Agistri: The Pine-Clad Escape of the Saronic Gulf
Agistri is the best-kept secret of the Saronic Gulf, a verdant sanctuary where the scent of pine needles meets the salty breeze of the Aegean. While its neighbor Aegina is famous for its monuments and pistachios, Agistri is beloved for its raw natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere. In 2026, it remains the ultimate destination for those who want to disconnect from the digital noise of Athens and immerse themselves in turquoise waters and forest trails.
Things to know about Agistri
Agistri is the smallest of the Saronic islands, covering only 13 square kilometers. Geographically, it is located just a few nautical miles southwest of Aegina. Historically known as Kekrifalia (‘Decorated Head’), it was mentioned by Homer as an ally of Aegina during the Trojan War. The island is almost entirely covered in dense Aleppo pine forests, which reach all the way down to the shoreline. An ideal trip length is 2-3 days, though many Athenians visit for a refreshing day trip. It is world-famous for its crystal-clear ‘ionian-style’ waters and its network of cycling and hiking paths that crisscross the interior. The island has two main ports: Skala, which is the tourism hub, and Megalochori (Mylos), the traditional capital.
Top attractions in Agistri
Chalikiada Beach
Perhaps the most famous spot on the island, Chalikiada is a stunning pebble beach surrounded by steep, white limestone cliffs and deep green pines. Accessible only by a steep, rocky trail from Skliri, it has a wild, secluded feel and is a longtime favorite for naturists and campers seeking a connection with nature.
Aponissos Islet
Located on the southwestern tip of the island, Aponissos is a private islet connected to the main island by a small bridge. The water here is an incredible shade of turquoise, making it look more like the Caribbean than Greece. It is an organized area where you can rent sunbeds and enjoy fresh seafood at the local tavern while watching yachts anchor in the bay.
Dragonera Beach
Dragonera is a beautiful, pine-fringed pebble beach on the western coast. It is less crowded than Skala and offers a peaceful environment for swimming. A small canteen operates during the summer, providing cold drinks and snacks to the sound of cicadas.
Skala Port and Village
The heartbeat of Agistri’s tourism, Skala is characterized by the striking white dome of the Church of Agioi Anargyroi. The waterfront is lined with cafes, bars, and family-run hotels. The beach here is sandy and shallow, making it the top choice for families with small children.
Megalochori (Mylos)
The traditional administrative center of the island, Megalochori features narrow stone alleys and traditional white-washed houses with blue shutters. It feels much more authentic than Skala and is home to the island’s only windmill, which dates back to the early 19th century.
The Village of Metochi
Tucked away on a hillside between Skala and Megalochori, Metochi is a quiet hamlet that offers the best sunset views on the island. The walk up to the village takes you through ancient pine groves and provides a glimpse into the agricultural past of the island.
Limenaria Village
Located on the southern side of Agistri, Limenaria is a remote, traditional settlement. It is home to the beautiful stone church of Agia Kyriaki and is the perfect starting point for hikers who want to explore the more rugged, unpopulated southern coastline.
Mariza Beach
Situated near Limenaria, Mariza is not a typical beach but a rocky platform from which you can dive into deep, emerald waters. It is a fantastic spot for snorkeling, as the underwater rock formations are home to a wide variety of Mediterranean marine life.
The Church of Agioi Anargyroi
This iconic white-and-blue church is the most photographed landmark on Agistri. Located right on the beach in Skala, it serves as the spiritual center of the island and is the site of vibrant local festivals every July 1st.
Cycling the Island Loop
One of the best ways to see Agistri is on two wheels. You can rent a bicycle in Skala and ride the coastal road to Megalochori and through the pine forest to Dragonera. The lack of heavy traffic makes Agistri one of the safest and most enjoyable islands for cycling enthusiasts.
Island-hopping from Agistri
Agistri is tightly connected to its larger neighbor, Aegina. Small local boats and water taxis run several times a day between Skala/Megalochori and Aegina Town, taking only 10-15 minutes. From Aegina, you can connect to the rest of the Saronic islands. For direct routes, high-speed hydrofoils (Flying Dolphins) link Agistri to Piraeus in just 55 minutes. There are also seasonal connections to the nearby uninhabited island of Dorousa, which is a popular spot for private boat tours and diving expeditions.
