Schinias sits on the northeastern coast of Attica, just north of the town of Marathon. Unlike the Athens Riviera beaches to the south, which are increasingly developed and urbanised, Schinias has been protected as a national park since 2000, preserving its pine forest and wetlands. The result is a beach that looks like it belongs on a Greek island rather than 45 minutes from a city of 4 million.

The Beach

The beach stretches for about 5 km along a gently curved bay. The sand is fine and golden, the water is shallow and warm, and the pine forest provides natural shade right to the edge of the sand in many sections.

Northern section (towards the Olympic centre): Quieter, more natural. Pine trees come right down to the beach. Good for people who want to lay a towel in the shade without paying for a sunbed.

Central section: The most popular area. A few beach bars and tavernas set up sunbeds and umbrellas in summer. Organised but not overdeveloped. Water sports available.

Southern section (towards Marathon): Wider, more exposed. Popular with windsurfers and kitesurfers because it catches more wind.

The water quality is excellent. The bay faces east, so it catches the morning sun. By afternoon, the pine forest provides welcome shade. On calm days, the water is flat and clear -- good for swimming with young children.

Getting There

By Car (45 minutes - 1 hour)

Take Mesogeion Avenue northeast towards Rafina, then follow signs to Marathon and Schinias. Free parking in several areas along the beach road. Arrive before 10:00 on summer weekends if you want a good spot.

By Bus

KTEL buses from the Mavromateon terminal (near Victoria metro station) run to Marathon, with some services continuing to Schinias. Journey time about 1.5 hours. Check schedules -- not all services go to the beach.

By Car Rental from Airport

Schinias is only 20 km from Athens airport, making it a good first or last day option if you've rented a car. You could swim at Schinias in the morning and catch an afternoon flight.

What Else to Do

The Pine Forest

Behind the beach, a dense stone pine (Pinus pinea) forest extends inland. Several paths wind through the trees -- pleasant for a walk when you need a break from the sun. The forest is home to the rare Caretta caretta sea turtle nesting site and various bird species.

Water Sports

The southern end of the beach catches consistent wind from the Aegean, making it a popular spot for: - Windsurfing -- Rental and lessons available from beach operators - Kitesurfing -- Growing scene, especially spring and autumn - Stand-up paddleboarding -- Available from beach bars in calm conditions - Kayaking -- Rentals available, the bay is sheltered and safe

Marathon Olympic Rowing Centre

The 2004 Olympic rowing and canoeing venue sits at the northern end of Schinias on a purpose-built lake. It's occasionally used for events but mostly quiet. You can walk or cycle past it.

Marathon Battlefield and Museum

The ancient battlefield is just 3 km inland. The tumulus (burial mound) of the 192 Athenian soldiers who fell in the 490 BC battle is an easy side trip. The Marathon Archaeological Museum is nearby. Combine beach and history for a full day.

Where to Eat

Several tavernas line the beach road behind Schinias:

  • Beachside tavernas -- Simple, good-value Greek food. Fresh fish, grilled octopus, salads, and cold beer. Expect 12-20 EUR per person.
  • Beach bars -- More casual. Snacks, drinks, and music. Some serve full meals.

The food is better value and more authentic than the Athens Riviera equivalents. This is a local beach, not a tourist strip.

For something different, drive 5 minutes to the village of Nea Makri for more restaurant options.

Practical Tips

  • Weekend vs weekday makes a huge difference. Summer weekends bring crowds of Athenians. Weekday mornings can feel almost empty.
  • Bring your own shade if you want to avoid paying for sunbeds. The pine trees provide free shade in the northern sections.
  • The beach is long. Walk 10 minutes in either direction from wherever you park and you'll find a quieter spot.
  • Mosquitoes can be an issue near the wetland areas at dusk. Bring repellent if staying late.
  • No big hotels or resorts. Schinias is a day-trip beach, not a resort destination. The nearest hotels are in Marathon or Nea Makri.
  • The national park designation means no building development on the beachfront. This is why it's stayed natural while other Athens beaches have been developed.

Best Time to Visit

June and September -- Warm water, fewer crowds than peak summer, long days.

July-August -- Hot, busy on weekends, but the pine forest shade helps. Go early.

May and October -- Water may be cooler but the beach is peaceful. Good for walking and cycling.

Spring -- The wetlands behind the beach are alive with birds. Good for nature walks.

Why Schinias Over the Riviera Beaches?

The Athens Riviera beaches (Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, Varkiza) are closer to the city but increasingly feel like suburban beach clubs -- entry fees, packed sunbeds, and urban surroundings. Schinias feels genuinely wild by comparison: a real sand beach, pine trees for shade, and space to spread out. The trade-off is the extra 20-30 minutes of driving.

If you want a beach that feels like escaping the city rather than just reaching its edge, Schinias is the one.

Schinias Beach is 45 km from central Athens, about 1 hour by car. The beach stretches 5 km along a pine-backed bay near Marathon.