Chalkidiki is a three‑fingered peninsula in northern Greece, southeast of Thessaloniki. Each “finger” offers a distinct beach vibe—from the lively resort beaches of Kassandra to the wilder shores of Sithonia and secluded coves near Mount Athos. Among its hundreds of beaches, these five stand out for their magical mix of turquoise waters, white sand, and dramatic scenery.
Chalkidiki’s three peninsulas—Kassandra (west “finger”), Sithonia (middle), and Mount Athos (east)—define where each beach lies. Kavourotripes and Lagonisi sit on Sithonia’s southeast coast; Diaporos (Myrsini) is an island off Sithonia; Bousoulas (Sani) spans a private gulf on Kassandra’s west side; and Xenia fronts the southern Kassandra coast near Paliouri. In other words, a rental car is almost essential – aside from boat trips to Diaporos. (Public transit is limited.) In short, these beaches illustrate Chalkidiki’s “hidden gem” appeal: each has something special to offer, but only savvy planning unlocks their magic. Keep reading to discover which beach fits your travel style and how to experience it at its best.
Chalkidiki’s Legendary Beaches at a Glance:
| Beach Name | Peninsula | Primary Access | Sand & Shore | Water Highlights | Key Amenity/Feature | Dominant Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kavourotripes | Sithonia | Car + Short Walk | Fine white sand & rocks | Turquoise, shallow coves | Naturist-friendly coves, Small beach bar | Bohemian & Natural |
| Lagonisi | Sithonia | Easy Car Access | Golden sand | Clear turquoise, family-friendly | Boat rentals to Diaporos, Resort facilities | Relaxed Family Fun & Exploration |
| Mirsini (Diaporos) | Sithonia | Boat Only | Pristine white sand | Crystal-clear, secluded bays, Blue Lagoon | Unspoiled nature, Absolute seclusion | Secluded Island Adventure |
| Bousoulas | Kassandra | Resort Access | White sand | Crystal-clear, shallow | Luxury sunbeds, Beach bar service (Sani Resort) | Upscale Resort Leisure |
| Xenia | Kassandra | Easy Car Access | Flour-like light sand | Calm, clear, very shallow entry | Vibrant beach bars, Water sports | Youthful & Energetic, Family Mix |
Kavourotripes (also called Portokali or Orange Beach) is the poster child of Chalkidiki’s hidden-spot mystique. Nestled between Armenistis and Platanitsi on Sithonia’s coast, it’s famed for “turquoise crystal-clear waters with Caribbean-like colors” and postcard-perfect scenery. Pine forests hug the cliffs, casting welcome shade on secluded sandy coves. A TripAdvisor reviewer enthuses that Kavourotripes’ “turquoise waters, soft white sand, and stunning rock formations” make it nothing short of breathtaking. In practice, this means multiple little beaches: some rocky, some sandy, all brilliantly blue.
The water is very shallow and calm, ideal for swimming or snorkeling, which is why many families with kids flock here. (Children can wade far out before it deepens.) There’s a small beach bar with showers and refreshment, but no formal rentals aside from that. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available free with a purchase at the bar, otherwise bring your own gear. There is no official parking lot or public transit: a sandy track off the main road leads to street parking on the shoulder. In peak summer, arrive before 10 AM or plan an evening visit, because by late morning the narrow parking and beaches fill up.
Kavourotripes’ draw is its otherworldly colors and rugged backdrop. Here, lush green pines contrast with crystal-clear Caribbean-blue sea, creating a “postcard-perfect setting”. You’ll find several mini-beaches split by rocky inlets – small stretches of sand nestled between cliffs. The cliffs and trees mean shade is available, rare on exposed Greek beaches. This mix of soft sand, hidden coves, and calm shallow water is unique in Chalkidiki. In short, it feels like discovering a secret, and is often called Paradise Beach by visitors. (Local maps label it “Portokali/Orange Beach,” but the crab-shaped rocks give “Kavourotripes” its name, meaning “crab holes.”) Nature lovers and photographers particularly cherish it.
Kavourotripes is accessible only by car (or taxi). The drive is on paved roads all the way to Armenistis/Platanitsi, then a final 2 km on a dirt track down to the shore. No buses run here, so self-driving is a must. The road is passable, but rough near the end. There is no official lot – cars line the sandy shoulder near the beach bar. Bring small change for the few private spots marked by the bar (often €5–10). Expect to walk ~50–100 meters over uneven ground. In high summer, parking spots vanish by mid-morning.
The beach has one small bar/restaurant (open summer months) that rents sunbeds with umbrellas. As a recent visitor notes, ordering a drink or meal gives you free use of the loungers. There are simple restrooms and freshwater showers. Otherwise, amenities are minimal: no lifeguards, no changing cabins, and no shops on-site. If you need supplies, plan to stop in Sarti (6 km south) or Neos Marmaras (15 km west). Kastania beach café 1 km up the road offers extra shaded parking (for a fee) if the lot is full. The lack of development means extra peace – aside from the one bar’s music – but also less security. Bring a beach mat or tent for additional shade if needed.
The peak season (July–August) sees very high crowds, often dozens of people by 10 AM. Locals strongly advise going in shoulder months (May–June or September) when the water is warm but the beach is quieter. Even in shoulder season, aim for morning or late afternoon. Try a late afternoon swim and you may have the coves nearly to yourself. (The water stays pleasantly warm into evening, and the sun sets around 8–9 PM in summer.) Weekdays are slightly calmer than weekends, since mostly Greeks and families come on weekends. For a quick crowd check, note that Kavourotripes is ranked #2 of 11 Sarti attractions with a 4.1/5 TripAdvisor rating – strong for beauty, but visitors comment on how quickly it fills up. In short, arrive early or late.
Kavourotripes is a winner for nature lovers and families. Its shallow calm water is ideal for kids and snorkelers. Photographers and drone enthusiasts also love the “postcard-perfect” vistas. Since there are no high waves, swimmers of all levels feel comfortable. Couples and small groups who don’t mind crowds (if timed right) will appreciate the stunning setting. However, if you’re seeking solitude or are mobility-impaired (the walk from parking is bumpy), this beach is less suitable in summer.
Lagonisi Beach (near Ormos Panagias on Sithonia) is a nearly opposite experience to Kavourotripes. It’s a paid beach club on a shallow, emerald-green lagoon protected by Diaporos Island. In practice, most of Lagonisi is a single organized stretch owned by a large beach bar/resort. Its silky sand and extremely shallow water are idyllic – children can walk 50+ m out without it deepening – but almost everything costs extra here.
The water at Lagonisi is crystal clear and mirror-flat, due to Diaporos blocking wind. The channel leading to Vourvourou Bay keeps currents gentle. One guide notes: “Because of Diaporos, the bay is protected from the wind and is thus usually calm”. The fine white sand bottoms mean even the shallow areas are smooth underfoot. For many, the vibe is very family-friendly: pools, kids swimming, and water inflatables are common. However, Lagonisi is very popular and can feel like a crowded resort beach. Weekends especially draw local families and children. As a result, the beach can be loud and full of visitors in summer. One review bluntly advised “stay away” if you want calm—calling it “full of people” with “prices at the beach bar out of control” (though note that’s extreme TripAdvisor rhetoric).
First-timers often call Lagonisi a “lagoon paradise” – the shallow, still aqua water is mesmerizing on a sunny day. From the beach loungers one sees a wide bay ringed by pines and the green island of Diaporos. The beach bar is sizable and lively, with music playing; there’s even a water trampoline and small slide for kids. If you’re looking for lots of amenities, it delivers: think full-service umbrellas, lockers, showers and even beach massage if booked. But nothing here is complimentary. In summer, book a spot ahead via the beach’s Facebook/website or plan to drop in well before noon to secure parking.
Lagonisi is 2 km north of Ormos Panagias (village on the eastern Sithonia coast). By car, follow signs for Vourvourou, then Lagonisi. The road is paved; you’ll see a turnoff sign “Lagonisi” leading to the beach entrance. If you use the paid entry, parking is included. Alternatively, there is a small free parking lot at the end of the dirt road further right, but this fills fast. A KTEL bus from Thessaloniki runs to Pefkochori, and a summer shuttle to Ormos Panagias – but no direct public transit goes to Lagonisi. In practice, most families drive or taxi down. The walk from the parking lot to the beach is short and flat (handicapped-accessible).
The dominant feature is the beach bar. You’ll lounge in organized rows of cushions and umbrellas. The menu is restaurant-style, with Greek salads, seafood, cocktails – expect beach prices (an insider notes drinks may be very expensive). All patrons must order from the bar: it’s strictly enforced that outside food/drinks are banned. This keeps the resort water clear (visitors mentioned the “water dirty” complaint stems from overcrowding, not actual sanitation). Overall, the scene is bustling: on summer weekends you’ll find dozens of sunbeds filled, families in the water, children playing, and lively music. In contrast to Kavourotripes, Lagonisi’s high cost and crowds make it feel commercial.
Lagonisi is best for families with children or groups wanting a full-service beach day. The shallow, safe water is perfect for toddlers, and facilities (toilets, showers, sunbeds) cater to kids and parents alike. It’s also favored by those coming from the nearby resorts (many guests stay at Athos Palace or Areti Suites, a short walk away). If you want a tidy beach with food on tap, Lagonisi fits. On the other hand, single travelers or couples seeking serenity will find it too built-up. (As one local traveler noted, if you crave quiet reading time on the sand, “the beach is not recommended”.) In short, go here for convenience and family fun, but manage expectations – this is crowd-central in high season.
Off the coast of Sithonia lies Diaporos, a rugged island archipelago reached only by boat. Its jewel is Myrsini Beach (also nicknamed “Hawaii” by locals for its blinding white sand). Diaporos is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and pristine sand. There are no beach clubs here – all of Diaporos is unorganized. As an official tourism guide says, “Myrsini Beach is one of the most popular on the island, known for its pristine sand and turquoise waters”. In summer it attracts day-trippers who cruise around Vourvourou’s small islets. The payoff is a truly peaceful, wild beach: you might see dolphins offshore or flamingos in winter.
Diaporos feels like stepping into a natural reserve. Pine-covered hills plunge to rocky shores, and every cove has its own name (Myrsini, Raxi, Megalos Marmaros). Most have fine sand and enchanting color, but nearly no amenities. No shops or bathrooms exist beyond a few beach crafts sold by passing boats. Visitors must pack in water and snacks (though some boat tours supply lunch). The swim is superb: one travel operator raves that “this small jewel…is a genuine heaven on earth,” with “deep, tranquil seas” perfect for endless swimming. The vibe is relaxed adventure, not lounging luxury. People snorkel over remnants of columns, kayakers weave between islets, and photographers chase the contrasting blues and greens of sea and forest.
You must arrive by boat. The most common departure point is Vourvourou village on Sithonia’s northeast coast. Small motorboats and inflatable dinghies can be rented privately (no license needed for boats ≲ 5.5 m), or you can hop on group tours. According to tourism information, “boats depart from Vourvourou for Diaporos island, a quiet escape with hidden coves, calm bays and blue-green water”. Speedboats from Vourvourou travel to Diaporos hourly in summer (€15–20 one way). Tour operators also offer “Blue Lagoon” or Halkidiki cruises that include a stop at Myrsini. If you have a car, drive to Vourvourou (or Ormos Panagias, 10 min west) and book a boat. There is no port fee at Diaporos, but small boats may anchor a distance out. Expect to wade through knee-deep water to get ashore in some spots.
Myrsini Beach (often marked “Hawaii Beach”) is the draw. It’s a gentle horseshoe bay of white sand and pine shade. The center of Myrsini tends to have the deepest water; the flanks are shallower. All around the island are interesting rock formations and little pebble coves. The water is almost flush with marine life – common to see colorful fish and old amphora pieces on the seabed. Snorkeling at the rocky ends of Myrsini is recommended (there’s a reef on the east side). For more adventure, the southwest side of Diaporos offers a long sandy beach (Raxi) that’s quieter. Beyond Diaporos are the Drenia isles and Ammouliani, which can be combined in a boat day.
Because it’s remote, plan carefully: – Boat tips: Bring cash to pay for the boat, and one for any small gear rentals. Wear reef sandals – the last 50 m to shore can be pebbly. – Facilities: None on the island (no toilets or shops). Pack out trash. – Snacks/water: Buy supplies before leaving Vourvourou. A small kiosk (1 km from harbor) sells snacks, but pack enough water for all day. – Timing: The first boats often depart ~10 AM; many plan a full morning to mid-afternoon at Diaporos. Plan to leave by 4–5 PM (last boats) unless staying overnight on Ammouliani or Vourvourou. – Mobile signal: Weak or none in parts of Diaporos; let friends know your boat schedule. In short, Diaporos rewards the adventurous. Go here if you crave wild nature and don’t mind the journey. It’s the quintessential quiet beach on our list: no crowds, no crowds, ever, just you, the pine trees, and the Aegean.
Bousoulas is the southern half of Sani Beach on the Kassandra peninsula, part of the luxury Sani Resort complex. It’s 7 km long of velvety sand, backed by dunes and a 5-star hotel. The water here is shallow and turquoise, famously child-friendly. In fact, Sani’s marketing notes that the shallow lagoon is perfect for kids and water-sport novices (and lifeguards patrol continuously).
This beach feels very developed: it’s managed by a resort but open to day guests and hotel guests alike. Hundreds of umbrellas are spaced well apart, and waiters bring food/drink service to your sunbed. The sand is soft and fine – even the shallows maintain sand underfoot (no stones). Palms and forest line the back dunes, but on the beach itself only the lounge areas have shade (mostly fabric umbrellas). In the evenings, Bousoulas Beach Bar hosts live music and events (White Nights parties, salsa, etc.), giving a festive twist to sunsets.
Bousoulas lies in northern Sani, adjacent to Sani Club hotel. By car, the address is Sani, Halkidiki (GPS will show Sani Beach). There’s plenty of free parking around the Sani Beach Hotel area – just follow signs for Sani Resort Beaches. Entrance is free (no beach fee), but note that portions closest to the bar might require you to buy from them. There are multiple entry points (each beach zone has its own parking). Public buses from Thessaloniki stop at Sani Beach Hotel in summer, and from there it’s a 5‑minute walk to Bousoulas. The resort provides free shuttle trams connecting all Sani Beach areas in high season (tip: sit on the left side for ocean views).
Facilities are top-tier. There are permanent bathrooms and shower blocks every 150 m. The sandy beach is dotted with rental cabanas, deluxe loungers, and even full cabanas with air conditioning in the dunes behind. Wi‑fi is available, and charge-point kiosks mean your phone never dies. Water-sports (kayaks, paddle boards) are plentiful. The crowd is calm and upscale: mainly resort guests, families, and honeymooners. At Sani, courtesy is paramount: staff keep the beach spotless. A Sani review says Bousoulas is “a truly exceptional place” with “soft white sand” and safe shallow waters. (Parents, breathe easy – even toddlers have space to play in the waves.)
Bousoulas is ideal for families with kids and anyone seeking a polished beach day with amenities. The shallow water and shaded toddler pools behind the bar make it particularly safe. Honeymooners and older travelers enjoy the relaxed vibe here, far from the mosh-pit crowds of Kassandra’s party beaches. On the flipside, Bousoulas is part of a resort, so expect a small fee for premium services. There’s no wild forest to explore (the pines are kept back). But if “private resort beach” appeals, Bousoulas is hard to beat. Note that it’s never crowded by Chalkidiki standards (the 7 km length keeps densities low), and on-season it may actually feel more empty than Kavourotripes.
Xenia Beach lies on southern Kassandra (between Paliouri and Chrousso Bay) and is sometimes called Paliouri Beach. It is regarded by many as Kassandra’s showpiece beach. It stretches about 3 km of pale sand, flanked by dense pine forest on one side and calm bay waters on the other. The water is almost always gentle – Athos in the distance breaks some winds – making it another favorite for children.
Travelers say Xenia offers everything “from clean sand to water entertainment and awe-inspiring views”. Indeed, the beach bars here are lively and numerous (notably Cabana, Koursaros, Lefki Ammos) and young crowds frequent it for DJs and volleyball. Behind you, the forest comes close, painting alternating bands of green and blue. One guide notes that “the beautiful views and lush greenery” plus Mount Athos on the horizon make Xenia feel very picturesque. The shoreline is lined with soft sand, and the depth remains shallow for about 30 m out, then it drops off.
By car, follow the signposts to Paliouri village on the way down Kassandra. Xenia is just north of Paliouri by a couple of kilometers (some maps mark it as Pyrgos Beach). The road is paved; you’ll find several dirt pull-offs for parking (parking is free). In summer, expect cars lining the roadside well before the beach. Alternatively, there is a Thessaloniki–Halkidiki KTEL bus that stops at Paliouri; from there it’s a 10 min walk (or taxi) north. If coming from the south (Pefkochori/Glarokavos), there’s a small pier at Xenia’s southern end where pleasure boats dock mid-day – some visitors arrive by boat from resorts to enjoy the party atmosphere.
Xenia Beach is more developed than Diaporos but less upscale than Sani or Kavourotripes. You’ll find dozens of rental umbrellas and loungers from the bars, and a scattering of tavernas right on the sand (Greek salads, gyros, cold drinks). Some bars operate long into the evening (especially on weekends). Water-sports rentals (jet skis, banana boats) are available. There are also conveniences like changing cabins, showers, and parking attendants for tips. Prices are mid-range: not as expensive as Lagonisi’s private club, but be prepared to pay for everything from Wi-Fi (€5) to sunbed use (often “free with 15€ food order”). In short, Xenia strikes a balance between relaxation and recreation.
Xenia can get very busy in July/August, particularly on days when tour boats come in. If you crave space, consider a morning visit or go in late summer. That said, children and active teens love Xenia: the water is safe and fun, and the beach bars occasionally host foam parties or beach soccer. One useful tip: the water entry has some stone slabs right at shore, so bring water shoes for ease. Also, many bars let you reserve loungers by phone in advance – worth doing if arriving late. Best for: families and young adults who want lively beach bars alongside calm swimming.
To help you decide, here’s a quick side-by-side look at each beach’s flavor:
Beach | Highlights | Access | Crowd Level | Best For |
Kavourotripes | Rocky coves, turquoise water, pine shade | Car only; street parking | Very crowded in summer | Nature lovers, photographers, families |
Lagonisi | Vast shallow lagoon, full-service beach club | Car; paid entry (beach club) | Very busy (esp. weekends) | Families, party-goers, conveniences |
Diaporos (Myrsini) | Pristine white sand, calm isolated coves | Boat from Vourvourou or Ormos Panagias | Very quiet | Adventure seekers, snorkelers, tranquility |
Bousoulas (Sani) | Long white sand, shallow child-friendly water | Car; Sani resort area (free) | Low (resort-managed) | Families, luxury travelers, quiet retreat |
Xenia (Paliouri) | Wide sandy bay, warm calm sea, beach bars | Car or bus to Paliouri | High on summer weekends | Young adults, families (off-peak) |
Other Tips:
