I’ve wandered across so many beaches in Greece, but honestly, nothing quite hit me like the first time I laid eyes on Voutoumi Beach on tiny Antipaxos. The water here? Probably the clearest and most brilliantly turquoise I’ve ever seen, and apparently, I’m not alone—Voutoumi keeps popping up on lists of Europe’s best beaches and even landed at #16 globally for 2025. It’s wild to get this kind of almost Caribbean vibe without ever leaving Greece.
But Voutoumi isn’t just about looking stunning from above. The crystal-clear water lets you see every ripple and pebble on the seabed. Swimming here feels surreal, totally different from the famous Greek hotspots.
The beach itself? Pretty raw and undeveloped compared to those super-organized spots elsewhere. That’s exactly why people love it—there’s something special about finding a slice of the Mediterranean that still feels wild.
Getting here isn’t as straightforward as rolling up in your rental car. Timing matters if you want to avoid the crowds and really soak up the magic. I’ll break down how I got to Voutoumi, what surprised me most, and little things I wish I’d known before stepping onto that powdery shore.
Why Voutoumi Beach Stands Out Among Greek Beaches
Voutoumi Beach keeps earning its reputation as one of Europe’s top beaches, mostly because of its insanely clear water and the fact that it’s tucked away on Antipaxos. It’s regularly listed among the world’s best, and I get why—nature here just feels untouched.
Reputation for Turquoise Waters and Crystal Clarity
At Voutoumi, boats sometimes look like they’re floating in midair. The water is that clear. Photographers flock here for those iconic Ionian shots, and I totally get it.
Travel experts rave about this place. Lonely Planet actually named Voutoumi one of Europe’s top ten beaches. By 2025, it had climbed to #16 in the world—not bad for a tiny Ionian hideaway.
Swimming and snorkeling here feels like gliding through glass. Even when I waded out to deeper spots, I could still see the white sand below. The turquoise color comes from sunlight bouncing off the sand through the clear water.
Antipaxos stays pristine because hardly anyone lives here—about 150 people, give or take. With so little development, the water remains as pure as it gets.
The Allure of White Sands and Secluded Ambiance
Voutoumi mixes white sand underwater with chunky white pebbles up on the shore. Walking barefoot can be a bit of a gamble, but once you’re in the water, the sand feels soft and lovely.
Set in a sheltered bay on Antipaxos’s northeast tip, the beach is framed by cypress trees that seem to tumble down to the sea. It’s got this almost tropical vibe, but it’s all very Greek.
You’ll only find two little fish tavernas nearby, both serving fresh, local food. No big hotels, no noisy beach bars—just simple, honest flavors and lots of peace.
Most people turn up for the day by boat from Paxos. Overnight stays are rare, so the beach empties out when the last boat leaves.
The secluded location means you don’t get the crowds you’d see on Mykonos or Santorini. I loved that sense of finding a secret spot.
Voutoumi Beach Versus Other Ionian Destinations
Voutoumi brings something different to the table—it’s got that Caribbean look with its turquoise water and white sand, but it feels uniquely Greek.
Here’s what sets it apart:
- Water clarity: It’s honestly clearer than almost anywhere else I’ve swum in Greece.
- Color: That turquoise shade is just unreal.
- Accessibility: You can only get here by boat—no driving up and parking.
- Development: There’s barely any, so the place feels wild and real.
Places like Corfu or Zakynthos have gorgeous beaches, sure. But they’re way more built up, and even Paxos, the “big” island next door, feels busier.
Voutoumi is just five miles from Paxos, so it’s close but still feels far away. Boats run from Gaios and Logos, but only certain ones can dock at the shallow jetty.
This tricky access keeps the crowds down and the water sparkling.
Immersive Beach Experiences at Voutoumi
If you’re into swimming, snorkeling, or just floating around, Voutoumi is a dream. The white sand and turquoise waters make the perfect backdrop for lazy days and underwater exploring.
Swimming in Gin-Clear Waters
The water here? It’s so clear you can spot every shell on the bottom, even when you’re chest-deep.
Shallow entry makes it perfect for families, but there’s plenty of room for longer swims too.
Water Features:
- Crystal-clear, almost glassy visibility
- Shallow entry, ideal for kids and nervous swimmers
- That iconic turquoise blue
- Warm enough for swimming all summer
The bay keeps the water calm, so you rarely get big waves. I’ve spent ages just floating, letting the gentle current do its thing.
Fish dart around your feet, and honestly, it feels like a natural infinity pool.
Snorkeling and Exploring the Underwater World
Rocky spots at either end of the beach are great for snorkeling. Bring your own mask—rentals are pretty much nonexistent here.
I’ve spotted little fish weaving through the rocks and found some cool underwater nooks. The clarity makes it easy for even total beginners to see what’s going on below.
Best Snorkeling Areas:
- Rocky ends of the beach
- Shallow zones with great visibility
- Calm, protected waters
Colorful fish and interesting rocks keep things fun. I’ve lost track of time poking around these areas.
Mornings are best for snorkeling. The water stays calm, and there’s less boat traffic to stir things up.
Sunbathing and Relaxation Spaces
You’ll find umbrellas and lounge chairs for rent, but plenty of people just throw down a towel on the sand. Some spots have bigger pebbles, so pick your patch wisely.
Beach Amenities:
- Umbrella and chair rentals
- Soft sand sections
- Some areas with pebbles
- Not much natural shade
With hardly any trees, shade is in short supply. If you want an umbrella, get here early—especially in high summer.
Day-trip boats can make things busy, so I like arriving first thing in the morning or hanging around later in the afternoon.
Even when it’s crowded, the view and the vibe make it easy to relax and forget about everything else.
How to Get to Voutoumi Beach
Getting to Voutoumi takes a bit of effort—there’s no airport or car ferry on Antipaxos. Water taxis from Gaios (on Paxos) work best, while day trips from Corfu are a solid all-in-one option.
Reaching Antipaxos by Water Taxi or Boat
I took a water taxi from Gaios port on Paxos, which turned out to be the quickest and easiest way. Boats run all summer and the ride is short—about 10 minutes.
Usually, the taxi drops everyone off at Vrika Beach first. From there, it’s a scenic 30-minute walk along the coast to Voutoumi.
Water Taxi Details:
- Cost: About €12 round trip
- Duration: 10 minutes from Gaios
- Last return: Usually around 6:00 PM
- Frequency: Hourly in high season
Definitely check the return times when you arrive. Missing the last boat means you’re camping under the stars—fun, but probably not planned.
Day Trips from Corfu, Paxos, and Gaios
Day trips from Corfu are the easiest if you’re not already on Paxos. These tours usually include the ferry ride to Paxos, then a smaller boat to Antipaxos.
From Gaios, you can book direct transfers or join beach-hopping tours. Gaios is the main jumping-off point for Antipaxos adventures.
Trip Options:
- From Corfu: Full-day tours, lots of stops
- From Paxos: Half-day trips focusing on Antipaxos
- From Gaios: Quick transfers or longer beach days
Most tours give you a few hours at both Vrika and Voutoumi. I usually get three or four hours on Antipaxos before heading back.
Boat Tours and Beach-Hopping Options
Beach-hopping tours let you sample several Ionian beaches in one day, with Voutoumi as the showstopper. Tours leave from Corfu, Parga, and Gaios.
Private boat charters are great if you want to set your own pace. I’ve spent extra time at Voutoumi and even checked out some hidden coves this way.
Tour Types:
- Group tours: Fixed schedules, multiple beaches
- Private charters: Custom timing and stops
- Speed boat tours: Quick hops between islands
Some tours add stops at sea caves or remote beaches near Paxos. If you want a taste of everything, these are a good bet.
When to Visit: Seasons, Crowds, and Tranquility
Voutoumi Beach changes a lot with the seasons. Late spring and early fall are my favorites—warm, quiet, and just gorgeous. Summer brings the crowds and the heat, but also that irresistible water.
Best Time for Pleasant Weather and Calm Waters
May to early June is hands-down my pick for Voutoumi. Temperatures hang out between 68°F and 82°F, which is perfect for swimming and wandering.
The landscape is green and fresh after winter. The sea is calm, and the whole place feels peaceful.
September to mid-October is another sweet spot. The water stays warm, but the air cools off a bit, which I love after a baking-hot summer.
You get plenty of daylight—eight to ten hours—for beach time. Ferries run often, but without the summer crush.
| Best Months | Temperature Range | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| May – Early June | 68°F – 82°F | Fewer tourists, lush scenery |
| September – Mid October | 68°F – 82°F | Warm water, comfortable weather |
Navigating Peak Season and Avoiding Crowds
July and August? Total mayhem. Temperatures shoot past 86°F, and even walking from Vrika to Voutoumi with your beach bag feels like a workout.
Ferries show up packed every hour. If you want a sunbed, better get there before 10 AM. Prices for food and drinks jump, too.
I always aim to arrive before 9 AM in peak season. Most tour boats don’t land until later, so you get a quiet hour or two.
Late afternoons are nice as well—most people leave by 4 PM, and the beach empties out. The colors at sunset? Just wow.
Skip weekends in July and August if you can. The crowds are wild. Weekdays are a little better, but still busy.
Nearby Attractions and Unique Beach Features
Voutoumi Beach sits right in the heart of Antipaxos’s tiny but magical lineup of spots. Vrika Beach is a 30-minute stroll away and totally worth checking out. If you climb up to the viewpoints above Voutoumi, you get jaw-dropping panoramas of those turquoise waters.
Vrika Beach and Other Hidden Coves
Vrika Beach sits just a half-hour walk along the coast from Voutoumi. I remember how the sandy shore here felt so much softer than the pebbles at Voutoumi—definitely easier on bare feet if you plan to sprawl out for a while.
Taxi boats from Paxos usually drop everyone at Vrika first. You can hang out there or keep going along the scenic path to Voutoumi, which is honestly a lovely walk.
Here’s what sets the beaches apart:
- Vrika: Sandy, with a bar right on the beach
- Voutoumi: Pebbly, but the water looks even clearer and deeper
- Both: That unreal turquoise water and umbrella rentals
Tiny, nameless coves hide between the two main beaches. I wandered into a couple and found total privacy, though there’s no shade or snacks—just you and the sea.
Since the island’s pretty small, you can hop between these beaches all in one day if you want.
Hiking Trails and Panoramic Views
The inland trail between Vrika and Voutoumi takes about 20 minutes. If you want to see a different side of Antipaxos, this is the way to do it.
On the left side of Voutoumi bay, I stumbled on a bar perched high above the water. It only takes a few minutes to climb up, and the views are honestly jaw-dropping.
Walking around here feels easy since nothing’s too far. Some stretches of the path wind through pine trees, which offer a bit of shade when the sun gets intense.
From up high, you get the best photos. The white cliffs and blue water pop even more from above—makes you want to just stand there and stare.
Experiencing Local Seafood and Beachside Taverns
Voutoumi has two beach bars, but one of them sits way up on a hill. If you make the climb, you’ll find fresh seafood and killer views, though the prices reflect how remote the place is.
Usually, when I rented an umbrella, the taverna asked that I order food. A meal here might be local fish, a Greek salad, and a cold beer—expect to pay about 28-30 euros per person.
Your dining options:
- Tavernas right on the beach with seafood dishes
- The elevated restaurant with panoramic views
- Simple snacks and drinks at the beach bars
Food choices are limited, but the quality’s high. Menus focus on fresh fish and classic Greek plates, which feels pretty fitting for an island you can only reach by boat.
Most people end up eating at least one meal here. Honestly, grabbing lunch with your feet in the sand is part of the Antipaxos experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re planning a visit, you’ll want to know how to get there, where to stay, and what makes this beach stand out. Most people arrive by taxi boat from Gaios and then choose between the organized beach setups or quieter swimming spots.
How can one access Voutoumi Beach in Antipaxos?
I usually catch a taxi boat from Gaios port on Paxos. That boat drops everyone at Vrika Beach first.
From Vrika, it’s about a 30-minute stroll along the coast to Voutoumi. The walk hugs the shoreline and the views are pretty great.
During summer, ferries from Corfu also stop at both main beaches on Antipaxos.
What are the accommodation options near Voutoumi Beach?
Antipaxos doesn’t really have hotels or resorts near Voutoumi Beach. It’s a tiny, mostly wild island.
Most travelers stay over on Paxos and just come for the day. You’ll find hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals in towns like Gaios and Lakka.
Some folks stay in Corfu and make the longer trip out here. That gives you more places to stay, but means more time on the boat.
Is there a specific map that details the layout of Voutoumi Beach?
Voutoumi Beach sits on the north end of Antipaxos, just southeast of Vrika. The beach faces northwest, looking out over the Ionian Sea.
You’ll find it marked on most Ionian Islands maps. It’s one of two main beaches right at the top of Antipaxos.
Boat operators and tourist info spots on Paxos hand out simple maps showing both Vrika and Voutoumi. These maps make the walking route between the beaches easy to figure out.
What are the main attractions and activities to enjoy at Voutoumi Beach?
Swimming in that clear turquoise water is the main draw at Voutoumi. The visibility is amazing, so bring a snorkel if you can.
You can rent umbrellas and loungers since the beach has organized facilities. The mix of pebbles and white sand makes it comfy for sunbathing.
There’s no natural shade, so umbrellas are a must. The lack of buildings keeps things peaceful and untouched.
How does Voutoumi Beach compare to nearby beaches like Vrika Beach?
Vrika comes with a sandy shore, while Voutoumi has pebbles at the edge but sandy patches under the water. Both have that unreal, clear blue sea.
The taxi boat always stops at Vrika first, so it’s easier to reach. If you want Voutoumi, you’ve got to walk those extra 30 minutes.
Both beaches offer umbrellas and sun beds. Voutoumi usually feels less crowded, maybe because it takes a little more effort to get there.
Are there any boat tours available that include Voutoumi Beach on their itinerary?
If you’re dreaming about turquoise waters and hidden coves, you’re in luck. Lots of boat tours from Corfu swing by Voutoumi Beach as part of their island-hopping adventures.
Most of these tours squeeze both Paxos and Antipaxos into a single day. It sounds like a whirlwind, but it’s a fun way to get a taste of both islands.
On Paxos itself, you’ll find local operators running shorter boat trips straight to the Antipaxos beaches. I love these because they give me more time to actually enjoy Voutoumi Beach, instead of just snapping a photo and moving on.
For those who want to do things their own way, it’s totally possible to hire a private boat charter from either Paxos or Corfu. Private charters let you set your own schedule, linger as long as you like, and skip the crowds—honestly, it’s hard to beat that kind of freedom.
