Not all island escapes require long ferry rides or plane tickets. Just a hop from Athens, four Saronic Gulf beauties –Aegina, Hydra, Poros and Spetses– are waiting to steal your heart. Each one has its own charm: aristocratic, bohemian, artsy or cosmopolitan. Read on and find out which island fits your vibe – and maybe even plan to visit them all.
Aegina
Aegina is just an hour away from Piraeus by ferry. Across the island, you’ll spot works by Varotsos, Moralis and Kapralos. Kazantzakis, Pikionis and Dekavallas all had homes on Aegina, while today, well-known actors, painters and sculptors reside here. The island’s landscapes, charming alleys, delicious food, beautiful beaches and hospitality never fail to enchant visitors. Aegina’s lively spirit truly shines during the Fistiki Fest (14-17/9), dedicated to the island’s famous pistachios.
What to See
Visit the Ancient Olive Grove, where trees over 2,500 years old still stand. Don’t miss the Temple of Aphaia, which, with the Acropolis and the Temple of Poseidon in Sounio, forms a perfect isosceles triangle. A stroll through Paleochora, the “Mystras of Aegina”, with its 365 old churches, is a must. Be sure to step inside the Chapel of Archangel Michael – it hides a one-of-a-kind surprise. Other highlights include: The house of Kazantzakis on the way to Souvala, the Folklore Museum, the church and monastery of Saint Nektarios, a hike up to Mount Oros for the adventurous and the time-forgotten village of Pachia Rachi.
Where to Swim
Almost everywhere! In the main town, you’ll find Avra, Panagitsa and Kolona beaches below the archaeological site. Near town, on the road to Perdika, lies Agios Vasilis, popular among windsurfers and kitesurfers. Further along are Marathonas I and II, organized, with shallow waters, sunbeds, cafés and tavernas. Perdika has rocky spots perfect for diving, while Agia Marina offers a wide sandy beach with a Blue Flag award. Souvala is known for its former thermal springs. Other solid choices include Kleidi, Mourioti, Sarpas, while quieter are Vagia, Tourlos, Portes. For a more cosmopolitan vibe, head to Marathonas II, Aeginitissa or Kleidi.
Poros
The town of Poros, built amphitheatrically on a hillside, exudes a sense of aristocratic calm and timeless beauty. In front of it lies the promenade, with small taxi boats ready to take you to nearby beaches, and elegant yachts moored side by side. It's the perfect place for an evening stroll – start at Punta and Koryzi Square and walk toward Fountain Square and the War Memorial. Along the way, you’ll discover a colorful mix of cafés, restaurants and stylish souvenir shops. Highlights include a charming bookstore with outdoor displays and a magical open-air cinema. Visit the Hatzopouleios Municipal Library, home to the permanent exhibit “Shells and the Sea”, and the Archaeological Museum, housed in the neoclassical building that was the family home of Prime Minister Alexandros Koryzis. Don’t miss the Citronne Gallery, which placed Poros on the contemporary art map, and “Syllogi”, a unique concept store inside a listed 1890s mansion. Another hidden gem is “Galini”, the red house where Nobel Prize-winning poet George Seferis once lived, which remains off the typical tourist path. The Clock Tower, built in 1927, stands atop a rock formed by the prehistoric volcanic eruption of nearby Methana. This part of the island is called Sphaeria, while the greener section is known as Kalavreia. Poros also extends across the channel to the Peloponnesian coast, from Galatas to the shores opposite Hydra – home to the famed Lemon Forest.
Beaches in Poros
Poros is known for having some of the best beaches in the Saronic Gulf. Askeli’s Kyani Akti is the largest and most cosmopolitan. Mostly organized, it also offers plenty of open space for visitors who prefer to lay their towels under the wooden shade umbrellas thoughtfully spaced out by the municipality to ensure comfort and accessibility. Behind the beach lies a pine forest with trails leading to Palatia, near the Temple of Poseidon. To the east, you'll find the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi, a rare example of island monastery architecture (1713). The church features valuable icons and houses a historic artifact from the Greek War of Independence – a silver-plated icon once carried aboard Admiral Miaoulis' ship and donated in 1830. Just below, the monastery’s beach offers both organized and open areas and its clear waters remain pristine even during peak summer. On the western side, explore Mikro and Megalo Neorio, two of the beaches closest to town, as well as Love Bay (Limanaki tis Agapis), a pine-shaded cove that was once the island’s hippest secret and is now an organized beach.
Hydra
Hydra is the aristocratic beauty that steals your heart the moment your catamaran enters its harbor. Its unique charm, elegant architecture, grand mansions and complete absence of motor vehicles create a nostalgic atmosphere from another era – one long favored by the international jet set and Athenians alike for short getaways. This bohemian yet refined setting famously captivated Leonard Cohen – and will likely captivate you too. Be sure to check out the contemporary art exhibitions hosted each summer, especially at the DESTE Foundation’s Project Space (housed in the old slaughterhouse) and at Hydra School Projects.
Where to Swim
Hydra doesn’t offer sandy beaches, but its crystal-clear waters are perfect for diving in from rocks or platforms. Popular spots like Hydronetta and Spilia are just a short walk from the picturesque harbor. In Mikro and Megalo Kamini, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a scene from a classic Greek film like “Mermaids and Lads.” For more organized beaches with pristine waters, head to Vlychos, Mandraki, Bisti, or Agios Nikolaos. These can be reached on foot or via regular water taxis running every 30 minutes. If you're feeling adventurous, take a sea taxi to Limnioniza, a hidden gem on the island’s southern coast.
Spetses
Spetses is an elegant and easily accessible destination, both by sea and land, located close to Athens. Every summer, it becomes a hub for the international jet set, with luxury yachts gathering in the prestigious Poseidonion marina. The island is famous for its charming cobblestone alleyways and lively promenades. Here, cars are mostly banned (except for limited permits), so you’ll rediscover life without driving. Instead, rent a scooter or, even better, a bicycle and circle the island – less than an hour by scooter, or two by bike. The route is breathtaking, with lush greenery blending into the sea. While August gets busy, you're bound to find your own picturesque corner.
What to See
The Spetses Museum, showcasing archaeological, historical and folkloric collections – including important relics from the Greek War of Independence. The Bouboulina Museum, dedicated to the legendary heroine of 1821, featuring her personal belongings, carved wooden ceilings and original artifacts from the revolution. The Anargyrios and Korgialenios School, established in 1927, located near the Poseidonion Grand Hotel. The Chapel of Panagia Armata, built to commemorate the victory of Spetses, Hydra and Psara over the Ottoman fleet on September 8, 1822. Bouboulina Square, the heart of island celebrations, especially during the reenactment of the Battle of Spetses, known as the Armata Festival. The historic Church of the Holy Trinity (1793), the island’s old cathedral, set high above the town with a stunning carved iconostasis. The quaint Chapel of the Resurrection near Spetses Hotel and the majestic Church of Saint Nicholas at the Old Harbor.
Where to Swim
Spetses offers clear, refreshing waters perfect for summer dips. Head to the cosmopolitan Agioi Anargyroi Beach, where a trail leads to Bekiris Cave for underwater exploring. Nearby, Agia Paraskevi offers even more stunning scenery. For a relaxed swim, try Kounoupitsa, Anargyrios School beach, or Ligoneri. Agios Mamas, close to the port, has a sandy stretch, while Agios Nikolaos, just down the coastal road, is ideal for a quick dip with a view of stately mansions – like a living painting. For something more secluded, visit Garyfallo Beach (in Pityousa), Kouzounos, Xylokeriza, Kamares (rugged and wild), or Zogeria, known for its serene waters and the iconic seaside taverna serving delicious chicken in red sauce. If you're in the mood for beach bars and music, try Agia Marina, Kaiki Beach, or Vrellos.
