With Easter just around the corner and summer fast approaching, the search for the perfect island escape is officially on. And if you’ve already started daydreaming about your next Greek island getaway—you’re not alone. After all, Greece is world-renowned for its countless islands that attract visitors from all corners of the globe every summer.
But in recent years, a new trend has been taking hold across the country—the so-called “towel movement.” Born as a reaction to the skyrocketing prices of sunbeds that dominate popular beaches, this grassroots shift reflects a growing desire for simpler, more authentic experiences. More and more Greeks are seeking out unspoiled beaches, free from commercial intrusion—and most importantly, free of charge.
This evolving mindset has sparked a move away from the bustling, cosmopolitan islands toward quieter, more laid-back destinations. Places that feel untouched, unpretentious, and genuinely Greek. Enter: the Koufonisia.
Why Everyone Fell in Love with Koufonisia
The twin islands of Ano and Kato Koufonisi have long captured the hearts of travelers with their raw beauty and secluded beaches. Ano Koufonisi offers a vibrant main village (Chora) filled with charming tavernas and lively bars, while Kato Koufonisi remains largely uninhabited—an ideal retreat for nature lovers and fans of wild camping.
But here’s the catch: if camping isn’t your thing, you’ll want to act fast. Accommodation in Ano Koufonisi is already 85% booked for July, with remaining rooms starting at €120 per night.
Looking for a More Affordable Koufonisi? You’ll Find It in Lipsi
If you’re longing for a place that captures the magic of Koufonisia—but at a more wallet-friendly price—look no further than Lipsi. This tiny island in the Dodecanese feels like it was pulled straight from your dreams. Lipsi combines tranquility, authenticity, and natural beauty—all the elements that make Koufonisia special—but without the hefty price tag.
Here, you’ll find pristine, unspoiled beaches with crystal-clear waters, picturesque whitewashed alleyways in the main town, and a relaxing atmosphere that wins you over from the moment you arrive. Best of all? You won’t need to break the bank. In July, comfortable double rooms in Lipsi start at just €60 per night—half the price of what you’d pay in Koufonisia.
A Paradise Without Sunbeds (Yes, Really)
And the beaches? Not a single sunbed in sight. Lipsi has proudly embraced a slogan that’s as clear as its waters: “No to sunbeds, yes to nature.” The local municipality actively encourages visitors to enjoy the island's natural beauty without plastic clutter or unnecessary luxuries.
Lipsi is perfect for car-free holidays and off-the-beaten-path adventures to nearby islets that boast natural swimming pools and total serenity—far from the hustle and bustle of major resorts.
In the words of Lipsi’s mayor, Fotis Mangos, during summer 2023:
“We’re implementing a forward-thinking approach, unique not only in Greece but across Europe. We strip away the unnecessary and preserve what truly matters. We actively support the elimination of plastic, the phasing out of sunbeds, and the avoidance of cars due to our small distances. In Lipsi, you feel complete—just like our slogan says.”
So if you're looking for your next summer escape, skip the crowded hotspots and discover the new gem everyone's talking about. In 2025, Lipsi might just become your favorite island in Greece.
