Koufonisia (officially Koufonisi) is the smallest inhabited island of the Small Cyclades, a mini-archipelago southeast of Naxos. Despite being barely 3.5 km long, it has become one of the most talked-about destinations in the Aegean — and for good reason.
The island's south coast is a continuous ribbon of golden sand and sculpted rock, punctuated by sea caves and natural pools. Pori beach dissolves into a shallow turquoise lagoon that rivals any Caribbean cove. The village is a cluster of low-rise houses, a few tavernas, and a working fishing harbour where lobster comes straight off the boat.
Upper Koufonisi is uninhabited and even more pristine — a short tender ride reveals hidden sandy beaches with not a building in sight. By yacht, Koufonisia is the ultimate contrast to the busier Cycladic islands: all the beauty, none of the infrastructure. Combine with Amorgos and Naxos for a Small Cyclades itinerary that feels genuinely off the beaten path.
Pori beach — turquoise lagoon rivalling the Caribbean
Sea caves and natural rock pools along the south coast
Upper Koufonisi — uninhabited island with pristine beaches
Fresh lobster straight from the fishing boats
Car-free fishing village with authentic character
Small Cyclades remoteness — genuinely off the beaten path
