Koufonisi

Koufonisi

Koufonisi (specifically Ano Koufonisi) is the star of the Small Cyclades, a tiny island of just 4 square kilometres southeast of Naxos that has gone from an almost-forgotten fishing island of 200 people to one of the Cyclades’ most beloved summer escapes. Its capital, Chora, sits right on the harbour, a cluster of white houses, fish tavernas and small hotels, and from there the island opens up into a flat, almost Caribbean landscape of white sand, turquoise bays and low dunes.

What makes it famous are the beaches — Pori, Italida, Fanos, Finikas — long ribbons of white sand with sea so clear it looks fake, all walkable from town, plus day trips by boat to Kato Koufonisi and the sea caves of Glaronisi. There are no cars needed, no hills to climb, just sand, swimming and grilled fish — Koufonisi is pure summer minimalism and perhaps the closest Greece gets to a tropical island.

You will love it if you want Caribbean sand on a tiny Cycladic scale

Ano Koufonisi, Pano Koufonisi, is unspoiled paradise with crystal blue waters, beautiful white sand beaches, relaxed atmosphere. Epano Koufonisi is smallest of 4 Small Eastern Cyclades, but thanks to beautiful sandy beaches it has highest number of tourists and most accommodation. Small enough to explore on foot or by renting electric bikes with kids seats.

Island great choice for travelers who like to hop from beach to beach during day, as its 5 main beaches Limani, Foinikas, Fanos, Italida, and Pori are connected through seaside trails and just short walk away from each other. What should be on bucket list: breaking dawn at Pori, eastern part, truly breathtaking sunrise. Pori also home to Kalofego one of island’s finest bars and restaurants. Before Pori you’ll encounter pool-like formation. Visitors often explore quiet beaches, walk picturesque village, take boat rides to nearby islets. Local tavernas, lively summer festivals, snorkeling spots add relaxed island experience.

Quiet early and late season, in summer really crowded, Italians and Scandinavians dominating, in August bursting at seams all accommodation occupied. Soon evident many majority holidaymakers from mainland Greece which adds air authenticity. Reviewers praise clear turquoise water, cozy local shops, friendly people. Perfect 10-minute walk from port and Ammos Beach to soak Aegean sunsets laid-back vibe.

How to get around and away

Sea service — Kostas Prasinos small boat runs regular daily service from port to beaches Finikas, Italida and Pori. It starts port of Pano Koufonisi and runs 2 routes: one for Panagia in Kato Koufonissi 1 stop, while other for beaches Finikas, Fanos/Italida and Pori 3 stops.

Koufonisi accessible via ferry from Naxos and Athens. From Piraeus port with Blue Star Ferries timetables change seasonally travel about 7 hours. From Naxos with Blue Star Ferries or Express Skopelitis daily except Sundays, direct ferry departing Naxos arriving Koufonisi, car ferry 35-40 min €8-10, ferry 50 min €7-45, 16 weekly car ferry. Fastest car ferry 40 min costs €10-55. Nearest airport is Naxos then ferry.

Also boats to Kato Koufonisi uninhabited, for nudist beaches and taverna, and Keros sacred island view.

Sources

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Last Updated on August 30, 2026 by admin