The longest beach in Attica stretching approximately one kilometer with shallow, gentle waters ideal for families with young children. Multiple beach clubs, water sports facilities, and restaurants line the shore.
Varkiza Beach extends for approximately one kilometre along the southern Attica coast, making it the longest continuous beach in the Attica region. The beach sits in the bay of Varkiza, roughly 28 kilometres south of central Athens in the municipality of Vari-Voula-Vouliagmeni. The shoreline is composed of pale sand and light shingle, shelving gently into the sea — shallows ideal for young children and weak swimmers. The bay opens to the Saronic Gulf in a southwesterly direction, which means afternoon sea breezes regularly sweep the beach. This combination of wide open exposure and reliable wind makes Varkiza one of the premier windsurfing and kiteboarding beaches in Attica. Multiple beach clubs occupy the length of the bay, offering sun lounger hire, parasols, beach bars, and restaurants. Windsurfing and kiteboarding rental and lessons are available from established operators on-site, and jet ski hire is common during summer months. The broad sandy extent means the beach absorbs visitors well even on busy summer weekends. Parking is available along the coastal road and in designated lots behind the beach. Public bus service from Athens reaches Varkiza in around 50 minutes. The town of Varkiza has a modest range of cafes and tavernas within short walking distance of the beach access points. Sea temperatures peak at approximately 25–26°C in August and remain warm through September. Sunsets facing southwest over the open Saronic Gulf can be striking from the western end of the beach in the evening. The combination of length, shallow water, and wind sports facilities distinguishes Varkiza clearly from the more southerly Riviera resorts and the quieter cove beaches in the area.
Amenities
- sunbed rental
- multiple beach clubs
- restaurants
- water sports
- showers
- parking
Good to know
- Best for
- families, surfers, swimmers, sunbathers, couples
Highlights
- The longest beach in Attica at approximately one kilometre, with gentle sandy shallows ideal for families and young children
- Regular afternoon sea breezes make Varkiza one of the top windsurfing and kiteboarding sites on the Athens Riviera
- Multiple organized beach clubs along the full length of the bay with sunbeds, bars, and restaurants throughout
- Open Saronic Gulf aspect provides striking southwest-facing sunsets visible from the beach in the evening hours
- Broad, well-spaced shoreline accommodates more visitors than nearby beaches without feeling overcrowded at peak times
Tips for visiting
- Windsurfers and kiteboarders should plan for afternoon visits when the regular thermal breeze fills in — mornings are often calmer
- Sunbeds along most sections typically cost €8–15 per double set; free sand exists toward the quieter bay edges
- Public bus 122 from Athens reaches Varkiza in around 50 minutes — check the OASA website for current timings
- The western end of the beach is quieter than the central section and better for visitors arriving by car with children
- Arrive by 09:30 on summer weekends to secure a preferred sunbed position in the popular central beach clubs
When to visit
June through September is the primary season at Varkiza Beach. Windsurfers favour afternoon hours when the sea breeze develops. Families with children find gentler morning conditions ideal. September combines warm water with noticeably fewer visitors than peak midsummer.
Accessibility
Varkiza Beach is accessible via flat coastal road access and level parking areas adjacent to the sand. The sandy beach surface is compacted near the entry points at most beach clubs. No dedicated beach wheelchair service is formally confirmed. The broad, flat beach allows easier mobility than rocky or stepped-access beaches elsewhere in Attica.
Frequently asked questions
Is Varkiza Beach good for windsurfing?
Yes — Varkiza is one of the most popular windsurfing beaches in Attica. Afternoon thermal winds create reliable conditions throughout the summer season and several operators offer board hire and lessons directly on the beach.
How far is Varkiza Beach from central Athens?
Varkiza is approximately 28 kilometres south of central Athens, accessible in around 45–55 minutes by car along the coastal road or by public bus from the city center.
Are there free sections at Varkiza Beach?
Yes, sections at both ends of the bay are accessible without sunbed hire. The central portions of the beach are primarily managed by beach clubs that charge for sunbeds and parasols.
Is Varkiza Beach suitable for young children?
The gentle sandy gradient and shallow entry zone make the beach well-suited for young children. Water conditions are particularly calm in the mornings before afternoon winds develop.
Is parking available at Varkiza Beach?
Yes — parking is available along the coastal road and in several dedicated lots near the beach clubs. Spaces fill quickly on summer weekends, so arriving early in the day is recommended.