Athens is close to some lovely beaches. Within an hour you can be swimming on the Athens Riviera, lying under the pines at Schinias or looking up at the Temple of Poseidon. Here is where to go.
The Athens Riviera
Vouliagmeni Beach, about 20 kilometres south of the centre, has clear water and organised facilities, with sunbeds, umbrellas and cafés. Nearby, Vouliagmeni Lake has warm, mineral-rich water for a different kind of swim.
Astir Beach is an upscale beach club with smart facilities. Varkiza is more laid back, with beach bars, fish tavernas and good conditions for windsurfing. Glyfada, closer to the city and easy to reach by public transport, has beach clubs and cafés.
Families
Schinias, near Marathon, is a long sandy beach in a national park, with shallow water and pine trees for shade. It is one of the best choices for children. Always check sea conditions and keep a close eye on children in the water.
Quieter beaches
Kape Beach, near Sounion, is a small cove reached by a steep path, with clear water and rocky surroundings. Legrena, on the road to Sounion, is split into several smaller coves. Kakia Thalassa is another quieter option with rocky cliffs and deep blue water. Facilities are limited at all three, so bring what you need.
Water sports
Vouliagmeni and Varkiza are popular for windsurfing and stand-up paddleboarding. Kavouri is good for kayaking, and diving schools along the Riviera offer lessons and equipment.
Beaches with a view
Cape Sounion, crowned by the Temple of Poseidon, is one of the most beautiful spots on the Attica coast, especially at sunset. Schinias sits close to the site of the Battle of Marathon.
Island beaches
Aegina is a short ferry ride from Piraeus and has beaches such as Marathonas and Agia Marina. Agistri, next door, has sandy and pebbly beaches set among pine forests.
A swim stop at sea
Our day cruise includes our swim stop at Aponisos, Moni or Metopi, chosen by the crew for the weather, with snorkelling gear and water noodles on board. It leaves Marina Zeas in Piraeus at 09:00 for free time on Agistri and Aegina, with a Greek lunch on board, and returns around 19:00.
