Top 10 Secret Anchorages in Greece That Only Locals Know

After 15 years of sailing Greece, we've discovered anchorages that don't make the guidebooks. Here are our top 10 — with exact tips on how to find them and why they're special.

1. Kleftiko, Milos

Not exactly secret — it's famous — but it deserves the top spot. Towering white volcanic rocks, caves you can swim through, water so clear it hurts. Best in morning before the day boats arrive. Anchor in 5–8m, sand. Protected from north; avoid in southerlies. Nicoleta and I spent our 10th anniversary here. Magical.

2. Despotiko (near Antiparos)

An uninhabited island with a crescent bay of white sand. Few boats, no facilities. Anchor in the bay, stern-to the beach. Best in westerlies. We've had the whole place to ourselves in June. Bring a picnic.

3. Porto Katsiki Approach, Lefkada

Everyone knows Porto Katsiki beach. Few know the bay just north — smaller, quieter, same dramatic cliffs. Anchor in 10m. Can get rolly; better for a lunch stop than overnight. The approach is spectacular — sheer white cliffs, turquoise water.

4. Emerald Bay, Antipaxos

Tiny island south of Paxos. The main bay has sand so white it glows. Water is Caribbean-blue. Gets busy in August; go early or in June/September. Anchor in 5m, sand. Taverna on the beach. We've swum here with turtles.

5. Gerakas, Alonissos

In the Sporades, north of Skiathos. A long bay with a sandy beach, backed by pine forest. Protected from most winds. Fewer boats than the more popular spots. Great for a quiet night. We've seen seals in the Marine Park nearby.

6. Polyaigos

Uninhabited island between Kimolos and Milos. Dramatic cliffs, crystal water, zero development. Anchor in the south bay. Completely wild. We spent a night here with a full moon — no other boats. Felt like we had the Aegean to ourselves.

7. Kolona, Kythnos

A narrow strip of sand connecting Kythnos to a small island — like a natural bridge. Unique. Anchor on either side. Can be windy; check the forecast. The beach is stunning. One of our favorite spots in the Cyclades.

8. Sivota, mainland Greece

Actually well-known, but the smaller bays around it are quieter. Mourtos Bay, just north, has several coves. Pick one, anchor, and enjoy. Tavernas nearby if you want dinner. Good shelter from the Ionian's afternoon breeze.

9. Eastern Bays of Symi

Symi's harbor is famous. The eastern coast has tiny bays — Pedi, Nanou, Marathounta — that few boats visit. Steep cliffs, clear water, peace. Best in calm conditions. Symi is the most photogenic harbor in Greece; Nicoleta says so and she's sailed everywhere.

10. Mourtos, Sivota

A cluster of small islands with bays between them. You can find a spot even in August. Good holding, protected. Tavernas on the "mainland" side. We've anchored here when everywhere else was full. Always found a spot.

These are our secrets. Use them well. And when you find your own, keep a few to yourself — that's the sailor's code.