This article may contain affiliate links. When you purchase something we recommend, we make a small commission. You don’t pay anything extra. đ For more details, check out our Terms of Use page.Â
If youâre looking for an easy escape from the city heat of Thessaloniki â one that involves turquoise water, white-sand coves, and a little adventure â Diaporos Island should be on your radar.
This is such a popular spot for locals and visitors, as it offers the opportunity to explore Seychelles-worthy beach spots with a rental boat (and no license needed!)
If you are in the area of Thessaloniki, you might want to check out my full list of 50+ Things to Do in Thessaloniki.Â
Let’s discuss what to see and do in the area.Â
How to get there from Thessaloniki
From Thessaloniki, you head towards Halkidiki and follow signs to Vourvourou. Depending on traffic this should take about 2 hours but it is best to leave early to avoid surprises. There is a reason why you don’t want to be late even though it isn’t the end of the world if you are.
The drive is pleasant and the first part of the road network is new. After Nea Moudania you will be driving on a one lane road which might slow things down a bit but it is all worth it.
Boat rental options in Diaporo Island
One of the main reasons why this is such an easy and accessible mini-adventure idea is because you need no licence to rent a boat. This is also the main draw to the area.
You can also if you want drive there for swimming in one of the nearby beaches, but this blog will focus on the boat rental experience.
There are a  few things to keep in mind before you jump in the car:
- booking ahead, especially during the weekends in August
- arriving on time (most rentals start at 10 in the morning and go till 6 PM, so you will want to take advantage of every minute you have)
- Knowing what equipment comes with the boat (chiller, umbrella’s etc so you can plan ahead when packing)
Another main thing to plan ahead  is who’s driving.Â
While you don’t need a licence to rent one of the smallest boats it is best to pick someone that feels comfortable operating the thing!
During my recent trip to Diaporos with my four girlfriends, our designated driver got a short but comprehensive safety briefing and was good to go within just a few minutes of being shown around the boat. We also had no trouble throughout the day even though this was the first time she was driving a boat.
΀here are many boat rental options that are usually booked either through the website of the operator or via phone. They change frequently on the season, so I would say best call ahead and do a quick google search.Â
Some agent websites like Get Your Guide have additional options for the day though, like diving, kayaking or sailing which are worth checking out.Â
What can you do around Diaporos Island?
The main reason you will visit is swimming, lounging under the sun, relaxing, catching up with friends, diving or snorkelling, and of course exploring the coastline.
In the beginning, you will get a little map with locations crossed out that you need to avoid like you are playing a game of Minesweeper. The red âxâ marks rocks under the water which are best avoided. Other than that, there are plenty of beaches to discover around the island with the two top choices being Myrsini Beach (also known as White Beach) and the Blue Lagoon.
Picture turquoise translucent waters and white sand bottoms and you get the idea. Swimming around these natural and shallow water pools will become a treasured memory.
When it came to all the other beaches on offer, we simply didnât have time to explore it all. We chose to split our time between the two main beaches and soak up all the sun. We will have to return for Round II to discover more of the bays and beaches around this part of Sithonia in the future.
Where to Stay Near Diaporos Island
Many travelers choose to visit Diaporos Island as part of a longer holiday in Halkidiki â and it makes perfect sense. The second leg of the peninsula (Sithonia) is known for some of the most stunning beaches in northern Greece, so basing yourself nearby gives you easy access to both land and sea adventures.
If youâre planning a boat day to Diaporos, the best place to stay is Vourvourou, a laid-back coastal village with plenty of accommodation options just a short distance from the islandâs crystal-clear waters. Youâll find everything from boutique hotels and family-run guesthouses to stylish villas with sea views.
For a truly memorable experience, you can also stay directly on Diaporos Island â perfect for a special occasion or a secluded getaway. There are a handful of private beachfront villas available, offering peace, privacy, and direct access to paradise.
Beach House Onar
This beachfront house sits right on the water, offering a peaceful and private escape with its own slice of paradise. Itâs an ideal choice for couples or small groups wanting to unwind in total tranquility â youâll wake up with the sea at your feet.
Tiamo Secrets â Lagoon Villa
An ultra-luxurious option located in a protected natural bay on Diaporos Island. This villa includes a boat for your personal use, a Jacuzzi, and high-end amenities throughout. Itâs perfect for honeymoons, celebrations, or those âjust becauseâ splurges.
