Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian group of islands and is arguably one of the most beautiful. Small, with just a two-hour drive between Skala in the south to Fiscardo in the north, means you are never far from some of the most beautiful beaches in the entire Mediterranean, not just Greece and although it may be a cliché, there really is something for everyone.
Whether you’re wanting to escape the crowds on a beach flanked by forest, visit a beach made Hollywood famous or seek a more family friendly option where there’s restaurants and shops within easy reach, here’s the best of Kefalonia, north, south, east and west.
Enjoy!
Best for nature lovers: Myrtos beach
Arguably one of the most photographed beaches in the whole of the Mediterranean, not just Kefalonia, this long, crescent shaped beach is backed by a soaring, forested cliff and has won a clutch of international awards. A blue flag beach, the turquoise waters are crystal clear and inviting, perfect for a dip. Although this pebbly beach is stunning, it’s not overrun with visitors, is pretty much undeveloped with only a snack bar to refresh beachgoers. Families with young children should know that there’s little shade, so come with beach umbrella and beach shoes to protect from those pebbles. Myrtos beach is also a popular place to catch a romantic sunset.
Where to stay? Take a look at our Fiskardo villas here
Skala, KefaloniaBest for things to do: Skala beach
Skala beach may not be the most beautiful in Kefalonia but it’s certainly one of its most popular, a magnet for package holiday makers and those who want to make the best of both worlds: a beach, but also one within easy access of dozens of restaurants, shops, bars of Skala’s lively town. There’s also places here which offer watersports such as jet ski’s or banana boats to keep older kids and the young at heart more than happy! Skala is also a great base to explore other, quieter and more beautiful beaches nearby.
Where to stay: Take a look at our Skala villas here
Kefalonia – An IntroductionBest for Hollywood fame: Antisamos beach
Louis de Bernières’ literary hit and then later Hollywood production of ‘Captain Corelli’s Mandolin’ sealed Antisamos’ place as a Kefalonia must-visit. This stunning beach has been awarded the blue flag, and it is located a few kilometres away from the port of Sami, which is also great to explore. It showcases a landscape like no other with colours of green and blue and the vegetation almost reaches into the sea. We recommend arriving early and hiking up to the Monastery of Agrillon for the best views, before cooling off with a dip.
Where to stay? Take a look at our Sami villas here
Best for all-day fun: Petani beach
Situated in the north-west of the Paliki peninsula, about 20 kilometres from Argostoli, you’ll find Petani beach. Whilst the fine white pebble Petani beach is similar to Myrtos, with the same blue-flag beach status Petani beach is more developed with everything you need for a day of fun: sunbeds, canteens and restaurants. The beach shelves quite steeply into the clear waters, which parents should be aware of, but where better to enjoy a cocktail or coffee whist admiring the sunset? The beach is easily accessible by a well-worn beach path.
Best for accessibility: Xi beach
This beach, located in the southwest of the island, is considered an exception compared to other beaches of Kefalonia, simply because it doesn’t have deep waters or steep cliffs. As a result, it’s extremely accessible, so perfect for those who may require some assistance. Its waters are shallow which means it a lot safer for children to swim. The highlight of this beach is its unique and impressive red sand. Due to the clay composition, you can even enjoy a free and natural spa session, due to its cleansing effects on the skin! The beach is perfect for those who love water sports too, since it offers a large variety of activities, from jet skiing to parasailing.
Want to know more? Take a look at our Kefalonia Travel Guide, for everything you need to know about more beaches, best tavernas, island attractions and island life in general. Alternatively, take a look at all or Kefalonia villas here, from those with pools, off the beaten track, luxury and those for larger groups and multigenerational families.