Best Beaches in Athens, Greece (2025): Discover Stunning Shores Near the City 

Sun, sea, and sand-and city locked in. Then welcome to the Best Beaches in Athens, Greece(2025): Beautiful shores near Athens, where its infinite blue waters and beige sand, along with that sun-soaked weather, will give you the Athenian Riviera feeling. From remote coves you may want to charter to luxury lounges, these beaches in Athens will take you to paradise.

Athens Beaches at a Glance

Astir Beach — Glamorous Bliss in Vouliagmeni

Best for: Luxury seekers and style-conscious sunbathers

“Astir Beach is the pride of Athens’ private beaches“. This is in Vouliagmeni, the elite suburb of Athens, and is just the glitter of this beach experience: designer boutiques, gourmet dining, sleek beach clubs, and spa treatments to boot. 

• Beach entrance fees: Beach price is close to €80 during the week, while a weekend ticket runs around €160 (price includes umbrellas and sun-beds for two). 

• Tip: Arrive early or book to avoid some stiff competition for sunbeds. 

• Nearby attraction: The Temple of Apollo Zoster is at a short distance away on foot.

Akti Vouliagmeni (Vouliagmeni Beach) — All-Rounder for Everyone

Best for: Families, locals, and beach sports

This Athenian kind of organized beach has everything to keep anyone comfortable and relaxed for a day of fun by the sea.

• Facilities: Lifeguards, sunbeds, showers, tennis courts, volleyball, playgrounds
  
• Beach entrance fees: €10–€15 (discounts available for children, students, and seniors)
  
• Proximity to Lake Vouliagmeni: Easily combine the two in one trip
  

This clean, accessible, and family-friendly beach near Athens is the way to go if you want a no-fuss trip.

Varkiza Beach (Yabanaki) — Family Fun Meets Social Buzz

Best for: Families with kids and beach activity fans

An entire day of fun awaits Varkiza Beach, more specifically, one of the beaches in the larger Yabanaki resort complex. From inflatables to paddle boats, jet skis, and great tavernas, the beach offers it all. 

• Water sports: Banana boats, windsurfing, and sailing are available
  
• Free section: Just steps away, quieter and more laid-back
  
• Facilities: Umbrellas, changing cabins, and restaurants are available
  

One of the top family-friendly beaches in Athens, especially on weekends.

Glyfada Beach — Urban Cool with a Seaside Twist

Best for: Trendy beachgoers and nightlife fans

Glyfada is a city that meets the sea; a few minutes’ ride by tram will take you from the heart of Athens to a town that has a lot of bars, shops, and fine restaurants. 

• Beach bars in Athens: Many are clustered here, offering cocktails, DJs, and chilled vibes
  
• Activities: Jet skiing, beach volleyball, and paddleboarding
  
• Nightlife: Stay after sunset for live music and rooftop bars
  

Ideal for those who want to combine city exploration with sea and sand.

Kavouri Beach — Pine Trees and Sunset Walks

Best for: Romantic getaways and calm days

Kavouri Beach splits into Mikro Kavouri and Megalo Kavouri somewhere between Glyfada and Vouliagmeni and is wrapped in pines with calm and shallow water. 

• Tavernas: Grab seafood right on the shore
  
• Free beach: Bring your own umbrella and towel
  
• Sunset spot: One of the best for evening swims with scenic views
  

This beach is also one of the quiet coves near Athens for a laid-back experience.

Krabo Beach — Island Vibes Without Leaving the Mainland

Best for: Boho luxury and Instagrammable moments

Krabo Beach is a stylish terrace bay with deluxe lounge chairs, timber decking, and a fine-dining restaurant. 

• Design: Inspired by Cycladic aesthetics—think stone, wood, and linen
  
• Ambience: Minimalist music, top service, and privacy
  
• Access: Limited space—reservations recommended
  

One of the trendiest private beaches in Athens and a favorite for romantic beach dates.

Limanakia Vouliagmeni — For Wild Souls and Cliff Divers

Best for: Adventurers, divers, and the LGBTQ+ community

It is a series of rocky coves carved into the cliffs south of Vouliagmeni, where an undiscovered beach in Athens retains a raw, untouched charm. 

• Activities: Cliff diving, snorkeling, and tanning on rocks
  
• Vibe: Non-commercial, clothing-optional in some parts
  
• Access: No facilities—pack everything you need
  

The water here is crystal-clear, ideal for snorkeling in Athens.

Althea Beach — A Quiet Secret

Best for: Peaceful swims and privacy seekers

Emerald-green waters define this little beach, adding to the ambiance of a tucked-away cove, with a nearby sun to complement it. 

• No organized services: Bring shade, food, and water
  
• Ideal for: Couples and solo beachgoers
  
• Beach entrance: Free and open all year
  

One of the best hidden beaches in Athens for tranquil getaways.

Lagonisi Beach — Variety in One Spot

Best for: A bit of everything

This is a place that offers both free public beaches and a luxury resort within reasonable walking distance. 

• Luxury beachfront hotels: Spa, water sports, tennis
  
• Public options: Small coves and rock pools are ideal for kids
  
• Dining: From gourmet to street-style souvlaki
  

This is a top pick for those wanting to experience the full Athens coast spectrum in one go.

Mavro Lithari & Saronida — Rustic Charm

Best for: Budget beachgoers and sunset lovers

Mavro Lithari is set up as a down-to-earth beach bar with darker pebbles for sand, while Saronida has a few good tavernas and wide views of the sea. 

• Sunset beach parties: Common during July and August
  
• Facilities: Showers and sunbeds available at beach bars
  
• Atmosphere: Quiet, relaxing, and far from tourist crowds
  

A perfect example of local beaches in Athens still holding their charm.

Anavyssos & Agios Nikolaos — Sandbars and Shallow Waters

Best for: Families and nature lovers

A stunning sandbar, leading to a small church on an island, is located at Agios Nikolaos Beach, attracting couples and photographers.

• Anavyssos beach: Offers a broader shoreline with sunbeds, sports, and food trucks
  
• Snorkeling spots: Found around the rocky edges
  
• Family-friendly beaches in Athens: Anavyssos ranks high for accessibility and safety
  

KAPE & Legrena — Remote Beauty

Best for: Solitude, snorkelers, and clean seas

KAPE Beach boasts turquoise waters, rocky ledges, and serenity – all within an emerging renewable energy facility. Next door, Legrena Beach offers sandy spots and some rustic tavernas. 

• Facilities: Minimal—carry your own gear
  
• Best time: Weekdays for fewer crowds
  
• Ideal for: Swimming near Athens in a more untouched setting
  

Sounio Beaches — Swim in the Shadow of the Gods

Best for: History buffs and dramatic views

Under the legendary Temple of Poseidon, the beach of Sounio offers a unique blend of nature and mythology.

• Activities: Combine beach time with a temple visit
  
• Romantic beaches near Athens: A top pick for proposals and sunset photos
  
• Cruise the Athenian Riviera: Many-day cruises stop here for swim breaks
  

This is a beach destination in Greece that mixes ancient legends with modern leisure.

FAQs

What’s the best time of year to visit beaches in Athens, Greece?

The best season to visit the beaches near Athens is from the end of May until the beginning of October. This period is warm; the water is good for swimming, and nearly every beach bar and club will be open for business. July and August are the most scorching months, also being the busiest. 

Can I reach the Athens beaches using public transportation?

Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, and Varkiza are fairly connected by public transport for those who wish to travel by that mode, but for more attractive and private beaches such as Sounio or Legrena, renting a car is a must. 

Are there any nudist-friendly beaches near Athens?

Yes, Limanakia and a bit of KAPE Beach are especially nudist-friendly, becoming sought-after by locals who appreciate a more laid-back environment.

Do beaches in Athens offer water sports activities?

Absolutely water sports such as jet skiing, paddleboarding, windsurfing, etc. Mostly rent equipment and provide lessons in Varkiza, Anavyssos, and Glyfada.

Are there any pet-friendly beaches near Athens?

Certain disorganized or secret beaches, Legrena, Limanakia, or Althe, do allow dogs Monday through Friday and very early in the morning, so carry some fresh water and pick up after your pooch.

Conclusion

This was unknown to anyone before that the beaches right near Athens in Greece would offer such an immovable combination of history, coastline, and azure clear waters all at not-so-far-off distances from the city; from Palladi shores such as Astir and Krabo to Athens’ hidden beaches like KAPE and Limanakia, they provide the traveler with endless opportunities.

If relaxation, family entertainment, or just exceptional snorkeling spots are your desire, then the Athenian Riviera is all going to be dedicated to your purpose: it’s a one-day journey destination straight from Athens. These beaches in the vicinity of Athens keep a day trip from turning into a dream getaway. There won’t be any need for the island—Athens beaches speak island vibes.

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