6 Best Things To Do in Elafonisos, Greece’s Paradise Island

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Last updated on February 16th, 2026 at 06:37 pm

Before visiting the tiny island for the first time, we didn’t think much of the best things to do in Elafonisos, to be honest.

You see, when we think of summer vacation in Greece, our minds drift to some small island in the Aegean Sea.

One of those windswept rock formations with whitewashed houses perched on cliff sides. The kind of island you need to spend a minimum of six long hours on board a ferry before you can swim into its deep blue waters.

This is why we were always sceptical about Elafonisos, the tiny island overlooking the southern tip of the Peloponnese.

It ticked none of our boxes. Given its proximity to the mainland, we didn’t even know if it qualified as an island to begin with.

But the truth is that we kept hearing nothing but praise for Elafonisos and its beaches. So, we went. And, in an instant, we threw our doubts out of the window.

Because Elafonisos Island is exactly what it promises to be; the ideal destination for a relaxing summer vacation literally on the beach.

So let’s dive into the top things to do in Elafonisos, one of our favourite Greek Islands.

Where Is Elafonisos?

Elafonisos (also spelled Elafonissos) is a small island located between the Peloponnese peninsula and Kythira Island, just off the coast of Lakonia, one of the most authentic regions in Southern Greece.

The port of Elafonisos is also the island’s main village, while the second largest village is Kato Nisi.

How Many Days in Elafonisos?

Don’t expect any major sightseeing, must-sees, or special activities in Elafonisos. This is a compact island, ideal for spending endless hours on the beach, tasting fresh Greek food, and relaxing.

Therefore, how long you stay depends entirely on the type of trip you have in mind.

If Elafonisos is just another stop on your Peloponnese road trip, spending two or three days there will do.

If, on the other hand, you desperately need a long and stress-relieving break, you should seriously consider spending your entire summer holiday in Elafonisos.

If you need help deciding how to plan your trip to Greece, book a 60-minute call with us to answer all your questions, or fill out this form to create the perfect itinerary for your needs.

Best Time To Visit Elafonisos Greece

When planning a trip to Greece, Elafonisos is one of the best places to visit, even in the heart of summer.

However, summer in Southern Greece doesn’t last for three months alone, and Elafonisos’ weather is lovely almost all year long.

You can visit Elafonisos from early May to late October and enjoy all the sunshine and warm waters you could ever dream of.

Keep in mind that some bars or restaurants may not be open outside the high season (June, July, August).

If possible, avoid August, as it’s the notorious peak season for the Greek Islands. That said, Elafonisos feels way less crowded than other islands, even then.

How To Get To Elafonisos

Driving is the best way to reach Elafonisos Island as part of a fantastic road trip across the Peloponnese.

It takes around five hours to drive from Athens directly to Pounta Port in Southern Lakonia. From there, the ferry will take you to Elafonisos in less than ten minutes.

Ferries from Pounta Port to Elafonisos are frequent. At the port, there is a booth where you can buy your ferry tickets and check the ferry schedule.

There’s also a large parking lot to leave your car if you want to explore Elafonisos on foot or by bicycle, as it’s one of the best Greek islands where you don’t need a car.

If you decide to drive from Athens to Elafonisos, make sure you choose the best route. Unfortunately, neither road signs nor Google Maps will help you figure that out. But that’s what we’re here for.

There’s a new coastal road connecting Monemvasia to Elafonisos. Although slightly longer, is in much better condition than the old one and offers breathtaking views along the way.

After Molaoi village, you can continue on the road to Monemvasia or follow the signs and turn right toward Elafonisos.

We always take the road to Monemvasia and then drive along the coastal road to Neapoli and from there, to Pounta Port.

If driving isn’t an option, you can take the KTEL bus from Athens to Neapoli. From there, you’ll take a different bus to Pounta Port before catching the ferry to the island.

Where To Stay in Elafonisos

As soon as you get off the ferry, Elafonisos Town stretches to your right. Most hotels in Elafonisos are located in the town.

There are hardly any large hotels. Most rooms in Elafonisos are housed in guesthouses and B&Bs.

The number of Elafonisos hotels is inversely proportional to the island’s recent popularity. This is why, especially in August, it’s better booking a room way in advance.

If you are into camping or just don’t want to let Simos Beach out of your sight, you can stay at Simos Camping Elafonisos instead.

Located right on the beach, it provides all the necessary facilities, including restaurants and bars.

6 Best Things To Do in Elafonisos Greece

1. Enjoy The Stunning Elafonisos Beaches

The main reason to visit Elafonisos is the island’s beaches. No matter its small size, Elafonisos is home to some of the most pristine beaches in Greece, with transparent waters and wonderful scenery.

Simos Beach

There are two beaches in the southern part of the island, divided by a narrow piece of land.

The larger is called Sarakiniko, while the smaller is called Fragos. However, everyone calls them Megalos (Large) Simos and Mikros (Small) Simos, respectively, or simply Simos.

Spending a day in Simos Beach is one of the best things to do in Elafonisos. Although super popular, Simos is so huge that it seldom feels crowded, if ever.

Complete with crystal clear turquoise waters, high sand dunes with golden and pink sand, and a cedar forest, Simos Beach in Elafonisos is nothing but a slice of heaven on earth.

There are sunbeds and umbrellas available for a fee in some parts of the beach, or you can bring your own umbrella.

Sitting directly under the sun is not an option as it’s literally burning. You can grab food and drinks at the campsite at Megalos Simos or at snack bars at Mikros Simos.

Mikros Simos is ideal for families with kids as the beach features shallow waters.

Lefki Beach

Just as you think that there can’t possibly be another heavenly beach on this tiny island, Lefki Beach awaits you with a sarcastic laugh.

Lefki Beach is on the road that leads to Mikros Simos, but you can hardly see that there’s actually a beach there while driving due to the low vegetation that blocks your view.

Yet, once you decide to head towards the sea anyway, you’ll be rewarded with a gorgeous beach of dazzlingly white sand (the word lefki means white after all) and beautiful turquoise waters.

Swimming in its calm waters feels as if you’re swimming in a giant pool. Only a billion times better.

Keep in mind that there are no facilities or natural shade in Lefki and this Elafonisos beach is quite small; therefore, it can get crowded during peak season.

Kontogoni Beach

Situated in the heart of Elafonisos Town, Kontogoni is the most overlooked beach on Elafonisos, as it is near the port and close to the main road.

However, it’s perfect for the first and/or last swim of the day or while you’re waiting for the ferry.

Dining and café options near Kontogoni are endless with many bars and cafés offer sunbeds and umbrellas.

2. Take in Sunset Views from Ta Nisia Tis Panagias Beach

Ta Nisia Tis Panagias Beach boasts endless stretches of golden sand and a sunset to remember. The scenery is very similar to Simos.

There are sand dunes, cedars, and turquoise waters, with the bonus of a cluster of islets sitting lazily off the coast.

The islets are also called Ta Nisia Tis Panagias (Greek for “Virgin Mary Islands”), and they gave the beach its name, rather than the other way around.

For the best sunset and panoramic view of the beach and Panagia islands, visit Ta Nissia Tis Panagias restaurant.

In addition to stunning sunset views, this traditional restaurant serves fresh seafood and some of the best vegetarian Greek dishes made with local ingredients.

3. Discover Underwater Ancient Ruins in Pavlopetri Beach

Pavlopetri Beach is on the coast of Lakonia facing Elafonisos rather than on the island itself.

Located a stone’s throw from Pounta Port, it’s super easy to visit either before taking the ferry to Elafonisos or on your way back from the island.

Apart from crystal clear waters and endless stretches of golden sand, this beach offers visitors the unique opportunity to swim among the ancient ruins of the world’s oldest submerged city.

The seabed between Pavlopetri Islet and the homonymous beach is dotted with an ancient settlement’s ruins dating back to 2800 BC. The remains of this ancient city are visible with basic snorkelling gear.

The only thing that should keep you from marvelling at this underwater archaeological site is the weather.

You should always consult the locals about when it’s safe to swim all the way to Pavlopetri Islet, as there are strong currents in the area.

However, you don’t necessarily have to swim that far; you can always safely swim a few metres off the beach and still get a glimpse of some of the ancient remains.

4. Drive Around The Island

Moreover, one of the best things to do in Elafonisos is to drive (or cycle or walk) the island’s ring road.

The latter connects the main village to the island’s best beaches, offering breathtaking views at every turn. It takes less than half an hour to drive the full circle.

5. Explore Elafonisos Town

We know you won’t want to leave the beach, but you should also hang out at Elafonisos Town. This is where most of the island’s hotels, restaurants, and bars are located.

Explore the narrow whitewashed alleys and discover some of the best things to buy from Greece at the promenade’s souvenir shops.

Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a sunset or evening stroll along the causeway that leads to the Church of Agios Spiridonas before having dinner or drinks at the quaint seafront.

6. Spend a Day in Monemvasia

If you’re getting itchy feet, there are many amazing places near Elafonisos to explore on a day trip.

Spend a day visiting the stunning Monemvasia castle and the nearby hidden gems of the Lakonia region, such as Kastania Cave and Cape Maleas.

If there’s one destination in Greece that deserves to be called exotic, it’s Elafonisos. This beautiful island is home to incredibly pristine beaches and has a laid-back feeling that’s hard to resist.

We hope our list of the best things to do in Elafonisos will help you plan the perfect summer holidays on the tiny island paradise off the coast of the Peloponnese.

WORDS & EDITING: Maria
IMAGES: Katerina