Explore our curated list of the best beach bars in Athens for the ultimate summer escape in the city.
Athens’ cultural legacy hardly needs an introduction. But beyond the Acropolis and the ever-expanding dining scene, a more relaxed, sun-drenched kind of luxury awaits. Stretching along the coast, the city’s beach bars aren’t just extensions of hotels- they’re destinations in their own right, each with its own rhythm, aesthetic, and distinct sense of place.
From the laid-back shores of Varkiza to the glam enclave of Astir, these coastal spots serve up more than just cocktails and cabanas. Expect sweeping sea views, plush loungers, private bungalows, and a social scene that draws a mix of discerning Athenians and global travellers chasing that Riviera glow- all paired with elevated all-day menus and signature drinks.
Astir Beach Club | Vouliagmeni
Astir Beach Club has long held court as the most iconic stretch of sand on the Athenian Riviera– a place where the legacy of old-school glamour (think Jackie O and Bardot) meets a distinctly modern kind of luxury. Set against crystal waters in Vouliagmeni, the scene here is classic striped parasols, polished teak walkways, and a soft, unhurried elegance. It’s not just a beach- it’s a mood. Between dips in the sea and expertly mixed cocktails, guests can drift between Astir’s classic sunbeds, the refined atmosphere of Privilege Beach House, and 40Forty, the on-site bar-restaurant that carries the day into night. For those wanting more than a fleeting visit, the Platinum Membership Club unlocks a more discreet kind of access- private entrances, elevated perks, and the quiet satisfaction of belonging to something timeless.
A: Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni
Krabo Beach Bar | Vouliagmeni
Tucked into a quiet, pine-fringed bay in Vouliagmeni, Krabo isn’t just a beach bar- it’s a whole mood. With its rustic wood, soft linen accents, and natural tones that echo the surrounding landscape, this is where the Athens Riviera takes on an island state of mind. The beach club unfolds across a series of tiered terraces, with sunbeds and private wooden huts offering front-row seats to the impossibly clear Aegean. Down by the water, the full-service bar keeps the rhythm light with low-key tunes and crisp spritzes, while the award-winning restaurant serves refined Mediterranean dishes in a setting that’s both elegant and effortless. Whether you’re here for a long lunch or a late afternoon swim, Krabo captures that elusive balance of barefoot ease and quiet luxury.
A: Thespidos, Vouliagmeni
Limanakia Beach Bar | Vouliagmeni
For something a little more stripped-back (but no less captivating) Limanakia offers a wilder, more unfiltered slice of the Athens Riviera. Carved into the rocky coastline between Vouliagmeni and Varkiza, this rustic wooden beach bar sits tucked inside one of the area’s largest natural bays. By day, it’s all about cliffside swims and sun-drenched lounging on smooth stone ledges; by night, the energy shifts as locals and night owls gather for late drinks, music, and one of the best sunset views around. There are no plush daybeds or polished menus here- just a breezy bar, a good playlist, and a come-as-you-are crowd. It doesn’t really have official hours, but in true Greek summer fashion, it rarely sleeps.
A: Vouliagmeni, Athens
Royal Beach Bar | Vouliagmeni
Nestled in a quiet Vouliagmeni cove, Royal Beach Bar strikes the perfect balance between relaxed seaside charm and understated elegance. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in for a lazy afternoon with a light bite from the beach bar menu- think club sandwiches and tortillas- or indulge in a Japanese-inspired lunch at the restaurant featuring spicy tuna and shrimp tempura. The cocktail list keeps things classic yet lively, with Aperol spritzes, mojitos, and negronis flowing effortlessly by the water’s edge. Beyond the food and drinks, Royal Beach cultivates a warm, atmospheric vibe with carefully curated music and a calendar of events that keep the energy just right. Whether you arrive at dawn for a morning espresso or linger well into the evening, this is a place to savour carefree summer moments framed by shimmering sea views, just a stone’s throw from the city’s pulse.
A: Apollonos 28, Vouliagmeni
Bungalow 7 | Glyfada
Bungalow 7 unfolds like a sprawling beach house rather than a typical bar-restaurant, with interconnected indoor and outdoor spaces that each offer their own distinct vibe. The atmosphere is relaxed and understated, the perfect backdrop for an imaginative Japanese-Mediterranean menu and a thoughtfully curated wine list. Elevating the experience, guest mixologists and DJs bring a lively, sensory edge that nods to the enduring prestige of the original Asteria. Beyond the food and drinks, Bungalow 7 offers a serene outdoor pool and two private beaches (one adults-only, the other family-friendly) making it a true escape. Recently, the venue launched weekly Club Dining Nights, reviving the spirit of Asteria’s legendary parties with live DJs, crafted cocktails, and gourmet fare that captures the golden-age glamour of the Greek Riviera, all while injecting a fresh, modern pulse into Athens’ nightlife.
A: Leof. Poseidonos 110, Glyfada
Varkiza Resort | Vari
Formerly known as Yabanaki, Varkiza Resort is a sprawling beach complex that blends lively social scenes with family-friendly calm. Spread along a sandy shore dotted with sunbeds, beach bars, and restaurants, it offers something for every kind of summer mood- from vibrant spots pulsing with music to quieter corners perfect for those seeking a little peace. Apart from the food and drinks, there’s a water sports kiosk, beach volleyball courts, and even an open-air cinema for warm evenings under the stars. The gently sloping, shallow waters make it a natural choice for families, with lifeguards and security ensuring a safe and relaxed environment. Whether you’re chasing fun or downtime, Varkiza has you covered.
A: Varkiza, Vari
Bolivar Beach Bar | Alimos
Bolivar Beach Bar is a mainstay on Athens’ coastline, combining lively beach vibes with family-friendly fun. Set within the organised Alimos “Costa Del Sol” beach, the spot offers comfortable sunbeds nestled beneath palm trees and shaded greenery, creating a welcoming oasis on white sand and gravel. Bolivar serves up a broad menu of cocktails and bites, perfect for anything from sunset drinks to full-on beach parties and the music here tends to play loud and proud, making it a destination for those who want energy and atmosphere rather than quiet. Families will appreciate the inflatable water park, keeping little ones entertained while grown-ups soak up the sun and sea.
A: Leof. Poseidonos, Alimos
Bloom Beach Bar | Voula
Bloom Beach Bar in Voula is a fresh addition to the Athens Riviera since 2024, where Mediterranean ease meets unexpected fusion. Set against a palette of soft pink and blue umbrellas, it’s a place to swim, unwind, and indulge in a thoughtfully crafted menu featuring creative reinventions of classics (like a signature crispy moussaka) alongside Japanese-inspired flavours. By day, it’s a haven of gentle relaxation; by evening, a quiet celebration of balance and flavour unfolds. Sundays bring a vibrant shift as DJ Dim Korr spins from 1 pm, mixing mainstream Greek beats with sun-soaked cocktails and the effortless rhythm of a perfect summer afternoon.
A: 4 Leof. Alkionidon Ave, Voula
The C | Voula
The C (also in Voula) offers a seamless mix of style, inventive flavours, and a beach made for long, languid swims. Spread along the sand, cabanas, sunshades, and sunbeds invite you to settle in and soak up the laid-back atmosphere. More than just a beach, The C presents an alternative concept where food, music, and nature come together with ease. Award-winning mixologists craft inventive cocktails with precision, while a carefully curated selection of premium wines and spirits rounds out the experience, making it a go-to spot to lose track of time from day into night.
A: Alkionidon 4 Avenue, Voula
Zen Beach Bar | Vouliagmeni
Tucked away in a quiet cove of Vouliagmeni, Zen Beach Bar is a serene escape for those seeking refreshing swims and the comforts of an organised beach. Open all day, it pairs attentive beach service with an outdoor restaurant serving snacks, drinks, and a thoughtfully designed Mediterranean menu. Traditional Greek dishes come with a modern touch (and a fair price) whether you choose to dine at the table or from the comfort of your sunbed, making Zen a quietly elegant spot to unwind by the sea.
A: Odos Telos Vakchou, Vouliagmeni
Main Image by: Astir Beach
