Beauty and the beach: From bewitching bays to secluded coves, discover Greece’s stunning shores
Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker or just want to relax and enjoy the sunshine, we explore must-experience beaches in Greece
As the weather starts to cool, and the nights draw longer, it’s never too soon to start dreaming about bright sunshine, white sands and crystal-clear waters – perfect for your next big summer getaway.
To make it even easier to find your perfect trip, Jet2holidays offers great value breaks in over 50 amazing destinations, including 19 in beautiful, beachy Greece.
With deposits at just £60 per person*, 22kg of baggage included, and flexible monthly payments** to help spread the cost of your hard-earned, well-deserved holiday, there’s never been a better time to start planning your next sun-soaked stay. Jet2holidays also offer various family discounts including Free Child Place holidays† and infants under two going free††, and special offers for single parents travelling with kids.
To help you choose your ideal Grecian holiday, read on for our round-up of the most stunning shores around the mainland and its idyllic islands, as well as perfect seaside retreats where you can be beachside in minutes.
Read more: Best hotels in Greece
Corfu
The picturesque village of Paleokastritsa, on the northwest coast, is said to be where Odysseus disembarked during his long voyage home from Troy. Its beach is just as alluring; surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush greenery, its stunning natural beauty makes it a must-visit on Corfu.
There are plenty of local tavernas and restaurants nearby, making it the perfect place for a mid-afternoon meal or a sundowner. For an extra-special getaway, opt for a stay at the spectacular, five-starIndulgent Escapes hotel Ikos Dassia (pictured above) on the east of the island, which is set right on the beach and features four swimming pools, eight restaurants and ten bars.
With Indulgent Escapes by Jet2holidays, each package includes return flights, a generous 25kg baggage allowance, and return private hotel transfers. Thoughtful luxury perks also include complimentary priority lane passes at your UK airport and two complimentary in-flight drinks and a £10 voucher to spend onboard.§ All you need to do is bring your suitcase and passport, secure in the knowledge that every detail of your trip is covered.
Kefalonia
Myrtos Beach is a mile-and-a-half long crescent of dazzling white pebbles fringing aquamarine sea, which was used as a location in the 2001 film, Captain Corelli’s Mandolin. Located on the island’s north coast, it’s been voted best beach in the country several times, so it’s well worth the trip.
To max your beach time in style on this stunning island, opt for a shoreside hotel like White Rocks Hotel in Lassi, a luxurious property built into the cliff-face above the Ionian Sea with two restaurants, three bars, a stunning pool and access to two beaches.
Crete
You’re spoilt for choice of beaches on this glorious island. Crete has two sides – Chania and Heraklion – both of which Jet2holidays operates into. You’ll find stunning shores and bays dotted around each.
Elafonisi, an islet separated from the southwest coast by a sandbar and a warm, shallow lagoon, is famous for its pretty, pink coral sand. It’s also an internationally classified nature reserve, where you’ll find wild flowers and rare plants, and, if you’re lucky, spot loggerhead sea turtles.
On the Gramvousa peninsula on the northwest coast is Balos, a golden beach and azure lagoon topped by a rugged headland which, together, create one of Crete’s most famous sights. Looking for the perfect Cretan coastal stay? Book into Domes Zeen Chania, a chic and luxurious property set right on the beach.
Zante
For a true must-see natural wonder, head to the Blue Caves. Located on the northwest coast, between the port of Agios Nikolaos and Cape Skinari, they consist of a series of dramatic natural caves and arches, culminating in the Large Cave (Megali Spilia) and the Small Cave (Mikri Spilia). They get their name from the vivid blue colour the sea takes on inside them as light reflects onto the water, and can be reached by boat or via a cliffside staircase that leads to the sea.
For a truly special break that boasts a beautifully secluded beach and incredible views, check into Lesante Cape Resort & Villas. Located in the small, historic village of Akrotiri, this stunning complex combines traditional Zakynthian architecture with contemporary luxury for an unforgettable stay.
Lefkas
For a classic, family-friendly beach, you can’t go wrong with Pefkoulia, located a few miles from the island’s capital, Lefkada Town. It’s easily accessible, has a long stretch of white, limestone sand, and boasts facilities including a cafe, a restaurant, and car-parking.
Harder to reach, but perhaps even more worthwhile, is Porto Katsiki; surrounded by cliffs, you have to descend a steep set of steps to get there, where you’re rewarded with fine, powdery sand and calm, sheltered waters. It’s quieter in the mornings and evenings, so plan your visit accordingly.
Finally, for a stay that encapsulates the island’s diverse beauty, check in to Crystal Waters in Nikiana, which offers mountain views and lush gardens as well as proximity to the sea.
Kos
Tingaki Beach is one of the most popular on Kos, not far from Kos Town. You’ll find sunbeds and loungers for hire, bars and restaurants aplenty, and even a selection of water sports available, from jet-skiing to parasailing. On the southwestern part of the island is Agios Theologos, also known as ‘Waves Beach’, due to the wind. As a result, it’s great for surfing and kite-surfing.
For the perfect base between beach trips, book into the Michelangelo Resort & Spa, a stylish coastal stay in a secluded location, backed by rugged mountains.
Parga
The lively seaside town of Parga sits on the Ionian coast of mainland Greece. It’s known for the 11th century Venetian castle which perches on a hill overlooking the sea, and its pretty beaches. Valtos has a long stretch of sand and clear, calm waters, sheltered from the wind thanks to its location, while nearby Sarakiniko is family-friendly with several facilities, and one of the most beautiful beaches in the area.
Check in to Parga Beach Resort, a beachfront haven set within lush gardens offering a perfect view of the coastline.
Rhodes
Spectacular St Paul’s Bay is located just south of Lindos, on Rhodes’ southeast coast. It gets its name from the legend that claims St Paul landed here in 51AD to preach Christianity to the islanders. You can even get married here, at the small, pretty church on the hillside, which overlooks the calm, crystal-clear waters of the bay.
Stay somewhere equally stunning: the Aquagrand Exclusive Deluxe Resort is a stylish, contemporary, adults-only hotel, with a luxurious pool and plenty of other high-end facilities.
For more travel inspiration and hotel options head to Jet2holidays
*Applicable on holidays departing 10 weeks or more from booking date. Full payment required by balance due date. **Jet2holidays Pay Monthly Terms and Conditions apply, please see jet2holidays.com/part-payment for details. †One free child per two paying adults. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply, please see www.jet2holidays.com/free-child-place-finder for further details. ††Applicable for all infants under the age of two years on the date of return. Infants are not entitled to a flight seat (they must be seated with a parent or guardian) or a 22kg baggage allowance. §Excludes champagne which is payable. One drink per person, per flight. Free £10 voucher only available on Jet2shop products, excluding cigarettes and tobacco, non-transferable for cash. One per person above the age of two per booking. Cannot be used on the in-flight menu. T&Cs apply.