Koufonisia

Here’s a compact yet comprehensive travel guide to Koufonisia, Greece, a small island group that’s part of the Cyclades and known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and laid-back atmosphere.

🌊 Overview

Koufonisia consists of two islands:

• Ano (Pano) Koufonisi – inhabited, with accommodations, restaurants, and most of the tourist infrastructure.
• Kato Koufonisi – uninhabited, with stunning beaches and no permanent buildings except a taverna.

Perfect for couples, solo travelers, and those looking to unplug and enjoy nature.

📍 How to Get There

• By ferry: From Athens (Piraeus) – ~7-8 hours by slow ferry, ~5 hours by high-speed ferry.
• From Naxos or Amorgos: Daily ferries (~1 hour).
• By air: No airport on Koufonisia; nearest is Naxos or Mykonos, then take a ferry.

🏖️ Top Beaches

All easily walkable or reachable by boat:

1. Pori Beach – Most famous; crystal-clear water, surrounded by cliffs.
2. Fanos & Italida – Nudist-friendly, beautiful and less crowded.
3. Finikas – Calm and shaded by a taverna.
4. Gala – A hidden beach in a cave near Pori.
5. Kato Koufonisi Beaches – Natural, untouched, ideal for a day trip.

🚶‍♂️ Getting Around

• Walking: Most places are walkable (island is only ~3.5 km long).
• Bicycles: Available for rent.
• Boat taxis: Great for hopping between beaches or visiting Kato Koufonisi.

🍴 Where to Eat

• Fystiki – Creative Mediterranean cuisine.
• Captain Nikolas – Fresh seafood and sea views.
• Kalofego (Kato Koufonisi) – Legendary taverna, worth the trip.
• To Steki Tis Marias – Traditional, family-run Greek taverna.

🛏️ Where to Stay

Options range from budget rooms to boutique hotels:

• Blue Harpist Villas – Stylish villas with views.
• Myrto Hotel – Friendly, central, and cozy.
• Windmill Villa – A unique stay in a converted windmill.

Book early for July–August!

🛶 Things to Do

• Swim, snorkel, and sunbathe.
• Hike the coastal path from town to Pori Beach.
• Day trip to Kato Koufonisi (via boat).
• Explore nearby islands: Schinoussa, Donoussa, Naxos, or Amorgos.
• Sunset at Pori Beach or near the harbor.

📆 Best Time to Visit

• June & September: Ideal weather, fewer crowds.
• July–August: Livelier, but can be crowded and pricier.

⚠️ Travel Tips

• No ATMs on Kato Koufonisi; bring cash.
• Limited nightlife – great for relaxation, not party scenes.
• Book ferries and accommodation early during high season.
• Bring reef-safe sunscreen and beach shoes for rocky spots.