Athens may be known for its ancient ruins and vibrant city life, but what many visitors don’t realize is how close it is to the sea. Within an hour of the Acropolis, you can find golden sands, turquoise waters, and stylish beach clubs that rival those of the Greek islands. Whether you want to spend a lazy day sunbathing, enjoy water sports, or sip cocktails at a seaside lounge, the Athens best beaches offer something for every traveler.
From the chic Athenian Riviera to hidden coves along the Attica coast, this guide highlights the top beaches near Athens — complete with atmosphere, tips, and traveler ratings to help you find your perfect coastal escape.
Vouliagmeni Beach
Vouliagmeni is the jewel of the Athenian Riviera — a well-organized, upscale beach just 25 minutes from central Athens. With soft golden sand, clear waters, and excellent facilities, it’s perfect for those seeking both comfort and beauty.
The beach is part of a private complex with changing rooms, cafes, lifeguards, and beach equipment rentals. It’s also close to Lake Vouliagmeni, a natural thermal spa surrounded by cliffs — ideal for a relaxing swim in warm, mineral-rich waters.
Vouliagmeni’s accessibility and high standards make it a favorite among both locals and visitors who want a luxurious seaside experience without leaving the capital.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Highlight: Pristine waters, luxury facilities, and nearby thermal lake.
Astir Beach (Lemos Peninsula)
Astir Beach is synonymous with luxury. Located on the same peninsula as Vouliagmeni, it’s part of the exclusive Four Seasons Astir Palace resort. This is where Athens’ elite come to see and be seen.
Expect fine sand, immaculate service, designer boutiques, and elegant dining options. Entrance is paid and quite high, but it includes premium sunbeds, showers, and world-class amenities. The water here is calm and crystal clear — ideal for a refreshing dip after a morning of sightseeing in the city.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Highlight: Glamorous and polished — the most exclusive beach experience in Athens.
Varkiza Resort (Yabanaki Beach)
Varkiza Resort, also known as Yabanaki Beach, offers a vibrant, youthful atmosphere with plenty of activities. About 40 minutes from Athens, this organized beach combines relaxation with energy — perfect for families, groups, and water-sport lovers alike.
The long sandy bay features beach bars, cafes, and restaurants, plus facilities for volleyball, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. On weekends, it comes alive with music and locals escaping the city heat. Despite its size, it’s well-maintained and suitable for all ages.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Highlight: Fun, family-friendly, and full of beach activities.
Schinias Beach (Marathon Area)
For those who prefer wide, natural beaches surrounded by pine forests, Schinias Beach is a must. Located near Marathon, about an hour from central Athens, it’s part of a protected national park.
The beach stretches for kilometers, offering space for everyone — from families to windsurfers. The waters are shallow and calm, ideal for swimming, while sections of the beach remain untouched and wild. Taverns serving fresh seafood line the edges, making it easy to enjoy a long, lazy day by the sea.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Highlight: Long natural beach bordered by pine forest and clear waters.
Lagonisi Beach
Lagonisi sits along the southern Attica coast and feels like a slice of an island just outside the city. The area is dotted with small sandy bays, private coves, and organized beach clubs.
The most famous section is the Grand Resort Lagonissi, a luxury complex offering elegant beach access, fine dining, and five-star service. Even outside the resort, there are public spots nearby with equally clear waters and soft sand. Lagonisi combines elegance and accessibility — perfect for couples or travelers looking for a romantic day trip from Athens.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Highlight: Peaceful coves and crystal-clear waters ideal for couples.
Legrena Beach (Near Sounion)
If you want to combine swimming with sightseeing, head to Legrena Beach, near Cape Sounion. About 75 minutes from Athens, this beach lies just before the Temple of Poseidon — making it perfect for a sunset visit.
Legrena is quieter than most beaches closer to the city, offering a mix of sand and pebbles with turquoise water and a relaxed vibe. It’s less developed, so bring essentials, but there are a few local tavernas nearby for post-swim dining.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Highlight: Scenic and serene — perfect for a swim before visiting the Temple of Poseidon.
Anavissos Beach
Anavissos is one of the most beloved local beaches, known for its shallow, calm waters and golden sand. Located about 50 minutes from Athens, it’s popular with both families and windsurfers.
The beach offers plenty of organized sections with sunbeds and cafes, but also free areas where you can set up your own spot. The town nearby has a friendly, low-key atmosphere, and the sunsets here are among the best on the Athenian coast.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Highlight: Golden sands, great food nearby, and a laid-back local feel.
Kavouri Beach
Close to Vouliagmeni, Kavouri Beach offers a balance between organized comfort and natural scenery. The coastline here is dotted with pine trees and rocky coves, giving visitors the feeling of being far from the city despite being just 30 minutes away.
There are both paid and free sections, as well as excellent tavernas for a seaside meal. The waters are calm, and the atmosphere attracts a mix of locals, couples, and families.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Highlight: Beautiful natural setting close to the city, ideal for all ages.
Thalassea Beach (Alimos)
Located in the suburb of Alimos, just 20 minutes from central Athens, Thalassea Beach is one of the most convenient options for those who don’t want to travel far. This organized urban beach offers sunbeds, bars, and volleyball courts, attracting a young, energetic crowd.
It’s perfect for visitors with limited time or those staying in central Athens who want a quick beach fix without a long drive. Sunset views over the Saronic Gulf are a bonus.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Highlight: Urban beach with great energy and easy access from downtown.
Sounion Beach
Right below the famous Temple of Poseidon, Sounion Beach combines history, scenery, and serenity. It’s a small but stunning bay with clear waters and soft sand, ideal for a peaceful swim after exploring the temple.
The views from the beach are incredible, especially as the sun sets behind the ancient columns above. Sounion Beach is part of the Aegeon Beach Hotel complex but open to visitors, offering basic facilities and a relaxed, romantic vibe.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Highlight: Swim beneath one of Greece’s most iconic ancient landmarks.
Comparison: Athens Best Beaches
| Beach | Rating | Atmosphere | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vouliagmeni | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Upscale, elegant | Clean sands, close to thermal lake |
| Astir Beach | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Glamorous, exclusive | Luxury resort beach |
| Varkiza (Yabanaki) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Fun, family-friendly | Water sports and activities |
| Schinias | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Natural, spacious | Pine forest and calm waters |
| Lagonisi | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Romantic, upscale | Secluded coves and luxury vibe |
| Legrena | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Quiet, scenic | Close to Temple of Poseidon |
| Anavissos | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Relaxed, local | Golden sands and sunsets |
| Kavouri | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Balanced, easygoing | Pine-lined coast near city |
| Thalassea (Alimos) | ⭐⭐⭐ | Urban, youthful | Closest organized beach to Athens |
| Sounion | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Peaceful, historic | Swim under ancient ruins |
Final Thoughts: Athens Best Beaches
The Athens best beaches prove that you don’t need to travel far from the capital to enjoy the beauty of the Aegean. For luxury and convenience, Vouliagmeni and Astir stand out. If you prefer natural landscapes and local charm, head to Schinias or Anavissos. For a touch of romance, nothing beats watching the sunset from Sounion or Legrena after a swim.
Whether you’re staying in Athens for a city break or passing through on your way to the islands, taking a day to explore its beaches adds a whole new layer to your Greek experience. Just a short drive from ancient temples and lively streets, the Athenian Riviera offers the perfect blend of culture, comfort, and coastal beauty — making Athens not just a city of history, but one of sea and sun too.
