Number of Greece’s ‘Untrodden’ Beaches Rises to 238

Photo source: Ministry of Environment & Energy

The list of the officially registered “untrodden beaches” in Greece, rose to 238 recently, with the addition of another 40, based on the requests of citizens, municipal authorities and the Agency of Natural Environment and Climate Change.

The list was updated following the signing of a joint ministerial decision by ministers of the Environment and Energy, Theodoros Skylakakis and of the National Economy and Finance, Kostis Hatzidakis.

The so called “untrodden beaches” were declared as such for the first time by Greek Law No 5092/2024, “concerning the terms and conditions of the usage of public property on seaside areas”.

The foresaid law sets strict prerequisites concerning the usage of beaches, including business activities, basically aiming to protect the natural environment. All currently registered beaches, remain accessible to private Greek citizens and foreign visitors, also belong to the Natura 2000 network, meaning they have been listed as important ecosystems, homes to endangered species, areas notable for their biodiversity, etc.

According to the ministerial decision, concerning the untrodden beaches, the following are specifically forbidden:

– the presence of motor vehicles of any kind, including motorcycles, etc.
– the organizing of social events with more than 10 participants
– the airing of music or music production with electronic amplifiers or loudspeakers
– setting up and using any kind of mobile furniture, such as tables, chairs, sunbeds, umbrellas, etc.
– business activities concerning swimmers, such as sea going vehicles, boats, etc or sports equipment rental stations
– the operation of any kind of food car or food truck (canteens).

The updated list of Greece’s “Apatites Paralies” (Untrodden Beaches) can be found here (in Greek).

It is reminded that the government in late April launched an online platform dubbed “MyCoast” where interested parties can apply for shoreline use auctions and citizens can report beach access and shoreline use violations in real time.