If you’re tired of glamorous and overcrowded seaside resorts , here is our guide for 10 of the most alternative, exotic and secluded beaches in Greece.
1. Elafonisi, Chania, Crete
Words cannot describe the beauty of this unique Cretan location. It is supposed to be an island (its names means dear island in Greek), however you can walk there. The water is crystal clear and as blue as the sky. The beach is a magnificent golden-pink colour, which you won’t find in any other place in the world. Over 30 different kinds of endangered plants and animal are found around Elafonisi. Fortunately, the tourist development in the area in low. However, you can find rooms to let and a few good taverns to eat. It’s the place for you, if you want to spend some time at an exotic beach and have a quiet vacation.
2. Seychelles, Ikaria
It has been the called the Jamaica of the Aegean Sea. This is one of Ikaria’s most intriguing beaches. The pebble-rock beach is located within a picturesque and intimate cove setting. There are interesting rock formations all around and the color of the crystal clear water is unmatched. It is located 25 km west of Agios Kirikos, just after the tunnel that leads further on into the village of Manganitis. The access to the beach is via a path which starts on the main road and descends along a river bed. Sometimes it’s possible to take a water taxi from Manganitis’ fishing port.
3. Balos, Chania, Crete
This is a beach which is very well known inside and outside of Greece. The scenery is amazing and the waters crystal clear. To get to Balos you need to be in an exploring mood because you need to drive for 15 km off road and then walk down a 2km path. Definitely worth it, though! If you can’t drive there, try taking a water taxi from Kastelli, the nearest port. There’s only a small coffee shop in the area, selling cold beverages, so bring your own food and beach umbrella. You’ll probably find a few campers there. Why not try it yourself?
4. Voutoumi, Antipaxos
Many consider Voutoumi one of the best beaches in Greece. It is certainly one of the most exotic ones! Located on the tiny island of Antipaxos it doesn’t get much more secluded than that! You will find a lot of greenery surrounding the beach, in some places even reaching the sand. The green-blue color of the waters is stunning. There are two restaurants, one of which is high on the hill and offers panoramic views of the bay.
5. Egkremnoi, Lefkada
Less famous than the near by Porto Katsiki, Egkremnoi beach is located in Lefkada, the best place to be for beach lovers in Greece. The large sandy bay is surrounded by breathtaking formations of rocks. You’ll need to go down 250 footsteps to get there and you will find beach umbrellas to rent.
6. Hiliadou, Evia
A wild beautiful beach in Central Evia, only 2,5 hours away from Athens. High cliffs, chestnut trees, sedges and ferns, leading to the sun-drenched beach set the scene in this ideal location. There is a separate cove where you can practice nudism legally. Don’t forget to visit the sea cave on the rocky shore just a 100 meters north from the nudist beach. The seawater that flows through the cave emits a silver and blue-green color. The second exit of the cave is underwater. It can get a little bit crowded during the weekends. A few good taverns can be found in the area.
7. Aspri Limni, Chania, Crete
Stunning as it is, Aspri Limni is still pretty much unknown to tourists. The rather small beach with fine, white sand is surrounded by many rocks creating a natural dam and a lake. The environmental importance of the region is enormous, because you can find the phoenix theofrasti, the Cretan Palm. Also visit the old Monastery of chrysoskalitissa on the southwest of Crete, suspended high above the Libyan sea.
8. Chalikiada, Agistri
A great choice for those of you visiting Athens and want a quick getaway to a nearby island. Agistri maybe small, but just one hour from the port of Piraeus and a picturesque place to visit. Chalikiada can be found near the touristic area of Skliri. Following a narrow path, after a dreamy journey through the pine trees, visitors arrive at a natural blue bay, with large pebbles and crystal clear waters. However, access is a little difficult and requires great caution. The water is shallow at the beginning and after 5 meters is quite deep. Absolutely an amazing location for camping.
9. Galifos, Folegandros
Galifos is a place you need to visit if you want to come closer to nature. At that magnificent coast you can only find rooms without electricity to rent. It is very secluded and ideal for those who want to practice nudism. As there is nothing around you will need to bring necessary supplies. The warm water is great, so why not experience something a little different?
10. Agiokampos, Evia
This green, peaceful oasis is one of the quietest and most beautiful locations in North Evia. Only 2.5 hours away from Athens, the beach of Agiokampos, even though it is not as well-known as other popular resorts compares very favorably with other more famous tourist destinations. Anyone visiting Evia should take the opportunity to explore and experience its breathtaking beauty. If you are interested to visit the area we suggest http://Agiocamposbay.gr
See all the latest news from Greece and the world at Greekreporter.com. Contact our newsroom to report an update or send your story, photos and videos. Follow GR on Google News and subscribe here to our daily email!
