Technical details of Paxos spot

Spot functioning

Launch from beaches on the west or south coast of the island, depending on wind direction. In Maestro (NW), south coast beaches offer side-shore to side-onshore conditions. In Sirocco (SE/S), west or north coast beaches are more suitable. The east coast is bordered by cliffs and less accessible. The small island size limits the sailing area — watch not to drift from the island in the passages between Paxos and Antipaxos or towards the open sea.

On the water

Moderate to sustained chop on the west coast exposed to the Ionian Sea. Flatter water in the protected east coast bays. The waters between Paxos and Antipaxos (to the south) offer an interesting sailing area with limited fetch. Crystal-clear water, among the most beautiful in Greece — exceptional turquoise shades. Variable depth — shallow in bays, deep quickly offshore.

Required level

Intermediate

Spot opening date

Open all year round

Parking

Access to Paxos by ferry from Corfu (about 1h) or from Igoumenitsa on the mainland. On the island, access by scooter or small vehicle — roads are narrow. Limited parking on this small island — expect to walk a bit. Few equipment rental services — bring your own gear.

Hazards

Cliffs on the east coast — dangerous zone, don't drift that way. Currents in the passages between Paxos, Antipaxos and the mainland. Small island — few alternative beaches in case of problems. No specialized rescue structure. Yacht and leisure boat traffic in summer. Swell possible on the west coast exposed to the Ionian Sea. Few rescue services and equipment on the island.

Wind specificities

The Maestro (NW) is the dominant summer wind in the Ionian Islands, blowing regularly from June to September, 15-25 knots in the afternoon. On Paxos, it arrives side-onshore to onshore on the west coast. The Sirocco (SE/S) is the secondary regime, associated with weather systems and more frequent in spring and autumn. The small island size (10 km long) means little local channeling effect, but the position between Corfu and the mainland can create accelerations in the channel. Reliable afternoon thermals in summer.

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