
Anafi Beaches
An unspoiled Cycladic island at the edge of the Aegean, Anafi offers serene beaches, rugged landscapes, and an authentic, tranquil escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Anafi Beaches
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An unspoiled Cycladic island at the edge of the Aegean, Anafi offers serene beaches, rugged landscapes, and an authentic, tranquil escape.
"Anafi is an incredible untouched gem, a wonderful and wild place far better than Santorini."

🥾 Hike to Your Paradise
Many of Anafi's best beaches require a hike. Pack comfortable shoes and water!
🚢 Ferry Flexibility is Key
Ferries can be cancelled. Opt for larger ferries and have a backup plan for your return.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Agioi Anargyroi Beach
South coast
A serene, golden-sand beach with crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for unwinding.

Roukounas Beach
South coast
An expansive, beautiful sandy beach ideal for long walks and soaking up the sun.

Monastery of Panagia Kalamiotissa
Kalamos monolith
Hike to this ancient monastery for breathtaking panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.

Chora Village
Main village
Wander through charming, whitewashed alleys and experience authentic island life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Journey to Anafi
Unplug and Unwind
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Hike to Your Paradise
Many of Anafi's best beaches require a hike. Pack comfortable shoes and water!
🚢 Ferry Flexibility is Key
Ferries can be cancelled. Opt for larger ferries and have a backup plan for your return.
📵 Embrace the Digital Detox
Enjoy limited mobile service; it's a great chance to truly unplug.
🏕️ Free Camping Vibes
Free camping is popular on beaches. Be prepared for a rustic, communal experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Hike to Your Paradise
Many of Anafi's best beaches require a hike. Pack comfortable shoes and water!
🚢 Ferry Flexibility is Key
Ferries can be cancelled. Opt for larger ferries and have a backup plan for your return.
📵 Embrace the Digital Detox
Enjoy limited mobile service; it's a great chance to truly unplug.
🏕️ Free Camping Vibes
Free camping is popular on beaches. Be prepared for a rustic, communal experience.
💰 Budget-Friendly Bliss
Anafi offers reasonable prices for food and accommodation compared to other Cyclades.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Anafi is lauded as an incredible, untouched gem offering serene beaches with turquoise waters and a peaceful, authentic atmosphere. Visitors appreciate its affordability and the opportunity to disconnect, though some note the need for ferry flexibility and the island's remote nature.
"Anafi is an incredible place. A small island, with beaches mainly on the south side (about 7/8). The water is clean with turquoise colors.On the north side they can be reached on foot through trekking paths.
The general vibe is quite queer, with a crowd ranging from 25 up to 40/50 years old. Very gay-oriented but with plenty of women too. On the island there are two local bars: Mylos, which plays dark/wave music, and Madres, with a less clear music program, open until 8 a.m. but closed on some days.
On the beaches, many people go free camping. It’s possible to be nude on the beach. If you want to meet new people, it’s possible, but the community is small, so I wouldn’t recommend staying more than 5 days on the island. Always take large ferries (make sure they allow cars when booking your ticket), since one of our smaller ferries was cancelled on the very same day we were supposed to return to Santorini…
Another small disappointing note: Maria, who rents out an Airbnb in an old mill, cancelled our booking two months before arrival without explanation… Don’t stay there.
Other than that, the island is a wonderful and wild place."
F G
"Nice and quite, far better than Santorini and with reasonable prices in restaurants. Glad we have visited before tourist boom that is yet to arrive"
Pawel Zarzycki
"Stunning place! Definitely, I will get back!"
Alice Constantin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary way to reach Anafi is by ferry from Santorini, which takes about 1.5 to 3 hours depending on the ferry type. Some travelers also arrive from other Cycladic islands like Amorgos. It's crucial to book larger ferries as smaller ones are more prone to cancellation.
Getting around Anafi involves a mix of walking and hiking. The main village, Chora, is walkable, but many of the most beautiful beaches are accessed via trekking paths, especially on the south side. Renting a scooter or ATV might be an option for some, but be prepared for unpaved roads.
Public transportation on Anafi is very limited. There isn't a regular bus service connecting the port to Chora or the beaches. This reinforces the need for comfortable walking shoes and a willingness to explore on foot.
While you can drive to certain points on Anafi, many of the most secluded and stunning beaches are only accessible by foot. The roads can be rough, so a 4x4 or ATV might be preferable if you plan to drive extensively.
The south coast beaches like Agioi Anargyroi and Roukounas are best reached by hiking from Chora or by boat taxi if available. The trails offer incredible views but can be challenging, so proper footwear is essential.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to Anafi's beaches is free. The island's appeal lies in its natural, unspoiled beauty, and there are no entrance fees for any of the beaches.
Anafi is an island, not a specific attraction with set opening hours. The beaches and villages are accessible at all times. However, consider the best times for hiking and enjoying the scenery, avoiding the midday sun.
The Monastery of Panagia Kalamiotissa is a historical site, and while access to the grounds is generally free, it's advisable to check for any specific visiting hours or guidelines upon arrival. The hike itself is the main 'entry requirement'.
There are no booking requirements to visit Anafi itself. However, you will need to book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season, and accommodation if you plan to stay overnight.
Ferry tickets to Anafi are best booked online through ferry comparison websites or directly with the ferry companies. Booking in advance is highly recommended, particularly for travel during the summer months.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Anafi has a very laid-back, authentic, and somewhat alternative vibe. It's known for attracting a crowd seeking peace and a connection with nature, with a significant queer community presence. It's a place to 'unplug' and enjoy simplicity.
Yes, nude bathing is common and accepted on many of Anafi's beaches, particularly the more secluded ones. It's part of the island's free-spirited atmosphere.
Anafi is excellent for hiking, with numerous trails leading to stunning beaches and the impressive Kalamos monolith. The terrain can be rugged, so sturdy footwear is a must.
Top beaches include Agioi Anargyroi, Roukounas, Klisidi, and Galifos. Many are on the south coast and offer golden sands and clear waters.
Compared to islands like Santorini, Anafi is very uncrowded. It's considered a hidden gem and a peaceful escape, especially outside of the absolute peak season.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can expect delicious traditional Greek cuisine with an emphasis on fresh seafood. Many tavernas offer local specialties and a taste of authentic island life.
Anafi has a limited number of restaurants and tavernas, primarily located in Chora and near some of the main beaches. The focus is on quality and local ingredients rather than extensive variety.
Prices for food in Anafi are generally reasonable and considered more affordable than on more tourist-heavy islands like Santorini.
While Anafi's cuisine is traditional, many tavernas can accommodate vegetarian requests. Vegan options might be more limited but are often possible with simple dishes like salads and vegetable-based mezes.
Some of the more popular beaches, like Roukounas, may have small beach bars or tavernas offering drinks and snacks. The island's vibe is more about natural settings than extensive beach club infrastructure.
📸 📸 Photography
The Monastery of Panagia Kalamiotissa offers incredible panoramic views. The rugged coastline, secluded beaches, and the charming Chora village are also prime photography locations.
Sunrise and sunset offer magical light for photography, especially from higher vantage points like the monastery. Golden hour light also enhances the beauty of the beaches.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended for capturing landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens is great for the expansive beaches and sea views. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant water shots.
It's always advisable to check local regulations regarding drone usage in Greece. Generally, avoid flying over populated areas, private property, or sensitive natural sites without permission.
Focus on natural light, wide shots of the landscape, and candid moments of local life. Emphasize the textures of the rocks, sand, and the clarity of the water to convey the island's raw beauty.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💖 Couples Seeking Romance
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Anafi's Beaches
Reaching these coastal gems often involves a rewarding hike, adding to the sense of discovery and exclusivity. The effort required to traverse the island's terrain means that Anafi's beaches remain less crowded than those on more accessible islands, preserving their authentic charm. This makes them ideal for travelers seeking peace and a genuine connection with nature.
Beyond the popular spots, Anafi boasts numerous hidden coves and smaller bays waiting to be explored. The island's commitment to preserving its natural environment ensures that these beaches retain their wild, untouched character, offering a truly immersive experience for visitors.
Navigating Anafi: Travel and Logistics
Once on Anafi, transportation is primarily on foot. The island's rugged landscape means that many of its most beautiful beaches and viewpoints are accessible only through hiking trails. While there are some unpaved roads suitable for ATVs or scooters, comfortable walking shoes are an absolute necessity for exploring the island effectively. This emphasis on walking contributes to the island's peaceful ambiance and allows for a deeper appreciation of its natural beauty.
Accommodation on Anafi ranges from simple rooms and apartments to options like staying in renovated windmills. The island also has a tradition of free camping on its beaches, appealing to a more adventurous and budget-conscious traveler. Planning ahead, especially for accommodation and ferry bookings during peak season, is recommended.
The Spirit of Anafi: Culture and Community
The island has a notable reputation for its welcoming and inclusive community, with a significant presence of LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly gay men, alongside women and other visitors. This creates a unique, open, and friendly social environment. The two main bars, Mylos and Madres, are central to the island's social life, offering distinct music and late-night experiences.
Anafi's charm lies in its simplicity and its preserved traditional character. Wandering through the narrow alleys of Chora, with its whitewashed houses and vibrant bougainvillea, offers a glimpse into authentic island living. The island's natural beauty, combined with its relaxed and accepting social fabric, makes it a special destination for those seeking a different kind of Greek island holiday.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit