Greek beaches! No doubt you have heard of, or seen photos, video clips, or segments of movies of these and probably dreamt of going to some of them. The islands, and the mainland of Greece, are home to stunning landscapes, from red cliff beaches, to jet black sand, to pink sand, to stunning rock formations just offshore. These beaches are something out of a dream and, choosing just one, is almost impossible. To help you decide which one, we’ve come up with a list of the best beaches in Greece.

1. Elafonisi Beach

Elafonisi, located on the southern side of Crete, is frequently described as Greece’s number one beach. With pink coral sand and shallow clear waters, it’s clear to see why this beach is at the top of our list. Elafonisi is not just a beach, but also a protected area, meaning you won’t find any of the parking lots or big buildings that usually crowd most beach towns. Instead, it’s just you, the sun shining down, and the water lapping at your feet, as you relax in the pink sand.

2. Navagio Beach

You have to see it to believe it, and when you do, you will know that you are visiting an incredibly beautiful  beach. It is also called Shipwreck Beach because of an abandoned ship decorating the beach. Navagio is situated on Zakynthos Island, just off the coast of southern mainland Greece. Navagio’s clean, white sand backs into a towering semi-circle of limestone cliffs. The semi-circle opens up to give you access to the most vibrant blue and turquoise waters you’ve ever seen. The only way to reach Navagio is by boat, and many tour groups will take you there for a day of swimming or relaxing.

3. Red Beach

Looking for something different? Head to Red Beach, close to Akrotiri, on the southern side of the island of Santorini. Red Beach is, as it says, red. The red cliffs rise up above the red sand and deep turquoise water of the sea. The red color is due to the volcanic rock, characteristic of much of Santorini’s beaches. While Red Beach is too small for watersports, this beach is a prime spot for swimming and snorkeling.

4. Plaka Beach

Located just south of the city of Naxos, on the Island of Naxos, Plaka Beach’s vibrant blue waters and soft yellow sand will captivate you. Plaka Beach was once famous as a nudist retreat, but now it is a favorite beach spot for those who prefer to cover up, although certain areas are still said to be clothing optional. The beach itself is pretty quiet with not a lot going on, which is perfect if you need an escape from the world.

5. Psarou Beach

Head to perhaps the best beach in Mykonos. Psarou beach is a perfect, quiet getaway, frequently drawing in families looking for kid-friendly fun, and honeymooners looking for a more secluded spot. The shallow waters make it perfect for some relaxing dips in the water. Further out from the coastline, the water is ideal for water sports, including waterskiing and windsurfing, bringing in a crowd of water sports enthusiasts.

6. Kamares Beach

The clearest water you’ve seen is calling you to Kamares Beach. Situated on the northern side of Sifnos Island, Kamares is known for its clear, shallow water, making it an ideal place for kids to swim. Surrounded on either side by cliffs, the beach rarely has any waves. With the convenience of all the cafes and restaurants just walking distance to the water’s edge, Kamares is a perfect place to just sit back and relax.

7. Sarakiniko Beach

This unique spot isn’t your typical sand and sea beach. Located on the island of Milos, Sarakiniko is characterized by its white volcanic rocks that jut into the clear sea. The rocks are soft enough and small enough so that it’s easy to climb around, jump off, or just lay back and relax on their surface. The white rocks scattered along the long, sandy shoreline is the reason this beach has the nickname “Moon Beach.”

8. Vai Beach

Vai beach sits on the eastern coast of Crete, by the city of Sitia. The blue water and white sand lead the way to the largest palm forest not only in Greece but in all of Europe. Rent some chairs and umbrellas to sit back and relax under the Greek sun. The beach also offers a host of sports, both on the beach and in the water.

9. Perissa Beach

This dark-sand beach is another great place to hang out. The southern Santorini beach of Perissa, in the town of Perissa, is a perfect spot for backpackers, anyone looking for a beach party, or anyone just looking to chill out on a beautiful beach. The dark sand and teal water are interrupted by the towering cliffs, which jut out into the water. The little village of Perissa itself is a sleepy coastal town, but the beach is home to all the nightlife and restaurants you need.

10. Lalaria Beach

This beach looks much more like the setting for an adventure movie than a place where you can actually dip your toes in the sand. Lalaria is only accessible by boat, letting its adventure vibes truly shine through. The beach’s classic white stone arches reach out into the crystal, teal water, while the sand is made up of little pebbles. The beach is best for those looking for an adventure, not a relaxing day in the sun.

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