The Saronic Gulf is sheltered from the meltemi wind and offers ideal sailing conditions with a reliable afternoon breeze. The wind is generally from the south, gusting from 3 -5 and dying down at night. Athens is the starting point for exploring the Saronic Islands, with the islands of Aegina, Poros, Hydra and Spestus easily accessible from the capital. Distances between the islands are not great, but the islands have pebble beaches and are popular weekend getaways from Athens' city apartments.