Beaches in Aegina
Aegina's beaches are functional rather than photogenic, and it is better to know that before you arrive than to feel let down on day two. The island's ratings are decent but not spectacular, and the coast is mostly small sandy or shingly bays rather than long sweeps: Agia Marina and Marathonas are the family choices with shallow water and services, Perdika and Aeginitissa are prettier and quieter, Souvala is workaday, and Portes on the east side is the one that feels genuinely remote. The best swimming is arguably not on Aegina at all but on the islet of Moni, reached by boat from Perdika. In August, weekends are the problem rather than weekdays: Athenians arrive in force and the organised bays fill by mid-morning. Come midweek if you can.
Aeginitissa Beach
One of the nicest beaches in the south west of Aegina, with blue-green water, good shade and an organised feel. Very popular with locals and visitors alike for its green, quiet surroundings.
Agia Marina Beach
The longest beach on Aegina (almost 500 m), with sand and shallow water. Blue Flag. Ideal for families with children. Sunloungers, parasols, bars and restaurants right on the shore.
Avra Beach (Kolona)
A beach next to Aegina port, right beside the Kolona archaeological site. The only one you can walk to from the centre. Quiet, with no great facilities.
Marathonas Beach
One of the best known beaches on the island, looking across to the islet of Moni. Sunloungers, parasols and a bar-restaurant. Water taxi to Moni available from the shore.
Moni Beach
The most popular beach excursion from Aegina: an organised cove on the islet of Moni, with crystal clear water, pine trees, a beach bar and water taxis from Perdika.
Perdika Beach
A rocky swimming spot at the southern tip of Aegina, right beside the fishing village of Perdika. Less a proper beach than a place to dive into clear water and eat afterwards in the harbour tavernas.
Portes Beach
A crystal-clear pebble beach in the south-east of the island, the furthest away and the quietest. Ringed by local tavernas, perfect for escaping the crowds.
Souvala Beach
The beach of Aegina's second port: sand and stretches of stone along the seafront promenade, with tavernas, cafes and the old thermal baths of Loutra close by.
Vagia Beach
A small sandy beach in a quiet fishing village in the north-east of Aegina. Less busy than Agia Marina and easy to combine with a taverna lunch and a visit to the Temple of Aphaia.