If you’re headed to Sithonia for your summer getaway this year, we have an enchanting hidden gem for you to uncover during your trip! Nestled just off the coast of the village Vourvourou in the Sithonia peninsula, Diaporos Island awaits. Referred to as the clandestine paradise of Halkidiki, this mystical island has been likened to the Caribbean of Greece. Renowned for its warm, crystal-clear turquoise waters, Diaporos spans 3.2 square kilometers, making it the largest among a cluster of nine islands. Here, visitors can explore over 50 beaches, each boasting its own unique charm and allure.
The most famous beaches of Diaporos are the Blue Lagoon, Myrsini and Kryftos. However there are many beautiful beaches on the island that are less known. Myrsini beach is one of the most beautiful in Diaporos. It would be good to visit it early in the morning, because later it gathers many visitors. For some it is considered the most beautiful beach of Halkidiki. Blue waters, white sand and small coves make it seem exotic. The largest natural bay of Diaporos is Kryfto. It is about 700 meters long, an ideal place for mooring boats. But the uniqueness of Diaporos is in the pine trees that cover the whole island; many of them grow so close to the beach that from a distance they seem to emerge from the sea. Such a natural landscape is rare in the world.
How to Get to Diaporos Island
To get to Diaporos, you have to get to Sithonia and specifically to Vourvourou. This is the nearest way you can reach the island. Despite being uninhabited, it boasts a handful of cottages here and there. Situated directly across from Vourvourou, access to Diaporos is exclusively by boat, with no vehicular access available. Permanent routes to and from the island are nonexistent. Access methods vary to private boat, water taxi, or organized tours departing from Vourvourou, which offer guided excursions encompassing the surrounding islets and beach stops. For a more exclusive experience free from crowds and time constraints, we recommend renting your own boat. From Vourvourou it will take approximately 20 minutes to reach the island. No specialized license is required, making it an accessible option for all. Keep in mind that there are no shops or cafes on Diaporos island, so make sure to pack with you everything that you might need beforehand.
Activities to Do in Diaporos Island
The coral reef encircling the islets is responsible for the exceptionally exotic, transparent, and azure waters enveloping them. Anywhere offshore, you can anchor your boat and indulge in a swim. One of the most captivating features of Diaporos Island lies in its abundant marine ecosystem. Besides sunbathing under the Mediterranean sunlight and reveling in the balmy waters, visitors have the opportunity to encounter a diverse array of marine life. Within the pristine, crystalline waters encasing the island, many aquatic creatures thrive, including vibrant fish, sea urchins, starfish, octopuses, and larger species such as sea turtles and dolphins. This renders the island an idyllic destination for snorkeling, diving, and various other aquatic pursuits.
Blue Lagoon
Blue lagoons are not something you see everyday. Blue lagoon resembles a natural swimming pool with crystal clear turquoise waters. There is not one but many spots of blue lagoons in Diaporos island. It is said that one of the most beautiful and popular blue lagoons is located in the narrow passage between Diaporos island and the island of Agios Isidoros. It looks like a natural pool since the sand is white and the waters are shallow, giving them a unique color and incredible clarity. Another blue lagoon in Diaporos island is Hawaii beach or Myrsini beach while the view of Mount Athos peninsula is a unique combination of an earthly paradise.
Where to Stay in order to visit Diaporos Island
If you’re planning to visit Diaporos Island, there are several accommodation options available in the surrounding area that provide convenient access to this picturesque destination. Wherever you decide your accommodation in Sithonia, the access to Diaporos island is easy. You only need a car to get to Vourvourou where you will take the boat to Diaporos. The most popular choice for visitors is to stay in the nearby resort town of Vourvourou, which offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. In Sithonia, you’ll find a variety of options, including luxury resorts, villas, holiday apartments, and traditional guesthouses. Many of these accommodations are situated along the coastline, offering stunning views of the crystal-clear waters and easy access to the beach.
