Athens: Lichadonisia Islets Beach Day with Short Boat Ride

If you’re visiting Athens and craving a break from its bustling streets, a day trip to Lichadonisia offers an inviting escape. Known as the “Greek Seychelles,” these volcanic islets hide pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a touch of untouched nature. The tour promises a relaxing day with a scenic boat ride, plenty of sunbathing, and even a chance to explore a sunken WWII shipwreck.

One thing we especially like about this experience is how it balances adventure with relaxation—you’re not just lounging on the beach but also getting glimpses of marine life and history. Plus, the option to unwind in a thermal spa afterward adds a luxurious touch.

A possible consideration? The full-day pace means you’ll be outdoors for several hours, so it’s best suited for those prepared for a day of sun, swimming, and gentle exploration. This trip appeals most to travelers who love natural beauty, are okay with a bit of a bus ride, and want a taste of Greece’s lesser-known islands without straying too far from Athens.

Key Points

• Authentic island experience: Swim, snorkel, and explore on volcanic islets with minimal crowds.
• Relaxing amenities: Free sunbeds and umbrellas enhance your beach time comfort.
• Informed guides: Knowledgeable guides provide insightful commentary and assistance.
• Value for money: The comprehensive package offers transportation, boat ride, beach time, and optional spa at a reasonable price.
• Stunning scenery: Expect postcard-worthy views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
• Cultural and historical highlights: Spot monk seals and a WWII shipwreck beneath the surface.

Discovering Lichadonisia: What Makes This Tour Special

We’ll start with the basics: this full-day tour from Athens covers roughly 13 hours, including transportation, island exploring, and a seaside dinner. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines natural beauty with comfortable logistics, making it ideal for those who want a hassle-free escape.

The Journey Begins: Athens to Kamena Vourla

The trip kicks off early with a two-hour bus ride from Larissis Station, Athens’s main railway hub. This modern coach features amenities like free Wi-Fi and USB sockets, which come in handy if you want to catch up on photos or just relax. The guide’s commentary starts early, offering background on the islands and local sights, adding an educational layer to the trip.

We loved how smoothly everything was organized. The guide, who speaks both English and Greek, was praised for clear communication and helpfulness, especially by travelers who appreciated their attentiveness. One reviewer mentioned that the guide even showed them hidden spots on the island, making the experience feel personalized and special.

A Relaxed Break in Kamena Vourla

After arriving in Kamena Vourla, you get about 10 minutes to stretch your legs, grab a coffee, or enjoy the seaside scenery. It’s a short stop but enough to soak in the laid-back atmosphere of this charming coastal village. Then, it’s time for the boat ride, which lasts approximately 30 minutes.

The Main Event: Exploring Lichadonisia

Once on the islands, you’re free to spend about 5 to 6 hours soaking up the sunshine. The islands themselves are volcanic, with lush greenery contrasting with golden sand beaches. The waters are shallow enough for children or less confident swimmers, yet deep enough in areas for snorkeling and exploring.

One of the main highlights is the chance to see a sunken WWII shipwreck beneath the waves — a fascinating sight for history buffs or curious snorkelers. Many reviews mention the calm, crystal-clear waters that make swimming and snorkeling a delight. The provided sunbeds and umbrellas ensure you can relax comfortably without worrying about sunburn or exhaustion.

We found that the water was so inviting that several guests said they couldn’t resist swimming multiple times. Someone even mentioned that the water’s clarity allowed them to spot marine life, which added a layer of excitement and discovery.

Wildlife and Unique Sights

Reviewers noted the likelihood of spotting monk seals, rare and protected marine creatures. While sightings depend on luck, the chance to see these shy animals adds a special touch to the visit. The boat captain and guides are happy to point out wildlife and interesting features, making the trip more than just a beach day.

Food and Refreshments

There’s a beach bar on the island, with friendly staff offering drinks and snacks at reasonable prices. The tour includes two bottles of cold water per guest, which keeps everyone hydrated in the sun. Many travelers appreciated the relaxed vibe and simple, tasty offerings. If you choose the Spa Rate Option, you can unwind afterward in the thermal pools, which are said to have healing mineral-rich waters.

The Thermal Spa Experience

The thermal pools are located within the Galini Mitsis Resorts, about a 10-minute walk from the marina. This optional add-on is highly praised for its soothing warm waters and relaxing ambiance. Note, however, that this is exclusive to adults over 16, though children can enjoy the regular pools under supervision. Several reviewers commented on how refreshing and calming this experience was, especially after hours of swimming and sunbathing.

Returning to Athens

After your time on the islands and optional spa visit, you’ll gather at the designated restaurant, Camino, for the journey back. The return trip is approximately two hours by coach, giving you time to unwind and reflect on the day. The organizer ensures you’re back in Athens by around 7:30 pm, making it easy to plan your evening.

The Itinerary in Detail

• Departure from Athens: Early morning pickup at Larissis Station.
• Scenic bus ride: Passes through picturesque Greek countryside to Kamena Vourla.
• Coastal stop: Brief chance to take photos or enjoy the sea breeze.
• Boat cruise to Lichadonisia: A 30-minute trip across sparkling waters, with commentary.
• Island beach time: 5-6 hours to swim, snorkel, explore, and relax.
• Wildlife and shipwreck sightings: Unique opportunities for history and nature lovers.
• Optional thermal spa: A 20-minute hydrotherapy session at a nearby luxurious resort.
• Return journey: Relaxing bus ride back to Athens, concluding at Camino restaurant.

What’s Included and What to Consider

Included:

• Round-trip coach transportation, comfortable and equipped with Wi-Fi.
• Boat ride to the islands (ticket included).
• Free sunbeds and umbrellas on the island.
• Two bottles of cold water per guest.
• Free time for exploring, swimming, and relaxing.
• Optional hydrotherapy session in a thermal spa.

Not Included:

• Meals—dinner is at your leisure in Kamena Vourla.
• Hydrotherapy unless you opt for the spa upgrade.
• Personal expenses, souvenirs, or taxi rides.

This setup offers great value, especially considering the guided transport and the quality of the experience. The tour’s price of $105 per person balances affordability with the richness of the adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for natural beauty lovers, families with children, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape from Athens. The calm waters and shallow beaches are friendly for swimmers of all levels, while the optional thermal spa caters to those craving a relaxing finish.

Active travelers will enjoy the snorkeling and wildlife spotting opportunities, while history enthusiasts might find the shipwreck and marine animals particularly intriguing. The scenic bus ride and well-organized schedule make it ideal for travelers who prefer a structured but flexible day.

While the tour is suitable for most, non-swimmers might need to consider how much time they want to spend in the water, as swimming and snorkeling are key activities.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For travelers wanting a true taste of Greece’s natural and underwater beauty without straying too far from Athens, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenic views. The inclusion of boat rides, beach time, and optional thermal spa makes it a comprehensive package that appeals to a variety of interests.

The knowledgeable guides, praised for their helpfulness and insights, help make the experience memorable. The stunning vistas, wildlife sightings, and unspoiled setting provide a genuine feel of Greece’s lesser-known islands. Plus, the value for money is clear when you consider everything included—from transportation to beach amenities.

If you’re after a day of sunshine, gentle exploration, and a break from city life, this trip is a smart choice. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities and are happy to spend most of the day in relaxed, scenic surroundings.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides round-trip transportation from Athens on a modern coach with free Wi-Fi and USB sockets.

How long is the bus ride?
The journey from Athens to Kamena Vourla and back takes about 2 hours each way.

What’s the duration on the islands?
You’ll have approximately 5 to 6 hours to swim, sunbathe, and explore the islands.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You can enjoy a seaside dinner in Kamena Vourla after your island visit.

Can children participate?
Yes, but the thermal spa is only for guests aged 16 and over. Children can enjoy the regular pools at the hotel with supervision.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, sunscreen, camera, snacks, water, snorkeling gear, and dry clothes for after swimming.

Is snorkeling provided?
While snorkeling gear isn’t explicitly included, the waters are ideal for snorkeling if you bring your own gear.

What wildlife might I see?
There’s a chance to spot monk seals and observe marine life around the shipwreck.

What if I don’t swim?
Non-swimmers can still enjoy beach time and the scenic surroundings, but they might want to stay on the shore or relax in the thermal pools instead.

This tour offers a blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and well-organized convenience—perfect for those seeking a little more of Greece’s quieter, stunning side.