Lagonisi

The basics

Lagonisi (not to be confused with the town of the same name on the Sithonia peninsula) is considered one of the most beautiful beach destinations on the Athenian Riviera. Its lack of direct public transportation from the capital city makes it much less crowded than more accessible stretches of coastline. There are several beaches along the town’s promontory and mainland coast, with beach clubs offering umbrella and sunbed rentals and public areas where you can swim and sunbathe for free. Some beaches also have basic services like changing rooms and showers, and there are restaurants and snack bars nearby.

Things to know before you go

• You can bring picnic supplies for lunch on the beach or dine at one of the eateries along the coast or in the town center.

• Amenities vary on Lagonisi’s many beaches, but generally include beach clubs with umbrella and chair rentals, changing rooms, restrooms, and showers, plus snack bars.

• Lagonisi doesn’t have a town center that stands apart, but the area backing the beaches offers restaurants, shops, water sports centers, and other tourist services.

• Some of Lagonisi’s beaches are accessible to wheelchairs via boardwalks.

How to get there

There are no direct tram or bus lines between Athens and Lagonisi, so the best way to visit is by rental car or private driver. It takes about an hour to drive from central Athens to the Lagonisi waterfront, and the coast has several paid or free parking areas within walking distance of the beach.

When to get there

Most visitors come to Lagonisi on the weekends and in the summertime, when Athenians and travelers escape the city heat with a day at the beach. Weekdays and spring and fall weekends are less crowded, though restaurants and other services are often closed from October through April.

What to expect at a Lagonisi beach club

While there are free public beaches in Lagonisi, the services of a beach club can make a day trip stress-free. Beach clubs generally rent two sunbeds per umbrella, and the rental is for a full day—though you can sometimes get a discounted rate if you arrive in the afternoon. Some prices vary by location, with the more expensive umbrellas in the first row along the waterfront. Some beach clubs also require a minimum purchase of food and drinks. Facilities like restrooms, changing rooms, and showers are almost always included.