It’s been a long year living amidst the pandemic, and if there’s one thing that most can agree on is the excitement of the summer season and the endless opportunities it has to offer. As the weather gets warmer and Covid restrictions get lifted, people are eager to get out of their work-from-home offices and begin travelling again. Last summer consisted of countless family walks and movie nights at home. However, this summer people are ready to pack their suitcases and head somewhere warm and exotic. Instagram feeds are already starting to explode with posts of friends on crystal clear blue water beaches, basking in the sun and sipping on refreshing cocktails by the pool.
After an arduous and tasking winter/spring, an escape from reality and some relaxation is just the thing to feed your wanderlust. We all know those people who love posting to social media about their seemingly perfect and luxurious lives. So why can’t you join in on the fun? If you’re planning a holiday in Europe this summer, we recommend visiting Greece, home to some of the most Instagrammable beaches. These places will be sure to make your Instagram followers wish they were you!
Elafonisi Beach, Crete
Elafonisi Beach is an island located on the southwestern corner of Crete, the largest and most populous of the Greek Islands in the Mediterranean Sea. A once well-kept secret, this island has become a must-see for those visiting Crete and wishing to stay near a beautiful beach town. Every year, Elafonisi is visited by tourists from all over the world- from young college backpackers to affluent families of three or more. Perhaps the leading attraction is the stunning soft pink sand, made up of the remains of tiny pink shells that line the ocean floor. You’ll definitely impress your followers with pictures of the bright pink sand and crystal clear water.
At roughly a mile long, there are countless inlets and caves around the island to explore. The more private parts of the island are accessible from the mainland by a lagoon and sandbar that is submerged by shallow water. Additionally, the waters surrounding the sandbar are calm and warm, making it the ideal beach for families with small children.
Platys Gialos Beach, Mykonos
If you are staying in Mykonos and looking for a beach with countless fun activities, Platys Gialos is the perfect destination. It is located near numerous hotels lining the shallow clear waters. These hotels offer activities such as windsurfing, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and parasailing. Notable hotels include Branco Mykonos Hotel, Acrogiali Hotel, Argo Hotel. If you’re looking for more of an upscale vibe, Myconian Ambassador Hotel will fulfil your every need.
Be sure to snap a picture in your favourite bikini, or post an Instagram story of you sipping a refreshing pina colada while unwinding on a plush lounge chair. Don’t be afraid to ask your friends or significant other to capture as many Instagram pictures as possible. When in Greece, right?
Red Beach, Santorini
As the name suggests, the sands of this unique beach are a reddish/maroon hue. This is thanks to the small pebbles that break from the volcanic rock surrounding the beach. Located in Santorini in Southern Crete, Red Beach is above a large cliff overlooking breathtaking views of the ocean from above. It is definitely recommended to visit this beach by boat, as the hill is known for occasional landslides and rocky sand.
If you’re planning a boat tour around Santorini, definitely be sure to add this beach to your list for a quick dip and Instagram pic! In fact, we recommend taking a picture while still on the boat, which allows for the full beauty of the beach to be seen in the background.
St. Paul’s Bay: Rhodes
If you’re looking for a more intimate switch up from the standard beaches, be sure to check out St. Paul’s Bay. It is a hidden gem featuring two tiny creeks and a quaint Greek chapel, equipped with stunning views of the turquoise blue waters and docked boats. The right side of the beach includes sunbeds, fresh food, and chill island music, while the left side is more private and secluded.
This bay is perfect for families and couples alike as the bay boasts shallow waters for children to swim, along with snorkelling and scuba diving for some underwater adventure. #Snorkelselfie!
Balos Lagoon, Crete
Balos Lagoon is one of Greece’s other pink sand beaches, located at the northwest corner of Crete. Sure, you can find crystal clear blue waters anywhere in the Mediterranean, but how many people can actually say they’ve been to a pink beach? Elevate your post even more by wearing a bright pink bikini to go along with the colour theme.
Balos Lagoon is not only one of the most picturesque beaches in Europe, but it is also a great place to spend the day. In this case, try swimming in the refreshing waters. Additionally, try relaxing in the shallow pools that resemble natural hot springs from the hot Grecian sun.
Navagio Beach, Zakynthos
Possibly one of the most exquisite beaches, Navagio Beach has it all. The turquoise blue waters, soft smooth sand, and picturesque towering cliffs seem to reach the heavens. If you’re a fan of mystery and adventure, you’ll be interested to know that the beach features a shipwreck from the 1980s. The ship lost control during a storm, after being chased by Greek officials for attempting to smuggle illegal substances into Zakynthos. If you want to dodge the rush of tourists that swarm the beach during the day, we suggest you choose a tour that arrives early in the morning. Therefore, you’ll get the beach to yourself and snap the most incredible pictures of you and the shipwreck and the beautiful sandy waters.
But to get the most out of your trip to Navagio beach you must see it from the top, this is where the most stunning views await you. Channel your inner explorer and take the hike from Zakynthos town to the hidden beach that leads you to the stunning views of Navagio beach itself, the sea, and the surrounding cliffs. As a result, you’ll be able to capture all of this plus the ship in one single image. So, if that doesn’t scream Instagram worthy, then we don’t know what does!
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