Elafonisos, a small island located in the prefecture of Laconia and the southern edge of the Peloponnese, is characterized by unparalleled natural treasure, a rare natural beauty, a special flora and fauna and breathtaking beaches. The local cuisine based on fish and local production, shapes the culture of the people and the character of the place. Elafonisos has its own taste and unique way of cooking.
On the west side of Elafonisos, in Kato Nisi area, opposite of the coast of Mani, we find the beach of Panagia. It is a long sandy beach with turquoise waters, which contains rare dunes and a forest of sea cedars. The beach is known for its famous uninhibited islands, which are called Casela, Prasonisi, and Lefto, that surround and protect it. Overlooking the crystal-clear waters and white sand of the beautiful beach is the church of Panagia Katonisiotissas, a sacred symbol of the Katonisiotes people.
The church of Panagia along with the beach and the islands, constitute a unique laconic landscape by combining the imposing topography with the peaceful nature of the area. On the south side of the island, in the area of Lefki, opposite of the Kythira, lies the famous beach of Simos. It is made up of fine white sand and dunes that reach almost 10 meters in height. The Sarakiniko bay is separated into two shores: the bay of the Saracens, the long beach on the right, and the bay of Frangos, the small beach on the left. The forest of sea cedars covers the length of the area and connects the two beaches.