Introduction
Paxos stands out among Greek islands for its intimate atmosphere and pristine waters. The island’s sheltered east coast and more challenging west coast create diverse environments for water activities. While summer (June to September) brings warm waters and calm seas perfect for beginners, spring and fall offer ideal conditions for more experienced enthusiasts.
Popular Water Sports Activities
Snorkeling
Paxos offers excellent snorkeling opportunities with its clear waters and rich marine life. The best spots include:
- Marmari Beach: Safe snorkeling along the rocks, with an underwater arch about 300m from shore
- Kipiadi Beach: Features large rocky boulders and swim-throughs on the left side
- Balos Beach: Offers interesting nooks and crannies perfect for exploring
You’ll likely encounter various fish species, including:
- Colorful ornate wrasses
- Schools of salema
- Parrotfish
- Different types of sea bream
- Black and blue damselfish
Most beaches with snorkeling equipment rentals charge about €10-15 per day for basic gear.
Scuba Diving
Two main diving schools operate on the island:
- Paxos Oasi Sub in Lakka
- Water Planet in Gaios
Both offer:
- PADI certification courses
- Guided dives for certified divers
- Introductory dives for beginners
- Equipment rental
Popular dive sites include:
- Blue caves on the west coast
- Various reef formations
- Small caves and swim-throughs
- Underwater arches
Expect to pay:
- €70-80 for a discover scuba experience
- €400-450 for a complete PADI Open Water course
- €75-90 for a guided dive with equipment
Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
SUP has become increasingly popular on Paxos, with rental locations in all three main towns. The best spots include:
- Lakka Bay: Protected waters perfect for beginners
- Loggos: Calm morning waters with great coastal views
- Mongonissi: Sheltered bay with smooth conditions
Rental costs:
- Hourly: €20
- Full day: €40
- Multi-day discounts available
Many operators also offer sunset SUP tours, providing a unique perspective of the island’s coastline.
Kayaking
Kayaking offers an excellent way to explore Paxos’s coastline. Popular options include:
- Half-day tours around Lakka Bay
- Full-day expeditions to Anti-Paxos
- Independent rentals for experienced paddlers
Prices:
- Single kayak: €20-30 per half day
- Double kayak: €30-50 per half day
- Guided tours: €50-70 per person
Windsurfing
While not as popular as other water sports, windsurfing is available in Lakka, offering:
- Equipment rental
- Basic instruction
- Best conditions in morning hours
- Suitable for beginners and intermediate levels
Boat-Based Activities
Water Skiing
Available primarily from Lakka and Gaios, water skiing options include:
- Traditional water skiing
- Wakeboarding
- Equipment rental and instruction
- Professional instructors
Costs range from €50-70 for a 20-minute session, including equipment and boat.
Cave Exploration
The famous blue caves of Paxos offer unforgettable swimming and snorkeling opportunities. For detailed information about boat trips, see our boat trips guide. Key features:
- Accessible only by boat
- Best visited in morning hours
- Combined tours available with Anti-Paxos
- Swimming and snorkeling stops included
Practical Information
Safety & Requirements
- Life jackets are mandatory for most water activities
- Children under 14 must be accompanied by adults
- Insurance is recommended for high-risk activities
- Local weather conditions should be checked daily
Best Times to Visit
According to our seasonal guide, water temperatures vary throughout the year:
- June-August: 22-26°C (warmest)
- April-May: 18-21°C
- September-October: 20-23°C
- November-March: 15-17°C
Peak season (July-August) brings crowds and higher prices, while May-June and September-October offer ideal conditions with fewer tourists.
Planning Your Water Sports Experience
Essential Tips:
- Book popular activities in advance during peak season
- Bring water shoes for pebble beaches
- Carry sunscreen and protective gear
- Check weather forecasts before booking
- Consider package deals for multiple activities
What to Pack:
- Quick-dry clothing
- UV protection
- Water-resistant bag
- Personal snorkel gear (if preferred)
- Waterproof camera
Most water sports operators provide storage facilities and basic amenities, but it’s wise to bring your own towels and change of clothes.
Whether you’re an experienced water sports enthusiast or a beginner looking to try something new, Paxos offers safe, beautiful conditions for water activities. The island’s intimate size means you can easily try different activities during your stay, making it an ideal destination for water sports lovers of all levels. For more information about exploring the island, check out our complete guide to Paxos.