Olympiaki Akti Beaches

Overview

Olympiaki Akti, also known as Olympic Beach, is a premier destination on the Greek mainland for a relaxed seaside holiday. It is especially favored by families, who are drawn to its long, wide beach of fine golden sand and exceptionally calm, shallow waters. The resort is celebrated for its clean, Blue Flag-awarded coast, offering a quieter and more laid-back atmosphere compared to the energetic vibe of its close neighbor, Paralia Katerinis.

The region presents a diverse array of beaches to suit any preference. The main Olympiaki Akti Beach is the resort's well-organized and easily accessible heart. For a truly unique backdrop, the Beach of Lptokаriа provides swimmers with breathtaking views of Mount Olympus. Those looking for action and sports will find the exceptionally wide shores of Nei Pori Beach ideal, while the most visited and liveliest spot in the area is the nearby Paralia Katerinis Beach. For a quiet escape from the crowds, the less-developed Gritsa Beach offers a perfectly peaceful retreat.

These editor's picks are just a glimpse of what the magnificent Pieria coastline has to offer. The shore is lined with other notable destinations, including the popular Platamonas Beach, which is set against the stunning backdrop of a medieval castle. From bustling resorts to hidden coves, there are many more places to discover. For a comprehensive look at all the seaside gems in the area, be sure to explore our full list of beaches.

Top Beaches

FAQ

What is the beach in Olympiaki Akti actually like?

Olympiaki Akti, also known as Olympic Beach, features a long and wide coastline with fine, golden sand. It is well-organized with numerous sunbeds and umbrellas and has been consistently awarded the Blue Flag for its cleanliness and high standards. The water is generally shallow and calm, making it ideal for relaxing and for families.

Olympiaki Akti Beach

Is the water at Olympiaki Akti good for swimming?

Yes, the sea at Olympiaki Akti is excellent for swimming. The water is known for being calm with gentle waves, and it has a shallow entry, which is particularly safe for children and casual swimmers. The water temperature is comfortably warm for swimming from June through September.

Olympiaki Akti Beach

Should I stay in Olympiaki Akti or Paralia Katerinis?

Choose Olympiaki Akti for a more relaxed, quiet, and family-friendly atmosphere. Opt for Paralia Katerinis if you prefer a larger, busier resort with more shops, restaurants, and a more vibrant nightlife. The two towns are only 3km apart and connected by a coastal promenade, making it easy to visit one while staying in the other.

Olympiaki Akti Beach

Is Olympiaki Akti a good destination for families with young children?

Yes, Olympiaki Akti is widely considered an ideal destination for families. The combination of a fine sandy beach, very shallow and calm sea waters, and a relaxed, safe environment makes it perfect for those with young kids. The resort also has amenities like parks and playgrounds.

Olympiaki Akti Beach

Are there hotels located directly on the beach?

Yes, a key feature of Olympiaki Akti is the large number of hotels, apartments, and studios situated directly on the beach road or just a few steps away. This provides many options for accommodation with immediate beach access and sea views.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Olympiaki Akti Beach

What's the best time of year to visit Olympiaki Akti for a beach holiday?

The peak season for a beach holiday is July and August, which are the hottest and most crowded months. For great weather, warm sea temperatures, and fewer crowds, the shoulder months of June and September are ideal. May and early October offer pleasant weather but the sea might be cooler.

Olympiaki Akti Beach

Do you have to pay for sunbeds and umbrellas on the beach?

Most beach bars along the promenade offer the use of their sunbeds and umbrellas for free, with the expectation that you will order drinks or snacks throughout the day. This is a common practice in Greece. There are also 'free zones' on the beach where you can set up your own towels and umbrella.

What is the nightlife like in Olympiaki Akti?

Olympiaki Akti has a relaxed evening atmosphere centered around seaside tavernas, cafes, and a few casual bars. It is not known as a party destination. For more energetic nightlife with clubs and busy bars, the neighboring resort of Paralia Katerinis is the place to go, just a short walk or taxi ride away.

People Also Ask

How do you get to Olympiaki Akti from Thessaloniki Airport (SKG)?

The most direct way is by car or pre-booked taxi, which takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. A more budget-friendly option is to take a bus from the airport to the KTEL Macedonia bus station in Thessaloniki, and from there, take a long-distance bus to Katerini. From Katerini, a short local bus or taxi ride will get you to Olympiaki Akti.

Olympiaki Akti Beach

Is the beach at Olympiaki Akti clean?

Yes, the beach is known for being clean and well-maintained. It is regularly awarded the Blue Flag, a prestigious international eco-label given to beaches that meet high standards for water quality, safety, and environmental management.

Olympiaki Akti Beach

Can you walk from Olympiaki Akti to Paralia Katerinis?

Yes, you can. A wide, paved promenade with a separate path for pedestrians and cyclists connects the two resorts. The walk is about 3 kilometers (just under 2 miles) along the coast and is a very popular activity for both tourists and locals, especially during the pleasant evening hours.

Olympiaki Akti Beach

Is Olympiaki Akti a good base for exploring Mount Olympus?

Yes, it's a very convenient base. While the main starting point for hikes is the town of Litochoro (about a 30-minute drive away), Olympiaki Akti offers the perfect combination of a beach holiday with easy access to the mythical mountain. Many local tour operators offer day trips and jeep safaris to explore Mount Olympus.

Olympiaki Akti Beach