Kleftiko Caves, Milos - Image 1
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Kleftiko Caves Milos

4.9
·690 reviews·Adamas, Greece

Explore Milos' iconic Kleftiko Caves, a former pirate hideout with stunning white cliffs and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning tours

Less crowded, calmer seas

CrowdLow
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Kleftiko Caves, Milos - Image 1

Kleftiko Caves Milos

Best Time

Morning tours

Less crowded, calmer seas

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Milos' iconic Kleftiko Caves, a former pirate hideout with stunning white cliffs and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

4.9
(690 reviews)

"This boat tour to Kleftiko was the highlight of our trip to Milos!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚢 Book a Boat Tour

Essential for reaching Kleftiko! Many offer food & drinks.

☀️ Pack Sun Protection

Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are a must for a day on the water.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kleftiko Sea Caves

Kleftiko Sea Caves

Southwestern Milos

Explore ancient pirate hideouts with towering white cliffs and swim in impossibly turquoise waters.

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Crystal-Clear Waters

Crystal-Clear Waters

Around Kleftiko

Dive into the vibrant blue Aegean Sea, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun.

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Dramatic Rock Formations

Dramatic Rock Formations

Kleftiko coastline

Marvel at the unique volcanic rock formations and arches sculpted by the sea over centuries.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Boat Tour in Advance

Kleftiko Caves are only accessible by sea, so a boat tour is essential. Popular tours, especially those with highly-rated captains like Andreas and Manos, book up quickly, particularly during peak season. Consider booking weeks ahead to secure your spot and preferred itinerary. Reddit

Weather is Key for Access

Milos can experience windy conditions, which can affect boat tours. Many tour operators offer flexible cancellation policies, so keep an eye on the forecast and be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Morning tours
Why
Less crowded, calmer seas
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon tours
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Must do experience while in Greece (𝐬𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐚 𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐮𝐬𝐞)⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ Welcome to Kleftiko Caves, the crown jewel of Milos. Kleftiko is a system of unique caves and towering cliffs rising out of the most turquoise part of the Aegean Sea. Located on the southwestern part of the island, this region is 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐛𝐲 𝐛𝐨𝐚𝐭.⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ ☼ I highly suggest 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐢𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐨𝐮𝐫. This is ...
nina_loves_life
0 likes • 2.8K views

🚢 Book a Boat Tour

Essential for reaching Kleftiko! Many offer food & drinks. InstagramReddit

☀️ Pack Sun Protection

Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are a must for a day on the water. Instagram

The awesome scenery of Kleftiko bay in 📍Milos island (Μήλος) - @cyclades_islands 💙 It is a cove that was an old pirates hideout and it is known for its impressive white volcanic rocks and caves!! ° ⚪Tag your Travel Friends!!🔵 ° Vid by @kyriakosniaskos . #Milos #Cyclades #Greece #VisitGreece #grèce #grecia #hellas #vacation #travelpics #exploration #🇬🇷 #heaven #travelphotography #island #greekisla...
cyclades_islands
2.9K likes • 44.5K views
Full-Day Catamaran Cruise: Kleftiko, Poliegos & Round Trip of Milos Set sail on a 10-hour luxurious adventure around the mesmerizing coastline of Milos and Poliegos. Dive into crystal-clear waters at Kalogries Beach, explore the iconic Kleftiko caves, relax on the sandy shores of Gerakas, and swim in the Blue Lagoon of Poliegos Island. Along the way, witness the unique landscapes of Cave Vani, S...
skylines_premium_dmc
37 likes • 550 views

🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear

Explore the vibrant underwater world around the caves. Instagram

📸 Drone for Epic Shots

Capture the scale and beauty from above (check local regulations). Instagram

Kleftiko, Milos is famous for its crystal-clear water, elaborate caves and imposing rock formations. #kleftiko
cat.love.dog88
1 likes • 66 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚢 Book a Boat Tour

Essential for reaching Kleftiko! Many offer food & drinks. InstagramReddit

☀️ Pack Sun Protection

Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are a must for a day on the water. Instagram

🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear

Explore the vibrant underwater world around the caves. Instagram

📸 Drone for Epic Shots

Capture the scale and beauty from above (check local regulations). Instagram

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring plenty of water, especially on longer tours. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(690 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently describe Kleftiko Caves as the highlight of their Milos trip, praising the stunning turquoise waters, unique sea caves, and dramatic rock formations. Many highlight the exceptional experience provided by specific boat tour captains and crews, noting their entertainment, professionalism, and the delicious food served onboard. While generally overwhelmingly positive, some guests have noted that the food quality could be improved on certain tours for the price point.

"Probably the best day we had on Milos! We knew we wanted to do a boat tour and I’m so glad we went with horizon yachts. Andreas and Manos were the best captains ever! So entertaining and fun and they gave us such a great experience. The tour was so worth it and the spots were incredible. All the food and drinks were such a value too and the food was actually delicious! I would highly recommend this tour to anyone in Milos. Don’t wait. Book!!"

Emma Belluomo

"Brilliant day sailing and crusing Milos and its hidden bays and beaches. Horizon Yatching get full marks for getting us out on the water after a few windy days. Super team Andreas and Manos.....so pleased we were on team Panormos for the day. Very professional and informative and great fun all in one !

If you are.looking for a.great day out in Milos then give these guys a go."

richard bingham

"Overall we had an amazing time in this tour! Thanos and George are very lovely and friendly people and we felt so welcomed in the boat. We stopped at 4 different places for swimming which was great and we had enough time to explore different beaches near Milos. The only thing which could have been improved was food, we were expecting a better lunch for €100 pp and the boat near us from another company had much better food. Overall I recommend it!"

Sonia Barzegar

What People Like

Stunning turquoise waters
Unique sea caves
Friendly and entertaining captains

What People Dislike

Food quality for price

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kleftiko Caves are only accessible by boat. The most popular way to visit is by booking a boat tour from Adamas or Pollonia. These tours often include stops at other beautiful bays and beaches around Milos. InstagramReddit

Yes, you can choose from half-day, full-day, catamaran, or smaller boat tours. Full-day tours often cover more of the island's coastline, including Kleftiko. InstagramReddit

Yes, you can rent a small boat or a yacht if you have the necessary experience or hire a skipper. This offers more flexibility. Instagram

Adamas is the main port and offers the widest selection of boat tours. Pollonia also has tour operators, and some tours depart from there. Reddit

Expect to sail along the stunning coastline, swim in crystal-clear waters, explore sea caves, and enjoy onboard amenities like food and drinks. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no specific entry tickets for Kleftiko Caves themselves, as they are a natural formation. However, you will need to book a boat tour to access them. Reddit

Prices vary depending on the tour duration, boat type, and inclusions. Expect to pay anywhere from €50-€150+ per person for a day trip. Reddit

It's highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season (June-August), as popular tours sell out quickly. Reddit

Most tours include swimming stops, exploration of caves, snorkeling opportunities, and often food and drinks. Some luxury tours offer more elaborate meals. InstagramReddit

Many operators offer free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, especially if weather conditions are unfavorable. Always check the specific policy when booking. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can swim, snorkel, explore the sea caves by boat or kayak, take stunning photos, and simply relax in the beautiful surroundings. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The water is incredibly clear, calm, and inviting, making it perfect for swimming and enjoying the unique environment. Instagram+1

Yes, many tours allow you to swim or paddle through some of the accessible sea caves, which is a highlight of the experience. Instagram

Boats can navigate into some of the larger caves. For smaller, more intricate passages, kayaking or paddleboarding (if offered by the tour) is ideal. Instagram

Kleftiko is a natural, undeveloped site, so there are no facilities like restrooms or shops. Everything you need should be brought on your boat tour. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The iconic white rock formations against the turquoise water are stunning from the boat, from within the caves, and from any swimming spot. Instagram+1

Drone photography can capture incredible aerial views of Kleftiko. However, always check and adhere to local drone regulations before flying. Instagram

Morning light can be softer, while afternoon light can create dramatic shadows and highlight the white rocks. The midday sun can be harsh but still produces vibrant colors. Instagram

Use a wide-angle lens to capture the scale. Consider polarizing filters to enhance the blue of the water and reduce glare. Shoot in RAW for maximum editing flexibility. Instagram

Try capturing reflections in the water, framing shots through cave openings, or taking photos of people swimming or exploring to add a sense of scale and activity. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

A boat trip to Kleftiko is a fantastic adventure for families! The calm, shallow waters around the caves are perfect for children to swim and play safely. Many boat tours are family-friendly, offering a relaxed atmosphere and engaging activities. Look for tours that provide life jackets for all ages and have plenty of space for kids to move around. The novelty of exploring sea caves and the vibrant blue water will captivate young imaginations. Instagram

Pro-tip: Pack extra snacks and drinks, as well as plenty of sunscreen and hats. Consider a tour that offers a shorter duration if your children have shorter attention spans. The sheer beauty and unique environment of Kleftiko make it a memorable experience for the whole family. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

While Kleftiko is a premium experience, budget-conscious travelers can still enjoy it. Opt for a half-day tour instead of a full-day one, which is typically less expensive. Some smaller boat operators might offer more affordable options compared to larger catamaran cruises. Reddit Packing your own snacks and drinks can also save money, though many tours include them. Reddit

Consider traveling in the shoulder seasons (May, June, September, October) when prices for tours and accommodation might be lower. Even with a budget tour, the breathtaking scenery and unique experience of Kleftiko are well worth the investment. Instagram

💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways

Kleftiko offers a truly romantic setting for couples. Imagine swimming hand-in-hand in secluded coves, exploring hidden sea caves together, and watching the sunset paint the sky from the deck of a boat. Private boat tours or smaller, more intimate sailing trips can provide an extra special and secluded experience. Instagram

Many tours offer delicious onboard meals and drinks, perfect for a romantic picnic at sea. The stunning natural beauty and the sense of adventure create a unique and unforgettable backdrop for creating lasting memories together. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Pirate Past of Kleftiko

Kleftiko's dramatic white volcanic cliffs and hidden sea caves have a storied past. For centuries, these natural formations served as a refuge for pirates who preyed on ships in the Aegean Sea. The name 'Kleftiko' itself is derived from the Greek word 'kleftis,' meaning 'thief.' These caves provided shelter, storage, and a strategic vantage point for illicit activities, making Kleftiko a notorious pirate stronghold. Instagram+1

Today, the allure of this pirate history adds an extra layer of mystique to the experience. As you navigate through the caves and admire the imposing rock structures, you can almost imagine the tales of daring raids and hidden treasures. This historical context makes a boat trip to Kleftiko more than just a scenic excursion; it's a journey back in time to an era of adventure and intrigue on the high seas. Instagram

Choosing Your Ideal Boat Tour

Selecting the right boat tour for your Kleftiko adventure is crucial for an unforgettable experience. Options range from large, social catamaran cruises to smaller, more intimate sailing boats and even private charters. Catamaran tours often offer more space, amenities, and can cover extensive routes, sometimes including other islands like Poliegos. Instagram They are great for groups and those seeking a lively atmosphere. Reddit

Sailing boat tours can provide a more traditional and relaxed experience, often with a focus on personalized service and reaching more secluded spots. Many travelers rave about the captains and crew, highlighting their friendliness, entertainment value, and the delicious food prepared onboard. InstagramReddit When choosing, consider the tour duration (half-day vs. full-day), the number of stops, what's included (food, drinks, snorkeling gear), and the overall vibe you're looking for. Reading recent reviews about specific captains and boats can be very helpful. Reddit

Capturing the Magic: Photography Tips

Kleftiko Caves are a photographer's dream, offering a stunning interplay of white rock, vibrant blue water, and dramatic geological formations. To make the most of your shots, consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the landscape and the scale of the caves. Instagram The contrast between the bright white volcanic rock and the deep turquoise sea is best captured with a polarizing filter, which can also help reduce glare on the water's surface. Instagram

Timing is also key. Morning light often provides softer illumination and fewer crowds, while afternoon light can create more dramatic shadows and highlight the textures of the rocks. Instagram Don't be afraid to get creative: shoot from different angles, frame your shots through cave openings, and capture the action of people swimming or exploring to add life and context to your images. If local regulations permit, a drone can offer breathtaking aerial perspectives of this unique coastal wonder. Instagram