Paxos is an ocean and beach-lover’s paradise. But there’s so much this tiny island has for you to do.
1. Explore The Beaches In Paxos
There are at least 15 beaches around Paxos… but then again, when you’re on an island, anywhere can be a beach. Along Paxos’s southeast coast, the shoreline is made up of rock shelves.
To make up for the lack of beach, people have affixed metal pool ladders directly into the rocks. There’s no wrong place to go for a dip in Ionian Sea…
Erimitis Bay Beach features bright, cyan-blue waters framed by dramatic white cliffs. It’s one of the best places on the island to watch the sun set. It’s a long hike down (and then back up) to Erimitis Bay Beach, but the view you’re rewarded with once you get there is worth it.
Meattie Buir’s Beach is a quiet beach that’s tucked away around the corner from Lakka. It’s also on the west coast and surrounded by cliffs, with lots to see both above and below water. The water is crystal clear, and there are big boulders underwater that you can perch on, taking a rest while you swim or snorkel.
Note that this is a popular spot among nudists because, so few people visit it.
Kaki Lagkada Beach’s views aren’t as spectacular as Erimitis or Meattie Buir’s, but the beach is spacious, the waters are clear and clam, and there’s a top-notch beach bar nestles in its cove
2. Dive Into The History And Culture Of Paxos
All around Greece, there’s evidence of this country’s incredible ancient history.
On Paxos, the most eye catching monument is Agios Nikolaos Castle, dating back to the 15th century. It was built by Adam II San Ippolito, a Venetian lord, on Agios Nikolaos Island to protect against pirate and Ottoman attacks.
Unattended and unmarked ruins are scattered around the island, making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time when you stumble upon them. One such ruin is the Basilica of Agia Marina, the oldest basilica on Paxos. You’ll also find the ruins of several cisterns, the Cisterns of Sarakinos being the most famous among them.
Paxos Museum is a good destination to get a dose of history and culture. Housed in a 115-year-old former schoolhouse, it takes you on a journey of Paxos’s history of human habitation. This starts with flint tools from the Paleolithic and ends with clothing and accessories from the turn of the 20th century.
There’s also an olive press museum and a folklore museum on Paxos… but that’s it.Paxos is not really a destination for “high culture”—theater, opera, symphony performances, fine art… It’s a place for people who enjoy simple pleasures, like nice meals, time spent with family and friends, and frequent dips in the ocean.
3. Taste The Local Cuisine
The best way to connect with Paxos’s culture is through its cuisine… there’s no shortage of excellent places to eat and drink here. Eating out is an inexpensive indulgence, and the service is caring and professional.
For example, you can visit local taverns and restaurants and get a taste of exquisite fresh seafood, locally produced olive oil, and traditional dishes like moussaka and souvlaki.
4. Go On A Hike In Paxos
Paxos has several scenic hiking trails for you to explore. The trail from Gaios to Loggos is pretty popular. Some of these hiking trails will even take you through olive groves, vineyards, and picturesque villages.
Other hiking trails to consider are: