Spetses became very rich through ship building and maritime trade in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. The grand houses that date from this prosperous period can still be seen around.

The islanders are proud of their maritime heritage and in particular of their most famous daughter, Laskarina Bouboulina, whose statue graces the harbour. Her coffin and bones are displayed in the Chatzi-Giannis Mexis Museum, which takes its name from the former owners of the late eighteenth century mansion and has displays on local history, especially the War of Independence.

There are a number of good beaches, like the one at Agii Anargiri, and quiet villages, making the island a rewarding island to explore.