Agathonisi

Among the most beautiful and smallest islands in Greece, one cannot miss Agathonisi, Αγαθονήσι in Greek, literally the island of thorns, just south of Samos.

Agathonisi is the northernmost of the 163 islands that make up the Dodecanese archipelago, of which only 26 are inhabited. This off-the-beaten-track paradise is the ideal place to take a day trip, or why not two or three, from Samos.

The coasts of Agathonisi are very indented and include numerous gulfs and bays of unique beauty. The island, a small unspoilt paradise of 13 square kilometres that the islanders describe as donkey-shaped, has many pebble beaches that plunge into crystal-clear waters along its 32 kilometres of coastline, Ai Giorgis, Spilia, Gaidouravlako, Tsaggari, Palos, Poros, Chohlia and Katholiko to name but a few, and tiny rocky islets ideal for diving.

The quiet life on the island, the calmness, the hospitality of the locals, the clean beaches and the fresh fish will make your stay unforgettable!

The beaches of Agathonisi

Agathonisi’s 32 kilometres of indented coastline hide numerous bays and coves that offer scenery of rare beauty. Spilia is one of the most charming destinations, located 900 metres south of the harbour and reached by a scenic walk along the bay. This white pebble beach is distinguished by its turquoise waters reminiscent of a natural pool, while at its end is a natural cave that adds charm to the landscape.

Gaidouravlako is reached by continuing for another 20 minutes from Spilia beach, offering an even more private setting with colourful pebbles and calm waters protected from the winds. The surrounding vegetation provides some natural shade, valuable considering the scarcity of trees on the island.

Katholiko retains the charm of a small, almost abandoned natural harbour, where local fishermen anchor their boats and where a small pebble beach overlooks crystal-clear waters. The beaches of Tsangari, Palos, Poros, Chohlia and Ormos Cochilia (Shell Bay) complete the bathing offer, each with its own unique characteristics.

Most of these destinations feature pebbles of various sizes and colours, while Poros is the only sandy beach on the island, characterised by absolute tranquillity and transparent waters. Given the lack of significant vegetation, it is essential to bring parasols and sunscreen to fully enjoy these natural wonders.

Things to do in Agathonisi

The island presents itself to visitors with a disarming simplicity, where the absence of major monuments or tourist attractions becomes an attraction in itself. Agathonisi offers three main villages, each with its own personality: Agios Georgios, the main port, is built around a sheltered bay where colourful local fishing boats dock and where the island’s few tourist facilities are concentrated.

Megalo Chorio, the main centre located less than 2 kilometres from the harbour, is characterised by its traditional architecture with high stone walls surrounding whitewashed houses, a feature dating back to the days of pirate raids when the village was deliberately hidden from view from the sea. Mikro Chorio and Katholiko, the latter a practically abandoned fishing village, complete the picture of an island where time seems to have stood still.

The only visible historical vestiges are a few small churches scattered around the island and the mysterious Tholoi (domes), large arched structures dating back to the 11th century located on the eastern side of the island. During the Roman and Byzantine periods, Agathonisi was used as a place of confinement for exiles, while the constant threat of pirates prevented any real economic development. Turkish rule, which lasted from the 16th to the 20th century, left few visible traces, but helped forge the resilient character of the islanders.

Activities and life on the island

Agathonisi is the perfect destination for those who enjoy long walks and exploration on foot. The island can be traversed completely on foot in about 7.5 kilometres, allowing you to discover hidden coves and breathtaking views. Fishing is a popular activity, with local fishermen always willing to share their secrets with keen visitors.

Boat trips are organised during the high season, offering the chance to explore the rugged coastline and visit the small uninhabited islets surrounding Agathonisi: Glaro, Kouneli, Nera, Pita, Praso and Strogyli. A large part of the island is included in the Natura 2000 network, serving as a refuge for rare bird species and hosting the Silene holzmannii, an endemic plant protected by the Bern Convention.

Where to stay in Agathonisi

The accommodation offer of Agathonisi perfectly reflects the intimate character of the island: you will not find star hotels or resorts, but only family pensions, room rentals and flats managed directly by the islanders. Most of the accommodation is concentrated in Agios Georgios, close to the harbour, offering the convenience of being within walking distance of tavernas and essential services.

Some accommodation can also be found in Megalo Chorio, ideal for those seeking more tranquillity and authenticity. During the high season, many local owners convert their flats into studios and bed & breakfasts, offering an authentic experience of island life. It is essential to book well in advance, especially for the summer months, considering the limited availability of beds.

Although there are a few accommodation facilities on the island of Agathonisi, our advice is to stay overnight on Samos or Patmos and reach it on a day trip. We recommend staying in the town of Pythagoreion, from where the ferry to Agathonisi departs.

Apartments and vacation homes in Agathonisi

If you prefer space, privacy and the ability to prepare your own meals to a hotel holiday, book a holiday home at Agathonisi. We recommend a few below, but in this case we advise you to book early because houses and apartments for rent at Agathonisi are in high demand.

How to get to Agathonisi

From Samos

The most frequent and convenient connection departs from Samos Airport, located just 3 kilometres from the port of Pythagoreion. From here ferries leave 4 times a week that take about 1 hour to reach Agathonisi at a cost of 8 euros. This represents the most direct and frequent connection to the island.

From Kos

Kos Airport offers a cheap alternative, with ferries taking 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach the island. The connections are not daily, so it is necessary to check timetables in advance, but they are often more cost-effective.

From other islands of the Dodecanese

Agathonisi is also connected to Patmos (2 hours), Kalymnos (2 hours), Leros (1 hour 10 minutes), Lipsi (35 minutes), Rhodes (5 hours) and Symi (4 hours) via several companies including A.N.E.Kalymnou, Dodekanisos Seaways and the motor vessel Anna Express.