Antipaxos: The Caribbean of the Mediterranean
Antipaxos is a tiny island with a massive reputation. Located just 2 nautical miles from Paxos, it is home to only a few dozen permanent residents and no shops, but it possesses the most incredible beaches in the Ionian Sea. In 2026, Antipaxos remains the ultimate day-trip destination, famous for its ‘Voutoumi’ and ‘Vrika’ beaches where the water is so clear it looks like glass. It is a place of vineyards, fruit trees, and a level of tranquility that is rare in the modern world.
Things to know about Antipaxos
Geographically, Antipaxos is only 5 square kilometers. Historically, it was a major vineyard for the residents of Paxos. An ideal trip length is a full day, though staying overnight in one of the few luxury villas is an experience of ultimate seclusion. It is famous for its turquoise-white bays, its high-quality local wine, and for being the most beautiful swimming stop for every yacht in the Ionian.
Top attractions in Antipaxos
Voutoumi Beach
Consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the world, Voutoumi is a bay of fine white sand and electric-blue water. It is surrounded by lush green hills, and the view from the ‘Bella Vista’ tavern at the top of the cliff is the most iconic image of the island.
Vrika Beach
Located at the northern end of the island, Vrika is a sandy paradise with slightly warmer water than Voutoumi. It is home to two excellent taverns and is the first stop for most taxi boats from Paxos. The snorkeling here is exceptional.
The Vineyards of Antipaxos
The interior of the island is covered in small, private vineyards. The local wine (black wine) is strong and unique, produced in small quantities. Walking through the narrow paths that connect the vineyards is a peaceful way to see the island’s agricultural soul.
Sarakiniko Beach
A quieter, more secluded alternative to Vrika and Voutoumi. Sarakiniko is a small cove that offers total privacy for those willing to walk a bit further or hire a private boat. The water is just as clear but the crowds are non-existent.
Agrapidia Harbor
The tiny, picturesque harbor where the locals keep their fishing boats. It is the starting point for the few paths that lead into the island’s interior and is a great place to see the authentic, non-tourist side of Antipaxos.
The Lighthouse (Faros)
Located on the southern tip of the island, the old lighthouse is a rugged, atmospheric site. The walk to reach it takes you through the most wild part of the island, offering views over the open sea towards Lefkada.
Radovani Beach
A beautiful, wild beach on the west coast. Because it faces the open sea, it is often much quieter than the east coast beaches. It is a great spot for those who want to feel the raw power of the Ionian.
Snorkeling at Mesovrika
This is the small rocky bay between Vrika and Voutoumi. It is the best place on the island for snorkeling, with underwater arches and a wealth of Mediterranean marine life in the crystal-clear water.
The Paths of the Interior
Antipaxos has no cars and no real roads, only narrow paths. Walking from Vrika to Voutoumi (about 20 minutes) takes you past traditional stone cottages and gardens of lemon and orange trees, offering a sensory experience of the Mediterranean.
Bella Vista Viewpoint
While technically the location of a tavern, this viewpoint is an attraction in its own right. Sitting 200 steps above Voutoumi beach, it provides a panoramic view that captures the exact moment the white sand meets the sapphire sea.
Island-hopping from Antipaxos
Antipaxos is reached exclusively by sea. Daily taxi boats and excursion boats depart from Gaios, Lakka, and Loggos in Paxos every 30-60 minutes (15 min trip). There are also direct day-trip boats from Corfu and Parga. It is the perfect ‘plus-one’ to any Paxos itinerary.
