Paralia Schinia: The Pine-Clad Paradise of Marathon

Paralia Schinia (also known as Schinias Beach) is located in the historic Marathon region, approximately 45 km northeast of Athens. While the city center is celebrated for its urban pulse, Schinia serves as its grandest natural balcony—offering a sophisticated backdrop for those who value expansive sands, shallow azure waters, and the unique shade of a coastal forest.

Defined by its status as a National Park and its remarkably gentle sea, Paralia Schinia captures the effortless, resilient soul of the Attica landscape. It is a destination that provides a high-standard environment for windsurfers, families, and seasoned travelers who seek a premium alternative to the high-density urban beaches of the Athenian Riviera.

A Shoreline of Liquid Sapphire and Coastal Pines

The defining characteristic of Paralia Schinia is its unique “forest-to-ocean” architecture. It offers a sensory contrast that is a rarity in Greece, blending a protected Stone Pine forest (Pinus pinea) with the calm of a wide, south-facing bay.

• Miles of Golden Sand: The beach is one of the longest in Attica, stretching for over 5 kilometers. The sand is fine and soft, leading into a seabed with a remarkably gradual slope—you can walk out for nearly 30 meters and still find the water at waist height, making it a safe haven for children.

• The Azure Gradient: The water is famously clean and transparent. Because the bay is naturally shielded by the Kynosoura peninsula, the sea remains mirror-still even when northern winds (Meltemia) affect other parts of the peninsula, ensuring a tranquil swimming experience.

• National Park Sanctuary: As part of the Schinias Marathon National Park, the area is a protected ecosystem. The pine trees grow right to the edge of the sand, providing a professional-level aesthetic and abundant natural shade, allowing visitors to escape the Greek sun without the need for traditional umbrellas.

Premium Facilities and Professional Services

What sets Paralia Schinia apart is its status as a “dual-zone” retreat. It provides a level of service and convenience that caters to both the luxury seeker and the nature purist.

• Organized Beach Clubs: The western end of the beach features highly-regarded establishments like Karavi and Moraitis. These beach bars offer professional-grade facilities, including high-quality sunbeds, locker rooms, and world-class windsurfing schools.

• Active Leisure & Water Sports: Schinia is the undisputed capital of windsurfing and SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboarding) in Attica. The steady, predictable breezes make it a premier choice for athletes and beginners alike.

• The Olympic Legacy: Located just behind the beach is the Schinias Olympic Rowing and Canoeing Centre, a high-standard facility built for the 2004 Athens Games, which continues to host international training camps and events.

• Seaside Gastronomy: Directly bordering the organized sections and along the main road toward Marathon, you will find several traditional tavernas. These establishments specialize in fresh-caught seafood and authentic Mesogaia produce, offering a high-standard dining experience with views of the Euboean Gulf.

How to Get There: The Connection from Athens

Reaching Paralia Schinia is a straightforward and scenic task, located just 50–60 minutes from Athens center.

1. By Vehicle (Recommended): Follow the Attiki Odos or Mesogeion Avenue toward Marathon. Follow the clear signage for “Schinias” and “National Park.” There is significant parking available near the beach bars and in official lots in the town of Schinias.

   Professional Tip: To protect the forest, driving within the pinewood itself is strictly regulated; always park in designated areas to avoid fines.

2. By Local Bus (KTEL Attikis): A professional bus service departs from Pedion Areos (near Victoria Metro) in central Athens toward Schinias. The bus drops you off within walking distance of the shore.

3. By Metro & Bus: Take the Blue Line (Line 3) to Nomismatokopio station, then transfer to the local bus heading toward Kato Souli or Marathon.