Elafonisos

Elafonisos is an island in the Peloponnese region and Laconia Greece. The island is a tiny spot between (north) the famous island chain of Kythira (Kythira and Antikythira complex and south of Neapolis in Lakonia region of Peloponnese.

In antiquity, the island held some maritime importance due to its location on the important sea routes between the Peloponnese and the Aegean Sea. However, its present-day settlement developed much later, primarily through fishing, seafaring, and trade with the surrounding coastal regions.

It is characterized by a flat, predominantly sandy landscape with extensive dunes, low Mediterranean vegetation, and a crystal-clear, turquoise sea. The long sandy beaches of Simos and Panagia, in particular, are among Elafonisos's most distinctive landscape features.

These exceptional beaches are widely known, attracting numerous visitors, especially during the summer months, while remaining relatively quiet outside of peak season.

The best way to get here is by car from Athens. Then take the ferry from Pounda , it takes 7-10 min to get to the island.

• 36.509323.061 Pounta. Ferry port on the mainland.  (updated Oct 2026)
• 36.509122.97862 Chora (Elafonisos Town). Chora is a small, picturesque coastal town in the north of the island of the same name, captivating visitors with its typical Mediterranean atmosphere. Whitewashed houses, small guesthouses, cozy tavernas, cafes, and shops line the harbor, while fishing boats and small yachts bob in the clear waters off the coast. Especially in the evenings, the town takes on a pleasant, lively ambiance when the tavernas set up their tables along the waterfront promenade, allowing visitors to enjoy traditional Greek dishes while watching the sunset. Despite its tourist appeal, Elafonisos has largely retained its original, relaxed character and is an excellent base for exploring the island's famous sandy beaches, particularly Simos Beach and Panagia Beach. During the peak of summer, Elafonisos can get quite crowded.  (updated Oct 2026)

• 36.4911622.944881 Panagia Beach. It is a long, fine sandy beach in the west of the island, surrounded by dunes and Mediterranean vegetation, offering a beautiful view of the sea and the small islands offshore.  (updated Oct 2026)
• 36.4697122.978962 Simos beach. It is the most famous and scenically impressive beach on the island, characterized by its fine, light sand, turquoise, mostly shallow water and extensive dunes. The beach consists of the areas Megalos Simos and Mikros Simos and attracts many visitors, especially in summer  (updated Oct 2026)

Most restaurants are located along the Chora promenade, but there are also restaurants on Panagia and Simos beaches.