Unknown Greek Islands to Visit this Summer

Greece is home to over 6.000 islands and only 227 are inhabited. Among those hundreds of islands there are many lesser known islands which are truly magical. We’ve asked our members to share their favorite lesser known islands in Greece. Discover the unknown Greek islands in our post below.  

Unknown Greek Islands to Visit this Summer

Agistri

Katerina of Limitlesstravelling

Agistri Island is a small island found in the Saronic Gulf, Greece and its beauty is indescribable. This charming green oasis is surrounded by azure waters, quiet bays, and several sandy beaches.  

It will take you about an hour and a half to get from the port of Piraeus to Agistri by ferry, which makes this island very attractive for visiting due to its close location.  

By the abundance of pine trees, Agistri can be compared only with the Northern Sporades. Imagine, the pine trees occupy 80% of the island!

Agistri is an amazing holiday destination for both families and young couples. Here you will find everything for your perfect vacation: organized sandy beaches, cozy local taverns, night clubs, and bars with tables at the edge of the sea.

A bike or motorbike is the most convenient way to visit the best Agistri beaches, where you can spend the whole day. You will definitely like Skala, Aponisos, and Mareza beaches.

 

Chrysi Island – Shimmering Sands and rare Lebanese Cedars in the Lybian sea

Amber of Provocolate 

About this time last year, I was skipping over the whitecaps in a speedboat. Ierapetra on the south coast of Crete receding behind us. The sun was hot, the sea spray was cold, and our destination was not yet visible on the choppy horizon. It was loud, thrilling. The island is quite flat, and only came into view towards the end of our journey (15 km/ 8 nautical miles). There were just four of us on this Lassithi leg of a TBG trip to Crete, including one of our international members, Todd Hata. The destination rewarded him with some unbelievable drone footage of a remote paradise – the tiny island of Chrisi.

The name Chrysi – also spelled Chrisi and Chrissi – means “gold” or “golden”. Actually, the island is not gold but rather blinding, sparkling white. The sands are the cleanest and silkiest you can imagine – superfine, and without a hint of dust. The shade smells sweet – this is thanks to the Lebanese Cedar trees that cover much of the island – the largest such forest in Europe. 

Happily, the small port of the island is hidden in the south, so you really feel like you’re discovering a secret, deserted place. From here you walk across the tiny island along wooden walkways to the beaches of the northside. The largest and most famous is called Chrysi Ammos – golden sand – but it’s as white and sparkling as the rest of the island, plus – pink! Tiny seashells make a pink and white beach. The crystal clear waters turn turquoise as you go gradually deeper. They look like the Carribean, with the white and pink sand. Keep the memory of this dreamy pink beach in your heart, and by all means share it on instagram. But please take nothing but your memories with you – this natural wonder of Crete is a protected nature reserve.

Donousa

Chrysoula of Travelpassionate

The unknown island of Donoussa in Greece is sometimes referred to as the Emerald of the Cyclades thanks to the glistening, clear waters and rugged island landscape. While there is not much to officially ‘see’ and ‘do’ on the island, is it the perfect place to get away from it all; relaxing on pristine beaches and walking along secluded trails overlooking the Aegean.

Donoussa is very much removed from mainstream tourism as there is no airport on the island and the only way to reach it is by ferry from nearby islands Naxos or Amorgos, or on one of the ferries passing by from Athens three times a week. There are therefore only a handful of hotels and restaurants on the island but this makes it all the more charming. It is also popular among free campers who pitch up on the beach for a few nights at a time.

The highlights of Donoussa are, of course, the beaches with Kendros, Livadi, Kalotaritissa, Fiokio, and Port beaches being the top five on the island. Travelers can walk between beaches, stopping off at some quaint Greek churches along the way, or take time out to explore the caves (the Cave of the Wall and the Cave of Fokospilia) which can be reached by boat with a local.

Kea 

Elena of Passion for Greece

Located at a close proximity to Attica, Kea or Tzia is part of the Cyclades island group. This charming island is dotted with picturesque coves, olive groves, secluded beaches and numerous hiking trails. The island is home to the largest oak forest in the Cyclades and an absolute treat for birdwatchers. 

For those who love discovering the underwater treasures  will be delighted to know that just 1.5 nautical miles from the northwest point of the island of Kea, lies the wreck of the world famous HMS Britannic, sister ship to the Titanic. The wreck rests at a depth of 120 meters, making it accessible for technical divers only.

Kea has many wonderful beaches which can only be reached by boat, it is also home to the ancient site of Karthea that was founded in 12th century BC. Today it can only be reached by one of the hiking trails or by boat. The ancient city of Karthea houses some of the most interesting monuments which include the doric temple of goddess Athena (late 6th century BC) and the archaic Temple of Pythion Apollo (530 BC).

With its relaxed island vibe, small family run tavernas and stunning sea views, Kea is a wonderful destination for those who wish to escape the crowds. 

Kythnos 

Callie & Kathy of Anthomeli

Kythnos is actually not one of the smallest islands in Greece but it offers the assets of a small island and it still keeps its purity and tranquility even though it is very close to Athens. Kythnos is one of the many islands of the Cylades and it is also called “Thermia” by the thermal springs someone can find in Loutra village. Chora and Dryopida are the two main villages but there are also other small settlements like Loutra, Panagia Kanala and Merihas (the port). 

Kythnos is very popular to tourists as it is only two hours from Athens (Attica) and very family friendly as the 99 beaches of the island offer a huge selection to every taste and every type of family. The main street network is excellent but you might need to go off the beaten track if you want to experience more purity in your dives. However, there is always the choice of a boat tour! Kythnos offers quite a few ancient sites as well as a cave (Katafyki Cave) in Dryopida. Hiking, diving and other sports are offered by private companies. 

Poros

Celeste of Family Experiences in Greece Blog

There are several islands near Athens that can be visited on a day trip or as a vacation break. Many of these islands are under two hours away by boat, making them quick and easy to get through. 

One of these is Poros, a little gem in the heart of the Saronic Gulf. Families love Poros for its stunning nature and its picturesque town. Due to its location Poros is great for sailing and water sports. Outdoor fans can go hiking, visit the lemon forest or discover flamingos in the nearby wetlands. Beach enthusiasts will find hidden green bays with turquoise waters If your kids like history and mythology, visit the Poseidon temple and the archeological museum of Poros. Find a list of things to do in Poros for families in Holiday in Poros island, Greece with kids.

Its proximity to the rest of the Saronic islands makes Poros the perfect base for island hopping to the nearby islands of Aegina, Agistri, Hydra or Spetses. It is also a good starting point for exploring the mainland with impressive sites such as the ancient theatre of Epidaurus and Mycenae. 

The most popular way to reach the island is by ferry. There are ferries to Poros from Piraeus port in Athens but also from other islands of the Saronic islands. The closest airport to Poros is in Athens. Poros can also be accessed by car from the Peloponnese.

Trizonia

Tzina of Love for Travel

Αlthough Trizonia is a small island, is the biggest in Corinthian Gulf and the only one that is inhabited. I don’t know how many of you are aware of its existence, but to me till recently it was unknown!

You’ll get the boat from Chania. It is almost 20 kilometer away from Nafpaktos. In 5 minutes you’ll be there. The ticket costs just 1 euro. You must leave your car here, because in Trizonia cars and bikes are for bitten.

The permanent habitants in Trizonia are only 50 although during summer time they reach to 700.

Although Trizonia is a small islet is beautiful and is an ideal destination for those who prefer tranquility and serenity. Don’t forget to have comfortable shoes so as to be able to ramble.

As it is only 2,5km, you can easily explore it by hiking. Olives, vineyards, cypresses, eucalyptus, mastic trees, and Holm oaks are the vegetation of Trizonion.

Starting from the small harbor, follow the path that passes from the big church of Saint George and let the road guide you. When you’ll get at the highest point, make a stop and enjoy the view.

The green and the blue are joining and the result will charm you.

When the path becomes downhill you are already on the way back. Inevitably your steps will take you to the next natural harbor which is ideal anchorage for boats and sailing yachts.