Creek Islands?

We will be in Athens in September and want to do a day trip to one of the islands, maybe sleep over and return the following day. Which one will be best and best method getting there? I have this picture of white houses against the slopes, with blue-blue water surrounding it ;-)

Creek islands? What are these? Never heard of them.

However if you are going to visit the Greek island your best bet is to take a ferry from Piraeus. For one night sleep over you'll have to visit one of the nearest islands and the best fit to the image you have in your mind is either Hydra, Speches or Popos. You can go to Kea, Andros or Naxos but you'll have to catch a ferry from Lavrio or Rafina.

I recommend Hydra, you can be there from Piraeus in one, one and a half hour with a fast ferry.

The type of islands you mention are in the Cyclades. You go there either by ferry or by plane. If you take the ferry, you should choose an island that is not very far, if you are going for only one day. Also choose a high-speed ferry. You could go to Myconos, Andros, Syros or Paros, which are not so far by high-speed. If you decide to go to Santorini, it's best to take the plane.

Hi Kimon is correct - however the names are Hydra Spetses and Poros - they are some of the close islands to Pireaus.

The white houses can be found on Mykonos / santorini / Paros etc too far to do in one day. Hydra and Spetses (both prettier than Poros - but Poros was my fav when living in Athens, I like the nightlife) are lovely too but not white washed tiny houses!
http://www.spetsesdirect.com/
for Spetses

http://www.hydra.com.gr/
HYDRA
No cars!!!! Only Donkeys!

Personally I think Hydra would be my choice by normal car ferry so you get to see other islands (slow - but an experience) - you can always come back the quick way on the flying dolphin! (Hydrofoil)

The first trip I did while island hopping was from Rafina (direct bus from Athens) over to Andros. It was truely beautiful and everything was walkable. The locals have their own swimming bays with crystal clear waters just opposite where they live, but anyone can use them actually (on the sea front).The harbour spans a great length and accom is plentiful. Ferries are accessable to and from the island- just make sure you pick an early morning ferry to get maximum time there.