Best Greek Islands for Families

When you are looking for an idyllic family holiday in the sun that leans towards the exotic then do yourself a favour and check out the Greek Islands. Whether you choose to go East, South or West of Greece it doesn't really matter as long as you find that magical mix of family friendly meets wild and wonderful with a high priority on relaxation.

Now Corfu maybe considered one of the most commercial islands, but it actually has a large number of beaches and accommodation off the radar that is easy to get to. It lies off the northwest coast of Greece in the Ionian Seas and is well known for its rugged, wild feel and numerous gorgeous beaches. The local culture is very international, or rather Italian, French and British thanks to a history of multicultural invasions, each of which has left its fashionable mark on the architecture and cuisine. But let's get back to the important bit... the beaches.

The most famous and popular beach has to be the two-kilometer long Agios Georgios, which lies on Cape Arilla to the north of the island. Despite its popularity and idyllic nature, it is never over crowded. But the number one beach for admiring the sunsets is Longas, on the northern most cape. It sports a shroud of red cliffs that ignite as the sun sets beyond the picturesque off-shore isles.

There are some lovely beaches off the beaten track too, namely those on the southeast coast. The most family friendly are Marathia and the nearby beaches of Maltas and Martas. Here you will find golden sand, loungers, perfect lapping sea and a couple of fabulous beach bars. There are plenty of shallows for the kids to frolic safely and a few beach bars that serve yummy local delicacies.

Further south west there is another incredible two kilometre beach that is ensconced in a lush valley. The beach is called Gardenos and is nothing less than picture postcard perfect. It leads to a second beach, Megali Lakka that is home to a quaint fishing village where there are a number of family friendly taverns.

Just below Corfu lies a tiny Ionian island called Paxos, which is well worth a mention for those who love fine sand and warm turquoise seas, without the crowds. Paxos and its satellite isles are blissful in every way and well renowned for idyllic beaches. Paxos is also well known for its food and wine, its friendly folk and warm welcome, probably something to do with its intimate size. Once you arrive you really do feel like one of the locals, as everyone seems to exchange a wave, a salute or a smile. Most of the beaches are found on the eastern side of the island, as the west is more cliffy.

There are loads of beaches to choose from and most are beautiful and complete with all the facilities you might need as a family but the best beach by far Mongonissi, it comes with all the props and a fabulous tavern with a shaded terrace. That said don't miss the two most famous beaches on the nearby satellite island of Antipaxos, which is a quick and exciting water taxi away. There is Vrika and Voutoumi, both gorgeous and have little more than a tavern for lunch, snacks and dinner.

There is one other Ionian Island that should be mentioned in this family holiday island mix and that is Kefalonia. This is an island of dramatic contrasts, cliffs and coves. Everything here seems to offer an element of surprise, as it is so eclectic and so full of unique charm and character. This goes for the locals, the food and especially the imposing landscapes and views. The best beaches include Myrtos with its perfect strip of peppermint pebbles at the foot of a soaring cliff that offers the best sunset views on the island.

Then there is Antisamos, the very same beach where Captain Corelli’s Mandolin was filmed... and where the lush pine forest is so close to the beach that you can actually enjoy the shade of its branches as you soak your toes. Then there is Petani, another peppermint pebble beach with spearmint waters. As with the other two beaches the sunsets and beach bars make it impossible to leave the shore. Last but not least is the most family friendly of them all, Xi Beach. The shallows here are knee deep and so much safer for the little ones. The only thing is that the sand is a reddish colour, but its sand nonetheless.

As we breakaway form the Ionians and swoop to the very south of Greece, we find majestic and historic Crete, almost a country in its own right and the largest of the Greek Islands. Its sheer size and dimensions make it a fabulous place to explore and a place where you will always find exactly what you want... your tailored tranche of paradise. The beaches come in all shapes, sizes and flavours. They range from rocks to fine sand and offer families an unlimited range of shallows for the kids.

Let's start with the most idyllic beach of all, known as Finikodassos, meaning Palm Forest. Yes you read right. This gorgeous sandy beach is surrounded by a huge natural palm grove of over 500 palm trees. Now you can't get more exotic than that! All you need for this beach is a towel and sun cream, as there are sun loungers, snorkels, jet skis and some great bars for snacks and meals. Other notable beaches include Paleóhora and the beach of Myrtos, both of which are well sheltered, beautiful and come fully equipped with all the facilities of a fully loaded blue flag beach.

It should also be mentioned that these beaches are excellent out of season beaches, as they are far south enough to provide a sun trap even when the UK is in full blown winter. Last but not least is Elafonisi, the beach that features on most brochures on Crete. It is a nature reserve that lies on the south west of the island and touts a glorious blue lagoon surrounded by fine pale sands. There are very few facilities here but the swimming is heavenly, the shallows are safe and as long as you bring a picnic you won't regret making the extra effort to come.

Closer to the eastern Mediterranean is another contender that is becoming very fashionable again. Rhodes, most famous for its ancient and classical history and architecture but also for its legendary beach resorts. This island has a huge surplus of beaches from secluded coves to huge open bays.

My advice is to stay away from the most popular beaches and head for places like Tsambika, a stunning sandy beach near a monastery offering all the props of a five star resort without the masses. The water is warm and crystal clear and the view will take your breath away. If you enjoy snorkeling then head for Ladiko, a cozy cove that never gets too crowded and the suntrap allows extra time in the water (make sure you slap the sun cream on).

Another snorkeling haven is Lindos Beach. Whilst it can get very busy during peak holiday season, there is an inlet just round the corner offering space and tranquility. Last on our list is Stegna beach, a crowd free strip of soft sand with loads of rocks for the kids to explore and snorkel in.

Hopefully now you’ve got a better insight into which of the Greek Islands make great family holiday destinations for your next holiday!