If you’ve never heard of Simos Beach Elafonisos Greece, located at the gorgeous region of Peloponnese, Greece, you’re not alone. Before our 25-day road trip in Greece back in May 2024, neither did we!
We left a chilly Canada hoping for warmer weather, but beach destinations weren’t really on our radar. Greece’s rich history and landscapes captivated us, with stops in Athens, Santorini, Meteora, and Nafplio. But as our journey unfolded, we found ourselves craving an idyllic beach escape.
Many travelers head to Zakynthos or Mykonos for the typical Greek beach experience. We, however, wanted something more unique. So, after a night at Monemvasia, we continued towards the lesser-known Elafonisos Island—specifically to experience the famous Simos Beach.
Little did we know this spontaneous beach detour would become one of the highlights of our entire trip.
So, we invite you to stay with us until the end to follow our journey and get our top tips for visiting Simos Beach on Elafonisos Island.
Also, don’t forget to check out our full travel vlog, where we reveal the golden route to Elafonisos, share unforgettable moments with amazing new friends, and give you all the inspiration you need for your next dream beach vacation!
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How to Get to Simos Beach, Elafonisos – Greece
Unlike the crowded streets of Santorini, Simos Beach Elafonisos Greece offers tranquility—perfect for those seeking a break from the tourist hubs.
Since Elafonisos is a lesser-known destination, you won’t find many group tours available, and public transportation can be challenging. Although we did spot a bus crossing to the island on our way back, options are limited, making it harder to rely on public transport to explore.
But that’s part of its charm, and it’s worth the extra effort to reach it.
Since Elafonisos isn’t connected by direct ferry or public transportation from Athens, here are the best travel options based on our experience:
By Car (Highly Recommended)
If you’re driving directly from Athens, the fastest route takes about 4 hours and 40 minutes, according to Google Maps. If you’re starting from Tolo Beach or Nafplio Old Town, as we did, the drive is around 4 hours. Once you arrive at Pounta Port, all that’s left is to take the ferry to Simos Beach Elafonisos Greece. Here’s how to get there:
- Drive from Athens along the route through Tripoli and Sparta, heading towards Neapoli Lakonia.
- At Pounta Port (10 minutes from Neapoli), catch the 10-minute ferry to Elafonisos. Ferries run frequently, about every 30 minutes during the day.
- Bringing your car on the ferry makes it easy to explore Elafonisos freely, especially Simos Beach.
Driving Tips for Your Peloponnese Road Trip
Traveling by car gives you the freedom to explore beautiful, off-the-beaten-path places. Here’s what you need to know:
- Pros of Driving:
- Scenic routes through the Peloponnese offer breathtaking views.
- Flexibility to stop at hidden gems like Monemvasia Fortress and explore villages along the way.
- Convenient ferry ride with your car from Pounta to Elafonisos.
- Things to Keep in Mind:
- Car rental costs (and insurance if not covered by your credit card).
- Toll roads between Athens and Pounta—budget for some extra cash.
- Ferry prices: 2 EUR per person and 13 EUR per car each way Elafonisos FerriesElafonisos Ferries.
- No need to pre-book ferry tickets—just arrive early during busy seasons.
- Ferry Schedule: Ferries operate frequently throughout the day, but schedules vary by season. Check the official website here before your trip to confirm timings at Elafonisos Ferries.
- What to Bring: Euros for ferry tickets (some ferries may not accept cards).
However, we understand for some people, driving in a foreign country like Greece can feel intimidating. With that in mind, Serge put together plenty of tips from our 25 days of driving in Greece, including helpful information about tolls, parking, and even our road trip to Santorini, one of the most famous Greek islands.
By Bus and Ferry to From Athens to Elafonisos, Peloponnese region – Greece
Since we drove to Simos Beach Elafonisos Greece with our rental car, we’re not entirely sure about the best public transportation options. However, based on our research, here are a few ways to reach Elafonisos from Athens that could help:
By Bus and Ferry
- KTEL Intercity Bus: Take a bus from Athens to Neapoli Lakonia. Click here to check KTEL official website.
- Local Bus or Taxi: From Neapoli, catch a local bus or a taxi to Pounta Port (about 10 km away).
- Ferry to Elafonisos: From Pounta, hop on a ferry to Elafonisos. This ferry departs frequently, about every 30 minutes, and takes just 10 minutes.
- Things to Keep in Mind:
- Ferry prices: 2 EUR per person and 13 EUR per car each way Elafonisos FerriesElafonisos Ferries.
- No need to pre-book ferry tickets—just arrive early during busy seasons.
- Ferry Schedule: Ferries operate frequently throughout the day, but schedules vary by season. Check the official website here before your trip to confirm timings at Elafonisos Ferries.
- What to Bring: Euros for ferry tickets (some ferries may not accept cards).
While this option is cheaper than driving, it is also less flexible. We recommend checking the bus schedules in advance, as well as the ferry timings, to ensure smooth travel to the island.
Where to Stay: Hotels in Elafonisos, Greece, and Near Simos Beach
We didn’t originally plan to stay overnight on Elafonisos Island, but once we set foot on this paradise, we couldn’t resist changing our plans! Trust us—spending at least one night here is worth it. In fact, we’d recommend staying an entire week if you’re looking for the ultimate stress-free beach vacation.
Since we didn’t have any reservations, we stopped by Mammy Mam Brunch for some advice. The owner, Iria, was incredibly helpful—not only did she recommend the Berdoussis Hotel, but she even called the hotel to reserve a room for us. She also kindly helped rearrange our next destination booking free of charge. Talk about hospitality!
If you’re looking for the best hotels in Simos Beach Elafonisos Greece, especially near Simos Beach, we’ve put together a list based on our personal experience. These accommodations are perfect whether you’re staying for one night or an extended getaway.
Berdoussis Hotel – Our Top Choice in Elafonisos Accommodation
Berdoussis Hotel was highly recommended by Iria from Mammy Mam Brunch, and we absolutely loved it. This family-run hotel exceeded our expectations. The rooms were spacious, clean, and featured a beautiful balcony with sea views—the perfect spot to relax and unwind.
Because Serge regularly uses Hotels.com, he was able to redeem rewards, and we even got an early check-in without a problem. One of the highlights of visiting in May 2024 was how peaceful the island was, with almost no tourists. The hotel owner was extremely friendly and surprised us with a free room upgrade to a sea-view room, even though we had booked a more affordable option through Hotels.com.
Why We Recommend Berdoussis Hotel:
- Free parking: Plenty of space available at the back of the hotel.
- Clean rooms and common areas: Immaculately maintained for a comfortable stay.
- Peaceful environment: Quiet nights with no disturbances.
- Stunning views: Enjoy amazing sea views from your private balcony.
- Convenient location: Walking distance to Elafonisos beaches, the town center, shops, restaurants, and cafes.
- Delicious breakfast included: Our booking came with breakfast, but it’s best to confirm during your reservation if this is still offered.
- Friendly owners: Family-run, warm, and welcoming atmosphere
Just a quick tip: The hotel has two levels but no elevator. If you have any mobility concerns or trouble with stairs, we recommend requesting a first-floor room when booking.
Megris Country Houses – A Top Choice for Family-Friendly Accommodation in Elafonisos
If you’re looking for a family-friendly place to stay during a longer beach vacation on Simos Beach Elafonisos Greece, Megris Country Houses is an excellent option. This charming accommodation offers spacious apartments with a relaxed, home-like atmosphere. Perfect for families or groups, it provides all the essentials for a budget-friendly stay, along with convenient access to two beach bars.
Why We Recommend Megris Country Houses for Families
- Spacious apartments: Perfect for families or groups, with multiple rooms and amenities for a comfortable stay.
- Two beach bars nearby: Enjoy a drink with your toes in the sand—ideal for lazy beach days.
- Family-friendly environment: Kids will feel at home with the laid-back vibe and open spaces.
- Fully equipped kitchens: Great for preparing meals and snacks, helping you save on dining out.
- Relaxing outdoor spaces: Beautiful surroundings with gardens, ideal for unwinding in the sun.
- Affordable rates: A great option if you’re traveling on a budget but still want quality accommodation.
- Close to Simos Beach and local attractions: Just a short drive from the most popular spots on the island.
Top Things to Do on Elafonisos Island, Greece
First, let’s share a quick summary of our amazing experience on Elafonisos Island and Simos Beach.
As we mentioned earlier, we left Monemvasia in the Peloponnese and headed toward Elafonisos Island. At first, we didn’t plan to stay overnight, but once we stepped foot on the island, we simply couldn’t resist! Even the ferry crossing to Elafonisos felt like an adventure. As we approached, we were welcomed by crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sandy beaches that made us feel like we had discovered a hidden gem.
Since we hadn’t eaten breakfast at our hotel in Monemvasia, our first mission was to find a breakfast or brunch spot. We initially tried a few local cafes, but since it was still early morning, most were closed. That’s when we stumbled upon Mammy Mam Brunch, and it completely transformed our trip.
Here we met Iria, the warm and friendly owner, who not only served us a delicious brunch but also went above and beyond. She helped us find a hotel on Elafonisos Island for the night and even called the hotel we had booked in Gytheio, our next stop, to shift our reservation to the following night—at no extra charge!
With the entire afternoon ahead of us, we set out to explore the island following Iria’s fantastic recommendations. Our visit to Simos Beach was truly the highlight—it was surreal, a paradise unlike anything we had imagined.
Now, let us share the top things to do on Elafonisos Island, based on our experience.
Have Brunch at Mammy Mam Coffee Shop & Restaurant
Elafonisos may be a small island, but it’s packed with heart—and nowhere is that more evident than at Mammy Mam Coffee Shop & Brunch. Iria, the welcoming owner, treated us to delicious pancakes, omelets, and pastries that made this brunch unforgettable.
If the weather is nice, enjoy your meal with an amazing beach view right in front of the cafe. Don’t miss out—say hello to Iria from Serge and Eli if you visit!
2. Relax at Panagia Kato Nisi Beach
Recommended by Iria herself, Panagia Kato Nisi Beach became one of the most beautiful beaches we’ve seen during our travels—including those in Brazil!
The beach has calm, turquoise waters that feel like a natural swimming pool, and when we visited in May 2024, we had the entire beach to ourselves. While Simos Beach may be more famous, this beach is a true hidden gem known mostly to locals.
3. Visit the Virgin Mary Church at Panagia Katonisiotissa
Just a short drive from Panagia Beach, Panagia Katonisiotissa is a small chapel with stunning scenic views.
It’s built on the ruins of a Byzantine temple from around 1895, with ancient stones and Mycenaean artifacts still visible around the site. Tradition says that the original temple was dedicated to Athena.
This spot offers not only spiritual peace but also beautiful views of Elafonisos and the Peloponnese coastline. More about Panagia Katonisiotissa here.
4. Explore Simos Beach – A Must-See Destination
Simos Beach is famous for its split shore, offering two distinct beaches—one with small waves ideal for windsurfing and the other calm and perfect for relaxation.
We spent an afternoon here soaking up the sun and enjoying the soft, fluffy sand. You can walk between the two beaches, and umbrella rentals (10 EUR in May 2024) are available if you don’t bring your own. The best part?
When we left, we had the entire Simos Beach to ourselves! Just gorgeous!
5. Stroll through Elafonisos Town and Visit Agios Spyridon
Take a walk through Elafonisos Town, just steps away from the ferry port. Browse craft shops and souvenir stores, or enjoy a meal at one of the seafront restaurants with fresh seafood.
Be sure to visit the Agios Spyridon Church, built on a small islet connected by a bridge. The church was established by settlers from Mani in 1858 and remains the island’s only historical monument. It’s a wonderful spot to enjoy a sunset stroll after dinner. Learn more about Agios Spyridon here.
6. Discover Pavlopetri – The Ancient Sunken City
While we didn’t explore Pavlopetri ourselves, we heard it’s a fascinating underwater archaeological site. Located just off the coast of Elafonisos, Pavlopetri is believed to be the world’s oldest sunken city. It’s possible to explore the site by diving tours, which is something we’d love to try on a future visit. Learn more about Pavlopetri here.
7. Elafonisos Beaches – More to Explore
If you have more time on the island, here are a few other beaches worth visiting:
- Lefki Beach: Known for its white sand dunes and shallow waters.
- Kontogoni Beach: Ideal for families and located close to town.
- Panagia Beach: Offers tranquility and stunning views.
Find out more about Elafonisos beaches here.
8. Brunch and Dine at Elafonisos Restaurants
Even though we visited during the off-season, the town was lively in the evening. After a day of beach-hopping, we enjoyed a delicious meal at Quarter Restaurant, followed by a treat at Kalifournas Bakery & Patisserie. Here are our top dining recommendations:
- Quarter Restaurant: A perfect spot for dinner.
- Kalifournas Bakery & Patisserie: Great for desserts and pastries.
- Mammy Mam: For coffee and brunch, and to meet the friendly Iria!
This list offers top things to do on Elafonisos Island, making it easy for travelers to plan their visit. Whether you’re there for history, beaches, or local food, Elafonisos has something special for everyone.
Photography Tips: Capturing the Beauty of Elafonisos Island, Greece
When it comes to photography in Elafonisos, the weather and light play a huge role in making your photos shine. Back in May 2024, we were lucky to visit on a day filled with blue skies and sunshine, which made every shot pop with vibrant colors.
However, just like anywhere else, the light changes throughout the day, and the weather can vary depending on the season—so it’s always good to be prepared. Whether you capture it under the bright sun or with a moody sky, Elafonisos offers some of the most photogenic views in Greece.
Here are 7 photography tips to help you make the most of your time in Elafonisos and Simos Beach.
Photography Tips for Elafonisos Island – By Serge Larose
- Golden Hour Magic
- Aim to shoot during early morning or late afternoon for soft light and warm colors. The sun setting over the Peloponnese coast will give you stunning golden hues to work with.
- Capture Reflections
- On calm days at Panagia Beach or Simos Beach, you can capture beautiful reflections on the still water—turning the sea into a mirror.
- Use Natural Frames
- Look for arches or doorways in the small chapels like Agios Spyridon or Panagia Katonisiotissa to frame your shots and create more interesting compositions.
- Zoom in on Details
- Focus on textures like the soft dunes at Simos Beach, the vibrant blue doors around town, or blooming wildflowers. These small elements make your photos pop.
- Experiment with Angles
- Try shooting from low and high angles. Capture the landscape from a low point to emphasize the expanse of the beaches, or use aerial views for a sense of scale.
- Capture Silhouettes at Sunset
- Use boats, chapels, or the mountains in the distance as silhouettes against the colorful sky during sunset. Simos Beach is perfect for these moments!
- Bring a Polarizing Filter
- If you’re shooting under a clear sky, a polarizing filter will enhance the blues and cut down reflections, especially over the turquoise waters of Simos.
- Don’t miss the chance to capture the coastline on your drive to Simos Beach. Stop at scenic points along the way to snap panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.
Happy shooting!
Top Scenic Viewpoints for Photography in Elafonisos
- Panagia Katonisiotissa Chapel
- Located on a hill overlooking the coast, this spot offers some of the best views of Elafonisos and the surrounding Peloponnese region. It’s the perfect place to capture panoramas with the beach below.
- Agios Spyridon Church and Bridge
- The bridge connecting the church to the island is a fantastic spot for photos, especially with the sunrise or sunset reflecting on the water. Capture both the church and the town in one frame.
- Simos Beach
- The two sides of Simos Beach provide great variety: one with gentle waves for serene shots and another with windsurfers and action-packed moments. This beach is a dream for landscape photography lovers.
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Final Tips for Photographing Elafonisos
With its turquoise waters, quiet beaches, and charming town, Elafonisos is a hidden gem for photographers. Whether you’re capturing candid moments, golden sunsets, or detailed textures of dunes and ancient churches, the island offers endless inspiration. Don’t forget to pack light gear, a polarizing filter, and plenty of memory cards—you won’t want to miss a single moment!
We hope our photography tips inspire you to capture the best views of Elafonisos. Share your favorite shots with us in the comments or tag us on social media—we’d love to see how you discover Elafonisos through your lens!
10 Final Tips and Travel Essentials for Elafonisos, Peloponnese, Greece
- Cash for the Ferry
- Be sure to bring cash for the ferry from Pounta to Elafonisos. The ferry tickets cost 2 EUR per person and 13 EUR per vehicle (May 2024 prices) and may require cash payment. It’s best to check the ferry schedule on the official ferry website to confirm departure times.
- Comfortable Walking Sandals
- Exploring Simos Beach and other spots on Elafonisos often involves walking on sandy or uneven terrain. Lightweight beach sandals with good grip will keep your feet comfortable throughout the day.
- Sunblock and After-Sun Lotion
- The sun can be strong, even with a breeze. Protect your skin by applying sunscreen regularly and bring after-sun lotion to soothe your skin at the end of the day.
- Hat and Sunglasses
- A wide-brimmed hat and UV Protection sunglasses are essential to shield your face and eyes from the sun, especially at the beaches and ferry port.
- Light Jacket or Sweater for Evenings
- While the days are warm, it can get chilly in the evenings by the coast. Pack a light layer to stay comfortable while enjoying dinner by the sea.
- Refillable Water Bottle
- Staying hydrated is key! Bring a refillable bottle—there are not many shops along the beaches, and having your own water will keep you refreshed throughout the day.
- Portable Charger for Your Phone and Camera
- Between taking photos, checking ferry schedules, and using maps, your devices will drain quickly. A portable charger ensures you stay connected.
- Snacks for the Day
- While restaurants are available in town, you won’t find many food options near the remote beaches. Bring energy bars or fruits to snack on during your adventures.
Swim Gear and Beach Essentials
- Pack your swimsuit, beach towel, and snorkel gear. Simos Beach is famous for its clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. If you visit off-season, umbrella rentals are usually around 10 EUR per day.
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Best Time of the Year to Visit Simos Beach Elafonisos Greece
We visited Elafonisos at the end of May 2024 and were fortunate to enjoy perfect weather—sunny and warm throughout our stay. The next day brought more clear skies and beautiful beach days across the Peloponnese region, including Monemvasia Medieval Fortress and region and Gytheio, which we explored before and after Elafonisos.
The end of May to early June is an ideal time to visit. You’ll experience pleasant weather without the summer crowds, making it easier to explore Simos Beach, the town, and hidden gems around the island. The water is warm enough for swimming, and restaurants and shops are open, but the island retains a relaxed atmosphere.
If you’re looking for fewer tourists, late spring or early autumn are excellent choices. However, visiting outside of high season also means checking ferry schedules and confirming accommodation availability in advance, as some services may run on reduced hours.
Staying Connected in Elafonisos and Throughout Greece: Our Experience with Airalo eSIM
During our 25-day adventure in Greece, we explored both popular destinations and remote areas like Simos Beach Elafonisos Greece. Staying connected was essential for navigating unfamiliar places, finding hidden gems, and sharing our experiences in real-time. We relied heavily on Google Maps, even in off-the-beaten-path regions—and thanks to Airalo’s eSIM card, we never had any issues with mobile data.
We’ve been using Airalo for several trips now, including to Morocco, Ireland, Brazil, and Greece, and the experience has been fantastic. Throughout our time in Greece—whether driving through the Peloponnese, exploring Monemvasia Fortress and Elafonisos, or relaxing on a remote beach—Airalo provided 100% reliable mobile data.
One of the highlights of using Airalo was having peace of mind during our road trips. With Google Maps at our fingertips, we easily found routes, checked restaurant reviews, and discovered scenic spots without worrying about losing signal, even in remote areas.
Why We Recommend Airalo:
- Reliable Data Anywhere: Whether we were on a city street or in a remote village, Airalo’s service never let us down.
- Convenient and Easy to Use: No need to swap SIM cards—just download the eSIM and stay connected from the moment you arrive.
- Referral Program Perks: Airalo offers a referral program—share it with friends, and both you and your friend benefit. It’s a win-win!
During a previous trip to Morocco, we even FaceTimed family from the Sahara Desert to show them the stunning sunset—a memory made possible thanks to Airalo. So, if you’re planning a trip to Monemvasia or anywhere else in Greece, we highly recommend Airalo eSIM for seamless mobile data and navigation.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit Simos Beach
We arrived on Simos Beach Elafonisos Greece with no specific expectations but left with memories that will last a lifetime. From the charming town to hidden beaches like Panagia and the world-class beauty of Simos Beach, every moment felt like a gift. If you’re planning a trip to Greece, especially a road trip through the Peloponnese, we highly recommend including Elafonisos and Simos Beach on your itinerary.
This part of Greece offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re into exploring ancient sites, soaking up the sun on quiet beaches, or enjoying local Greek cuisine, Elafonisos has something to offer. And the best part? You won’t have to fight the crowds to enjoy this slice of paradise—even during peak season.
We hope our Elafonisos travel tips inspire you to visit and help you plan your perfect adventure. If you have any questions or need more suggestions, drop a comment or reach out to us—we’d love to share more about our experience. Until then, happy travels and enjoy discovering the magic of Greece!
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