Due to its proximity to Athens, the island is bustling on most weekends and throughout the summer. Hydra is the only island in all of Greece where no cars or motorbikes are allowed. Walking the small back streets only to be disturbed by the sounds of crickets, cicadas, and the occasional laughing donkey is an experience to be cherished in a world full of exhaust spewing vehicles. The small streets of Hydra Town were not built for cars. The narrow and twisting passages were designed with only donkeys and people in mind. Fortunately Hydra, contrary to its name, is a dry, barren rock jutting out of the clear blue waters. It lies just a few miles to the south of the Peloponnesian mainland. It is easily accessible from Porto Heli, on the mainland, or from Athens. Its easy accessibility, along with its reputation as a stylish island, attracts hordes of visitors. Due to the small size of Hydra Town and the strict policies preventing unchecked development, there are not enough hotels to handle the demand. Thus, many people come to Hydra on a day trip from Athens or they book well in advance.The upscale atmosphere of Hydra caters to a wealthy crowd and at night Hydra comes alive. The tavernas are always packed and the walking paths are full of couples strolling in the moonlight. After midnight the bars and clubs around the harbor begin to fill up. There is a full assortment of modern music to choose from but you might have a hard time finding traditional Greek music.