Atokos Island Travel Guide

Atokos Island Greece

Atokos Island (Ionian) – Anchorage & Travel Guide

For sailors and travelers planning a perfect Ionian stop.
Disclaimer: This guide is for trip planning only. Always use official nautical charts, updated notices to mariners, and your skipper’s judgement.

Why Atokos?

Atokos is a small, privately owned and uninhabited island between Ithaca and Lefkada. Famous for the crystal water and photogenic One House Bay, it’s a dreamy day anchorage on Ionian routes. There are no services on the island—think swimming, snorkeling, picnic, and serenity.

 

Quick facts

  • Region: Ionian Islands, Greece

  • Vibe: Untouched, turquoise coves, white-pebble beaches

  • Services on Atokos: None (nearest: Ithaca, Lefkada, Kefalonia)

  • Best for: Day stopovers, swimming & snorkeling, photos

  • Respect: Private island—stick to beaches and Leave No Trace

Approach & General Notes

  • Weather & swell: Summer W–NW sea breeze is common; choose coves accordingly. Swell can wrap into open bays.

  • Charts: Depths vary close to shore. Use official charts/plotter; give space to rocky shoulders.

  • Seabed: Sand patches with pebbles are common; aim for sand for better holding.

  • Depths: Often 5–12 m in popular coves—verify on arrival.

  • Etiquette: Keep distance from swimmers; don’t block small-boat access.

Safety: If in doubt, move—nearby Ithaca/Lefkada offer sheltered overnight options.

Anchorages on Atokos

  • One House Bay (E) — Star of the island: white stones, emerald water, a tiny house on the hill.

    • Shelter: Better in light W–NW. Open to E.

    • Bottom: Sand patches among pebbles—aim for sand, let the anchor set fully.

    • Depths: ~5–10 m.

    • Use: Day stop (swim/snorkel). Quieter after 16:00.

    Cliff Bay (NW) — Striking rock faces and very clear water.

    • Shelter: Settled conditions; watch for NW breeze and reflected swell.

    • Bottom: Mixed—confirm set.

    • Depths: ~6–12 m.

    South Coves — Often quieter for lunch & swim.

    • Shelter: In light airs.

    • Bottom: Sand/pebble mix—check set.

    • Depths: ~6–10 m.

    Hazards & Cautions
    Rocky headlands (give margin) • Gusts/swell wraps • Summer crowding (arrive early; allow swing) • No services—bring water/shade & pack out trash.

Provisioning, Water & Fuel (Nearby)

  • Ithaca (Vathy, Kioni, Frikes): Groceries, bakeries, tavernas, water points; limited fuel.

  • Lefkada (Sivota, Nydri): Harbors/marinas with fuel & water.

  • Kefalonia (Fiskardo): Supplies & restaurants.

Top Tours & Boat Trips Around Atokos

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Things to Do

Swim & snorkel (great visibility) • Paddleboard • Photograph One House Bay (best in the morning) • Picnic (pack-in/pack-out).

When to Go

  • May–June, Sept–Oct: Fewer crowds, warm water.

  • July–Aug: Peak flotillas—arrive early.

  • Weather: Check GRIB/local apps daily.

Getting There

By sail on legs Ithaca ⇄ Lefkada or Kefalonia ⇄ Lefkada; many charters include Atokos as a day stop.

Sailing Etiquette & Leave No Trace
Keep music low • No fires • Carry out all trash • Give swimmers wide berth; use long lines only where appropriate and safe.

FAQ

Is Atokos good for overnight anchoring?
Mostly a day anchorage; many choose Ithaca/Lefkada for overnight and services.
Are there mooring buoys?
They change—don’t rely on them; verify on arrival.
Can I land?
Beaches are usually fine; it’s privately owned—respect signage and private areas.
Phone signal?
Usually fair on exposed sides; varies by provider.

Related Ionian Anchorages

Lefkada (Sivota, Nydri), Ithaca (Vathy, Kioni, Frikes), Kefalonia, Fiskardo.

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