7 must-visit Blue Flag beaches in the Greek islands

Red flags, green flags, beige flags… This summer, we are putting the spotlight on the Blue Flag beaches of Greece, perfect for excursions in unparalleled swimming spots!

Naturally, you may be wondering what's all the fuss about Blue Flag beaches. No worries, we got you covered. Continue reading to learn more about what qualifies as a Blue Flag beach and discover some of the awarded seaside locations in Greece. Gather inspiration for your Blue Flag beach vacation and book your ferry tickets on Ferryhopper!

Scenic views in Falasarna, Crete

The concept of Blue Flag beaches

So, what’s the meaning behind these so-called Blue Flag beaches? 

Since 1987, the Blue Flag initiative has been focusing on the cleanliness, safety, accessibility and sustainability of beaches around the world. Most of the Blue Flag beaches can be found in Europe, with Greece being a shining example of this project, having more than 600 awarded beaches!

By fulfilling several eco-friendly, educational and accessibility-related criteria, beaches are awarded a Blue Flag and are closely monitored by the project so that their top-tier quality is preserved, enhanced and promoted to the rest of the world.

Education about marine environments does not stop there, as the Blue Flag project urges the awarded beaches to put on informative panels. Through these, beachgoers can gain a better understanding of what makes a beach safe, clean, accessible and sustainable, and how to help protect these qualities.

Now, without further ado, let’s discover 7 of the best Blue Flag beaches in Greece!

• Vlichada in Santorini
• Glyfada in Corfu
• Skala Eressos in Lesbos
• Golden Beach in Paros
• Kathisma in Lefkada
• Kamares in Sifnos
• Falasarna in Crete

The otherworldly beach of Vlichada in Santorini

Vlichada (or Vlychada), with its dark pebbly sand, crystal clear waters and moonlike rock formations, is one of the best beaches in Santorini. 

Easily accessible by car or bus, the beach of Vlichada is a perfect starting point for volcanic holidays in the Greek islands. It also tends to be a little bit more secluded, allowing you to fully appreciate its unparalleled beauty.

The volcanic heaven that is the beach of Vlichada

Evergreen surroundings and pristine waters in Glyfada, Corfu

This family-friendly seaside oasis in Corfu has it all: beautiful natural landscapes, clean waters, necessary amenities, accommodation options within walking distance, and even some water activities to try out!

From locals to tourists, the beach of Glyfada is a fan favorite for all the right reasons! It is also a popular beach for dog owners, thanks to its long stretch of sand. Close to the cliffs, there are also some clothing-optional spots.

Tip: you can discover more nude-friendly beaches in the Greek islands here!

The beach of Glyfada on Corfu's pristine coastline

The untouched beauty of Skala Eressos in Lesbos

Historic and poetic, Skala Eressos in Lesbos is the alleged birthplace of the great Sappho. Its beach is a must-visit swimming spot that offers breathtaking sunset views and many opportunities to unwind.

It is quite a long beach with plenty of amenities, restaurants and coffee shops, as well as parking spaces within walking distance. Its coastal environment is truly one of a kind and definitely worth a visit!

Fun fact: Lesbos is one of the many Mediterranean islands with important LGBTQI+ stories to tell. Check out our blog article and learn more about Skala Eressos and its queer importance before planning your trip.

Tranquil moments in Skala Eressos

Catching the next wave at the Golden Beach of Paros

Golden Beach is found in the southeastern part of Paros, close to the villages of Drios and Marpissa. It is one of the most famous (and spacious) sandy beaches on the island, perfect for relaxation, water sports and refreshing drinks as the sun goes down!

It has plenty of comfortable amenities, usually for an extra fee, while there are also free-to-access sandy strips where you can lie down and reconnect with nature. Whatever you choose, its crystal clear waters will be waiting for you!

Tip: water sports at Golden Beach are among the top things to do in Paros, perfect for thrill-seekers!

Playing with the waves in the Golden Beach

The famous rock formations of Kathisma in Lefkada

Majestic, large, and beaming with life. Welcome to the popular beach of Kathisma in Lefkada, a beach that caters to all tastes! Here, you can find relatively warm, clean waters and numerous amenities.

The most unique aspect of this beach, however, is its large rock formations that you can find on its right side. Not only are they a sight for sore eyes, but they also provide some nice cliff-jumping opportunities!

Sneak peek of the rock formations on the beach of Kathisma

Get the best of both worlds in Kamares, Sifnos

The seaside village of Kamares is also where the ferry port of Sifnos is situated. On its coast, you can find a beautiful sandy stretch with mesmerizing views, known as the beach of Kamares. It's within walking distance of Sifnos’ famous campsite and the Church of Agia Marina, a panoramic viewpoint.

Now, the Blue Flag beach of Kamares has all you could ask for: cleanliness, family-friendly amenities, and plenty of shade all around. It is also a breathtaking scenery, as the beach is surrounded by imposing mountains. So, if you can’t choose between the mountain and the sea, you know where to go!

The beach is right next to some of the village’s central motorways, and there are plenty of paths, mostly flat, that you can follow to reach the sea.

The equipped area of the beach of Kamares

Falasarna in Crete, the beach getaway you deserve

Come to the beach of Falasarna in western Crete if tranquility, amazing views and fine white sand are on your bucket list. This endless beach is perfect for walks and dives in the cleanest of waters.

There’s also a large number of sunbeds, allowing families with children and groups of travelers to comfortably enjoy this beachside wonder. In proximity, there are some restaurants and even sightseeing options.

The natural wonder of Falasarna as seen from afar

Book ferry tickets to the Greek islands

Are you already dreaming of cruising through the heavenly Blue Flag beaches of the Aegean and the Ionian Sea? Have a look at our interactive Map of ferries, visualize your trip and book your ferry tickets to Greece’s Blue Flag beaches!