A guide to the best beaches in Halkidiki

Kavourotrypes

Originally a nudist beach, Kavourotrypes has changed its ways. Now all visitors are clothed, and the vanilla-white sand welcomes families and sunbathers in equal measure. You’ll find a relaxed vibe waiting for you on Greek island holidays to these tranquil shores, with crystal water lapping at the sand, rocky inclines to perch atop for picnics and soothing greenery.

The sun is a constant friend here, so you can sit back with the warmth on your face simply people watching. Kavourotrypes is on the Sithonia peninsula, around 70 kilometres from Poligiros, the major city of Halkidiki.

Sani Beach

They say you’ll never forget a Sani Beach sunset. Well, you can test that theory for yourself at this beautiful stretch of coastline that looks out to Mount Olympus on the mainland. This Blue Flag beach is a popular destination on the Kassandra peninsular, and features a wide selection of modern facilities, and some upmarket places to stay.

It’s the soft golden beach that really draws the crowds though, with scorching sun gracing the shore every day. However, embankments lined with trees provide shade if things get too much.

Hanioti

Hanioti is a popular resort with tourists heading off on cheap holidays to Halkidiki, and as such the beaches see their fair share of visitors. That doesn’t mean you should pass up the chance to be one of them, however. The sand is soft and stretches for quite some distance. Plus the coastline is dotted with bars and restaurants where you can refuel and refresh during a seaside stroll. There’s also a wealth of watersports to be tried, making Hanioti a popular spot for adventurous holidaymakers.

Possidi

Under the protection of its famous lighthouse, Possidi is a sublime stretch of sand on the west of the Kassandra peninsula. A resort has sprung up getting the benefit of the sunny shoreline here. Cafes and bars, as well as some scattered shops, give a good mix of peaceful sunbathing and access to facilities. The beach is also noted as being very family-friendly.

Banieres

Banieres has a good mixture of seclusion and easy access to amenities, given that it’s a short walk from the coastal town of Neos Marmaras. A long strip of sand is dotted with lots of parasols and loungers, which makes this a brilliant place to unwind. Although the available opportunities for diving, surfing and boating give a good range of more active pastimes too.

Agios Mamas

Located at the tip of the Kassandra peninsula, Agios Mamas features a narrow strip of nearly white sand and a generous supply of sunloungers with parasols. It’s hidden away to some extent, but still popular with tourists, so you’re going to have a good mix of privacy without feeling isolated.

Azapico

A white sand cove huddled in the embrace of a lush green woodland, Azapico beach is a welcome retreat during your Halkidiki holiday adventures. The water is shimmering blue, while nearby amenities are handy without being intrusive. That means you can recline on the sand without a care in the world.

Every list of beaches needs a hidden gem, and Kovio is definitely it. This is one location where mainstream tourism has yet to hit. This means it’s private and enclosed – ideal for those of you favouring a coastal day off the beaten path.

Every list of beaches needs a hidden gem, and Kovio is definitely it. This is one location where mainstream tourism has yet to hit. This means it’s private and enclosed – ideal for those of you favouring a coastal day off the beaten path.