In the heart of the Ionian Sea, just south of Paxos and a short distance from the coast of Corfu, there is a small corner of paradise that still escapes the large tourist flows. It is called Antipaxos, and it is one of those islands that seem to jealously guard their beauty: waters of an almost unreal turquoise, transparent seabed and an atmosphere far from the chaos of the most celebrated destinations.
The island of Antipaxos is so small that there is no real road network: here you can only move on foot. Simple paths start from the main beaches and the small port, crossing the island among vineyards, Mediterranean scrub and glimpses of the sea. More than journeys, they are walks: slow, short, but an integral part of the experience.
How to reach it
Getting to Antipaxos requires a little organizational effort, but it is absolutely worth it. The most comfortable and popular way is to embark on a boat tour starting from Paxos or directly from Corfu. Before booking, however, it is worth checking that the excursion includes a stop to swim and explore the island, and is not limited to a simple panoramic tour.
Those who prefer more autonomy can take the ferry to Paxos and from there rent a small taxi boat in the port of Gaios. For those with a larger budget, renting a private or motor boat remains the freest and most satisfying solution: it allows you to organize the day at your own pace, explore hidden coves and enjoy the island away from the crowds.
Antipaxos is a small oasis in the Ionian Sea, essential and bright, where everything revolves around three beaches which, alone, define the character of the island.
The beaches of Antipaxos
Vrika Beach is the most immediate: light sand, turquoise sea and shallow waters that make it accessible to everyone. It is also the most organised, with sunbeds, umbrellas and taverns serving simple dishes throughout the day. Precisely for this reason, it is among the most popular beaches, especially by those arriving on the island for a few hours.
Voutoumi Beach is the most scenic. Here the coast alternates between sand and small pebbles, while the sea continuously changes colour, from turquoise to the deepest green. The seabed slopes slowly, so it is also suitable for those who are not expert swimmers or are traveling with children. Despite its small size, it is equipped and surrounded by several taverns.
Mesovrika Beach, on the north-eastern side of the island, is the most discreet. Smaller and less traveled, it is a stretch of coast of stones and white pebbles bathed by very clear waters. It is not equipped, and this very simplicity makes it interesting, especially for those who love snorkeling. To eat or find services you need to move towards Vrika or Voutoumi.
Three beaches, three different ways to experience Antipaxos: more comfortable, more iconic or more essential.
When to go and some practical advice
As often happens with the most beautiful islands, Antipaxos is not immune to tourist pressure. In the central hours of the day the boats multiply and the beaches fill up. The best time to enjoy the island in peace is early in the morning or late afternoon, when the large boats have already moved away.
On the island there are bathing establishments and a few taverns, but places fill up quickly: booking in advance or arriving early is almost always the right choice. It should be borne in mind that Antipaxos does not have large accommodation facilities, so staying overnight is possible but the options are really limited. The strategy most appreciated by visitors is to stay in Paxos, which is much better equipped, and reach Antipaxos for one or more daily excursions.
An island to be discovered slowly, respecting its rhythms and its still intact nature.
