Natural Pool Pisina Area

The Natural Pool, known locally as Pisina (which means swimming pool in Greek), stands as one of the most remarkable natural formations on Ano Koufonisi. Located between the beaches of Italida and Pori along the dramatic northeastern coastline, this extraordinary geological wonder has been carved into the rocky cliffs by centuries of waves and wind. The turquoise waters enclosed by natural rock walls create an intimate swimming spot that feels like having your own private infinity pool overlooking the Aegean Sea.​

Beach Type & Experience

The Natural Pool differs entirely from traditional sandy beaches on Koufonisia. This unique spot features a rocky composition with dramatic cliff formations surrounding a natural cavity filled with crystal clear seawater. The rocks around the pool have distinctive ochre and golden hues that contrast beautifully with the bright turquoise waters.​

Getting into and out of the pool requires some effort and agility. The entry involves a bit of rock scrambling down to the water level, and pulling yourself back out demands upper body strength using the natural rock ledges. Water shoes are highly recommended because the rocks can be sharp and slippery.​

The Pisina attracts adventurous swimmers and cliff jumping enthusiasts rather than families with young children. The pool sees moderate visitor numbers throughout the day, with early morning offering the best chance of having it to yourself. By mid morning and afternoon, especially during peak season in July and August, the pool can become quite busy with people taking turns jumping and swimming.​

This is not a spot suitable for those with mobility issues. There are no wheelchair facilities, accessible pathways, or adapted amenities of any kind. The rocky terrain and physical demands of entering and exiting the pool make it appropriate only for physically fit visitors.​

Water Quality & Conditions

The water temperature at the Natural Pool follows typical Aegean patterns. From June to September, water temperatures range from 22°C to 25°C (72°F to 77°F), making swimming comfortable and refreshing. August offers the warmest conditions at around 24.5°C to 26°C (76°F to 79°F). In May and October, the water cools to 19°C to 22°C (66°F to 72°F), which remains swimmable for most people but feels noticeably cooler.​

The water clarity at Pisina is absolutely exceptional. The crystal clear turquoise waters allow visibility all the way to the bottom, making it excellent for snorkeling and underwater exploration. The depth varies significantly within the pool, with some areas quite shallow near the edges and the center reaching depths sufficient for safe cliff jumping.​

One of the most fascinating features of the Natural Pool is the underwater tunnel that connects it to the open sea. This narrow passage runs through the rock at the bottom of the pool, allowing brave swimmers to dive down and swim through to emerge in the open Aegean. The tunnel sits approximately 5 to 10 feet underwater and requires strong swimming skills and confidence in confined spaces. Many visitors enjoy diving down to look through the opening without actually swimming through it.​

The Meltemi wind, which affects much of the Cyclades during summer months, has less impact on the Natural Pool because of its protected position within the rocky formation. However, when strong winds do blow, the sea conditions outside the pool opening can become rough, making the underwater tunnel passage more dangerous.​

Sea urchins inhabit the rocky areas around the pool, which is another important reason to wear water shoes when navigating the rocks. The pool itself generally has fewer urchins in the swimming area, but they cluster around the rocky edges and in shallow water near the cliffs.​

Accessibility & Getting There

The Natural Pool is located approximately 900 meters south of Pori Beach along the coastal path. From Chora, the main village and port, the walk takes roughly 45 minutes on foot. From Italida Beach, the pool is just a short 5 to 10 minute walk.​

Most visitors reach Pisina by following the scenic coastal walking trail that connects all the beaches on the eastern side of Ano Koufonisi. The path is well worn but includes rocky sections that require sturdy footwear. Flip flops are not adequate for this hike; proper walking shoes or hiking sandals like Tevas or water shoes work best.​

Another popular option is to cycle or rent a scooter to ride closer to the area, then walk the final coastal section on foot. The island’s roads are mostly flat and in good condition, making cycling pleasant. However, bikes must be left at Pori or Italida beach as the coastal path to Pisina is too rocky for cycling.​

The local boat taxi service provides another convenient transport option. Small boats depart from Koufonisia port every hour from 10am to 8pm, stopping at Finikas, Fanos, Italida, and Pori beaches. A day ticket costs approximately 5 euros per person. Visitors can take the boat to either Italida or Pori beach, then walk along the coastal path to reach Pisina. The boats do not stop directly at the Natural Pool because there is no suitable landing spot.​

A small municipal bus also runs between Chora and Pori Beach several times daily during high season, providing free transport. This option works well for those who want to start their coastal walk from Pori and work their way back toward town, passing Pisina along the way.​

There is no parking directly at the Natural Pool. Visitors who drive or ride scooters can park at Pori Beach, which has a small parking area, then walk back along the coast. The island is extremely small at just 3.5 kilometers from end to end, making cars unnecessary and impractical for most visitors.​

Facilities & Amenities

The Natural Pool has absolutely no facilities or amenities. This includes no sunbeds, no umbrellas, no beach bars, no cafés, no toilets, no changing rooms, and no freshwater showers. Visitors must bring everything they need and carry out all their rubbish.​

Natural shade at the pool is extremely limited. The rock formations provide some shaded spots during certain times of day, particularly in the late afternoon, but for most of the day the area is exposed to full sun. The intense Mediterranean sun combined with the lack of shade makes sun protection absolutely essential.​

The nearest facilities are found at the beaches on either side. Italida Beach, approximately 10 minutes walk away, has no commercial facilities either. Pori Beach, about 15 minutes walk in the other direction, has two tavernas where visitors can get food, drinks, coffee, and use toilets. These tavernas offer some shaded sunbeds in their courtyard areas for customers.​

Visitors should plan to bring water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and possibly a beach umbrella or sun shelter if they plan to spend extended time at the pool. A small dry bag is useful for keeping belongings safe and dry while swimming.​

Activities & Special Features

Cliff jumping is the main attraction at the Natural Pool. The rock formations surrounding the pool provide jumping platforms at various heights, allowing swimmers of different confidence levels to participate. Some jumps are quite low at around 2 to 3 meters, while others reach significantly higher.​

Safety is crucial when cliff jumping here. Visitors should always check the water depth before jumping, never jump alone, and avoid jumping when wind or waves are strong. Local advice emphasizes asking experienced swimmers or locals about safe jumping spots rather than assuming based on what you see on Instagram. The depth can be deceptive in the crystal clear water, and hidden rocks or changing water levels pose real dangers.​

Swimming through the underwater tunnel to the open sea represents the ultimate adventure at Pisina for confident swimmers. This narrow passage requires swimming underwater for several meters, with rock walls on either side and limited visibility of the exit until you are partway through. The experience is thrilling but should only be attempted by strong swimmers who are comfortable in confined underwater spaces. Many visitors dive down to look at the tunnel opening without actually swimming through it, which provides excitement without the same level of risk.​

Snorkeling around the Natural Pool and along the adjacent rocky coastline is excellent. The clear waters allow perfect visibility of the underwater rock formations, small caves, and marine life. Fish are abundant, including colorful Mediterranean species that hide in the rocks and caves. The area features fascinating underwater topography with depth variations, rock formations, and the dramatic tunnel opening.​

Photography opportunities at the Natural Pool are exceptional. The heart shaped appearance of the pool from certain angles, combined with the striking turquoise water against golden rocks and the brilliant blue of the open sea beyond, creates images that look almost artificially enhanced. The best light for photography is typically in the morning or late afternoon when the sun angle enhances the water colors and creates beautiful shadows in the rock formations.​

The peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural beauty make the Natural Pool one of the most romantic spots on Koufonisia. Couples often visit early in the morning or during sunset hours for more privacy and softer light.​

Practical Information

The best time to visit the Natural Pool is early morning, ideally arriving between 8am and 10am. At this time, you may have the pool entirely to yourself or share it with just a few other people. The morning light is beautiful, the water is calm, and the rocks have not yet heated up from the day’s sun.​

Late afternoon, from around 5pm onward, is the second best time. Most day visitors have left by this time, and the softer evening light creates magical conditions for swimming and photography. The rocks provide more natural shade as the sun angle changes.​

Midday and early afternoon tend to be the busiest times, especially during July and August. The pool can feel quite crowded with people taking turns jumping, swimming, and photographing, which reduces the romantic, peaceful atmosphere.​

June and September are the ideal months to visit Koufonisia and the Natural Pool. The weather is warm with water temperatures comfortable for swimming, but tourist numbers are significantly lower than in peak July and August. This balance of good weather and fewer crowds makes these shoulder season months perfect.​

July and August bring the busiest crowds and warmest conditions. The island attracts many repeat visitors who come for weeks long holidays, plus a hip Athens crowd, making it feel quite busy. The Natural Pool specifically can become uncomfortably crowded during peak August afternoons.​

What to bring is straightforward but essential. Water is absolutely necessary because of the intense sun exposure and lack of facilities. Bring at least one liter per person, and preferably more if staying for several hours. Sunscreen with high SPF should be applied frequently as the reflection off the rocks and water intensifies sun exposure.​

Proper footwear is critical. Water shoes or sturdy sandals with good grip are ideal for navigating the rocky terrain and protecting feet from sharp rocks and sea urchins. Many visitors wear their water shoes the entire time, including while swimming, which makes entry and exit much easier and safer.​

A small first aid kit with plasters, antiseptic, and bandages is wise to bring given the rocky environment. Scratches and scrapes from rocks are common, especially when entering and exiting the water.​

Snorkeling gear enhances the experience significantly. While not essential, a mask and snorkel allow proper exploration of the underwater tunnel opening and the marine life around the pool.​

A waterproof bag or dry bag protects your phone, camera, and other valuables while swimming. The pool has no secure storage, so everything must stay with you.​

Safety & Warnings

Sun exposure at the Natural Pool is intense and can be dangerous. The combination of direct Mediterranean sun, reflection off the water, and reflection off the light colored rocks creates extremely high UV exposure. The minimal natural shade means visitors are exposed to full sun for most of their time at the pool.​

Heat exhaustion and sunstroke are real risks, especially during July and August when temperatures exceed 30°C (86°F). Wearing a hat, applying sunscreen every hour, seeking the limited shade when possible, and drinking plenty of water are essential precautions. Some visitors bring a portable sun shelter or beach tent for protection.​

Cliff jumping carries inherent risks that should not be underestimated. Although the Natural Pool is deep enough for jumping in most areas, conditions can change with tides and sea swell. Always check the depth before your first jump, watch where others are jumping, and avoid jumping when waves or strong winds are present. Never dive headfirst unless you are absolutely certain of the depth and have significant diving experience.​

The underwater tunnel passage poses serious dangers. Swimming through requires holding your breath while navigating a confined space with rock walls on both sides. Panic in the tunnel could lead to tragedy. This activity should only be attempted by confident, experienced swimmers who are comfortable in underwater environments. The passage has strong currents at times, and dangerous spots exist on the seabed near the opening.​

Rocky terrain throughout the area means scrapes, cuts, and bruises are common. The rocks are sharp in places and become slippery when wet. Taking care when moving around the pool, especially when entering and exiting the water, prevents many injuries. The natural rock “steps” used to pull yourself out of the water require good upper body strength and careful foot placement.​

Sea urchins inhabit the rocky areas around the pool. These creatures have sharp spines that cause painful puncture wounds if stepped on. Water shoes provide protection, and watching carefully where you place your hands and feet when near rocks reduces the risk of encountering them.​

The Meltemi wind can create dangerous conditions even at this somewhat protected location. When strong northerly winds blow, the sea outside the pool opening becomes rough with strong currents. This makes the underwater tunnel passage extremely dangerous and can create surge conditions that make swimming less safe even inside the pool. Check weather forecasts and local conditions before visiting, and avoid swimming when strong winds are forecast.​

Nudism is naturally accepted at many beaches on Koufonisia, though the Natural Pool is not specifically designated for naturism. Visitors may encounter nude bathers, which is normal and accepted on Greek islands. Conversely, nude bathing at the pool is acceptable if you choose.​

Special Attractions & Nearby Points of Interest

The Devil’s Eye (Mati tou Diavolou) is another dramatic natural formation located closer to Pori Beach, approximately 250 meters beyond the Natural Pool. This cave has an opening to the sea that resembles a heart shape from certain angles. The Devil’s Eye is more difficult to find than Pisina because the entrance is not visible from the coastal path. The cave communicates underground with the sea, and the currents moving the water create atmospheric sounds as waves move through.​

Pori Beach itself, just a 15 minute walk from the Natural Pool, deserves extended time. This beautiful horseshoe shaped bay has golden sand, shallow turquoise waters, and is considered the best beach on Koufonisia by many visitors. The beach is large enough to feel spacious even in summer, and its shape provides good protection from the Meltemi winds. Two tavernas at Pori, including the popular Kalofego restaurant, serve excellent food right on the beach.​

Italida Beach (officially called Platia Pounta) lies in the other direction from Pisina. This smaller, more secluded beach attracts naturists and those seeking a quieter atmosphere. The beach has no facilities, which keeps crowds somewhat smaller than other spots. The crystal clear waters here are particularly striking, with an almost unreal turquoise color.​

Gala Beach, located near Pori, represents another geological wonder. This tiny pebbly beach sits inside a dramatic opening in the rocks where seawater passes through a cave like formation. The beach got its unusual name from the milky color of its waters in certain light. From Pori Beach, Gala is accessible along the coast, though some scrambling over rocks is required.​

Kato Koufonisi, the uninhabited island just south of Ano Koufonisi, makes an excellent day trip. Small boats run from the main port to Kato Koufonisi at 10am, 12pm, 1pm, 3pm, and 5pm. The island has pristine, uncrowded beaches and excellent snorkeling. One taverna operates during summer months. The remote beaches of Nero and Laki on Kato Koufonisi feel like paradise, though visitors must bring water and sun protection as facilities are minimal.​

Chora, the main village, is worth exploration beyond being a base. The charming Cycladic architecture, narrow alleyways with sea views, local shops, and authentic tavernas create a relaxed village atmosphere. The windmill and Church of Agios Georgios sit on the hill above town and offer excellent views.​

The entire eastern coastal path from Chora to Pori and beyond makes a beautiful hike of about 50 minutes one way. The path passes through all the beaches with stunning sea views the entire way. Starting early in the morning and walking the full route, stopping at different beaches and the Natural Pool, creates a perfect Koufonisia day.