Greek Islands: Paxos and Antipaxos
The best kept secrets of Greece lies right in the Ionian Sea: Paxos and Antipaxos. They offer a tranquil escape from the mainstraim tourist destinations. These idyllic islands are best known for their landscapes, crystal-clear waters and olive groves. These natural beauty’s are a paradise for travelers. In this blogpost, we’ll explore how to reach these hidden gems, what to see, the best beaches to visit and how to get to Paxos.
Best time to visit Paxos
The summer months or the peak season: July and August is when Paxos is most crowded. The prices for accommodation and activities can be at their highest. During this time the island weather is at its best, offering warm and sunny days for the beach. If you don’t mind the crowds this is the time to explore Paxos.
The off-seasons May-October are ideal for pleasant weather, fewer tourists and also offers warm and sunny days. We went in October and it was still 30 °C. If you have the possiblity to go in this season, we would definitly recommend this!
How to get to Paxos
Paxos: The journey to Paxos begins with a flight to Corfu, the nearest island with an international airport. From Corfu, you can catch a ferry to Paxos. The frequency of ferries varies depending on the season, with more options available during the summer months. Booking your ferry tickets in advance is recommended to secure your spot. You have two options to consider. First, there’s the Kamelia Lines, a passenger-only ferry that offers a swift crossing of 45 minutes. Alternatively, if you are travelling with a car, Kerkyra Lines provides a ferry service for this, but this takes a little longer to get to Paxos than the first option.
Antipaxos: Once you're in Paxos, Antipaxos is just a short boat ride away. There are numerous boat hire services and daily boat trips from Gaios, Paxos's main port, making Antipaxos easily accessible for day-trippers.
How to get around in Paxos
The best way to explore Paxos is by renting a scooter or car, giving you the flexibility to discover the island at your own pace. The island's size makes it easy to navigate and you'll find that the drives add to the experience of your visit. For those who prefer not to drive, there are local bus services connecting major villages and beaches, as well as a little bit of taxis available. Prepare to be enchanted by the charm of Paxos and Antipaxos, allowing you to truly relax and soak in the beauty of Greece.
What to do in Paxos
Relax on the beaches: Paxos and Antipaxos offer a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, serene beaches, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you're wandering through the olive groves, swimming in the azure waters, or exploring ancient villages, these islands promise an unforgettable adventure away from the crowds.
Stroll through Gaios: The charming capital Gaios with the narrow alleys and traditional greek houses gives you beautiful views of the small city. Walk around the harbour and the water and where you can sit back and relax for a delicious apero! Right in front of the bay you can see the small island of Agois Nikolaos, which is so lovely covered with green olive trees and you can also visit.
Visit Antipaxos: The sister Island Antipaxos is much smaller and is famous for its white sandy and the most beautiful beaches of Greece. Vrika and Voutoumi beach, with their endless turquoise waters are a must visit!
Hire a boat: When you hire a boat during your stay it provides freedom to discover the beaches and hidden gems at your own pace. If you don’t have experience, choose a small motorboat which is easy to navigate. The people first teaches you a little basics and then off you go! To secure your boat and avoid disappointment, it's advisable to book in advance, especially if you're visiting during July or August. Many companies offer online booking options. We booked our boat with Paxos boat rentals!
Discover Tripitos arch: This majestic sea arch, is a much-see activity on Paxos. This hidden gem is a natural bridge that offers panaromic sea views. You can cross the arch with caution as the path over the top can be narrow. To reach Tripitos Arch is an adventure itself: a medium hike through ancient olive groves. The path is a little bit a challenge, so we recommend closed shoes. This hike is definitly worth the amazing views over the Ionian sea and if you’re looking for a unique spot to your Paxos itinerary, this is it.
Where to stay
Paxos is known for its tranquility and untouched beauty, because there aren’t a lot of all-inclusive resorts. This rarity makes finding a special place like Dandelion Villas even more exceptional. Our stay at Dandelion Villas was, among the most amazing experiences we've ever had. The property offers a selection of villas, each on the edge of a ‘cliff’, providing breathtaking views.
Whether you're enjoying a morning coffee on your private terrace or cooling off in your own swimming pool, Dandelion Villas offers relaxation after a day of island exploration.
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Best beaches in Paxos
Plakes Beach
Plakes Beach is a secluded beach, offering tranquility away from the more crowded spots. Its a pebbled shore, not far from the center of Gaios, with crystal-clear waters. So it makes an ideal location for those seeking a swim or a quiet day under the Greek sun.
Eremitis Beach
This beach is part of a larger bay, framed by a dramatic cliff that provide a stunning backdrop to the azure waters. To get to the beach you’ll need to walk through a small path where the views are amazing. Remember you have to climb back up after your day at this beach, so don’t pack to heavy!
Paralia Orkou (Orkos Beach)
This beach is a fantastic spot for snorkeling. It’s a hidden gem with a small stretch of white pebbles. The beach is also surrounded by olive groves and trees, adding to its serene and natural setting.
Paralia Kaki Lagkada
The Kaki Lagkada beach is relatively unspoled and provides a great escape for those looking to relax and swim in its clear, shallow waters.
Paralia Kamini
Kamini Beach is a small, secluded pebbled beach that's perfect for snorkeling and swimmers. On this beach you have sunbeds that were free (we went in October, so maybe in high season it’s different).
Vrika Beach in Antipaxos
Antipaxos, holds its own treasure in the form of Vrika Beach. This stunning stretch of shoreline is like a scene straight out of a dream, with its white sand beach with the most surreal shades of blue in the Ionian Sea. It makes an ideal place for swimming, with it’s crystal-clear waters. The beach is accessible by boat from Paxos (Gaios), with regular trips ensuring that this heavenly spot is within easy reach. Vrika Beach also offers amenities such as sunbeds and umbrellas for rent (in high season), there was a tavern on the beach, but it was closed during our stay in October. Make sure you pack lunch or have some small snacks on the go, because you stay almost a day on this island.
Paxos is a destination that offers beauty and a touch of adventure. Wheter you’re exploring its natural wonders or simply soaking up the sun on the stunning beaches, Paxos promises an unforgettable experience.