The Drenia Islands, also known as the "Donkey Islands", are a group of small uninhabited islets located just off the coast of Ouranoupoli in Halkidiki. This hidden paradise combines turquoise waters, exotic beaches, and untouched nature — perfect for day trips and boat excursions away from the mainland crowd.
{getToc} $title={Table of Contents}📍 How to Get There
You can reach the Drenia Islands only by sea. Several options are available:
- Boat Rentals: From Ouranoupoli harbor, you can rent a small motorboat (no license needed for under 30hp) to explore the islets at your own pace.
- Taxi Boats: Regular water taxis depart from the Ouranoupoli port, especially in summer months.
- Excursion Cruises: Many organized daily tours combine Drenia with views of Mount Athos.
🏝️ What Makes Drenia Special
- Crystal-clear, shallow waters with sandy seabeds — great for swimming and snorkeling
- Untouched nature with few organized facilities, offering true escape from urban life
- Uncrowded beaches, even during peak season (except weekends)
- Views of Mount Athos and Ammouliani from the shore
- Perfect for picnics, sunbathing, and nature photography
👨👩👧👦 Ideal For
- Couples looking for a private beach getaway
- Families with children – calm, shallow waters
- Nature lovers and birdwatchers
- Snorkeling and paddleboarding enthusiasts
- Photographers seeking raw island beauty
🌊 Activities on Drenia Islands
- Swimming & Sunbathing: The soft sand and shallow waters make it ideal for relaxing
- Snorkeling: Explore underwater life with amazing clarity
- Boating: Island hopping between the smaller islets
- Kayaking or SUP: Bring your own or rent in Ouranoupoli
🍴 Food & Drink Nearby
There is one seasonal beach bar operating on the main Drenia Island during the summer:
- Drenia Beach Bar – Offers drinks, snacks, and basic seafood options. Limited seating, so come early!
For proper dining, return to Ouranoupoli after your visit and enjoy local taverns like:
- Kritikos Gallery & Restaurants
- Taverna Lemoniadis
🚤 Tips Before You Go
- Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks – limited supplies on the islands
- There are no ATMs or permanent shops
- Wear water shoes – some areas may have rocks or sea urchins
- Respect nature – take your trash with you
- If renting a boat, ensure you understand the basic safety rules
📷 Instagram-worthy Spots
- The view from your boat as you approach the islets
- Sunset over Mount Athos in the distance
- Drone shots of the archipelago (if permitted)
🔚 Conclusion
The Drenia Islands are a must-visit if you're exploring the third peninsula of Halkidiki. With their wild charm and inviting waters, they offer a completely different vibe than the organized beaches of Kassandra or Sithonia. Whether you're looking to relax, snorkel, or just escape into a postcard-perfect landscape — Drenia will not disappoint.
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