Islands

While Halkidiki is globally famous for its three majestic peninsulas, its true hidden gems lie just off the coast. Scattered across the crystal-clear Aegean waters are several breathtaking islands and islets, each offering a unique slice of paradise.

From inhabited islands with rich histories to completely uninhabited archipelagos resembling the Caribbean, exploring the islands of Halkidiki is an absolute must-do during your summer holidays.

Ammouliani

Ammouliani is a little island in the gulf of the Athos peninsula.

It is the only populated island in Halkidiki. It covers an area of about 4.5 square kilometers, is 120 km away from Thessaloniki and is connected to the shore across the sea, Tripiti, through regular ferryboat routes lasting 10 minutes.

Green is prevalent on the island, which is covered with olive trees and undergrowth. Its isolated gulfs are the ideal destination for those wishing for peace and rest. The best choice is for you to visit all beaches of the island, even the most secluded, as they are renowned for their sky-blue waters.

The most well-known beach is Alikes, which has been awarded a blue flag for its clean waters, followed by Agios Georgios, Megali Ammos, Karagatsia etc. In 1925, after the genocide of the Greek population in Asia Minor, the island was allotted to the refugees coming from the Sea of Marmara Islands (Gallimi, Pasalimani, Skoupia).

The refugees brought their knowledge of the trade of fishing along, which is the main occupation of the local population till today. Especially impressive is the church of St. Nikolaos, built in 1865 at the town square, as well as the old school hosting the folk culture museum.

On the island of Ammouliani you can find restaurants/taverns, coffee shops/bar, supermarkets, souvenir shops, night clubs, establishments letting motorcycles and boats.  The beautiful, sky-blue water beaches of many creeks, where you can enjoy clean sea with a rich water world, are waiting for you to explore them.

Diaporos

Diasporos island, surrounded by a cluster of smaller islands, Ampelitsia, Nun, Dove, Saint Isidore, Prassonisi and located opposite Vourvourou , just 10 km from Agios Nikolaos in Sithonia.

In the area there are remains of prehistoric creatures that in 3000 BC the settlement of Diaporos dating to the Early Bronze Age , and met stones , a few broken dishes and some millstones

To visit the islands today is quite difficult as well because there is not inhabited and daily transport.

However, boats for sale can be found on Vourvourou and make a visit to a sandy beach or in a hidden cove

The Drenia Islets (Gaidouronisia)

Located just two miles off the coast of Ouranoupoli and Ammouliani, the Drenia islets (affectionately called ‘Gaidouronisia’ or Donkey Islands by locals) form a spectacular shallow lagoon.

• What to Expect: Fine white sand, impressive rock formations, and a laid-back atmosphere. There is a fantastic beach tavern providing sunbeds and great food.
• Getting There: Daily boat routes depart regularly from the port of Ouranoupoli (right in front of the Byzantine Tower), or you can rent your own private boat.

Kelyfos: The Famous “Turtle Island”

Rising dramatically from the waters of the Toroneos Gulf, exactly opposite the cosmopolitan town of Neos Marmaras (Sithonia), lies Kelyfos Island.

• The Name: It is famously known as ‘Turtle Island’ because its unique shape perfectly resembles a giant sea turtle swimming in the Aegean!
• Activities: While the island is uninhabited (home only to wild goats), its spectacular, steep seabed makes it one of the top scuba diving and snorkeling destinations in Northern Greece.