Arkoi: Discover the Peaceful Jewel of the Dodecanese Islands
Hidden deep in the Aegean Sea, where the ferry routes thin and tourism begins to fade, lies Arkoi — a small, peaceful island that barely registers on most travelers’ maps. But for those who make the journey, Arkoi offers a rare experience: silence, authenticity, and raw Greek beauty untouched by mass tourism.
Where Is Arkoi?
Arkoi is part of the Dodecanese island chain in southeastern Greece. It sits northeast of Patmos and very close to Lipsi. With a population of fewer than 50 residents, it feels more like a family than a town. There are no cars, no ATMs, no flashy beach bars. Arkoi is Greece at its most simple and serene.
Why Visit Arkoi?
If you’re searching for nightclubs or long lists of tourist attractions, Arkoi isn’t for you. But if you dream of turquoise coves, freshly caught fish, and warm welcomes from the locals, then Arkoi is a treasure. It’s a place to switch off your phone and reconnect with nature, with food, and with yourself.
How to Get to Arkoi
The journey is part of the adventure. First, you need to get to Patmos or Lipsi — both of which are reachable by ferry from Piraeus (Athens) or larger Dodecanese islands like Kos or Leros. From there, a small local boat runs to Arkoi. Ferries aren’t daily, so plan accordingly. The boat ride is less than an hour and offers fantastic views of tiny islets scattered across the sea.
What to Expect Upon Arrival
The main port is more like a dock — a short stone pier where the boat ties up and a few whitewashed houses nearby. From the very first step on land, you’ll notice the quiet. There are no loud scooters, no shouting vendors, just the wind and the sound of waves. The island is so small, you can walk almost everywhere in under 30 minutes.
Accommodation on Arkoi
There are no resorts or hotels in the traditional sense. Instead, there are a handful of family-run guesthouses and rooms for rent. Most visitors stay at places like Nicolas Studios or Arkoi Rooms. Expect simple, clean rooms, some with sea views, and hosts who treat you like old friends. Booking in advance is a must in summer since rooms are limited.
Food and Taverns
Despite its size, Arkoi serves up unforgettable meals. There are three or four taverns on the island, all run by locals and all with menus based on what was caught or harvested that day. Try grilled octopus, fried zucchini balls, or fresh calamari. The house wine is often homemade, and the feta is as creamy as it gets. Meals here are long, relaxed, and full of laughter. Expect to spend €10–15 per person per meal.
Beaches of Arkoi
There are no umbrellas or sun loungers, just untouched nature and blue sea. Tiganakia Beach is the star here — a bay with unbelievably clear, shallow water and white sand beneath your feet. You can walk to it from the main village in about 25 minutes. Along the way, you’ll pass goats, stone walls, and wild herbs. Other beautiful spots include Limnari and Padelia, both peaceful and rarely crowded.
Best Activities on the Island
The best activity in Arkoi is simply doing nothing. But if you want more, there are walking trails, snorkeling opportunities, and boat trips to nearby islets like Marathi and Agathonisi. Hikers can enjoy views from the hilltop chapel of Profitis Ilias, which overlooks the sea and nearby islands. Birdwatchers often visit in spring when migratory birds pass through. And at night, stargazing is magical — there’s almost no light pollution.
When to Visit Arkoi
The best months to visit are May, June, and September. July and August can be warm and a bit busier (relatively speaking — Arkoi never gets “crowded”). Spring and early autumn offer mild weather, quiet paths, and blooming wildflowers. The sea is swimmable from late May through October. In winter, many locals leave the island, and services are very limited.
What to Pack
Bring light clothes, a sunhat, and comfortable walking shoes. Swimwear is a must, of course, and don’t forget snorkeling gear. A reusable water bottle is handy, as plastic use is discouraged. Since there are no ATMs, bring enough cash for your entire stay. A small flashlight can also be useful if you’re walking at night — street lighting is minimal.
Costs and Budget Tips
Arkoi is not expensive but operates on a cash economy. Rooms cost about €40–60 per night for two people. Meals are affordable, and since there’s no nightlife, you won’t have any impulse spending. Boat transfers vary but are usually under €10 each way. If you’re traveling on a budget, stock up on basics in Patmos before arriving.
Staying Connected
There is limited Wi-Fi in guesthouses and taverns, but don’t expect high speeds. Mobile coverage exists but can be patchy in some parts of the island. Most visitors see this as a feature, not a flaw. It’s an ideal place to take a digital detox. Bring a book, a journal, or simply enjoy being present.
Local Culture and Traditions
Arkoi has a tiny church and a tiny school (often with just one student). Locals are mostly fishermen and shepherds. The pace of life is slow, and conversations still happen face-to-face. Greek hospitality is strong here — don’t be surprised if you’re offered a coffee or a homemade treat. The village celebrates religious holidays with music and dancing, especially in summer.
Sustainability and Respect
Because Arkoi is so small and delicate, it’s important to be a responsible traveler. Don’t leave trash on the trails or beaches. Respect the quiet and privacy of the locals. Support local businesses instead of bringing packaged snacks from outside. And always ask before taking photos of people.
Hidden Gems Nearby
Just a 10-minute boat ride away is Marathi — another tiny island with one of the best beaches in the region. It has two taverns and a few rooms to stay overnight. The water is unbelievably blue, and it feels even more remote than Arkoi. Day trips to Agathonisi or Lipsi are also worth considering, each with their own quiet charm and coastal paths.
What Makes Arkoi Special
The island has no rush, no pretense, and no pressure. You don’t go to Arkoi to do — you go to Arkoi to be. To be still, to breathe, to eat well, and to let the sea reset your rhythm. It’s not for everyone, but those who fall in love with Arkoi often return again and again. It’s one of the last places where the soul of the Greek islands is still whole and intact.
Final Thoughts
In a world moving too fast, Arkoi stands still. It’s a rare kind of paradise — not the one with luxury villas or infinity pools, but the one where silence, nature, and simplicity create a richness you can’t buy. Whether you come for a weekend or a week, the peace you’ll find on Arkoi will stay with you long after you leave.
Images via: Pinterest
