Greece’s Hidden Islands You Can Explore by Yacht

The Eastern Mediterranean has been gaining popularity year after year for yacht itineraries. One destination, in particular, is shining brighter than the rest—Greece. With whitewashed fishing villages, picturesque beaches, diverse landscapes, and iconic cuisine, it’s no wonder Greece continues to draw crowds.

Greece is home to more than 6,000 islands, though only around 200 are inhabited. This makes it the ultimate yachting destination for island-hopping. Many travelers head straight for the famous islands of Mykonos and Santorini. But beyond these well-trodden favorites, there are countless quieter islands waiting to be discovered.
Traveling by ferry can restrict you to a set schedule. A yacht, however, gives you freedom and flexibility. Even the lesser-known islands become accessible.

If you want to discover a lesser-visited side to Greece, these are the islands to put on your radar before the masses do: 

Hydra: An Artist’s Muse to Explore by Yacht, Foot, or Donkey 

Just a short hop from Athens lies the Saronic Islands. Often overlooked in favor of the Cyclades, this island chain has its own charm. Hydra feels like a place where time stands still. The atmosphere instantly slows your pace, and instead of cars, you’ll see donkeys winding through the narrow streets. Thanks to its postcard-worthy views, Hydra has inspired artists for generations.

Exploring the islands by yacht opens up even more possibilities. You can snorkel in crystal-clear bays, try your hand at fishing, or enjoy watersports before unwinding on deck. Beyond Hydra, you can cruise to Spetses, Poros, Agistri, and Aegina. Each offers secluded coves, scenic landscapes, and a slower rhythm of life—perfect for extending your itinerary.

Milos: Cycladic Calm & Surreal Beauty 

Located within the sought-after Cycladic island chain, Milos is a refreshing change to the more frequented neighbouring island of Santorini. The island’s lunar-like landscapes, uncrowded beaches, and island charm provide a genuine Greek experience during a yacht vacation here.

This volcanic island boasts a dramatic coastline with more than 70 stunning beaches—like the famous Sarakiniko—just waiting to be explored. Another attraction that Milos offers is the Kleftiko Caves, which can be easily accessed by tender. Ashore, hire an ATV to roam at your own pace, stopping off at quaint fishing villages like Klima. In contrast to the livelier Cyclades, Milos boasts a laid-back atmosphere that is ideal for those seeking to escape the crowds. 

Antiparos: A Chic Island Hideaway 

Located across from the larger island of Paros, Antiparos is a serene spot where wild beauty is combined with luxurious touches. Long a discreet favourite among Hollywood’s elite, Antiparos offers a welcome change of seclusion compared to the busier islands. The east side of the island is lined with sandy beaches and calm waters. While the west is home to dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and some of Europe’s largest sea caves. The quiet, sandy and pebbled beaches here, coupled with empty hiking trails, allow you to get off the trodden path. For keen kitesurfers, the spot between the islands is excellent for catching some waves. 

Sifnos: Where Gastronomy Takes the Spotlight

Another lesser-visited island in the Cycladic chain is Sifnos. It’s known for its natural beauty, charming villages, and, most famously, its food scene. Sifnos is the place to experience authentic Greek island life. The island is a celebration of Greek cuisine. From cozy tavernas to fine dining with sweeping views, there’s something for every palate. Standouts include Omega3 and its sister spot, Cantina.

Between meals, you can explore the island’s rich history. Around 300 churches are scattered across its hills and villages. Scenic hiking trails connect many of them, offering both culture and nature in one. Authentic and full of character, Sifnos is a Cycladic gem worth adding to your itinerary.

Tinos: A Religious, Artistic & Natural Retreat 

Just north of busy Mykonos lies the island of Tinos. With charming villages, uncrowded beaches, and a growing culinary scene, it’s becoming a favorite for travelers in the know. Here, you’ll find a quieter side of Greece. Unlike its neighbor, Tinos isn’t known for nightlife. Instead, it’s famous for the Panagia Evangelistria, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the country. The island also has a rich artistic heritage. In the hilltop village of Pyrgos, you can wander through pretty alleyways and discover the home of some of Greece’s most celebrated sculptors and painters.

Nature lovers will also find plenty to enjoy. Tinos offers scenic hiking trails, untouched coves, and peaceful stretches of sand, especially along the northern coast. Agios Petros Beach, divided by a cape, is one of the most picturesque spots to anchor. For more activity, head to Kolympithra Bay, a hotspot for watersports.

Patmos: Sacred Sites & Tradition 

Further southeast of the Cyclades are the Dodecanese, hosting twelve large and various smaller islands, with the most popular being Rhodes and Kos. Considered as one of the smaller islands at 13 square miles, the island of Patmos doesn’t regularly feature on itineraries, but boasts huge appeal to those looking for a serene and secluded escape in this island group. An important pilgrimage site, visit the Monastery of Saint John, situated at the top of a hill overlooking the picturesque and traditional capital of Chora.

The island’s history and spiritual core are home to numerous religious festivals, providing an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local traditions and history. Anchor in the idyllic bays away from others, and from here, head onwards to the other Dodecanese islands. 

Symi: Neoclassic Charm & Crystal Waters

An easy hop from Rhodes, Symi is one of the Dodecanese’s best-kept secrets and well worth a visit by yacht. Arriving into the harbour, you will be welcomed by a postcard-perfect scene full of pastel-hued neoclassic homes and clear waters. The town is quaint to explore, with traditional waterfront tavernas serving up the local Symi shrimp. While small, Symi offers plenty, especially on the beachfront.

Agios Georgios Dysalonas is world-renowned for its turquoise and calm waters backed by a huge cliffside, while the pebbly Nanou is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Most of the bays and beaches are best accessed by the water, making a yachting vacation here the best method of exploration. 

Karpathos: Rugged Wilderness & Windswept Adventures

Remaining uncrowded, situated between the larger islands of Crete and Rhodes, Karphatos is an island that deserves to be explored by yacht. Bordered by idyllic beaches and characterized by a mountainous landscape, the north and central areas of the island are protected wilderness areas rich in biodiversity. The southern coasts of Karpathos are perfect for windsurfing and kitesurfing adventures. Inland, be sure to pay a visit to Olympos, a mountainous village, to witness the island’s cultural heritage and stone houses. Nearby to the north is the uninhabited volcanic island of Saria, where you can enjoy hiking past ruins and through olive groves and canyons.

Meganisi: A Gentle Ionian Escape

One of Greece’s Ionian islands, Meganisi, is found between Lefkas and the western coast of the mainland. Here you can get away from the crowds and embrace a gentle and relaxing itinerary with opportunities to cruise the various pristine anchorages and secluded beaches. Ashore on Meganisi, the island is covered with olive groves, vineyards, and sleepy villages, offering an authentic experience.

The Papanikolis Cave is one of the highlights to explore by boat, a famous natural landscape that was once believed to have been a hideout for the Greek submarine during World War II. For clear waters and prime swimming spots easily accessible by the water, Loutrolimini Beach delivers a serene escape, while Zaganas Beach is great for snorkeling. 

Alonissos: Protected Wilderness & Warm Hospitality 

Off the east coast of the mainland and making up part of the four inhabited islands of the farthest north island group, the Sporades, Alonissos is the most remote and far from the tourist trail. An ideal island for those wanting to get up close with nature, explore the rich marine biodiversity within the marine park, and have a chance to spot dolphins and the endangered Mediterranean monk seals. Stepping ashore in the port of Patitiri offers the opportunity to enjoy the relaxed ambiance and experience the warmth of the locals: a snapshot into what Greece was like before the crowds descended on its busier islands.