Varkiza beach is a very nice, long (about 1 km), sandy beach. It is a very popular beach for the people from the southern suburbs of Athens.

This beach is only 21 km. away from the city center of Athens (Syntagma square) and is located directly next to the main road, Sounio Avenue (Λεωφόρου Αθηνών-Σουνίου), that connects Athens with Sounio (the most southern tip of Attica).

This place has a very big parking spot that has a capacity of at least a 1.000 cars. So expect a lot of people here. You can come also here by taking public transport: Bus line 171.

The beach has several canteens where you can buy a coffee, a refreshing drink or a snack.

Since of this year (June) 2020, the beach is equipped with a lot of FREE to use umbrellas. Remember, first comes first served!

If you didn't make it in time, be happy, there are also a few trees where you can find some shelter from the hot summer afternoons.

In this wide bay, you can also practice wind surfing as the local nautical club is also stationed in this location. You can bring your own surfboard or rent one from the club for some surf initiation lessons.

Last year there was also the opportunity to rent some water bikes and enjoy some kind of 'aqua fun park'. But this year (June 2020) I noticed that they are not here (yet). If things change, I will let you know.

Due to the soft, sandy texture of the beach and its shallow waters, this beach is very suitable for families with smaller children. The sand will make them love building sand castles here, all day long.

One downside to remark here is that I got stung by a jellyfish. It is not a very painfully experience but more a uncomfortable feeling (that will last for a few days). Another thing that I (personally) don't like is that the waters are too warm for my standards. (Some people might like this). I like the sea to be cold and refreshing.

For the gastronomical readers among us, this beach has also a very cosy tavern where you can enjoy your fish-food dinner while having your feet into sand. The place is called 'The Big Blue' (Απέραντο Γαλάζιο). I recommend this tavern as you can have a nice meal on the beach. The prices are very reasonable.
(Tip: try to read also the Greek comments on sites like TripAdvisor, even with translation software. Many times, the opinions are very different from the English ones).

QUICK DETAILS:

LOCATION  : 37°49'14.8"N+23°48'40.3"E (37.8207821 23.810085).
TYPE           : SANDY (small pebbles).
FACILITIES :

• PARTLY ORGANISED (umbrellas, canteens, showers, dressing cabins & a tavern).

• CHILD FRIENDLY (shallow waters & soft sand).

• ACCESSIBLE BY CAR.

• VERY BIG PARKING.

• WIND SURFING.

• TREES (for shade).