, is known for its coastline filled with shallow coves, providing both calm waters and privacy.
Discovering the Peloponnese Peninsula
The Peloponnese Peninsula is surrounded by the Ionian Sea to the west, the Mediterranean Sea to the south, and the Saronic Gulf of the Aegean to the east. If you envision a tranquil and secluded beach vacation in Greece, this is the destination for you.
Here, you'll encounter serene azure waves and expansive, uncrowded sandy or pebbly beaches bordered by lush green groves. It's an excellent choice for a family vacation with kids. Consider one of the peninsula's resorts like Corinthia, Argolida, Lakonia, Elida, Achaia, or Arcadia, and you're in for a fantastic getaway.
Exploring Halkidiki Peninsula
Halkidiki Peninsula extends into the Aegean Sea with its three distinct prongs, reminiscent of the myth of Poseidon who lost his trident here. The western prong, Kassandra, is a beloved destination among tourists who flock here every year. Meanwhile, the middle prong, Sithonia, offers a quieter and more secluded experience for those who seek solitude.
The climate in Halkidiki is dry, making the heat more manageable, and the beaches are simply excellent. Broad sandy shores with a gentle slope into the water make it perfect for families with children. In areas with stronger waves, water sports enthusiasts can enjoy activities like surfing and other extreme sports. Halkidiki's beaches are renowned for their water sports opportunities throughout Greece.
Discovering Rhodes Island
If you've chosen the island of Rhodes for your Greek seaside vacation, you'll have the privilege of both the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas at your disposal. The west coast of the island, facing the Aegean Sea, offers constant waves and pebble-covered beaches, making it a favorite spot for windsurfers.
On the eastern side, where the Mediterranean Sea laps the shores, you'll find much calmer waters and sandy beaches, making it a great choice for a family vacation. Notable resorts include Ixia and Iallisos on the west coast, and Kalithea, Faliraki, Kolimbia, and Lindos on the east coast.
Mykonos Island: A Beach Paradise
Mykonos Island is renowned for its inviting sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. It's the perfect destination for those who enjoy nightlife and want to alternate between swimming and partying at nightclubs. In the south of the island, you'll find several beach resorts, including Agios Iannis (3km south of Mykonos Town), Ornos (2km), Platis Ialos (3.5km), Psarou (3.5km), Paranga (5km), Paradise (6km), Super Paradise (7km), Agrari (10km), and Elia (10.5km).
All these resorts offer extensive amenities, with beachside restaurants and other conveniences. It's worth noting that both Paradise and Super Paradise have nudist beaches for those seeking that experience.
Discovering Resorts in Crete
The beautiful island of Crete, located in the Mediterranean Sea, boasts pebble-covered beaches that attract tourists year after year. Crete is known for its wide range of water activities, from windsurfing to water parks, making it an ideal destination for both young people and families with children.
- Iraklio Region: Explore places like Stalida, Malia, Agia Pelagia, Hersonissos, Amoudara, Kokkini-Hani, Gouves, and Iraklion.
- Rethymno Region: Discover Rethymno, Bali, Panormo, Kavros, and Adele.
- Chania Region: Explore Chania, Georgioupolis, Platanias, and Maleme.
- Lassithi Region: Consider Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, Ierapetra, and Sitia town.
It's worth mentioning that over 400 beaches in Greece have received the Blue Flag, a European symbol of cleanliness and comfort. Experienced travelers recommend visiting Greece's beaches in June or September to avoid the peak of the Greek heat and the crowds of vacationers.
For more information about Greece's seaside resorts, you can explore our dedicated pages.
