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Last updated: May 2026 · The wildest of the Lesser Cyclades
Donousa is the most remote of the Small Cyclades, a speck of an island northeast of Naxos with a single tiny port, a handful of hamlets and some of the clearest water in Greece. It's a place to swim, walk and switch off completely.
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🏖️ Beaches
1. Kedros
Donousa's famous beach: a curve of pale sand and astonishing turquoise water just south of the port, backed by tamarisks. One of the prettiest swims in the Cyclades.
2. Livadi
A quieter sandy bay near Kedros, often almost empty, with shade from tamarisk trees.
3. Kalotaritissa
At the island's northern tip, a pair of sheltered coves with shallow, glassy water and a single seasonal taverna.
🏘️ Village Life
4. Stavros (the Port)
The main settlement, a cluster of white houses around the harbour with a sandy beach, a few rooms, a bakery and tavernas. The whole island revolves around it.
5. Mersini, Kalotaritissa & Mesaria Hamlets
The interior holds tiny farming hamlets linked by footpaths; Mersini has a spring and shady plane trees, a rarity in the Cyclades.
🥾 Nature & Adventure
6. Hike the Coastal Trails
Waymarked paths circle the island, linking the villages and beaches with sweeping sea views, the best are Stavros–Kedros–Livadi and the route up to Mersini.
7. The Fokospilia Sea Cave
A dramatic sea cave on the north coast that you can swim or boat into when the sea is calm, its mouth glows blue, a magical experience.
8. Stargazing & Doing Nothing
With no light pollution and almost no nightlife, Donousa is for slow days: long swims, taverna dinners of fresh fish and local patatato, and brilliant night skies.
Practical Info 2026
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Best months | June, July, September |
| Ferry from Naxos | 1.5–2.5 hours |
| Getting around | Mostly walking; very few vehicles |
| Vibe | Remote, beachy, digital detox |
| Don't miss | Kedros beach & the Fokospilia cave |
Build the practical trip
Plan your Donousa dates
Put the crossing, stay and local transport in place before the popular dates disappear.
Athina Luxury Suites
Caldera-view suites in Fira with an infinity pool and fine dining.
Topics covered
Part of the Discover Cyclades editorial team, locals who ferry, hike, eat and write about these islands every season.
