Elafonisos, a tiny island stretching just 18km, is a hidden paradise off the southern coast of the Peloponnese. Often called the “Caribbean of Greece,” it boasts soft white sands, crystal-clear waters, and an atmosphere that feels untouched by time. With only about 750 residents, the island has four small villages, each with its own charm.
Elafonisos also holds a fascinating history. In antiquity, it was not an island but a peninsula known as Onou Gnathos, meaning “donkey’s jawbone,” as recorded by the ancient Greek geographer Pausanias. Just off its coast lies the Bronze Age Pavlopetri, one of the world’s oldest submerged cities. Dating back to the early 3rd millennium BC, this ancient settlement is believed to have been claimed by the sea around 1000 BC.
The main village, also named Elafonisos, sits on the northern edge and features a mix of traditional and modern houses with beautiful gardens and well-kept alleys.
Along the seaside street, cosy cafés and seafood tavernas invite visitors to enjoy the slow rhythm of island life.
The other villages – Kapari near the port, Lefki with the famous Simos beach, and Kato Nisi with the serene Panagia beach – are even smaller and more secluded, offering a true escape into tranquillity.
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Elafonisos’ greatest treasure is its beaches, where golden sands meet shimmering turquoise waters. Simos, Sarakiniko, and Panagia beaches are among the most breathtaking spots, perfect for snorkelling, sunbathing, or simply taking in the endless blue.
A visitor wrote on Reddit: “I thought photos were photoshopped. When I got to the port to get to the ferry I was astonished. You could see clearly the bottom of the sea at 5-10m depth.”
Another one said: “I came here when I was about 6 and I still remember playing with the pink sand.”
A short ferry ride from the mainland port of Neapoli makes Elafonisos an easily accessible retreat. Whether visiting for a holiday or just a day trip, the island offers a perfect blend of relaxation, history, and natural beauty.