Playa de Marathonas is an extensive sandy beach in Attica, Greece, famous for its calm and shallow waters, ideal for families and a relaxing day under the sun.
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About this beach
Table of contents
Introduction
Today we delve into the heart of Attica to explore one of its most precious coastal gems: Playa de Marathonas. Located in the historic municipality of Marathon, this beach is not just a destination for sunbathing, but a place where Greece's millennia-old history meets the serene beauty of the Aegean Sea. For us beach lovers, Marathonas represents that perfect combination of accessibility, quality services, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it a favorite choice for both locals and international travelers seeking to escape the bustle of Athens.
Known for its shallow, crystal-clear waters and its extensive stretch of golden sand, Playa de Marathonas is a true balm for the soul. We find ourselves in an idyllic setting, where families can enjoy in complete tranquility, friends can share laughs at its lively chiringuitos, and those seeking a moment of peace can find their perfect spot under the Greek sun. It's a place where every visit offers a new perspective on the natural beauty and rich culture of the Attica region, making each trip a memorable experience.
How to Get to Playa de Marathonas
Getting to Playa de Marathonas is relatively straightforward, making it a very popular day trip from the Greek capital. We always recommend planning the trip in advance to make the most of the day.
By Car
The most comfortable and flexible way to get to Playa de Marathonas is undoubtedly by car. From central Athens, the journey usually takes between 45 minutes and an hour, depending on traffic. We need to take the Attiki Odos Highway (A6) heading east and then follow the signs towards Marathon. The road is well signposted and the scenery along the way, with views of the Attic countryside, is quite pleasant. Once in Marathon, the signs to the beach are clear. There are several parking areas available, some organized and paid, and other more informal spaces along the coastal road.
By Bus
For those who prefer not to drive, public transport is a viable option. There are intercity buses (KTEL Attikis) connecting Athens (from the Mavromateon station, near Omonia Square) with Marathon. The bus journey is a bit longer, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, but it allows us to relax and enjoy the scenery without worries. Once in the town of Marathon, we may need to take a local taxi or walk a bit to get directly to the beach, as the bus station is not right on the shore.
Taxi or Ride-Hailing Services
If we're looking for total comfort and are willing to pay a bit more, a taxi or a ride-hailing service (like Uber or Bolt, if available in the area) will take us directly to the beach. This option is especially recommended if we're traveling in a group, as the cost can be split, making it an attractive and stress-free alternative to reach our destination on the Attica beach.
The Sand and Water
What attracts us most to Playa de Marathonas is certainly the quality of its sand and the purity of its waters. It's a sensory experience that envelops us from the moment we set foot on it.
The Sand
The beach is characterized by its fine, golden sand, which stretches for several hundred meters. It's a soft sand, ideal for walking barefoot and for children to play and build sandcastles. The width of the beach means that, even on the busiest days, we don't feel crowded and can always find a good spot to spread our towel and enjoy the sun. The cleanliness of the sand is notable, a factor that contributes to its Blue Flag status, a quality distinction that Marathonas proudly holds.
The Water
The waters of Playa de Marathonas are a true delight. They are crystal clear, with a hue ranging from light turquoise to emerald blue, and their transparency allows us to easily see the sandy bottom. One of the most appreciated features, especially by families, is that they are shallow for many meters from the shore. This makes them extremely safe for young children and for those who are not comfortable in deep water. The water temperature, especially during the summer months, is pleasantly warm, inviting us to take a dip and enjoy a refreshing swim in the Aegean. The calmness of its waters, somewhat protected from strong winds, is another point in its favor, allowing for a tranquil and relaxing swim.
Services and Facilities
For us, a good beach is not just natural beauty, but also comfort and services that make our stay more pleasant. Playa de Marathonas excels in this aspect, offering a wide range of facilities that guarantee a perfect day on the coast.
Basic and Comfort Services
- Sunbeds and Umbrellas: Along the beach, we will find numerous organized sections where we can rent sunbeds and umbrellas for a reasonable price. This is ideal for those seeking comfort and shade without having to carry their own equipment.
- Showers and Toilets/WC: There are showers available to rinse off the salt after a swim, as well as clean and well-maintained toilets/WC, an essential service we greatly appreciate.
- Parking: As mentioned in the 'How to Get There' section, there is both organized and free parking, which facilitates access for those traveling by car.
- Lifeguards: During the high season, the beach has lifeguards who watch over the safety of bathers, giving us additional peace of mind, especi