Nearby and affordable destinations for your first dips near Athens.
The temperature is rising, the days are sunny and our minds drift to the beaches and to excursions. Close to Athens there are many budget friendly options for your first swims this year. We found 6 excellent options within a short distance from the city, from organized beaches to quiet coves. These beaches are ideal for a one day escape and pair perfectly with options for food and a stroll.
Schinias Beach, Marathon
Schinias Beach in Marathon is one of the most popular choices for those who prefer sand and shallow waters. It is just 50 km from the center of Athens and is ideal for a day escape. There are several beach bars, as well as pines that offer natural shade if you want to sit on the sand on your own. The beach is suitable for families, groups of friends, and for those who love water sports.
Porto Rafti
Porto Rafti is a favorite with Athenians for a stroll, especially from spring to autumn. It combines beautiful beaches, an island feel and many choices for food. In the area you will find coves and organized beaches, with the most popular options being the beach in Porto Rafti, Erotospilia with its relaxed vibe where you can sit wherever you like, and Avlaki, the beach with turquoise waters and sunbeds.
Psatha, Attica
For those who want a mini excursion, Psatha in western Attica is worth the distance. Just 65 km from the center of Athens and ten minutes from Alepochori, it is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Attica. In a setting of dense pine forests and fine pebbles, you will enjoy dips in crystal clear waters with views of the Corinthian Gulf. The scene is completed by tavernas and ouzeries right by the water, while the best time on the beach is at sunset.
KAPE, Legrena
One of the most impressive in Attica that feels like an island, KAPE Beach is no longer a hidden secret. It is about 55 km from the center of Athens and is located just before Legrena heading towards Sounio and after Harakas. Just go down about 100 steps and you will find yourself in a dreamlike setting with blue green waters. On weekdays or very early at the weekend you will enjoy some peace, but as time passes it gathers quite a crowd of all ages. For quieter swims, there is the lovely neighboring cove, preferred by those who want to practice nudism.
Loutraki, Corinthia
If you want to leave Attica, Loutraki in Corinthia is a classic budget friendly escape for decades. In about an hour you will find yourself in a seaside destination that has everything: from organized beaches to hidden little known coves with crystal clear waters, as well as many choices for food, coffee and drinks. The town has a seafront road for a stroll, sunbeds and cafes, as well as free shores. You can easily combine the swim with fresh fish by the water, or a stop at Lake Vouliagmeni and a walk to Melagavi Lighthouse to admire the view.
Salamina
For those who want to get on a boat even for a little while and take their dips on an island, Salamina is the ideal solution. From Perama you board the ferry and at low cost you are in just a quarter of an hour on this nearby island. Departures are every 15 minutes until 22:00, every 20 minutes from 22:00 until 00:00 and every 30 minutes until 5:30. Salamina is ideal for a day trip and a stroll there is enough to make you feel like you went on holiday. It offers plenty of beaches for all tastes, as well as restaurants and cafes by the sea for food and relaxed walks.
