We’ve met so many people along the way that have raved about Elafónisos Island. The water is the purest turquoise, and it’s one of the few places with an actual sand beach (the Med is more famous for rocky beaches). We were headed west, but needed a place to sit out strong winds from a Meltemi, so we decided to check it out.

Kalyra from the beach

The location didn’t disappoint. There were several boats already at anchor, but it was easy enough to find a good spot, and the sandy bottom meant good holding when the winds would start to blow.

We took the kayak and paddled ashore to check out one of the tavernas, where we had a tasty lunch in the company of a really chill family of cats.

Okay! So I have a thing about cats!
But aren’t they gorgeous?

Then it was back to the boat to enjoy the sunset and prepare for the winds.