Just one nautical mile northeast of Milos lies Kimolos, one of the last truly unspoiled islands of the Cyclades. No crowds, no big resorts — just chalk-white cliffs, turquoise coves and fishing villages where time moves slower. Most visitors to Milos never make it here, and that is exactly why you should.
At Polaris Rent we are the only boat rental company operating in both Milos and Kimolos, so this guide comes from the people who know these waters best.
Why visit Kimolos?
Kimolos is what Milos was twenty years ago. The island is small — about 36 square kilometres — with fewer than 1,000 permanent residents. Its name comes from kimolia (chalk in Greek), after the bright white chalk deposits that colour its cliffs. What makes it special:
- Beaches without the crowds — even in August you can find a quiet cove.
- Authentic village life in Chorio, with its medieval Kastro quarter.
- Spectacular sea caves and rock formations best seen from the water.
- Polyaigos next door — the largest uninhabited island of the Aegean, with some of the clearest water in Greece.
The best beaches in Kimolos
Prassa (Agios Georgios)
The most famous beach on the island: fine white sand and shallow, electric-blue water thanks to the chalky seabed. There is a small canteen in summer, but arrive by boat and you can anchor just off the sand.
Bonatsa
A long, family-friendly sandy beach on the south coast, looking straight across the channel to Milos.
Goupa & Karras
A tiny fishing settlement with syrmata — boat garages carved into the rock — and a swimming spot between sculpted rocks. The nearby sea cave of Karras is a highlight of any boat trip around the island.
Monastiria
Wild and reachable only on foot or by boat, beneath the islet of Agios Andreas. If you want the “deserted island” feeling, this is it.
Chorio: the island’s only village
Two kilometres uphill from the port of Psathi, Chorio hides a fortified medieval core (the Kastro), whitewashed alleys, family tavernas and the church of Panagia Odigitria. Come in the evening after a day at sea — the sunset from the upper village is superb.
Exploring Kimolos by boat
Kimolos reveals its best side from the water. A typical route circles the island in half a day:
- Psathi port — departure point.
- Goupa & the Karras cave — photograph the syrmata from the sea.
- Prassa — swim stop in shallow turquoise water.
- Monastiria & Agios Andreas islet — snorkelling over volcanic rock.
- Bonatsa & Kalamitsi — a relaxed final swim before returning.
With a full day you can add Polyaigos: its famous “blue caves” and the beaches of Manolonisia offer water so clear the boat seems to float on air.
How to get to Kimolos
- By ferry: small local ferries connect Pollonia (Milos) with Psathi in about 20 minutes.
- By rental boat: the flexible option — cross the channel yourself and explore every cove at your own pace. Our Compass 150cc and Compass 165cc need no boat licence, while the Compass 7s covers the full Milos–Kimolos–Polyaigos triangle with ease.
Frequently asked questions
Can I visit Kimolos as a day trip from Milos?
Yes — it is one of the best day trips in the Cyclades. The crossing from Pollonia takes only 20–30 minutes, so you have a full day for beaches, the village and the sea caves.
Do I need a licence to rent a boat for Kimolos?
No. Boats up to 30 hp can be rented in Greece without any licence after a short briefing. Two of our three boats fall in this category.
Is Kimolos worth visiting?
Absolutely. If you value quiet beaches, genuine island character and swimming spots you will have almost to yourself, Kimolos is arguably the highlight of a Milos holiday.
Plan your Kimolos adventure
Polaris Rent operates from both islands and our team will map the best route for the day’s weather. Contact us to book your boat, or browse our fleet to find the one that fits your crew.
Ready to explore Milos by boat?
No licence needed — rent one of our Compass boats and discover Kleftiko, Polyaigos and the beaches only the sea can reach.
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