Limanakia Beach

Limanakia is the most popular gay beach near Athens and one of the best known in Greece. It sits on the rocky stretch of coast between the wealthy suburb of Vouliagmeni and Varkiza, around 45 minutes south of the city center along the Saronic Gulf.

The beach is a cluster of small coves rather than a single stretch of sand. The section known as Limanakia B is the gay and nudist area, set among white limestone rocks with clear, deep water for swimming. There is no sand and no resort development, so visitors lay out on the flat rocks and climb in from the edge. Bring water shoes if your feet are sensitive.

The crowd is mainly gay men, busiest through the summer months and at its liveliest in the afternoons. A small beach bar nearby covers drinks and basic snacks, but facilities are limited, so come prepared.

Getting there: By car, follow Poseidonos Avenue past Vouliagmeni Lake; the beach is around 1.8km on, with parking on the right. Without a car, take metro line M2 to Elliniko, then bus 122, getting off at the "B Limanakia" stop and following the road down to the water. An Uber from central Athens is straightforward and worth it in the heat.