Donousa
Island Small Cycladic island noted for secluded beaches
Donousa, a small island in the Lesser Cyclades, draws visitors for pebble beaches, sea caves, whitewashed villages and tavernas; ferries link it to Naxos and neighboring islands.
Donousa is a small island in the Lesser Cyclades group of the Aegean Sea, in Greece, known for its quiet villages, coastal coves, and largely undeveloped character. It is markedly smaller and less populated than the major Cycladic islands and is frequented by travelers seeking beaches and walking routes.
The island’s coastline includes a number of accessible beaches and sheltered bays suitable for swimming and snorkeling, while narrow lanes and footpaths connect small settlements and offer short hikes. Facilities are modest compared with larger tourist centers, reflecting the island’s scale and low-density tourism.
Historically Donousa has been a minor fishing and maritime stop in the Cyclades; its contemporary economy centers on small-scale tourism and local services for residents and visitors.
Donousa lies northeast of Naxos and west of Amorgos in the South Aegean, reached by regional ferries from the larger Cycladic islands and Piraeus on scheduled services.
- Location and access: Part of the Lesser Cyclades island group, it is a small, sparsely populated island reached by ferry from nearby larger Cycladic islands such as Naxos and Amorgos.
How to Get to Donousa #
Ferries connect Donousa to Naxos and Amorgos; schedules are seasonal and more frequent in July-August. From larger Cycladic islands, expect 1-3 hour crossings depending on vessel type. The island’s port is small-arrive prepared with reservations during peak season.
Tips for Visiting Donousa #
- Ferries to Donousa are infrequent outside July-August-check schedules from Naxos or Amorgos carefully.
- Bring cash; island shops and tavernas sometimes do not accept cards.
- Hike to the island's beaches early in the day to avoid heat and catch sea-bird activity; the island's dirt tracks can be steep and exposed.
Best Time to Visit Donousa #
Best visited late spring through early autumn; July-August is highest season for beach weather and ferry connections.
Weather & Climate near Donousa #
Donousa's climate is classified as Hot-Summer Mediterranean - Hot-Summer Mediterranean climate with warm summers (peaking in August) and cool winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from 9°C to 27°C. Moderate rainfall (507 mm/year) with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is cool with highs of 13°C and lows of 9°C. The wettest month with 98 mm of rain.
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February
February is the coolest month with highs of 13°C and lows of 9°C. Regular rainfall (81 mm).
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March
March is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (64 mm).
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April
April is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 12°C. Light rainfall.
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May
May is mild with highs of 22°C and lows of 15°C. Light rainfall.
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June
June is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 19°C. Almost no rain.
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July
July is warm with highs of 27°C and lows of 22°C. The driest month with just 1 mm.
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August
August is the warmest month with highs of 27°C and lows of 22°C. Almost no rain.
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September
September is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 20°C. Almost no rain.
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October
October is mild with highs of 22°C and lows of 17°C. Moderate rainfall (45 mm).
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November
November is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (68 mm).
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December
December is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 10°C. Regular rainfall (94 mm).
