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Home/Destinations/Europe/Greece/Travel Guide/5 Reasons Why Greece Is a Great Beach Destination

5 Reasons Why Greece Is a Great Beach Destination

Greece receives nearly 30 million international tourists each year. Some spend more time on the mainland, while others head to the islands in search of the incredible Greek beach vacation they've been promised by bloggers and tour providers. If you want to be more of a beach person on your Greek vacation, you have opportunities galore.

1. Greece has a diverse range of beaches.

Greece's coastline is the third-longest in Europe. The Aegean Sea and Ionian Sea together are home to thousands of islands, but a small fraction of them are inhabited. Not only are your choices in beaches vast, they're also diverse, from the silky sand Voidokilia Beach in Messenia and pebble-strewn Myrtos Beach in Kefalonia to the white volcanic rock formations of Sarakiniko Beach in Milos and the pinkish sands of Elafonisi in Crete. It is this variety that makes the Greek coastline so unique and attractive to visitors.

2. The Greek Islands boast unique histories.

Greece is mostly associated with Santorini and Mykonos, its most-visited Islands, famed for their gorgeous views of the Aegean Sea and iconic architecture, and lively partying. But the lesser-known islands like Patmos, Crete, Milos, and Heraklion have their unique histories, allowing you to club beach activities with sightseeing. For example, at Crete, you can visit the Palace of Knossos and discover the legendary Minotaur. Milos is home to the famous Catacombs dating from the 1st to the 5th century.

3. Greek Islands offer incredible views.

You may have seen Santorini's whitewashed villages and Caldera coastline in countless movies. But there's more. Greece offers a unique tapestry of beauty, from lush forests and deep emerald waters to deep gorges and monasteries perched atop towering rocks. And let's not forget the mesmerizing sunrises and sunsets. If you seek a beach and island escape that offers sensory stimulation, and where you can unwind on the sand with a book or gaze at the horizon in an almost meditative trance, Greece can be your oasis.

4. Greek nightlife is next level.

Greek islands such as Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, and Ios are renowned for their spirited beach parties and electrifying nightlife. Each island has its own unique vibe and party scene. You can dance the night away at a beach club or enjoy a cocktail at a beachside bar. There's plenty to go around after your beach escapades and sightseeing.

5. Greek food is delicious and healthy.

Greek cuisine is as delectable as it is wholesome, using a variety of ingredients such as olive oil, vegetables, fish, grains, meats, cheeses, herbs, lemon juice, and yoghurt. You may be familiar with moussaka or souvlaki; now try them in their place of origin. Greece is known for its exceptional seafood. Make sure to try oysters, octopus, jumbo shrimps, barbouni, and snapper pie. Say "yamas" with a glass of Retsina wine or the very smooth Metaxa, a specialty Greek spirit.

Check out Goway's Greek island vacation packages. We're able to tailor your beach vacation to your unique requirements.

What do the experts say?

Melissa Moses

Melissa Moses

Destination Specialist
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Locals don’t rush—whether it's dinner at 10:00 p.m. or a three-hour coffee. The best way to experience Greece is to match its rhythm and let moments stretch out.
Andres Serrano

Andres Serrano

Destination Specialist
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Delphi isn’t just a historical site—it’s deeply spiritual. Standing where the Oracle once spoke, you feel this pulse of ancient energy still alive in the stones
Andres Serrano

Andres Serrano

Destination Specialist
Learn More About This Expert
Athens is like a living labyrinth—layered, electric, and full of stories if you know where to look. Once you’ve seen the major landmarks, get lost in places like Psiri and Koulaki for a real local vibe
Andres Serrano

Andres Serrano

Destination Specialist
Learn More About This Expert
Goway’s supplier will handle the entire trip once guests arrive in Greece—it’s white-glove service from start to finish
Andres Serrano

Andres Serrano

Destination Specialist
Learn More About This Expert
It’s fairly easy to travel between islands by plane or ferry, but I love renting a dune buggy once I’m there—it’s more fun than taxis.

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