Greece Beach Bucket List
Summer is here and later this year I will be back to the beaches of Greece! The excitement is too much to bear most days as it is my ancestor's home and such a huge part of me. I want to share some of my favorite beaches in Greece and hope to visit more of them when I return.
Greece has been making efforts to promote sustainability and environmentally friendly practices in recent years. Here are some ways in which Greece is working towards sustainability:
Eco-tourism - promoting responsible tourism, supporting local communities, and protecting natural habitats and cultural heritage.
Renewable energy - It has made significant investments in solar and wind energy, aiming to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels
Protected areas – it’s home to several protected areas, national parks, and marine reserves.
Sustainable Agriculture - This includes organic farming, reduced pesticide use, and promoting local and traditional agricultural products.
Awareness and Education - raising awareness about environmental issues and promoting sustainability through education and public campaigns
Blue Economy - which involves sustainable and responsible use of marine resources. This includes promoting sustainable fisheries, protecting marine ecosystems, and developing sustainable aquaculture practices.
I want to feature three of the most popular beach destinations but believe me, there are so many beautiful beaches to explore, one can’t imagine! But these hold a special place for me, as I have visited most of these except the Peloponnese, this one I will be traveling to later this year.
My family is from the area of the Peloponnese, so this is a very special area for me for many reasons. Let’s start with one of the most famous beaches:
Elafonisi Beach
This is a beautiful and popular destination located on the southwest coast of the Greek island of Crete, being the largest of the Greek islands that lie in the Southern Aegean Sea. It’s a short but windy drive from the city of Chania, (75km). This visit can usually be combined with a visit to the nearby Monastery of Chryssoskalitissa. It is known for its stunning natural beauty and unique pinkish sand, making it one of the most picturesque beaches in the Mediterranean.
Here are some key features and attractions of Elafonisi Beach:
Pink Sand: One of the most distinctive features of Elafonisi Beach is its pink sand. The pink hue comes from the crushed seashells and coral fragments mixed with the white sand, creating a visually striking and Instagram-worthy scene.
Crystal Clear Waters: The turquoise and crystal-clear waters of Elafonisi Beach are incredibly inviting for swimming and snorkeling. The shallow areas near the shore are ideal for families with children.
Islet of Elafonisi: Elafonisi Beach is connected to a small islet named Elafonisi by a shallow sandbar. You can walk across the shallow water to reach the islet, which is a protected nature reserve. It offers additional secluded beaches and hiking trails to explore. We coined it the Mermaid Cove!
Nature Reserve: Elafonisi is designated as a Natura 2000 protected area due to its unique flora and fauna. It is home to various plant species, including rare and endemic ones. The surrounding dunes and wetlands provide habitats for a diverse range of birds.
Relaxation and Sunbathing: Elafonisi Beach offers ample space for sunbathing and relaxation. There are sun loungers and umbrellas available for rent, or you can simply lay your towel on the soft sand and enjoy the warm Mediterranean sun.
Water Sports: While Elafonisi is not known for a wide range of water sports activities, you can still find options like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking to enjoy the clear waters and explore the coastline.
Facilities and Amenities: The beach has facilities including toilets, showers, parking areas, and a few beachside taverns where you can grab a snack or a refreshing drink.
It's worth noting that due to its natural beauty and popularity, Elafonisi Beach can get crowded, especially during the peak summer season. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Overall, Elafonisi Beach offers a truly picturesque setting and a memorable experience for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts visiting Crete.
(Photo Credit: Unsplash)
Now onto one of my favorite islands, Santorini which is also one of the biggest tourist destinations of the Aegean Sea.
Red Beach, Santorini
Red Beach is a unique and stunning attraction located on the Greek island of Santorini. It is named after the distinct, red-colored cliffs and sand that make it a visually striking destination.
A lot has been written and said about Santorini, which is famous for its cliff-side houses, blue domes, and stunning sunsets. (Especially in Oia). This island is described as one of the most beautiful places on earth, it deserves a spot on everyone’s “must-visit” travel list. What is not famous for is its beaches, but the red cliffs rising behind the terracotta-colored sand, red and black volcanic pebbles and crystal clear blue waters make this beach a surreal spot to swim in.
Red Beach can be reached by car and is a short 10 min hike from the archaeological site of Akrotiri which is one of my favorite museums.
Unique Landscape: The Red Beach stands out for its dramatic landscape characterized by towering red cliffs, volcanic rocks, and red sand. The vibrant hues are a result of volcanic activity and the iron-rich minerals in the soil.
Geological Significance: The beach's unique coloring is a testament to Santorini's volcanic past. The island is part of a caldera (a volcanic crater), and the reddish cliffs and sand are formed from volcanic deposits.
Scenic Beauty: The Red Beach offers a picturesque setting that attracts visitors from around the world. The combination of the red cliffs, contrasting blue waters of the Aegean Sea, and the dark volcanic rocks create a stunning visual spectacle.
Swimming and Sunbathing: While the beach is relatively small, it still offers opportunities for swimming and sunbathing. The clear waters are ideal for a refreshing dip, and the unique surroundings provide a memorable backdrop for relaxation.
Hiking and Exploration: The Red Beach is located near the village of Akrotiri, and it is possible to combine a visit to the beach with a hike through the surrounding area. You can explore the nearby archaeological site of Akrotiri, which is known for its well-preserved ancient ruins.
Accessibility: The Red Beach is accessible by car, bus, or boat. If you choose to drive, there is a parking area nearby. From there, you will need to walk a short distance down a steep path to reach the beach. Keep in mind that the path can be challenging for individuals with mobility issues.
Facilities: The beach does not have many facilities, so it's a good idea to bring your own essentials such as water, food, and sun protection. There are a few sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent, but they can get crowded during peak season.
Safety Considerations: It's important to exercise caution when visiting Red Beach due to the potential for landslides and falling rocks from the cliffs. It is advised to avoid walking too close to the cliffs and to pay attention to any safety warnings or signs.
During peak summer months the small beach can get crowded but nevertheless, I promise you will not be disappointed.
(Photo Credit: Unsplash)
The final beach is near my hometown located on the mainland in Messinia in the Mediterranean area on the western side of the Peloponnese.
Voidokilia, Messinia Peloponnese
Voidokilia Beach is a beautiful crescent-shaped beach located in the Messinia region of the Peloponnese Peninsula in Greece. It is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and pristine surroundings.
It is supposed to be one of the most fascinating and beautiful beaches of Greece, with fine, warm red sand (due to crushed corals) and turquoise waters. The perfectly shaped semi-circle resembles the Greek letter Omega. I am going to visit this one on my next trip so stay tuned for more info to come.
Here's what you need to know about Voidokilia Beach, the beach and surrounding area, including the Gialova Lagoon, is protected under the Natura 2000 program, so there are no sunbeds or umbrellas at the beach so come prepared.
Scenic Beauty: Voidokilia is often described as one of the most stunning beaches in Greece. It features a unique, perfectly shaped bay with a sandy beach that stretches in a semi-circle around the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea. The backdrop of the beach is formed by lush green hills and a large sand dune.
Unspoiled Nature: Voidokilia Beach is part of a protected Natura 2000 area, ensuring the preservation of its natural beauty and ecological importance. The beach and its surroundings are relatively untouched, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.
Swimming and Snorkeling: The calm and crystal-clear waters of Voidokilia are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The gradual slope of the seabed and the protected bay make it suitable for visitors of all ages. Snorkelers can explore the underwater world and observe various marine species.
Exploring the Sandbar: One of the unique features of Voidokilia is a sandbar that partially separates the beach from the land, creating a shallow lagoon-like area. Visitors can walk across the sandbar to the other side, where they can find a small saltwater lake called "Gialova Lagoon" and observe bird species that inhabit the area.
Hiking and Nature Trails: Around Voidokilia Beach, there are hiking and nature trails that allow you to explore the surrounding hills and enjoy panoramic views of the beach and the Navarino Bay. The area is rich in flora and fauna, making it a great spot for nature walks.
Facilities and Amenities: Voidokilia Beach is relatively unspoiled and lacks commercial development. As a result, there are limited facilities available on the beach. It's recommended to bring your own essentials, including food, water, and sun protection.
Ancient History: Voidokilia Beach is located near the archaeological site of the Palace of Nestor, which dates back to the Mycenaean civilization. Visitors can combine a beach visit with a trip to explore the historical and cultural significance of the region.
Accessibility: Voidokilia Beach is accessible by car, and there is a parking area available nearby. From the parking area, it requires a short walk to reach the beach. The path might involve a slight descent and ascent, so it's advisable to wear appropriate footwear.
Voidokilia Beach offers a serene and untouched coastal experience, combining natural beauty, tranquility, and opportunities for exploration. It's a hidden gem in the Peloponnese region of Greece, perfect for those seeking a secluded and picturesque beach getaway.
(Photo Credit: Unsplash)
Overall Greece has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, I hope you can visit at some point as it is rich in culture and substantiality. It is considered a blue zone on the Greek island of Ikaria. These are special places of exceptional longevity with remarkably high percentages of centenarians living in the area, they must be doing something right.
I can smell that ocean air now.
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