Paxos Holidays – Get away from it all on this tiny gem of a Greek Island

Ideal if you’re after an authentic Greek destination that has completely retained its character, the tiny island of Paxos boasts a simple charm, and a wonderfully unhurried base for your summer holiday this year. Paxos is one of the greenest islands, located just south of Corfu, and the fact that it is only accessible by boat has helped it to escape mass tourism, so there’s still a gentle way of life in its village, beaches and rural countryside.

Small in size, just 12km long by 4km, Paxos is big on charm, and whether its lazy days touring the stunning rocky coastline, or scenic walks through tranquil olive groves, you’ll be sure of complete relaxation, whichever of the island’s three resorts you choose – Lakka, Loggos or Gaios. There are fantastic conditions for water sports, boat trips, country hikes and bike rides, and you can be sure of peaceful evenings in traditional Greek tavernas and waterfront bars sampling the catch of the day, whilst enjoying the sunset. 

When to go to Paxos

The tourist season runs from May to October, with the peak season weeks being the most expensive time to come, and the little towns and villages being the most crowded. Thanks to the fantastic weather, an early or late-season holiday can be ideal, when you’ll find lower prices, and even quieter resorts, so look for departures in May, June or September. The chance for cooler temperatures at this time also make the quieter months of the year ideal for sports and leisure activities, and sightseeing.

The weather in Paxos

Paxos experiences a typically Mediterranean climate, seeing long hot summers and short mild wetter winters. Summer days see highs of over 30C on the island, with warm night-time temperature of 19C, and up to 12 hours of sunshine each day. May and June see highs of 23C – 27C, whilst September and October remain glorious with temperatures of 27C – 29C. Summers are very dry, with the spring and autumn seeing a higher chance for showers. Winters are mild but wetter, with average temperatures of 14C, and 5 hours of daily sun. 

Getting the best deal to Paxos

If you’re looking for the best deals to Paxos, it’s advisable to be flexible with your travel dates, as bargains can generally be found during the quieter months of the year. There’s always high demand during the school holiday weeks, so look to depart before or after mid-July or August for the lowest prices. Heading off at the last-minute is an excellent way of getting the best deal to Paxos, so search our offers below, and visit our late deals page to search for last minute specials.

Airport and Transport Need to Know

There is no airport on the island, so you need to fly to Corfu Airport (CFU), with departures from most regional airports in the UK, from Bournemouth and Bristol up to Manchester and Newcastle, and a flight time of 3 hours. The island is situated 11km away from Corfu, so access to Paxos is via hydrofoil or sea taxi. The trip takes just under an hour, and transfers are generally included on a package holiday to Paxos, but always check when you book to make sure. Sea taxis can accommodate up to 12 people, and cost 300 euros (200GBP).

Car hire is available and a recommended way to travel around the island, with scooters and bikes for hire, too. There is a local bus that serves the three main resorts of Lakka, Loggos and Gaios, with 4 departures a day, and a small selection of taxis. Boat trips are available around the coast, with excursions to neighbouring islands and mainland Greece.   

Best beaches in Paxos

Beaches of Paxos are mainly long and full of pebbles or shingle, as opposed to wide sandy stretches, and offer stunning crystal clear waters and picturesque coves, great for swimming and snorkelling. There are more than 30 beaches on the island, with each offering a unique charm and a peaceful base for days of sunbathing. Here are our picks for the three best beaches on Paxos:  

Best beach for sunbathing – Mongonissi

This beach on the south of the island is one of the best, with this artificial spot being created by dynamiting the surrounding cliffs, and filled in with clean white sand. Popular with families, this very sheltered bay boasts calm shallow waters, and offers a relaxing beach, with sunbeds and umbrellas, and beachfront tavernas.

Best beach for activities – Harami

Harami Beach is a good spot for water sports, offering water skiing, pedaloes and donut rides. A pebble beach, this is another family favourite, being located in the sheltered Lakka Bay, with safe swimming conditions and an unusual sandy seabed. The delightful harbour town of Lakka is just around the corner, offering quaint shops, bars and restaurants.

Best beach for isolation – Plani Beach

For some real peace and quiet, head to the west coast and the tranquil shores of Plani Beach, another pebble beach lined with large rocks, and the ideal place to watch one of the gorgeous sunsets.