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Mediterranean paradise: the undiscovered beauties of Antipaxos

Greece • Antipaxos • Island travel guide

Antipaxos: where silence feels like a luxury

World-ranked beaches, crystal-clear water, and a raw, authentic Greek-island vibe — with no big hotels and no crowds on repeat.

On Antipaxos, every sunbeam sketches a picture of unique beauty and harmony.
Top highlights

Tiny and close: about 3 km south of Paxos, roughly 4 km² in size, ~20 permanent residents.

Beach icon: stunning coves and crystal-clear water — the kind you want to photograph (or paint).

No big resorts: small scattered houses, a secluded mood, and nature as the main “infrastructure”.

Best time: boat trips usually run May–September; for fewer people, choose May or September.

Vineyards & “black wine”: a rare local taste you’re unlikely to find elsewhere (maybe on Paxos).

Antipaxos: general information

Antipaxos is a small Greek island located about 3 kilometers south of Paxos. With an area of around 4 square kilometers and a permanent population of roughly 20 people, Antipaxos offers visitors more than a standard sightseeing stop. It delivers peace and closeness to nature in its purest form. The island is a source of admiration for everyone who comes here. Its beaches consistently appear in international rankings, and its charming coves invite you to capture their beauty in photos or paint them and take the memory home. Visitors can enjoy incredible landscapes, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and—of course—beautiful vineyards that give the place a distinct character. Unlike many other Greek islands, Antipaxos has no large hotels or restaurants. While there are no “settlements” as such, small houses scattered across the island create an atmosphere of secluded comfort. Some of them can be rented to stay in this quiet corner of Greece. On the island’s north-east side there is a compact dock where small ferries from Paxos arrive regularly, connecting the two islands. Boat excursions to Antipaxos are typically organized from May through September. If you want to visit when it’s less crowded, it’s best to choose the period before the peak summer season—May or September.

How did its story begin?

Antipaxos, a cozy islet in the arms of the Ionian Sea, long remained in the shadow of its larger neighbor, Paxos. Its calm history is simple and not decorated with major events, but that’s exactly what makes it special. Legends hint at ancient roots, although specific pages of its past remain unwritten. In modern times, the island attracts with its untouched nature and its ability to transport visitors into the old days. Every vineyard, beach, and path on the island intertwines with stories about nature’s timeless beauty and the simple, resilient life of its rare inhabitants, making Antipaxos a living reflection of history—read not in books, but felt in the heart.

Vutumi Beach, Antipaxos

Vutumi Beach

How to get there?

If you’re traveling from Corfu, keep in mind that the warm season reveals the full beauty of a Greek holiday. In 2024, a one-week Corfu package with flight and transfer started from 350€ . For a first introduction to Antipaxos, a one-day boat tour is ideal and costs 55€.

An alternative is a deeper trip: stay overnight on the neighboring island of Paxos, where you can rent a yacht or a private boat and sail independently to Antipaxos.

Or choose a boat tour / day cruise from the port of Gaios (the capital of Paxos) starting from 30€ and up; the trip lasts 8–12 hours. Another option is a water taxi, or renting a traditional “kaiak” boat for 15–20€ round trip: the ride takes only about 15 minutes. And you decide how long to stay on the island.

What to do on Antipaxos?

Dreamy beaches

Visit one of the world’s top-ranked beaches—Vutumi—and enjoy its incredible beauty: white pebbles, sand, and azure waters framed by lush greenery. A true pocket of paradise! By the way, there’s a tavern nearby where you can have dinner and watch the sunset over the bay.

Explore Vrika Beach, which offers a great snorkeling experience in a small underwater cave suitable for beginners.

Hiking & trekking

Explore a network of narrow paths and tracks through fields dotted with bright poppies and hills surrounded by orchards and vineyards, heading toward the village of Vigla. Then descend to the small port of Agapida and the secluded coves in southern Antipaxos, where you can sink into silence and the beauty of coastal landscapes.

Sea adventures

Try water sports like windsurfing or diving to feel the adrenaline and enjoy Antipaxos at full sea-scale.

Rent a boat or a kayak to explore secluded coves and the clear waters around the island. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the sea breeze and soak up the sun.

Wine & local treats

Taste the unique local “black wine” in a tavern. Keep in mind it’s unlikely you’ll find it elsewhere—except, perhaps, on neighboring Paxos.

Enjoy the local cuisine which, while not drastically different from nearby islands like Corfu, has its own unique atmosphere. A special highlight here is olive oil—added to many dishes and unbelievably tasty.

Sea cave near Antipaxos

Sea cave

Reasons to visit Antipaxos

PICTURESQUE LANDSCAPES:

stunning views of coves, clear water, and green hills — perfect for photos and quiet relaxation

EMOTIONAL ESCAPE:

a chance to enjoy peace away from city noise and reconnect with inner calm

UNIQUE WINE:

an exclusive chance to taste the rare “black wine” right where it’s made

AUTHENTIC GREECE:

a look at a non-touristy, time-resistant side of Antipaxos

Trips to Antipaxos are perfect for those who crave solitude in nature, want to take a break from city hustle, and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. This cozy little island can become a paradise corner for couples, creative minds seeking inspiration, and true lovers of wine and authentic Greek cuisine. Antipaxos opens new horizons of calm and quiet, offering a unique escape away from noisy tourist routes.

Suggested itinerary: 1 day on Antipaxos

Morning: start at Vutumi Beach — swim, relax, and enjoy the iconic scenery.

Midday: dinner/lunch at the nearby tavern and a slow walk along the bay.

Afternoon: head to Vrika Beach for snorkeling, including the small underwater cave for beginners.

Evening: sunset over the cove, and if you can, a glass of the local “black wine”.

Suggested itinerary: 2 days (with an overnight on Paxos)

Day 1: beach time (Vutumi + Vrika), swimming, snorkeling, and a calm sunset by the water.

Day 2: hike the trails toward Vigla, then descend to the small port of Agapida and the secluded southern coves.

Optional: rent a boat/kayak to explore hidden bays and clear waters around the island.

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FAQ: Antipaxos in 12 quick answers

Where is Antipaxos located?

In the Ionian Sea, about 3 km south of the island of Paxos (Greece).

How big is Antipaxos?

Roughly 4 km², with a very small permanent population (around 20 residents).

Are there big hotels or resorts?

No—there are no large hotels; the island is known for small scattered houses and a secluded feel.

When is the best time to visit?

Boat trips typically operate from May to September; for fewer crowds, choose May or September.

How do you get to Antipaxos?

Most visitors come by boat from Paxos (Gaios port), via tour boats, water taxis, or rented boats.

How long is the boat ride?

The text mentions an option of about 15 minutes (depending on the boat and route).

Which beaches are the must-sees?

Vutumi is the iconic one; Vrika is also popular and great for beginner-friendly snorkeling.

Is it good for snorkeling?

Yes—Vrika Beach offers snorkeling in a small underwater cave suitable for beginners.

What can you do besides the beach?

Hike narrow paths through poppy fields, orchards, and vineyards toward Vigla, then down to Agapida and secluded southern coves.

Are there water sports?

Yes—windsurfing and diving are mentioned, plus renting a boat or kayak to explore the coast.

What’s special about local food and drink?

Olive oil is a standout ingredient in many dishes, and the island is known for a rare local “black wine”.

Who is Antipaxos best for?

Couples, nature lovers, creative travelers, and anyone seeking calm, authenticity, and simple pleasures.