Introduction
Mamma Mia! It’s time to get your Greece on. Who doesn’t love a tasteful European retreat and where better to do it than in beautiful Greece? Submerge yourself in four different seas that surround the over 6,000 stunning Greek islands. Feeling uneasy about where to go? Don’t fret, we’ve got you covered. Whether you are looking to indulge in the paradise and serenity of Paros or get groovy in Mykonos, this list includes a plethora of options that will fit your desired itinerary so you can let go and embrace your inner funk.
1.Mykonos, Greece - Aegean Sea
Po po! Who wants to party? Are you ready to revel in the island of Mykonos? The nightlife that excites the island will have you raising the roof like it’s your child by the end of the night…or morning for those with a concerning stamina. Don’t be afraid to mix in a water!
Groove is not in your heart? No worries. Beyond Mykonos’ party culture are family-friendly, stunning beaches that cover the circumference of the island. Be sure to check out the famous Platis Gialos hidden cove located on the southeast coastline which offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea, clear waters, golden sand, and various activities including beach volleyball for the entire family to participate in. Feeling thirsty? Grab a spritz at the beach bar and some virgin mojitos for the kiddos.
Food is more than a friend, especially on this island. Check out the recently acclaimed Elais Restaurant with Michelin-starred chef, Jason Atherton, at the Santa Marina Hotel Mykonos. Views, food, and drinks? Sounds like a triple threat! Welcome to Mykonos!
2.Thira, Greece - Aegean Sea
Escape from the nightlife of Mykonos with a 2 ½ hour ferry ride over to the island of Thira. To the locals, the island takes on a multitude of names originating from the prefix, Thera – however, to us travelers, we commonly refer to it as Santorini.
The island itself sits between multiple calderas that have been formed over time due to eruptions from the volcanoes below Santorini. [IS1] If you are superstitious, beware of a potential eruption in the next 150 years. Anyways, roll around like a hot dog in the abnormal black sand on Black Beach, which is, as you guessed it, black due to the volcanic ash dying the sand over time.
On top of the many popular beaches stretching across the coastline of the island such as Aspri Beach, Monolithos, Perissa Beach, and White Beach, take advantage of the activities Santorini has to offer. Travelers can experience everything from the famous kissing fish spa in town to parasailing around the island. If tiny fish eating dead skin off your feet are not your vibe, check out the small boutique shops that offer an array of beautiful handmade clothing and jewelry.
Embrace the beautiful architecture, stunning views, and local shopping stores Santorini has to offer. The abundance of opportunity and a guaranteed fun-filled experience in Santorini is why we rate this a must-see island in Greece!
3.Paros, Greece - Aegean Sea
Calling all history geeks to the island of Paros. Paros is the new trendy destination for all travelers looking for the whole Greek package – fun, beauty, and architecture – for a fraction of Mykonos’ price. From silky sand and incredible rock formations at Kolymbithres Beach to an abundance of water sports activities and amazing snorkeling opportunities at Santa Maria Beach, Paros offers a wide range of charming beaches within the Aegean Sea.
Now it’s time for the photo ops. Explore Paros' dozen museums with 13th-century Cycladic architecture and marble statues. Home to the precious Parian marble used to make some of the most famous Greek antiquities including the Nike of Paioios, the Venus of Milos, Hermes of Praxiteles, and the Victory of Samothrace, Paros attracts over 550,000 tourists every year. I know what you’re thinking and yes, this marble will cost you a pretty penny for your kitchen island.
I digress! Whether you are traveling alone, with friends or family, or even someone you met at the nightclub in Mykonos the weekend before, Paros is the perfect destination for a refreshing break in between the sand and the spritzes.
4.Antiparos, Greece - Aegean Sea
For those who are feeling daring, feel free to swim seven kilometers southwest of Paros to the island of Antiparos. Can’t swim? That’s okay, take the seven-minute ferry ride over. This island is the perfect day trip to see everything you missed in Paros. Traverse over to Psaralykes Beach where you will not only find the most crystal clear water and soft-bedded sand, but also discover a natural cave formation that embodies the historical prevalence of the island itself.
Most tourists come for the serenity of Antiparos, but the lucky ones stay for Tom Hanks. Yes, Academy award-winning actor Tom Hanks owns a humble 5,000-square-foot villa on the island. Antiparos offers a multitude of beautiful beaches, natural landmarks, and celebrity crush sightings. So, relax, kick back, and keep an eye on your partner in the paradise of Antiparos.
5.Milos, Greece - Aegean Sea
To infinity and beyond! Venture over to Milos, where eccentric natural formations will leave you gasping in awe, making you feel like you’ve just touched down in outer space. Perched atop a volcanic formation, the island of Milos is renowned for its striking rock structures, shaped by the intense hydrothermal activity that has carefully sculpted these remarkable rock walls.
Primarily, this island offers incredible turquoise waters with pristine ocean life that embody its stunning atmosphere. Milos is also a hot spot for wannabe influencers because of the incredible landscapes across the island. Show off and say cheese!
For our travelers who like to be secluded, traverse the 200-meter-long white-sanded beach Gerontas Beach and explore the caves, rock formations, and ocean life minus the people at this must-see beach.
If you come to Greece to surround yourself with the locals, take the risk of climbing down a narrow ladder to Tsigrado Beach and enjoy this hidden cove. Opa!
6.Rhodes, Greece - Aegean Sea
Itching to see the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the seven wonders of the world? Too bad, it’s gone! But why not see the famous ruins of the Acropolis of Lindos, the Palace of the Grand Masters, or a tour of the Old Town? Specifically, Rhodes is one of the only Greek islands that has maintained most of its historical relevance since its inception, receiving almost three million visitors a year.
There is much to do on the largest island in Greece. In addition to the historical sights, the beaches are a must-see destination you should plan to visit during your stay here. Check out Kallithea Beach to heal your boo-boos and denounce that bad juju you’ve been carrying around… just kidding, but the beach once used to be a local spa believed to contain healing powers.
Beyond the alleged witchery, Kallithea stretches over 500 meters with soft golden sand and includes a multitude of activities to keep you busy: snorkeling, sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball.
7.Crete, Greece - Aegean Sea on the North & Libyan Sea on the South
If you are a food fanatic or consider yourself an amateur critic, Crete should already be on your radar and your bucket list. Known for having the best food in Greece, the island of Crete offers stunning views for you to enjoy as you tear through some hummus and tzatziki.
Time to strip! Yes, that’s right. Let’s get naked!!! Pick up some local meats and a couple of bottles of your choosing at the fruit market and head over to Elafonissi South Nudist Beach for a pleasurable nude picnic. This beach is a radical destination for those who don’t mind a little body exposure, so maybe leave your kids at home so you can embrace your inner Greek god or goddess bods. One of the most attractive parts of Elafonissi is the unique pink sand that visitors and locals enjoy in contrast to the impeccable turquoise waters.
Try some of the most delicious food in Crete at Mikrolimano Psarotaverna located in Nea Chora. Beyond the food itself is an extraordinary social culture based on food in the many towns around the island. Nea Chora, a highly prominent area for cultural food and a classic Mediterranean ambiance that keeps the town bumping all night long, is considered the most spectacular of these towns.
8.Hydra, Greece - Aegean Sea
Continuing down the road of our celebrity sightings, Hydra is the perfect place to walk the same streets some of your favorite celebrities have most likely wandered in their lifetimes. Yep, you read that right. Hydra has been a haven for all Hollywood stars, serving as an idyllic retreat from their chaotic lives since the 1960s.
Hydra is one of the smallest islands in Greece, which allows visitors to truly experience the island's natural beauty and paradise living. Who wouldn’t want that?
Take a personal donkey down, in style of course, to the perfect beach for tranquility, Mpisti, which is famous for its pebbly shores and calming walking trails. And check out Omilos for a bite to eat where they take a whole new approach to their farm-to-table cuisine, or perhaps we should say ocean-to-table. Serving up fish and various seafood caught minutes before, this spot is a great place to enjoy some of the most exotic and popular Greek cuisines.
Conclusion
Time for a trip! What are you waiting for? Stop daydreaming and jet-set away to beautiful Greece. Don’t forget to use this guide for all your island needs and further your experience in Greece by checking out all things beach-related on our Sandee homepage. It’s time to get jiggy in style, Dancing Queen. We will see you there!!!
