Antipaxos island remains one of the Ionian Sea’s best-kept secrets, a tiny paradise just two kilometers south of Paxos that captivates visitors with its extraordinary turquoise waters and pristine beaches. This uninhabited gem spans barely five square kilometers, yet it draws yacht enthusiasts and day-trippers from across the Mediterranean who come seeking its legendary coastline and crystal-clear swimming spots. Unlike its larger neighbor, Antipaxos island has resisted commercial development, preserving an authentic Greek island experience that feels increasingly rare in today’s tourism landscape.

The island’s reputation centers on its two main beaches, Voutoumi and Vrika, both celebrated for their Caribbean-like azure waters and soft golden sand. Accessible primarily by boat, Antipaxos island offers a tranquil escape where the only sounds are lapping waves and cicadas singing in the vineyards that cover the island’s interior. Whether you arrive on a chartered yacht, join a day cruise from Paxos or Corfu, or catch a water taxi, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate everything Antipaxos island has to offer in 2024.

Getting to Antipaxos island: Ferry connections and yacht routes

Antipaxos has no airport or direct ferry services from mainland Greece, making access exclusively dependent on connections through Paxos island. The journey typically begins at Corfu, with regular ferries departing to Gaios, the main port of Paxos. From there, visitors can catch water taxis or small boat services that make the 15-minute crossing to Antipaxos.

During summer months (May through September), several daily boat services operate between Paxos and Antipaxos, with departures concentrated in morning hours. Water taxis typically run from 9:00 AM until early afternoon, returning passengers in late afternoon. Advance booking is recommended during peak season, though walk-up availability exists for early risers.

Private yachts and sailing vessels represent the most flexible approach to reaching Antipaxos. The island offers several anchorage points along its eastern coast, with Vrika Bay providing the most protected moorings. Charterers departing from Corfu, Lefkada, or mainland ports can reach Antipaxos within two to four hours, depending on vessel speed and departure point.

For yacht owners, note that Antipaxos has no marina facilities or fuel stations. The nearest provisions and services remain at Gaios port on Paxos. Charts show adequate depths for most recreational vessels, though anchoring directly off the beaches requires attention to underwater rocks and seasonal crowding during July and August.

Voutoumi beach: The crown jewel of Antipaxos

Voutoumi Beach stands as Antipaxos’s most celebrated shoreline, drawing visitors with its extraordinary Caribbean-like beauty. Located on the island’s eastern coast, this crescent-shaped beach features powdery white sand that contrasts dramatically with the vivid turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea. The beach stretches approximately 700 meters, offering ample space even during peak summer months.

The water clarity at Voutoumi is exceptional, with visibility often extending beyond 20 meters. The seabed consists of smooth white sand and occasional rock formations, creating a stunning gradient of blues ranging from pale aquamarine in the shallows to deep sapphire further out. The beach shelves gently, making it suitable for swimmers of all abilities.

A modest beach bar operates during summer, providing refreshments, sunbeds, and umbrellas for a daily fee. However, many visitors prefer to bring their own equipment and claim space along the unspoiled sections of sand. Natural shade is limited, so sun protection is essential.

Yacht access to Voutoumi is straightforward, with calm waters and good holding ground for anchoring. Most vessels drop anchor 100 to 150 meters offshore and tender in. The anchorage can become crowded during July and August, so early arrival is recommended for optimal positioning.

Vrika beach: Turquoise waters and white sand paradise

Vrika beach stands as Antipaxos’s most celebrated destination, renowned for its Caribbean-like turquoise waters and pristine white pebble shore. Located on the island’s eastern coast, this crescent-shaped bay captivates visitors with water so clear you can observe the sandy bottom several meters deep.

The beach stretches approximately 300 meters and features a gradual entry into the sea, making it suitable for swimmers of all abilities. The water temperature during summer months typically ranges from 24 to 27 degrees Celsius, providing comfortable conditions for extended swimming sessions. The surrounding cliffs covered with Mediterranean vegetation create a dramatic backdrop while offering natural shade during the hottest afternoon hours.

Access to Vrika requires either arriving by private yacht or taking a water taxi from Paxos, as no roads connect to this remote location. Yachts can anchor in the bay, though space becomes limited during peak season months of July and August. The holding ground is generally good over sand, with depths of 3 to 8 meters close to shore.

Basic facilities include a seasonal beach bar serving refreshments and light meals, along with sunbed and umbrella rentals. The beach maintains its natural character with minimal development, preserving the unspoiled beauty that makes Vrika a must-visit destination for island explorers.

Best swimming spots and snorkeling locations around Antipaxos

The crystalline waters surrounding Antipaxos offer exceptional visibility, typically ranging from 20 to 30 meters, making the island a premier destination for swimmers and snorkelers. The seabed features dramatic underwater caves, rocky formations, and vibrant marine ecosystems that attract diverse Mediterranean species.

Voutoumi Beach presents the most accessible snorkeling conditions, with its protected eastern cove providing calm waters suitable for all skill levels. The rocky outcrops at both ends of the beach harbor octopuses, sea urchins, and schools of colorful wrasse. Early morning visits offer the best underwater visibility before boat traffic increases.

Vrika Beach features an extensive shallow area perfect for beginners, while experienced snorkelers should explore the southern promontory where depth increases gradually. This zone is home to groupers, damselfish, and occasional sea turtles that feed on the abundant seagrass meadows.

The secluded coves along Antipaxos’s eastern coastline, accessible primarily by yacht or private boat, offer pristine snorkeling opportunities away from crowds. Mesovrika Bay and the area near Agrapidia Beach showcase impressive underwater rock formations and caves that shelter moray eels and small lobsters.

Water temperatures remain comfortable for extended swimming from May through October, ranging between 22°C and 27°C during peak season. Essential gear includes reef-safe sunscreen, a snorkeling vest for longer excursions, and underwater footwear to navigate rocky entries.

Yacht and boat access: Anchorage points and marina information

Antipaxos has no marinas or port facilities, making it essential for visiting yachts to rely on natural anchorages. The island’s small size and limited infrastructure mean advance planning is crucial for a comfortable visit.

Primary anchorage locations

Vrika Bay offers the most popular anchorage on the island’s eastern coast, providing good holding in sand and reasonable protection from westerly winds. Water depths range from 3 to 8 meters, though the bay can become crowded during peak summer months. Voutoumi Bay, located just north of Vrika, presents another viable option with similar conditions and marginally less traffic.

The anchorage at Vrika becomes untenable in strong southeasterly winds, requiring yachts to relocate to more sheltered spots or return to Gaios on neighboring Paxos. During July and August, expect to find both bays fully occupied by mid-morning, necessitating early arrival or alternative planning.

Practical considerations

No fuel, water, or provisioning services exist on Antipaxos. Yachts must arrange all supplies from Paxos or Corfu before arrival. The nearest full-service marina is Gaios Marina on Paxos, approximately 2 nautical miles north, which offers berths, fuel, water, and repair facilities. Tender access to the beaches is straightforward, with small informal tavernas near both main bays welcoming visiting sailors.

Essential visitor information: Facilities, amenities and what to bring

Antipaxos remains delightfully undeveloped, with minimal facilities that preserve its natural charm. The island has no permanent commercial infrastructure, meaning visitors must plan accordingly for a comfortable day trip.

Available facilities

During peak summer months (June to September), small beach cantinas operate at Vrika and Voutoumi beaches, offering basic refreshments, cold drinks, and simple snacks. These seasonal establishments typically open from late morning until early evening, though operating hours can vary. No accommodation exists on Antipaxos, as overnight stays are prohibited to protect the island’s fragile ecosystem.

What to bring

Pack essentials for a self-sufficient beach day. Bring adequate sun protection including high SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protective clothing, as natural shade is extremely limited. Carry sufficient drinking water and snacks, especially if visiting outside peak season when cantinas may be closed.

Additional recommended items include sturdy water shoes for rocky entry points, snorkeling gear to explore the pristine underwater environment, a beach umbrella or sun tent, and waterproof bags to protect valuables. Bring cash in small denominations, as card payment facilities are unreliable or unavailable. Remember to pack out all rubbish, as no waste disposal infrastructure exists on the island.