Paxos: The Island of Poseidon

According to mythology, Poseidon created Paxos by striking Corfu with his trident to break off a piece, creating a quiet retreat for him and his love, Amphitrite. Today, Paxos (and its tiny neighbor Antipaxos) remains a retreat for those in the know.

In 2026, Paxos is the definition of “quiet luxury.” It has no airport and no large hotels. Instead, it is an island of stone villas, Italianate villages, and endless olive groves (planted by the Venetians). It attracts a sailing crowd and those who want the bluest water in Greece without the crowds of Mykonos.

Why Visit Paxos in 2026?

For the water. The water around Paxos and Antipaxos is often compared to the Maldives—an electric, neon blue that looks photoshopped. It is also an island of incredible charm; the three main villages (Gaios, Loggos, Lakka) are intimate, sophisticated, and free of mass tourism packages.

Best Time to Visit

June & September: Ideal. The harbor fronts are lively but not packed.
July & August: The island fills up with Italian tourists and yachts. Reservations for dinner are essential.
May: Very quiet, green, and peaceful.

How to Get There

The lack of an airport keeps the masses away.

Ferry / Hydrofoil: From Corfu (New Port). The “Flying Dolphin” takes about 1 hour. You can fly to Corfu (CFU) and transfer.
Sea Taxi: A faster, more flexible (but expensive) option from Corfu.
Ferry from Mainland: From Igoumenitsa on the Greek mainland.

Iconic Experiences & Sights

1. Antipaxos Day Trip

A must. Take a sea taxi or small boat from Gaios to Antipaxos (15 mins). The beaches here, Voutoumi and Vrika, have white sand and water so clear it casts a shadow on the bottom. There are a few tavernas on the hill offering lunch with a view.

2. The Blue Caves (West Coast)

The west coast of Paxos is a wall of sheer limestone cliffs. Boat tours take you inside massive sea caves (like Ypapanti) where the water glows ethereal blue. The dramatic rock arch of Tripitos is a highlight.

3. Gaios

The capital. The harbor is unique because it is protected by a small island (Agios Nikolaos) sitting right in the mouth of the bay, creating a river-like channel. Watching the mega-yachts squeeze through this channel while sipping coffee is a daily spectator sport.

4. Loggos

The smallest and arguably prettiest village. A cluster of pastel houses around a tiny fishing harbor. The dining scene here is superb.

5. Lakka

Located in a horseshoe bay in the north. The water in the bay is shallow and turquoise, perfect for paddleboarding.

6. Erimitis Sunset

On the west coast, the white cliffs turn orange and pink at sunset. The Erimitis Bar offers a terrace hanging over the cliff edge—the prime spot for a sundowner.

Where to Stay

Villa Rental: This is the Paxos way. There are hundreds of beautiful stone villas with pools hidden in the olive groves.
Gaios: For those who want activity and boat connections.
Loggos: For a romantic, quiet village feel.

Gastronomy: Liquid Gold

Olive Oil: Paxos is one massive olive grove. The oil here is high quality.
Seafood: Fresh lobster pasta is a staple in the high-end tavernas of Loggos.
Waffles: For some reason, waffles with ice cream are a popular evening treat in the villages.

Sustainability & Water

Paxos has no natural water springs. All water is collected rain or desalinated.

Conservation: In 2026, visitors are urged to be extremely water-conscious.
Electric Boats: Renting small electric boats to explore the coves is becoming a popular eco-friendly option.

Safety and Tips

Boat Rental: Renting a small motorboat (no license needed for up to 30hp) is the best way to see the island. You can find your own private cove.
Mosquitoes: The olive trees provide shade but also harbor mosquitoes. Bring spray.
Prices: Paxos is more expensive than the average Greek island due to import costs and its upscale clientele.

Digital Nomad Life

Paxos is becoming an exclusive retreat for high-net-worth nomads and creatives. The island doesn’t have co-working spaces in the traditional sense, but many of the luxury villas come equipped with Starlink or high-speed satellite internet, making remote work seamless. The “slow living” philosophy here is perfect for avoiding burnout. Writers and painters have long flocked to Loggos for inspiration. Note that the winter season (November to April) is extremely quiet, with very few shops open, which can be either a blessing or a curse depending on your need for socialization.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Paxos offers a curated shopping experience. In Gaios and Loggos, you won’t find plastic tack. Instead, look for:

Paxos Olive Oil Soap: Made locally and excellent for the skin.
Ceramics: Several local artists have studios selling handmade pottery reflecting the colors of the Ionian sea.
Linen Clothing: Boutiques in Lakka sell high-quality Greek linen, perfect for the hot summer days.

Paxos is a jewel box. It is small enough to feel like home in a few days, but beautiful enough to make you never want to leave. It is the essence of the Ionian: green, blue, and serene.