Playa de Marathonas

Introduction

We, as avid lovers of beaches and charming corners, are always on the lookout for those places that, once visited, remain etched in our memory. And Playa de Marathonas on the wonderful island of Aegina, Greece, is undoubtedly one of those treasures. Located a short distance from the island's capital, Aegina Town, this beach offers us a perfect combination of natural beauty, comfort, and a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere. It's the kind of place where time seems to stand still, inviting us to enjoy every ray of sunshine and every sea breeze.

When we think of the beaches of Aegina, Marathonas always comes to mind for its unique charm. In fact, it consists of two main coves, Marathonas A and Marathonas B, both with the same essence but with small particularities that make them unique. We find ourselves on a beach with fine, golden sand that caresses our feet, and incredibly calm, shallow turquoise waters, ideal for the little ones to play in complete safety. It's a destination that invites us to disconnect, to savor the local cuisine in its seaside tavernas, and to immerse ourselves in authentic Greek island life.

How to Get to Playa de Marathonas

Getting to Playa de Marathonas is a simple and pleasant adventure that is part of the charm of visiting Aegina. First, we must get to the island of Aegina, which is done comfortably by ferry or 'flying dolphin' (hydrofoil) from the port of Piraeus in Athens. The journey is relatively short, between 40 minutes and 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on the type of vessel. Once we disembark at the port of Aegina Town, we have several options to head to the beach, which is located about 4-5 kilometers south of the capital.

Transport Options from Aegina Town

• Local bus: There is a regular bus service connecting Aegina Town with the main villages and beaches of the island, including Marathonas. It's an economical option and allows us to enjoy the scenery during the journey.
• Taxi: Taxis are available at the port and will take us directly to the beach in a few minutes. It's a faster and more comfortable option, especially if we have a lot of luggage or are in a group.
• Car or scooter/motorcycle rental: For those who prefer to have more freedom to explore the island at their own pace, renting a car or, more typically on the Greek islands, a scooter, is an excellent alternative. It allows us to move easily between the different beaches of Aegina and discover hidden corners.
• Bicycle: For the more athletic, the route to Marathonas is relatively flat and pleasant, ideal for a bike ride with sea views.

The Sand and Water

Playa de Marathonas seduces us from the first moment with its sand. We find ourselves on a beach of fine sand and gold, which gently extends to the sea. It's a delight for walking barefoot, for children to build sandcastles, or simply for lying down and feeling its warmth under the Greek sun. The softness of the sand contrasts wonderfully with the crystal blue of the water, creating an idyllic landscape that invites relaxation.

But if the sand is a strong point, the water of Marathonas is, without a doubt, its crown jewel. We are talking about incredibly crystal-clear waters, with shades ranging from the lightest aquamarine to an intense blue in the distance. The most appreciated characteristic, especially by families, is its shallowness. We can walk meters and meters out to sea and the water will barely cover us, making it a perfect natural pool for children and for those who prefer to swim in calm, safe waters. The absence of strong currents and the natural protection of the bay mean the sea is almost always calm, like a mirror, reflecting the sky and sun. We love the feeling of freshness and cleanliness that each dip in these waters provides, a true blessing on hot summer days.

Services and Facilities

What really distinguishes Playa de Marathonas and makes it one of our favorite beaches in Aegina is the excellent range of services and facilities it makes available to us. It's not a wild beach, but a very well-organized destination, designed for visitor comfort without losing its natural charm. We feel truly cared for here, with everything needed for a perfect day under the sun.

Amenities at Our Fingertips

• Sunbeds and umbrellas: Along the beach, we find numerous rows of umbrellas and comfortable sunbeds that we can rent for a modest price. This allows us to relax in the shade, read a book, or simply enjoy the views without worrying about bringing our own equipment.
• Beach bars and restaurants: The gastronomic offering is one of the pillars of Marathonas. We find several beach bars and authentic Greek tavernas right on the sand or just steps away. Here we can enjoy refreshments, coffees, ice creams, and, of course, delicious meals. From fresh grilled fish to traditional Greek dishes like moussaka or souvlaki, there are options for all tastes. It's a pleasure to eat with our feet in the sand and the sound of the sea in the background.
• Showers and Toilets/WC: After a refreshing swim, it's always nice to be able to rinse off the salt. The beach has public showers and also toilet/WC facilities, which adds an extra level of comfort to our stay.
• Parking: For those arriving by car or motorcycle, there are parking areas available near the beach, facilitating access and stay.
• Lifeguards: Safety is a priority at Marathonas. During the high season, the beach usually has