The lost paradise is definitely what you will think about when your eyes meet the sea, which is all shades of turquoise.
The island is located between Peloponnese and Kythira. To go there you need a car or a yacht. The journey from Athens to Elafonisos takes 4-5 hours by car. There is a small domestic airport in Kythira (the island opposite to Elafonisos) but you have to take a ferry from Kythira to Neapolis then a taxi to Elafonisos ferry station to cross the sea and get to the island of Elafonisos.
The Elafonisos ferry boat station is located in Port Pounta. From this station boats transfer vehicles and people from one side to another every 30 minus and it takes approximately 10-20 minutes.
Price:
11 Euro – for a vehicle
1 Euro – for an adult.
This place is not as popular as Mykonos or Santorini but I believe that the beaches in Elafonisos are 10 times better than in Mykonos. This is a secret spot where famous and wealthy people make a stop on their 50 meter yachts and one often cited by Greeks as their favourite place to rest and recharge.
If you are searching for Four Seasons, Ritz or Hilton there are no big chain hotels. The island is small and the hotels and services aren’t as good as those on Mykonos or Santorini. However, the island has a totally different and unique atmosphere makes up for it
If you are looking for something stylish and luxurious you’ll need to check Villas and 5* hotels and read reviews. I’ve stayed on the island 4 times and all the hotels I’ve stayed in have had some disappointing aspects, which I hope will be improved soon. Check out the room photos with the bathroom and read people’s reviews.
If you are searching for a campsite where you can use your tent, there is an ideal organised camping place which is called Simos Camping You have to book a place in advance for your tent otherwise you’ll have no chance to find anything. But remember you have to do this in advance (1-2 months).
Elafonisos island
The island has a Mediterranean climate, the average temperature is 28°C in August. It’s not as windy as in Mykonos but the fresh breeze is similar. The temperature and humidity in the evening are different to in the afternoon. You need to take some warm clothes for an evening stroll and a warm blanket if you are going to sleep in a tent. But most people are ok with this temperature change, I just mention it for you to be ready for it.
About the food
The restaurants in Elafonisos are local and on the island you’ll find all types of traditional greek food with seafood, meat, vegetables and sweets. The prices in the restaurants and tavernas are cheap compared with famous islands, and the food is fresh and so delicious (in my opinion).
About the beaches
The best beaches with great service and views are: Simos, Sarakiniko and Panagias Nissia beaches, but you also can enjoy other wild and small beaches which definitely have to be visited.
You should be aware that you’ll have to pay on beaches with sun-beds, umbrellas and services.
The first row of sun-beds might cost – 20 Euro for 2 people,
The second and third row might cost – 15 euro for 2 people
My fave is Simos beach and Cervi cafe-bar which serves the beach area.
Pros and Cons of having holiday in Elafonisos
P.S. If you are thinking where to take pictures this is definitely the best place for that. The light, sand, the sea and atmosphere will give you the best photos which you don’t even expect to get.
Here are mine with just a Canon 750D:
On my instagram you can find more photos from there and get ideas for your photoshoots.
