Beach, harbor and history give Palaia Fokaia its distinctive character. There is a small theater at the picturesque harbor; a small rocky cove lies at the northern end of Thimari Beach. In summer, swimming and water sports are among the activities. A hiking trail leads from the beach to Prophet Elias in the Sounio area. The history of the Phocaeans also inspired Ilias Venezis to write his novel “Galini.” If you choose a destination based on the activities you might enjoy, coast, hiking and culture come together here.

Cove, beach and summer activities

A small rocky cove lies at the northern end of Thimari Beach. It is not visible from the road—a specific landmark to keep in mind if you are looking for the cove. Fine white pebbles and sand are part of its character, as is its turquoise water. It is a good place to relax, picnic and swim. In summer, swimming and water sports are among the activities in Palaia Fokaia. If you are planning a summer-focused trip, this seasonal note is as relevant as the cove itself.

Hiking trail and harbor

A hiking trail leads from the beach to Prophet Elias in the Sounio area. The destination gives the walk a specific landmark and sets it apart from a stay focused entirely on the beach and water. If you would like to explore on foot as well as enjoy the coast, the trail offers a distinct focus. A second, shorter cultural highlight is at the picturesque harbor of Palaia Fokaia: there is a small theater there. The harbor and its theater are attractions in the town, while the hiking trail leads to a named destination in the Sounio area.

Phocaean history and “Galini”

Phocaean refugees were driven from their homeland in 1914 and again in 1922; many settled in the area. The expulsion of the Phocaeans and their settlement in their new homeland inspired Ilias Venezis to write his novel “Galini,” published in 1939. The two earlier dates relate to the expulsions, while 1939 marks the later literary reference. This offers a way to explore the cultural side of Palaia Fokaia through a story of expulsion, settlement and literary interpretation. If you are looking for a cultural connection beyond the small theater at the harbor, the novel offers a specific point of reference.

Thimari and the surrounding area

The settlement of Thimari is located near Palaia Fokaia. From its hillsides, there are views of the Saronic Gulf, green spaces and beaches. Unlike the small cove, the focus here is not on one particular stretch of shoreline, but on a view that brings together the gulf, greenery and beach landscapes. If you take the scenery into account alongside coastal activities when choosing a destination, Thimari offers another perspective. The view from the hillsides thus complements the beach and harbor attractions with a panorama of the surrounding area.

Discover more destinations: Varnavas, Kalyvia Thorikou, Rafina, Artemida, Koropi, Drafi, Porto Rafti, Vravrona

For the main travel overview: East Attica.