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 sound like 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 famous by Hollywood or seek a more family friendly option with restaurants and shops within easy reach, – here is 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 number of international awards. A blue flag beach, the turquoise waters are crystal clear and wonderfully inviting, perfect for a dip. Although this pebbly beach is stunning, it’s not overrun with visitors, still little developed in spite of its fame, with only one snack bar to refresh beachgoers. Families with young children should know that there’s little shade, unless you hire a sun bed, so come along with beach umbrella and water shoes to protect those little feet from some sharp stones. Myrtos beach is also a popular place to catch a romantic sunset.
Where to stay? Take a look at our Fiskardo villas here
Best for things to do: Skala beach
Skala beach is certainly one of Kefalonia’s most loved beaches, a magnet for holiday makers and those who want to make the best of both worlds: a long sandy beach within easy access of dozens of restaurants, shops, cafes and bars along the beach and in Skala’s lively village centre. There are also places here that offer watersports including some 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 coves nearby.
Where to stay: Take a look at our Skala villas here
Best for Hollywood fame: Antisamos beach
Louis de Bernières’ literary hit and 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 worth exploring. It showcases a landscape like no other with shades of green and blue and the vegetation almost reaching the water. 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 easily accessible, so perfect for those who may require some assistance. Its waters are shallow which means it is also 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, thanks 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, Kefalonia Villas with Infinity Pools, off the beaten track, luxury and those for larger groups and multigenerational families.
and then