Top Free Beaches Near Athens to Beat the Heat
As the temperatures continue to rise, it’s time to head to the beach for a refreshing break. Here are some of the best free beaches near Athens:
Kape Beach
Kape Beach is located near Sounio, close to Legrena. It is one of the most popular beaches in Attica, so it can get crowded on weekends. To avoid the crowds, try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon on weekdays. The beach has small pebbles and deep waters, making it a great spot for a swim. There is natural shade provided by the rocks on both sides of the beach.
Distance from Omonia: 64.7 km; approximately an hour’s drive
Althea Beach
Althea Beach is a sandy beach with shallow waters and fine pebbles. It is located between Aghia Marina and Lagonisi. While there isn’t much shade on the beach, you can find some spots near the rocks. To access the beach, you will need to park your car higher up and walk down the steps.
Distance from Omonia: 36.6 km; about a 45-minute drive
Erospilia Beach
Erospilia Beach is another great option for a day by the sea. Located near Athens, it offers a relaxing atmosphere and beautiful views. The beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing, with clear blue waters and soft sand. Don’t forget to pack a picnic and enjoy a day of relaxation at Erospilia Beach.
Erotospilia
Erotospilia is a beautiful beach located near Porto Rafti, offering a sheltered spot from the northerly winds. In recent years, it has become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit during the week or early weekend mornings. Parking can be a bit challenging, as you’ll need to park along the road leading to the beach. Fortunately, there are some small trees that provide shade for those seeking refuge from the sun.
Kokkino Limanaki
Located north of the port of Rafina, Kokkino Limanaki is a perfect spot for a quick swim. Accessible via steps, this beach features tamarisk trees offering shade, fine pebbles on the sand, and shallow waters. A lifeguard is on duty for added safety. Keep in mind that the beach can get crowded during peak hours due to its narrow width.
Marikes
If you’re looking for a spacious beach to relax and unwind, head south of Rafina to Marikes. This beach is shielded from the southerly winds and boasts a few trees providing shade. It’s a favorite among locals, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. On hot days, Marikes is a great choice as it can accommodate large crowds without feeling overcrowded.
Schinias Beach
Situated in front of the beautiful pine forest of the Schinias-Marathon National Park, Schinias Beach is a stunning stretch of sandy beach with crystal-clear waters. This beach is one of the largest in Attica, spanning three kilometers. It is important to be mindful of the environment when visiting, as Marathon Bay and the pine forest are protected areas under the Natura 2000 network. Please be sure to clean up after yourself and avoid leaving any trash or causing damage to the natural surroundings. Access to the beach may be restricted on days with a high fire risk due to its proximity to the forest.
Distance from Omonia: 52.2 km; approximately a 1-hour drive
Mylokopi
Located on the eastern coast of the Corinthian Gulf, near Lake Vouliagmeni, Mylokopi Beach is nestled in a bay that resembles a crescent moon. The sandy beach at Mylokopi is shaded by trees and surrounded by rocks, offering protection from strong winds. Access to the beach is through a dirt road that is best navigated with a 4×4 vehicle. Alternatively, you can reach the beach by boat for a different perspective of this serene coastal spot.
Exploring Mount Parnassus
If you’re looking for a scenic adventure near Omonia, consider a trip to Mount Parnassus. Located 98 km away, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive to reach this stunning mountain. Once you arrive, you’ll need to park higher up and walk for about 20-30 minutes to fully experience the beauty of the area.
Mount Parnassus offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, with lush forests and clear streams to explore. Whether you’re a nature lover or a photography enthusiast, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of this mountain.
