Spetses Island

Spetses Island is an idyllic island in southern Greece forming part of the Argo-Saronic archipelago. It lies close to the islands of Hydra, Poros, and Aegina and can be seen from the popular tourist towns of Porto Heli and Costa in the Peloponnese. The island has a rich naval history, as evidenced by the Poseidonion Grand Hotel and the Sotirios Anargyros which is guarded by two Egyptian Sphinxes. The island has historic importance during the Greek Revolution as it was the birthplace of Lascarina Bouboulina, the heroine of Spetses. 

Dapia, Spetses' major town, has an aristocratic ambience with fine Venetian architecture, an open-air cinema, narrow alleyways and a long promenade, perfect for a romantic stroll and sunset drinks with stunning views of the Aegean Sea. Leading out of town, nature strikes with scents of jasmine, and bougainvillaea plants, as well as stunning green hues that complement the surrounding aquamarine seas, ideal for trekking or a leisurely horse ride. There are also several stunning bays and wonderful quiet beaches along the coastline, excellent for relaxing under the hot sun or swimming in spectacular waters. This island has it all for an unforgettable summer, whether it's water sports, tranquillity on an enclosed beach, or gorgeous settings for that ideal picture-perfect moment.

Waters and Anchorages

Spetses Island has two ports of entry for mooring, the modern Port of Dapia and the old harbour of Baltiza, although Dapia is known for its uncomfortable swell from incoming commercial vessels. There are also various chartered anchorages across the island, allowing boaters to anchor and explore the island's enchanting shoreline. Spetses is built on a single mountain-like peak called Prophet Elias, which is surrounded by beautiful flora. Its coastline features multiple bays and coves that lead to beautiful pebbled and sandy beaches bordered by aromatic pine trees.

The island is most popular from June to September, when temperatures average 86°F (30°C) and various cultural and religious events take place, including the Armata Festival and the feasts of Agios Mamas, Agia Paraskevi, and Agia Marina. Its crystal-clear turquoise waters are known to reach a high of 81°F (28°C) with shallow shores that suddenly deepen the further one goes out. Spetses' waters are so deep that visitors frequent them in an attempt to break the world record in free-diving. Visitors can expect to swim or snorkel in tranquil surroundings with breathtaking panoramas and calm seas. Jet skiing, water skiing, paddleboarding, canoeing, donut and banana riding and many more activities are also available for water sports lovers. 

Popular Bays and Beaches

Next to the Dapia Port is Agios Mamas, a sandy and pebbled beach with blue shallow waters and several entertainment and dining options like taverns, restaurants, and bars, ideal for families with children. Near the old Spetses Port and iconic Metal Lighthouse of Spetses is Agia Marina Beach, renowned for its water sports activities such as water skiing and flyboarding, as well as the vistas from the Monastery of Agioi Pantes, which rests on its hill in the background. North of Dapia Port is Kaikai Beach with tiny pebbles, an opulent beach club with cabanas, water activities like canoeing and donut rides, and a beach bar for dancing while drinking cocktails. Vrellos Beach is located north of the island and is an idyllic spot with several beach activities such as beach volleyball and natural panoramas of thick pine trees that rise the mountainous-hill to the Monastery of Profitis Elias, the highest point on the island with excellent sunset views. Zogeria Bay, the island's most northern point, is a picturesque cove with lush flora and shores full of sand, rocks, and stones that fall into deep blue seas. Agia Paraskevi is a sheltered cove in a serene setting with a sandy and pebbled beach bordered by a pine grove ideal for natural shade and a variety of water sports activities. Agioi Angaria is also close and is famed for its watersports and proximity to the Cave of Berkiris, a beautiful sea cave built by stalactites and stalagmites. Xilokeriza is the furthest beach to the south, a quiet beach for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkelling in harmony with nature.