If we’d known beforehand what fantastic beaches Kefalonia has to offer, we probably would have traveled to this Ionian island ten years earlier. Without exaggerating, Kefalonia is one of the best destinations for a beach vacation in Greece. You’ll find wide sandy beaches in the south, Caribbean-like coves in the west, bright pebble beaches in the east, and dramatic cliffs in the north.
With beach gems like Fteri, Myrtos, Petani, and Xi, the neighboring island of Zakynthos can only pale in envy—and so Kefalonia doesn’t need a rusty shipwreck to delight vacationers. Tom & Ella
For us personally, Kefalonia has more beautiful swimming spots to offer than Zakynthos, which has been celebrated for years for its cliffs. A key advantage of Kefalonia is that the crowds are well spread out in the summer, except at popular spots like Myrtos Beach or Makris Gialos Beach. Now the only question left is: where are the best places to swim on Kefalonia?
Below, we present our selection of the 25 most beautiful Kefalonia beaches:
🏖️ Dream beaches & hidden bays
🍽️ Restaurants, tavernas & cafés
🏛️ Must-see highlights & ancient sites
🗺️ Worthwhile spots & insider tips
🚘 Practical info like rentals & parking
♾️ Lifetime access & updates
Beaches in Southern Kefalonia
Southern Kefalonia is best suited for a beach vacation. Here you’ll find wide sandy beaches, well-organized beach bars, and, for the most part, a gentle slope into the sea. Most vacationers flock to the beaches of Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos around Argostoli and the resort town of Lassi. The beaches of Avithos and Lourdata, located further south, offer a much more relaxed atmosphere. In between, there are still a few hidden coves that are real hidden gems.
#1 Makris Gialos Beach
Makris Gialos, which simply translates to “Long Coast,” is one of Kefalonia’s most popular beaches. This is mainly due to its location right next to the resort town of Lassi, less than three kilometers from the main town of Argostoli. Here, fine, golden sand meets the turquoise-blue sea, and the water gets shallow gradually, making it ideal for families. On the horizon, you can see the southern tip of the Paliki Peninsula and, just off it, the tiny islet of Vardiani.
Starting in June, however, it gets really crowded here, which for us personally is a deal-breaker. To the south lies the smaller Platis Gialos Beach, which has on-site parking but is just as crowded. We didn’t find any truly recommendable waterfront restaurants here. Kalamia Beach, located a bit further north, offers a quieter alternative.
If you’d like to stay near the beach on Kefalonia, you’ll find a wide selection of hotels in Lassi. You can compare and book hotels here*.
#2 Avithos Beach
Just about 4 km southeast of the airport lies Avithos, a truly idyllic stretch of coastline. The approximately 1.2-kilometer-long beach consists of a mix of sand and fine gravel, giving the water a milky-blue hue. In the summer, loggerhead sea turtles even use Avithos Beach as a nesting site; their nests are marked accordingly.
The restaurant To Enetiko, located above the beach, is worth a visit. The Avithos Beach Bar rents out pairs of umbrellas starting at 20 euros, but be prepared for steep drink prices. To the north lies Megali Petra Beach, named after the striking boulder right in the sea. Toward the south, Avithos becomes increasingly pebbly, but it’s still a dream for long beach walks.
🏡 Recommended places to stay near Avithos Beach:
*The links lead to our partner Booking.com*
#3 Amandakis Beach
At Cape Amandakis, a wild, windswept stretch of coastline awaits you—one that’s only accessible at the end of a sprawling villa complex (view on Booking.com*) and is quite difficult to reach. You won’t find a classic beach here, but you’ll discover a natural, rocky swimming area that’s especially photogenic in the evening light.
A small bridge spans a sea channel along the shore, almost like the Canal d’Amour on Corfu. Access to Amandakis Beach is via swimming ladders. The water is crystal clear, and the view of Kefalonia’s south coast and the 1,628-meter-high Mount Ainos is simply heavenly. There are only a few parking spots at the cape, but that’s what makes this spot a true Kefalonia hidden gem!
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#4 Pessada Beach
Pessada is a scattered settlement in southern Kefalonia, where several small coves—all known collectively as Paralia Pessada—await independent explorers. They feature fine sand and are framed by sandstone cliffs about 20 meters high, with wild bamboo and maquis growing in between. By the way, from Pessada you can even take a ferry to Zakynthos, to the port of Agios Nikolaos—ideal for a spontaneous day trip.
→ We’ll tell you everything you need to know about the neighboring island of Zakynthos in this post: Zakynthos Highlights
#5 Agios Thomas Beach
To the east, just 2 kilometers away as the crow flies, lies the neighboring bay called Agios Thomas. But please don’t rely on Google Maps here—the dirt roads are terrible, so it’s better to head back to the main road. Agios Thomas Beach is especially popular with locals, particularly on weekends, because the shoreline slopes very gently, making it ideal for children.
The main beach itself is fairly narrow, but there are several natural swimming platforms with cave-like pools for swimming, snorkeling, and diving in. The rustic Taverna Gallini serves fresh fish and octopus there every day. Above the beach, the Agios Thomas Chapel makes for a great photo opportunity, though unfortunately the chapel is always locked. The parking lot is also located here; there are no parking spaces directly on the beach.
🏡 Recommended place to stay near Avithos Beach:
#6 Lourdata Beach
Lourdata is one of our personal favorite beaches on Kefalonia. It’s actually a kilometer-long stretch of coastline that winds gently along the foothills of Mount Ainos. Large sections consist of coarse sand or fine gravel, and the entry into the water is relatively shallow. The western section is called Kanali Beach and is more natural, while the eastern part is known as Lourdata Beach.
Lourdata Beach offers the best tourist infrastructure you could ask for. Thanks to its spacious layout, everyone can still find a quiet spot here even in the height of summer—as long as you can do without beach bars. There are plenty of those here; for the evening, the Sunset Beach Bar is especially worth a visit, where you can enjoy the sunset with a cool drink.
#7 Koroni Beach
Koroni Beach is a fairly secluded beach between Lourdata and Skala. Getting there is a bit of an adventure, as the access road is steep and bumpy over gravel, and parking spots right by the sea are scarce. The beach bar, Islazul Beach Bar, rents out umbrellas and serves drinks and snacks. Although the sea here is quite rough and drops off quickly, the scenery—with the swell and the green cliffs—is truly picturesque.
Kefalonia’s Eastern Beaches
From the southeastern cape of Kefalonia near the resort town of Skala, through Sami, all the way to Agia Efimia, stretches a hilly coastline that is largely densely forested. The beaches in eastern Kefalonia are all pebbly—sometimes colorful and fine, sometimes white and quite coarse. Among the most popular beaches are Skala Beach and Paralia Antisamos. The latter, however, is completely overcrowded in the summer.
#8 Skala Beach
Skala Beach, located in the resort of the same name, stretches an impressive 5 kilometers. Despite its popularity, it only gets really crowded where beach bars and restaurants rent out lounge chairs; in between, there are plenty of open spots. The beach has fine, colorful pebbles, but the sea drops off quite steeply, so keep a close eye on the kids. For a relaxing afternoon, we recommend the Ammos Beach Bar & Restaurant—the food isn’t exactly cheap, but it’s really delicious.
Just a few kilometers south of Skala, loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) regularly lay their eggs on the beaches of Mounda Bay during the summer. Among other spots, the unspoiled Paralia Kaminia is frequently visited by the mother turtles. Please give marked nests a wide berth, do not place beach umbrellas in the rear section of the beach, and refrain from using flashlights on the beach at night. You can learn more about responsible behavior in our article on the Zakynthos turtles.
#9 Kako Lagadi Beach
About 5 kilometers south of the resort town of Poros lies this hidden beach gem below the main road to Skala. You can only reach Kako Lagadi Beach via a short hike; the path isn’t exactly easy to find, as a farmer has put up a fence with “No Trespassing” signs here. Once you reach the bottom, you’ll find grottoes carved out by the sea and smooth, rounded rocks, with lush greenery growing all around—a bit like Thailand.
If the scramble is too much for you, just drive a little further north to Limenia Beach, which lies right off the road to Poros—though that’s hardly a bother here. You’ll find gray gravel and small offshore rocks that look like mushrooms in the sea. This stretch isn’t managed by anyone, but it’s very peaceful—we visited it several times during our trip to Kefalonia. The area around the rocks is great for snorkeling.
Poros is a good place to stay if you’re looking for a quieter base in the southeast or are arriving by ferry to Kefalonia. You can compare and book hotels here*.
#10 Antisamos Beach
Just 4 kilometers outside the coastal town of Sami lies one of Kefalonia’s most popular beaches. Nestled among lush green hills, the bay shimmers in a stunning emerald green. Antisamos Beach, you’re so beautiful—but really only when viewed from above! We must have been there at the wrong time, because it was incredibly crowded here at the end of June.
Two large beach clubs cater to party-loving vacationers with beach entertainment and nonstop music; the parking lots were packed to the brim, and there was no trace left of the idyllic atmosphere of yesteryear. We found a free spot toward the back; up front, everything was packed with umbrellas starting at 35 euros. For a drink after swimming, we recommend the Antisamos Beach Bar, which still exudes the charm of days gone by, with its wooden veranda and tavern-like atmosphere.
🏡 Recommended places to stay near Antisamos Beach:
#11 Agia Paraskevi Beach
On the drive from Sami to Agia Efimia, you’ll find this lovely stretch of beach with light-colored pebbles—a feature typical of the neighboring island of Ithaca, which, fittingly, lies right off the coast here. Agia Paraskevi Beach is rarely crowded, and the water is wonderfully clear. Sun loungers start at 20 euros per set.
You can treat yourself to a drink at the Exile All Day Bar, but for a meal, you’re better off driving on to Agia Efimia or Sami, where you’ll get more for your money. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, you should stop by Lithovatis Beach on the outskirts of Agia Efimia. This small pebble beach is very popular with locals; it’s truly idyllic, and with its rocks, it’s a great spot for snorkeling.
#12 Chorgota Beach
Chorgota Beach is located on the steep northeastern coast of Kefalonia, far from the tourist hotspots. Very few Kefalonia vacationers make it here, but eager explorers can expect plenty of peace and unspoiled beauty. The journey itself is an adventure—traveling along the mountain road from Agia Efimia through the picturesque mountain villages of Neo Chori and Komitata, with sweeping views of Ithaca.
Chorgota itself is an unmanaged pebble beach, frequently visited by goats and popular with sailors due to its sheltered location. The beach served as a filming location for the movie Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, starring Nicolas Cage and Penélope Cruz. To get in the mood for a vacation in Kefalonia, check out Stephen Warbeck’s soundtrack, featuring the title track “Chorgota Beach.”
A little further north lies Agia Sofia Beach, with a few charming summer houses by the sea and Stavroula’s Taverna—a true hidden gem on Kefalonia. This family-run establishment is open only in the summer; you’ll receive a warm welcome and enjoy authentic food at unbeatable prices. A real hidden gem for explorers!
To explore Kefalonia’s lesser-known beaches, it’s worth renting a car during your vacation. You can compare rental cars here*.
Kefalonia’s Northern Beaches
Between Myrtos, Assos, and Fiskardo, the island reveals its most dramatic side. The beaches in northern Kefalonia are surrounded by steep cliffs that plunge almost vertically into the turquoise-blue sea. The drive along the scenic road is an experience in itself, with winding roads leading down to the few accessible coves. Independent travelers seek out swimming spots that are either accessible only on foot or not listed in all guidebooks.
#13 Fiskardo Beaches
Between Agia Sofia and Fiskardo in the north, there are hardly any accessible beaches; most coves are reserved for sailors. Near Fiskardo itself, there’s another swimming spot: the popular Paralia Emplisi, about a 20-minute walk from the village. For us personally, however, it was too crowded and the parking situation was chaotic—nothing but maneuvering and waiting for oncoming cars.
Emplisi might still be worth visiting during the off-season. Alternatively, head to the beaches of Kimilia and Paralia Dafnoudi in the far north, which are only accessible by hike. From a gravel parking lot, it’s about a 10-minute walk through a cypress forest to Dafnoudi Beach. The beach is narrow, has no beach operator, and—unless you visit on the weekend—is truly a quiet spot.
Fiskardo offers the most expensive—but also the most stylish accommodations on Kefalonia. You can compare and book hotels here*.
#14 Alaties Beach
Although Alaties Beach is really tiny, it’s one of the most popular swimming spots in northern Kefalonia, likely due to its stunning backdrop. A narrow strip of sand is framed here by gray, rugged cliffs, and the sea shimmers in an almost Caribbean-like hue. Sunbathing spots are scarce, however, so many beachgoers make do by lying on flat rocks along the shore.
If you explore the rocky landscape a bit, you’ll find small natural pools right on the shore further west. Above the beach, the Alati All Day Bar & Restaurant serves delicious food and cool drinks all day long. At sunset, it becomes the place to be in the north of the island.
🏡 Recommended places to stay near Alaties Beach:
#15 Assos Beach
The small pebble beach in the picturesque coastal village of Assos may not be the ultimate swimming paradise, but the setting—with colorful little houses in the background and the sheltered cove—is simply cool. In the summer, the village beach gets pretty crowded during the day, but once the day-trippers have left, peace and quiet returns to Assos Beach, making it a great spot to relax.
In Assos itself, there are only a few, but very beautiful accommodations with a view of Assos Bay. You can compare and book hotels here*.
#16 Myrtos Beach
Myrtos is Kefalonia’s most popular beach, though it’s less about swimming and more about capturing the perfect photo. Depending on the swell, the sea here shimmers from crystal-clear turquoise when the water is calm to a milky, murky blue when there’s a strong breeze. The beach, which is a good 800 meters wide, consists mostly of gravel—coarse near the shore and almost like coarse sand further back.
When there’s no wind, Myrtos is a great place to swim and relax, but when the wind reaches force 3 or 4, fairly high waves roll into the bay. If the red flag is flying, you shouldn’t go in the water because of the rip current. The beach isn’t operated by a private company; the municipality provides umbrellas, but you’ll need to bring everything else yourself. It’s about a 45-minute drive from Argostoli to this popular tourist destination, and nearly an hour and a half from Skala.
🏡 Recommended places to stay near Myrtos Beach:
- Myrtos Breeze*
- Myrtia Villas*
- Myrtia Apartments* (tried and tested—we loved it!)
#17 Agia Kiriaki
The cliffs in northern Kefalonia offer only a few spots for swimming; one of them is located in the coastal hamlet of Agia Kiriaki. Agia Kiriaki Bay is easy to reach and largely unspoiled—we really enjoyed our time there. The eastern section is wide enough that everyone can find their own spot. Two beach bars (Tip: Super Paradise Beach Bar) at Agia Kiriaki Beach serve drinks and snacks and rent out sun loungers in sets starting at 12 euros.
West of the village of Agia Kiriaki lies Vouti Beach, which stands out for its location at the foot of the cliffs. However, it’s largely dominated by two beach restaurants, and during our visit, it was plagued by floating trash due to a current coming from the north.
🏡 Recommended places to stay near Vouti Beach:
#18 Fteri Beach
Fteri Beach, along with Myrtos Beach, is consistently ranked among the most beautiful beaches in Greece—and even the world—every year. It’s accessible only by boat—a water taxi from Agia Kiriaki costs around 20 euros per person in 2026, with limited seating—or on foot via a roughly 45-minute hike. This hike is manageable if you’re in good shape—even our 5.5-year-old daughter managed it with sturdy shoes.
Fteri is a true dream beach of Kefalonia. White cliffs rise up in the background, and the extremely bright gravel is so dazzling in the sunshine that the full beauty of the beach is almost impossible to take in. Every day, numerous sailboats and tour boats dock here, so it gets quite crowded around lunchtime.
If you’d rather explore Fteri Beach from the water, you’ll find suitable boat tours along Kefalonia’s rugged coastline. You can book the tour here*.
Beaches in Western Kefalonia
The beaches in western Kefalonia are diverse and never overcrowded, even in summer. Among the most popular swimming spots are Xi, Petani, and Atheras Beach. Especially in the south of the Paliki Peninsula, the sand shimmers an unusual shade of red, and behind it, meter-high gray clay cliffs tower overhead. Due to its exposed location, strong winds often blow here, making the sea significantly rougher than in other parts of Kefalonia.
#19 Atheras Beach
Paralia Atheras is one of the most beautiful beaches on the Paliki Peninsula, the western arm of Kefalonia. It’s located in the far northwest, not far from the farming village of Atheras, and is very popular with locals. We visited here over the weekend, and half of Lixouri was there—everyone and their dog.
→ We’ll share the best tips and most beautiful Kefalonia highlights with you in this post: Kefalonia Sights
Two solid restaurants cater to your culinary needs. Atheras Beach itself is narrow, which is why everyone brings their own umbrella. The big bonus of Atheras is the shallow entry—you can walk out into the sea up to your hips for a good 50 meters, making it a great swimming spot for kids.
#20 Petani Beach
Petani Beach is one of Kefalonia’s most popular beaches, located on the far western tip of the island. Even the drive there is an adventure, winding down several switchbacks to the sparkling blue sea. The beach consists of light-colored, fine gravel; the two family-friendly restaurants, Erasmias and Ksouras, serve hungry beachgoers delicious Greek and international cuisine, and sun loungers are available starting at 16 euros.
The southern section is perfect for a stroll along the beach; at the end, an old, cobblestone path leads dizzyingly up the cliffs. The only downside is the parking situation—it’s usually packed by noon. Alternatively, there are private parking spots for 10 euros per day. The northern section is called Foteinoi Beach; it’s much quieter and a great spot for snorkeling or kayaking.
🏡 Recommended places to stay near Petani Beach:
#21 Agia Eleni Beach
Agia Eleni is a small cove within sight of Petani Beach, but much harder to reach. From the village of Damoulianata, the trail winds its way halfway across the hinterland; the final stretch to the beach is narrow and leads down a dangerously steep slope. Parking spaces were recently added at Agia Eleni Beach, though there is no operator; instead, you’ll find plenty of peace and quiet and a bizarre rocky backdrop.
After a long day of swimming on the west coast of Kefalonia, it’s worth stopping by a traditional taverna like Ladokolla stin Plagia or Mezedopholia. Both establishments open in the afternoon and offer delicious Greek cuisine at fair prices, along with a generous dose of hospitality.
⚠️ Paralia Platia Ammos: Also located on the west coast of the Paliki Peninsula is the idyllic beach of Platia Ammos. It is officially closed because part of the path collapsed years ago and the cliffs are prone to spontaneous landslides. Please do not attempt the descent—the rocks are brittle and the path is dangerous. Instead, enjoy the heavenly view from above rather than ending up in heaven—literally—due to carelessness.
#22 Paralia Vatsa
Vatsa Beach is one of our favorites on the Paliki Peninsula; although it’s quite small, it exudes plenty of charm. Getting there along narrow country roads can be a bit confusing; rely more on your instincts and the signs for Agios Nikolaos Vatsa than on your GPS. The sand has a slightly reddish tint, and the entry into the sea is shallow; occasionally, some seaweed washes ashore.
At the beautifully decorated Vatsa Beach Restaurant, which has tables set up right on the beach, you’ll enjoy a good meal, albeit at somewhat upscale prices. Right next to the beach, the Vatsa River flows into the sea, where ducks and turtles clearly feel right at home. The lush green landscape with the river and the red sand could just as easily be in Darwin in northern Australia. The only thing missing is a crocodile in the river. 🙂
🏡 Recommended places to stay near Paralia Vatsa:
#23 Kounopetra Beach
Nearly the entire southern coast of the Paliki Peninsula is lined with a rocky landscape of gray claystone. Curiously, however, the sand here is reddish in color, because as the clay minerals weather, iron is released, giving the sand its characteristic red hue. Nestled in the shadow of the famous Xi Beach lies Kounopetra Beach, where we enjoyed a leisurely swim on several occasions.
The clay is said to have healing properties, which is why you’ll see people everywhere here smearing the water-soaked mineral onto their bodies—a true natural spa experience. Be careful—the clay cliffs are very porous and can collapse at any moment, so don’t lie directly beneath them; it’s life-threatening. Not far from the beach, there’s another curious phenomenon to marvel at: the Kounopetra—literally, the “wobbly rock”—where a boulder sways back and forth in the sea.
#24 Xi Beach
Xi Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches on Kefalonia—or should we say, was? The coastline has since eroded significantly, and the once-wide, rust-red sandy beach has shrunk considerably in recent years. Winter storms are cited as the cause, but if you look closely, you’ll also notice the ongoing construction boom along the coast, which is increasingly encroaching on the beach landscape.
It’s a shame, really! You can enjoy the nearly untouched scenery of red sand and gray clay cliffs at Koutala Beach, Mania Beach, or Kounopetra. Nevertheless, Xi Beach is perfect for hours-long walks along the shore and a relaxing beach holiday on Kefalonia.
🏡 Recommended places to stay near Xi Beach:
#25 Paralia Megas Lakkos
Megas Lakkos Beach is a true haven of relaxation, especially popular among locals. Here, too, you’ll find rust-colored sand, but the beach is really wide and the coastline is largely unspoiled. Depending on the current, however, there can be quite high waves; the water gets deep quickly, but building sandcastles with the kids is always a fun option. The Cantina Sun & Salt serves light snacks and cold drinks, and you can rent two lounge chairs starting at 10 euros.
Kefalonia Boat Tours
If you explore Kefalonia only from land, you’ll miss out on a lot, because many of the most beautiful bays between Assos and Myrtos—as well as the wild coastline in the north around Fiskardo—are best experienced from the water. Sunset excursions that include dinner are especially lovely. You can check availability and prices for boat tours through our partner GetYourGuide*:
➲ See all boat tours in Kefalonia*
🗺️ Find tours in Kefalonia
Boats also depart from the port of Argostoli offering excursions with swimming stops and preparing the fresh catch right on board—an authentic experience away from the typical tourist boats.
→ You can find many more tips for Kefalonia here in this overview: Ionian Islands Blog
FAQs About Kefalonia’s Beaches
Which beach on Kefalonia is the most beautiful?
That’s a matter of personal taste, of course, but for us personally, Myrtos Beach stands out—even if it’s more of a photo spot than a cozy swimming beach. For a relaxing day by the sea, we almost prefer Lourdata, Petani, and Kounopetra.
Which beaches in Kefalonia are suitable for families with children?
There are many child-friendly beaches on Kefalonia, spread across the entire island. When we think of shallow beaches, we recall swimming stops at Makris Gialos, Avithos, Agios Thomas, and Atheras. There, the shoreline slopes gently into the sea, making it ideal for splashing around.
Do I need a rental car on Kefalonia?
Yes, you definitely need a rental car to explore Kefalonia’s beaches. Many of the most beautiful beaches, such as Fteri, Chorgota, or Amandakis, are off the beaten path—often at the end of narrow dirt roads—and are nearly impossible to reach without your own car.
What’s the difference between the beaches in the north and south of Kefalonia?
The south boasts wide, well-organized sandy beaches and a gentle slope into the sea. The north, on the other hand, is wilder, with dramatic cliffs, pebble beaches, and stronger surf.
Are there nude beaches on Kefalonia?
There are only a few official nude beaches on Kefalonia, including Sísia Beach Nude and Crocodile Beach Nude. However, in quieter, secluded coves like Chorgota or Agia Eleni, people sometimes swim topless or nude in certain spots—just pay attention to the local atmosphere.
Which beaches on Kefalonia are the quietest?
For peace and quiet, you should head to more hidden coves like Kako Lagadi, Chorgota, Agia Eleni, or Amandakis. Very few day-trippers make it there, since even getting there is a bit of a challenge.
Are there beaches with red sand on Kefalonia?
Yes, especially on the Paliki Peninsula in the west. Xi Beach, Kounopetra, and Megas Lakkos are known for their unusually red to orange-colored sand, caused by iron-rich clay minerals in the surrounding cliffs.
How do I get to Fteri Beach?
Either by water taxi from Agia Kiriaki for about 20 euros per person, or on foot via a roughly 45-minute hike. Sturdy shoes are a must; the hike is manageable for anyone who is experienced with hiking and in good physical condition.
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