As the summer heat intensifies, the beaches of the country grow more bustling by the day. Concurrently, of course, the customary plans for the summer are underway; it is, after all, the season when most are putting the finishing touches on their holiday arrangements, scheduling time off or securing tickets to their chosen destinations.
Yet for those dwelling or on extended stay in the capital, there’s no need to wait for the holiday period to relish the sea. A mere 1.5 hours’ drive from Athens, you’ll find beaches perfect for the inaugural plunges of the summer season. They’re the retreats you can escape to either on weekends or some afternoons following the end of the working hours.
Options, for instance, such as the famed Schinias in Marathon, the not-so-well-known Agios Petros in Sounio, Agios Nikolaos of Anavyssos, and even destinations beyond Attica – like the tranquil Korfo of Corinth or Flambouro in Loutraki – offer something for everyone. They cater equally to young couples longing for an escape from the city and to families seeking moments of carefree bliss. Some of these, indeed, will surprise you, making you forget that you are near Athens and not on some distant island.
Schinias (Marathon)
Schinias needs no grand introductions, as for decades it has been one of Athens‘ residents’ most beloved summer spots. It’s even served as the cinematic backdrop to films, claiming fame from its famous admirers. Rumour has it that Andreas Papandreou, the Greek statesman, relished starting his day with an invigorating dip at this renowned beach, early in the morning, before heading off to his office in the capital. The coast here is shallow and sandy, and thanks to its orientation, remains unscathed by the summer’s meltemi winds. It’s an idyllic spot for families with young kids, offering both organised and free-roaming areas.
Schinias is a relatively small settlement, tucked away in the northeastern extremity of the Marathon plain, a breezy 50-kilometre drive from the heart of Athens. It’ll take you around an hour to reach here, and if you’re without a car, fret not, as regular buses ply this route too. Its beach is one of the largest in Attica, even holding historical significance as the westernmost point where the ancient Battle of Marathon (490 BC) is believed to have taken place. One of its most captivating features is the surrounding stone pine forest, counted among the most significant in Greece, boasting the rare pine species Pinus Pinea.
St. Nicholas (Anavyssos)
In just under 50 minutes from the capital’s centre, heading towards Anavyssos via the Athens-Sounio highway (taking the route to Palaia Fokaia), you’ll find the enchanting beach of St. Nicholas. Although not visible from the road, you won’t have trouble spotting it, right beneath the School of Tourism Professions. You can also catch buses, the 122 from Glyfada and then the 123. As you arrive, the wide sandy beach and the blue-emerald hues of the sea are bound to strike you, reminding many of Bella Vraka in Syvota or the famous Balos in Crete, rather than a coast in Attica.
On weekends in July and August, you’ll find this spot bustling, so it’s best to arrive early in the morning. On other days, though, you’ll notice ample parking space. From here, it’s your pick whether to relax at the organised beach or venture into the unorganised section. There’s even a secluded little cove suitable for naturists, just across the hill of the area. Do remember to bring sturdy footwear, as the terrain can get a bit rocky.
Agios Petros (Sounion)
Agios Petros (Saint Peter’s) will gift you a truly unparalleled experience. As you come here, you’ll find yourself swimming with an unbroken vista of the imposing ancient Temple of Poseidon at Sounion, all set within a region declared a national park. And all this just a 68-kilometre drive from the heart of Athens, a journey you’ll cover in 1 hour 15 minutes (or at most 1.5 hours, if you hit heavy traffic). As a helpful hint, you’ll spot a direction sign just before you reach Sounion, standing out once you pass the grand hotel unit in Legraina.
The water at Agios Petros is crystal clear, and it’s a rare day when you find it troubled, as the coast is naturally protected from the winds. Generally, it’s not overrun with tourists, although it has become a favourite among those with boats, which you’ll see anchored in deeper waters, near the rocky islet of Archi. Be aware, the beach is entirely unorganised: family outings are welcome, just make sure to bring along your umbrella and beach mats, as well as cold water, snacks, and high-factor sun protection.
Flampouro (Loutraki)
Flampouro is a stunning 150-meter beach with fine pebbles mixed with sand, which remains relatively unknown to Athenians, thus avoiding mass gatherings – even at the peak of the summer. Those who have discovered it, however, are absolutely captivated by the abundant greenery (low vegetation, mainly) that extends almost to the sea, as well as the wonderful, blue waters of the Corinthian Gulf. Access is straightforward, as it’s only 6 kilometres from Loutraki. If you’re setting off from Athens, rest assured it’ll take no more than 1.5 hours to get here.
Flampouro is suited for every taste, as there’s a well-organised section (umbrellas, sunbeds, showers etc.), but also ample space for those who prefer to bring their own gear. It’s also a beach naturally shielded from strong summer winds (meltemia), with shallow waters, ideal for those arriving in family groups with young children. In fact, many choose to linger until late in the afternoon, taking advantage of the opportunity to witness the stunning sunset.
Korfos (Corinthia)
Although Corinthia’s side gazing into the Corinthian Gulf is well-trodden by Athenian dwellers, the coastal area bordering the Saronic remains uncharted territory. Venturing here, however, you’ll stumble upon the idyllic hamlet of Korfos, which will undoubtedly cast a spell on you. With its verdant slopes (densely populated by olive groves and pines) cascading down to sandy beaches, and the cerulean hues of its waters, the village is evocative of an island from the Northern Sporades, rather than a typical landscape in the mainland Peloponnese.
The sea is nothing short of magnificent – pure and devoid of sudden depths, making it suitable even for the little ones. Meanwhile, diving enthusiasts have noted its beautiful seabed, where fish and octopi are abundant due to the rocky formations.
Despite preserving its tranquillity, Korfos boasts well-developed tourism infrastructure, offering both accommodation and dining options for those who wish to spend a relaxed weekend. In fact, it has occasionally served as a sanctuary for notable political figures. It’s also an ideal destination for those craving a brief escape from Athens‘ bustling everyday life, since it is just a 1.5-hour drive away.
Read also:
Agistri: Escape to the pine-covered island of the Argosaronic Gulf
