The moment you step onto Koufonisia, time seems to slow down. These twin Greek islands—Ano (Upper) and Kato (Lower) Koufonisi—may be among the smallest inhabited Cycladic islands, but they punch far above their weight in natural beauty. What truly sets this destination apart are the extraordinary natural pools carved into the rocky coastline—nature’s perfect swimming spots that rival any infinity pool.
A hidden gem in the Cyclades
Located in the eastern Cyclades between Naxos and Amorgos, Koufonisia remains blissfully under-the-radar compared to its famous neighbors. While Santorini and Mykonos burst with tourists, these islands offer the authentic Greek experience many travelers dream of—whitewashed buildings, sapphire waters, and beaches you might have entirely to yourself.
Pisina: Nature’s perfect swimming pool
The crown jewel of Koufonisia’s natural wonders is Pisina, a sheltered natural pool on Ano Koufonisi’s northeastern coast. Wind and waves have carved this natural bath into the coastline, creating a protected swimming spot with crystal-clear water. The dramatic rock formations surrounding it make for a spectacular setting that feels almost otherworldly.
“I’ve traveled to 47 countries, and I’ve never seen anything quite like the natural pools of Koufonisia,” says travel photographer Maria Kontos. “The way the sunlight hits the water creates colors that seem almost artificially enhanced—but it’s all natural.”
The mesmerizing Devil’s Eye
Perhaps the most photographed natural formation is the Devil’s Eye (Mati tou Diavolou), a heart-shaped natural pool where the rocky ceiling has collapsed, creating a dramatic opening. The contrast between the deep blue water and the white limestone creates a hypnotic effect that’s irresistible to swimmers and photographers alike.
Island-hopping between Ano and Kato
While Ano Koufonisi houses most accommodations and restaurants, don’t miss a day trip to uninhabited Kato Koufonisi. Regular taxi boats can take you there for around €5, where you’ll discover pristine beaches and complete solitude. If you’re feeling adventurous, camping is permitted on certain parts of the island, offering an experience similar to camping on private Maine islands.
Pori Beach: Koufonisia’s paradise shore
Pori Beach on Ano Koufonisi deserves special mention—a stretch of golden sand meeting turquoise waters that rivals the beauty of Caribbean-blue Italian islands. Located on the northeastern tip, it’s the perfect base for exploring the coastal caves and natural pools nearby.
A culinary journey through local flavors
Despite its small size, Koufonisia boasts exceptional seafood tavernas. Fishermen bring their catch directly to restaurants like Mixalios and Kapetan Nikolas. Don’t leave without trying the island specialty—goat with potatoes slow-cooked in tomato sauce—a dish that tells the story of local culture in every bite.
“Our recipes haven’t changed in generations,” explains Yiannis Prasinos, a local taverna owner. “We cook what the island gives us—fresh fish, local vegetables, and goat from the hills. Simple but full of flavor.”
Getting there: The journey is part of the adventure
Reaching Koufonisia is part of its charm. From Athens, take a ferry from Piraeus (5-9 hours) or fly to Naxos and catch a shorter boat ride. For the ultimate adventure, consider a Greek boat adventure that lets you island-hop through the Cyclades.
Where to stay: Authentic island accommodations
Accommodations range from simple guest houses to boutique hotels, all maintaining the island’s authentic character. For spectacular views, Koufonisia Hotel offers whitewashed elegance, while Melissa Rooms provides budget-friendly comfort near the main village. Unlike cave hotels in Turkey, the architecture here is classically Cycladic.
When to visit: Timing your perfect escape
May to early July and September offer the perfect balance of warm weather and minimal crowds. August brings Greek holidaymakers and higher prices. The waters around the natural pools remain swimmable well into October, with temperatures often reaching the mid-70s.
As the sun sets behind Kato Koufonisi, painting the natural pools in golden light, you’ll understand why these secret islands capture the hearts of all who visit. Unlike Balinese cultural havens with their ancient temples, Koufonisia’s temples are natural ones—carved by wind and sea into perfect sanctuaries for those seeking Greece at its most authentic and pristine.