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Some of the best Thessaloniki beaches can be found in and around the Thermaikos Gulf or slightly further afield in Halkidiki. In this post, we outline 9 stunning beaches near Thessaloniki that you can add to your Greece travel itinerary!

From gorgeous Greek isles to its cities such as Athens and Thessaloniki, bursting with a fascinating history, incredible landmarks, delicious foods and warm hospitality, Greece certainly has it all! 

It’s for exactly this reason why we adore Greece and why this amazing country still ranks as one of our most favourite places we’ve ever visited. 

If you love beaches as much as we do, then you’re probably also considering a holiday to Greece that balances sightseeing and history with some downtime at the best beaches in Greece, for some much-needed rest and relaxation.

And boy, the beaches in Greece certainly do not disappoint. Whether you’re wanting to explore the beaches of Crete, want to soak up some rays on a Rhodes beach, or even planning a Greek honeymoon to one of the many romantic islands such as Santorini, you’ll certainly find no shortage of fabulous beaches to explore. 

Whilst many visitors flock to the various Greek isles, you shouldn’t discount the mainland of Greece to find some idyllic beaches. In this guide, we outline 9 stunning beaches in Thessaloniki and nearby! 

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Pssst…Before you jet off to idyllic Greece, be sure you have all your essentials packed by reading our European packing guide. 

Best Beaches in Thessaloniki: Thermaikos Gulf

The beaches closest to Thessaloniki are found in the resort towns located in the Thermaikos Gulf. Easily accessible from the city by bus or boat, many of these beaches are popular spots amongst locals and tourists. As such, these Thessaloniki beaches are often well organized and have everything you’ll need for the perfect day.

While there are plenty of beaches in the towns on the Thermaikos Gulf, these are the absolute best and will make your visit to Greece even more memorable. Gentle, clear waters and soft golden sand, these beautiful coastlines are all worth the visit and considered some of the best Thessaloniki beaches.

Wondering how to save money on your trip? Check out these useful tips for travelling to Greece on a budget.

Perea Beach near Thessaloniki

If you’re in Thessaloniki, then the closest beach worth venturing to is Perea Beach (Also known as Peraia Beach). Just 17 kilometres from the city centre, this beach is very popular with locals and tourists. While it may be crowded, it is crowded for a reason. A scenic coastline with clear, warm waters and vibrant nightlife, Perea Beach is a must for anyone visiting this region of Greece. 

While Perea is a residential suburb, it is also home to a thriving resort community. As such, the beach’s coastline is flanked by taverns, beach bars and restaurants. There is also an abundance of high-end Thessaloniki beach hotels and resorts like the Royal Hotel and Golden Star City Resort. For those visiting Perea on a day trip, be sure to bring a change of clothes as the nightlife is something you do not want to miss. 

Agia Triada Beach

Another beach near the Thessaloniki city centre is Agia Triada. Just a 30 minute drive away, the beach provides a nice, secluded getaway from the city. Here, visitors can soak up the sun and enjoy a relaxing afternoon. As it gets later, the beach boasts one of the most beautiful sunsets in all of Greece, turning the ocean waters from blue to gold. 

Agia Triada is a Blue Flag beach, offering soft sands, clean waters and a number of amenities to assure guests a comfortable visit. Along the one-kilometre beach are a number of taverns and bars. Agia Triada is also a popular spot for scuba diving and snorkelling.  

Located in a quiet resort village, this Blue Flag beach is home to a number of lovely holiday accommodations. Near Agia Triada beach, set amid a blossomed garden, is the wonderful Angelbay Bungalows – a popular pick amongst couples. 

Asprovalta

Located in the centre of the large Striminikos Gulf is the popular tourist resort, Asprovalta. In this lively village, almost every house offers holiday accommodation, and there are local bakeries situated on about every corner. For families visiting Thessaloniki, Asprovalta is the perfect spot. 

In Asprovalta, the wide coastline featuring a mix of fine sand and pebbles stretches uninterrupted for kilometres. On the promenade near the beach, there is a variety of lovely restaurants, bars and cafés. There is also a large number of organized umbrellas and sunloungers located near the water, so you can spend all day lazing by the sea.

One of Asprovalta’s best and largest beaches is Regel Beach. Golden sands are surrounded by walking paths, greenery, art, playgrounds, apartments and even an outdoor theatre with seats overlooking the sea. This is a spot in Asprovalta which you do not want to miss. There are also opportunities for a number of recreational activities like volleyball, swimming and boating. 

Potamos Beach

Near the town of Epanomi is another wonderful city escape known as Potamos Beach. One of the prettiest beaches in Thessaloniki with its clear, sparkling waters and soft sands, Potamos is a favourite among locals. The beach also provides a spectacular view of the large  Mount Olympus, one of the most famous Greek landmarks.  

Boasting the prestigious Blue Flag status, this beach’s waters are clean and safe for swimming. The beach also has umbrellas and sunbeds available to rent, and lovely beach bars and restaurants nearby. 

For those in search of an adventure, check out this Dion and Mount Olympus day tour.

Epanomi Beach

Located in the south of Thessaloniki is Epanomi Beach, one of the region’s most popular beaches. With 40 kilometres of fine-grained sand met with crystal-clear waters, this beach is truly remarkable and it is no surprise that it remains crowded throughout the summer months. 

On this Blue Flag beach, the waters are clean and the amenities are plentiful. Sun loungers, umbrellas, showers and lifeguards are all on-site, ensuring visitors have a comfortable and safe experience. To help beat those afternoon cravings, visitors can head down to the lovely cafés, taverns and restaurants nearby. 

Regarding activities, the beach has volleyball sites and tennis courts nearby. And while the right side of the Thermaic Gulf remains quiet and calm, the left does tend to have deeper waters and stronger winds. For surfers and kitesurfers, this is the ideal spot. 

Angelochori Beach

One of Thessaloniki’s hidden gems is the triangular-shaped Angelochori Beach, named after the town it’s situated in. While this beach is not frequented as much as some of the others on this list, it is one you’ll be glad you visited. 

At the centre of Angelochori Beach is the Riviera Beach Bar which offers everything you’ll need for an enjoyable day out in the sun. The bar provides sunbeds free of charge, provided you order something on the menu. Reasonably priced, enjoy some refreshing, must-try Greek drinks alongside some tasty local cuisine. 

Best Beaches in Halkidiki

With its beautiful natural landscape, dazzling seaside resorts and exotic beaches, Halkidiki (or Chalkidiki) is one of the most popular holiday destinations in northern Greece. 

Haldikidi is largely characterized by its three “legs”, splitting the peninsula up into three smaller parts – namely Kassandra, Sithonia and Athos. Across these three peninsulas are many lovely beaches, 39 of which are Blue Flag certified. 

To get from Thessaloniki to Halkidiki, travel one hour by bus from the city centre or rent a car.

Sithonia

The second leg of Halkidiki, Sithonia, offers an entirely different atmosphere. If you prefer quieter beaches, then this is the perfect spot. With many secluded beaches and coves characterized by perfect white sands and crystal-clear waters, this spot has become a favourite for both locals and tourists. 

Some of the top beaches here include Lagonisi Beach, Livrohio Beach, Karidi Beach, Orange Beach, Sarti Beach and Lagomandra beach, among many others. Many beaches here are Blue Flag certified and are perfect for swimming. Water sports are popular in this part of Halkidiki. Try your hand in a variety of activities like scuba diving, snorkelling, canoeing and paddling. 

Kassandra

The first leg of Halkidiki is Kassandra. This is the busiest of the three peninsulas and is full of popular tourist resorts, hotels and beaches. Among the beaches here is the organized Blue Flag Nea Kallikratia beach. With soft, golden sands and clear waters surrounded by forest, this is one of the most beautiful coastlines on this side of Halkidiki. 

Other Halkidiki beaches in Kassandra include the part sand, part rock Lios Beach and the completely sandy Varkes Beach. Here you’ll find several amenities including beach bars and taverns, as well as some exciting activities like scuba diving. Alternatively, spice up your trip with this 2-day sailing cruise in Chalkidiki.

Agios Mamas

Nestled between the first and second peninsulas of Halkidiki and about a one-hour drive from Thessaloniki is the charming village of Agios Mamas. Home to wide sandy beaches with shallow, crystal-clear waters, this spot is ideal for families. 

Being that the beach is a local favourite, it offers plenty in terms of amenities. On the beach are a number of trendy taverns, restaurants and beach bars, overlooking the Toroneos Gulf. 

If you love experiencing different cultures, try to visit during the harvest festival which takes place in early September.