Antipaxos is a tiny island just south of Paxos in the Ionian chain. This little oasis is overflowing with turquoise water, lush vineyards, and a seriously peaceful atmosphere. This guide rounds up the best things to do, favorite beaches, where to relax with great food or drinks, and everything you should know to plan a trip to this slice of paradise.
The Magic of Antipaxos: Why Visit?
Antipaxos always feels mellow compared to bigger Greek islands. There aren’t any towns in the usual sense; you’ll see only a handful of cozy tavernas, some simple guesthouses, and lots of open space. The main reason to visit is the water. People mostly come here for the beaches, especially since you can hop over from Paxos on a small boat in about 15 minutes. If you love peace, beautiful nature, and a glass of local wine with your sunset, Antipaxi definitely deserves a spot on your must-visit list.
Best Beaches on Antipaxos
Antipaxos’ beaches are all about soft white pebbles, eye-catching clear water, and a super relaxed vibe. Here are some worth checking out:
- Vrika Beach: I always suggest starting at Vrika. It’s at the north end, near where most boats drop you off, and the sand here is a bit softer than the usual pebbles. There are a couple of tavernas right on the beach, so you can grab something cold while dipping your toes in the water.
- Voutoumi Beach: This is the picture you see on postcards, with turquoise water and gentle white stones. The water is so clear you can spot fish darting around your ankles. Head up the stairs nearby to the cliffside for a panoramic view or a lazy lunch above the beach. It’s a great spot for photos and for feasting on local specialties.
- Mesovrika Beach: Tucked between the bigger beaches, Mesovrika is a sweet little spot that’s often quieter. It’s perfect if you want to just float around or snorkel in calm water.
- Rodovani Beach: A bit trickier to reach, but you’ll almost always find it less crowded. Often, you’ll only share it with a handful of people—or maybe just a few goats that wander the shore. This spot feels especially remote and peaceful.
Even during the busy summer months, Antipaxos’ beaches tend to stay calmer than those of the larger, more touristy islands. Just remember your sunscreen since the Greek sun can be intense, especially with all that reflective white stone. For more of the best beaches in the Ionian Islands, visit here.
Best Restaurants and Bars on Antipaxos
This isn’t an island packed with nightlife or fancy places to eat, but that’s exactly part of its charm. The dining spots you find are mostly familyrun, serving up simple classics—and plenty of friendly hospitality. Here are my top picks:
- Vrika Beach Tavernas: Set right on the sand at Vrika, you’ll find standard Greek classics: fresh fish, juicy tomato salads, and local wine. A simple barbecue with whatever’s been caught that day is common. It’s always relaxed and the food tastes even better after a long swim.
- Voutoumi Restaurant: Sitting above Voutoumi beach with unbeatable views, this spot does grilled octopus especially well. Add the sunset view, and you’ve got a meal you won’t forget.
- Spilia Taverna: Hidden in greenery inland, Spilia dishes up homemade Greek meals, often using ingredients grown or caught right on the island. A great spot for a shady, laidback lunch during the hotter part of the day.
Most tavernas serve crisp, refreshing local white or rosé wines from Antipaxi’s sunsoaked vineyards. While you won’t run into clubs or bars playing music late into the night, a glass of wine or ouzo at sunset sets the perfect mood after a day at the beach.
Best Time to Visit Antipaxos
Antipaxos is a beauty any time of year, but a few months really stand out, depending on what you want:
- Late May to Early June: Early summer has sunny, warm weather and the water is just starting to warm up. Beaches are quieter, and boat rides are smooth. The vibe is calm but not deserted.
- Mid-June to Early September: Peak summer is when most people visit—everything is open, boats from Paxos run all day, and the sea is ideal for swimming or snorkeling. It can get busier in August, especially during public holidays, but it never reaches the packed levels of Mykonos or Corfu.
- Late September to Early October: Early fall brings fewer crowds but warm, swimmable water. Most tavernas remain open, though hours may shift around. The weather usually stays fair, keeping things pleasant for swimming and lounging by the shore.
The island basically shuts down from November through late April, with boats only running if needed for locals or an intrepid hiker. If total solitude and off-the-grid adventure are your thing, this could appeal—but most travelers stick with the sunnier months for top beach weather and open tavernas.
Getting to and Around Antipaxos
Antipaxos is reachable only by boat, with most visitors arriving from Paxos. Ferries and small water taxis run frequently during the season from Gaios (Paxos’s main port). The trip is quick—about 15 minutes—and always scenic. There’s no proper port on Antipaxos, so you’ll hop directly from the boat onto the beach, usually on Vrika or Voutoumi.
No cars are available for hire on the island. Walking is the main way to get around and, since the distances are short, it’s easy and relaxing. Some boats also offer “beach hopping” services—just ask around in Paxos if you want to visit several beaches without hiking under the midday sun.
What Else Is There To Do?
Aside from lazy beach days and relaxing lunches, Antipaxos serves up a few more things to check out:
- Wine Tasting: Many families on the island grow grapes and, as a bonus, some offer informal tastings. Trying the local wine is a fun way to add to your stay, plus you get to meet folks who keep Antipaxi lively year-round.
- Snorkeling and Swimming: The clear water here is next-level cool—bring a snorkel mask with you or pick one up in Paxos before crossing over.
- Walking Trails: Evenings are ideal for wandering through olive groves, vineyards, and gentle hills. Trails aren’t always marked, but since the island is small, getting lost isn’t really a concern. Save an offline map to your phone if you want extra peace of mind.
If visiting in late spring or early autumn, watch for wildflowers and migrating birds—nature puts on a quiet, beautiful show in these months as well.
Tips for Visiting Antipaxos
- Plan Lunches: With no grocery stores on the island, pick up snacks or supplies in Paxos if you have dietary needs or want to picnic.
- Bring Beach Shoes: The beautiful white stones can get pretty hot and are tough on sensitive feet in the midday sun. Protect those toes!
- Stay Overnight (If Possible): Most visitors come just for the day, but spending a night or two lets you see Antipaxi at its calmest—before the boats arrive and after they leave. Even one night feels special and serene.
- Take Cash: While cards are widely accepted during summer, spotty internet can be a hassle, so euros in your pocket make everything smoother.
- Pack Essentials: Apart from your swim gear, don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and drinking water, especially if you plan to explore between beaches.
Frequently Asked Questions about Antipaxos
How do I get to Antipaxos from Paxos?
The best option is hopping on a water taxi or regular boat from Gaios, the main port on Paxos. During the busy summer, boats run all day, and the journey is just around 15 minutes. You can usually buy tickets at the port or ask at your guesthouse or hotel for help arranging transport.
Should I stay overnight on Antipaxos?
If you like quiet, off-grid evenings, book a guesthouse for a night or two. The beaches are nearly empty at sunset and sunrise, offering a completely different scene compared to the daytime. The only sounds are the waves, cicadas, and maybe a distant boat passing by—truly special.
Do any ATMs exist on the island?
No ATMs are found on Antipaxos. Make sure to bring enough cash from Paxos or the mainland.
