A Local’s Guide to the 15 Best Beaches in Kefalonia

Kefalonia’s coastline is truly the stuff of legends; indeed, it’s a masterpiece of dramatic white cliffs plunging into seas of impossible turquoise. Having a guide of the best beaches in Kefalonia makes your holidays way more fun and relaxing.

Consequently, its stretches of sand and pebbles rank among the best in the world. But with so many incredible options, how do you find the one that’s perfect for you?

That’s precisely where this guide comes in. Instead of a typical list, we offer a view from the air, using a drone’s perspective to reveal the true character of each beach. Furthermore, this is paired with insider tips you won’t find anywhere else.

Ultimately, we are here to help you find your perfect spot, whether you’re seeking a family-friendly sandy shore, a secluded cove for two, or an iconic landscape for unforgettable photos.

Map of Best Beaches in Kefalonia – Ready for you to explore

To help you plan your adventures, here is a map of our top 15 beaches.

You can see where each one is located in relation to your accommodation and get a feel for the island’s layout.

Best Beaches in Kefalonia: Dramatic Pebble Beaches (The Wild Beauties)

1. Myrtos Beach: The Most Famous Beach in Kefalonia

Myrtos is, without a doubt, the most celebrated beach in Kefalonia and arguably one of the most famous in all of Greece. Unsurprisingly, the first time you see it from the clifftop viewpoint, it will take your breath away.

Definitely part of the best beaches in Kefalonia since its reputation holds strong over the years and have received multiple awards as being a very unique location.

Down below, the sea shifts between a dozen shades of electric blue and turquoise, crashing against a crescent of dazzlingly white pebbles.

Then, when viewed from the air, the scene becomes almost unbelievable—a perfect curve of white nestled between two massive green headlands.

There are 2 viewpoints:

1. Point number 1: Maps location
2. Point number 2: Maps location

Best for: Photography, Breathtaking Views

Surface: White Pebbles

Facilities: Partly-organized (sunbeds/umbrellas in summer), small beach bar

Access: Easy via a winding paved road (drive carefully as for many visitors the road is scary due to the lack of ‘proper’ fences)

Insider Tip: The best photo is from the official viewpoint on the main road heading towards Assos.

Be cautious when swimming here, especially on windy days, as the waves and currents can become powerful.

Always advise the weather forecast before visiting all beaches on this coastline.

2. Petani Beach: A Top Kefalonia Beach for Sunsets

Aptly nicknamed the „Myrtos of the West,” Petani boasts a similarly dramatic setting of towering cliffs and intensely blue water.

Additionally, being located on the Paliki Peninsula means it has earned a reputation as one of the island’s best spots to watch the sunset.

The beach is large enough to find your own space, and as an added bonus, the two tavernas right on the shore are perfect for a meal with a view.

There is one view point for photos: Maps Location

Best for: Sunsets, Scenery

Surface: Pebbles

Facilities: Partly-0rganized with a couple of excellent tavernas (2 tavernas and 1 beach bar)

Access: A steep, winding road with hairpin turns

Parking: There is public parking available but in peak months (July, August) the parking is very limited. There is also a paid parking area near the beach, better arrive early to secure a spot.

Insider Tip: Arrive in the late afternoon to claim a spot, then head to one of the tavernas for a drink or dinner as the sun dips below the horizon. It’s an unforgettable experience. Or wake up early to go and find a parking spot and a sun beds set.

I would depart after 19:00 in the evening to avoid traffic congestion (the road is very narrow in some areas, especially close to the beach, and this might cause traffic jams that can easily ruin 30′ of your holidays).

For those looking to truly explore this area, our complete guide to the 10 best Lixouri beaches is an essential resource for discovering every hidden gem.

3. Antisamos Beach: A Lush Green Kefalonia Beach from the Movies

Famous for its starring role in the film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, Antisamos is a spectacle of natural color.

Here, a lush, green forest plunges directly down the hillside to meet a sea of deep emerald and turquoise.

The water clarity is exceptional, making it one of the best easily accessible beaches for snorkeling right off the shore.

Best for: Scenery, Snorkeling, Beach Bars

Surface: White Pebbles

Facilities: Well-Organized with multiple beach bars, water-sports, and showers

Access: Easy, paved road from the port of Sami (5′ drive)

Insider Tips:

1. While there are several beach clubs, head to the far right end (as you face the sea) for the best snorkeling along the rocks.
2. Also try to bring some wasps spray sometimes due to the lush forest behind the beach wasps can be intimidating, especially if you order juice or food at the beach bars.

4. Fteri Beach: Kefalonia’s Secluded Paradise Beach

Often voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Fteri is a true secluded paradise.

You can easily find information in our latest guide for Fteri beach.

In fact, getting here is an adventure in itself, which is precisely why it remains so pristine and tranquil.

As a reward for the journey, you’ll find a shore of white pebbles and sand framed by magnificent cliffs, meeting water so clear it feels like a natural swimming pool.

Best for: Adventure, Tranquility, Unspoiled Nature

Surface: White Pebbles & Sand

Facilities: None. This is a completely wild beach.

Access: Water taxi from Zola or a challenging 40-60 minute hike.

Insider Tips:

1. The water taxi from Zola harbor is the easiest option, costing around €20-€25 for a return trip.
2. If you choose to hike, use a GPS app like Wikiloc, as the trail isn’t clearly marked.
3. Bring an sun umbrella, cold water and sun-cream.

A very nice beach close to Fteri is called Atheras Beach Kefalonia, find info here.

5. Platia Ammos Beach: Kefalonia’s Wildest & Most Adventurous Beach

This is Kefalonia’s most adventurous and wild beach, a truly spectacular sight for the very few who can reach it. Surrounded by immense cliffs, it has the same epic scale as Myrtos but with a fraction of the visitors.

Important: The 400+ steps leading down to the beach were destroyed in the 2014 earthquake (Update summer 2025).

Therefore the access is now extremely difficult and requires a steep scramble down a crumbling path with the help of ropes. This is not a casual walk and should only be attempted by experienced hikers with proper footwear. If you are not above average fit and careful stepping down a rocky path, please just enjoy the view and leave this beach – or access it via a boat from the beach side.

Best for: Extreme Adventure, Total Seclusion, Nudism (on the coat sides)

Surface: Small Pebbles

Facilities: None. Completely unorganised and isolated.

Access: By boat or via a very difficult, unmarked scramble with ropes.

Insider Tip: Do not attempt the descent unless you are a confident and well-equipped hiker. For most people, the only safe way to see this beach is by private boat. Mobile phone signal is non-existent here. As in most un-organized beaches in Kefalonia -> Bring an sun umbrella, cold water and sun-cream. It’s also 5′ drive from Kipouria Monastery.

6. Foki Beach: A Unique Kefalonia Beach with Natural Shade

Just a short drive from the cosmopolitan village of Fiskardo, Foki is a deep, narrow cove that feels like a secret escape.

It’s unique because the olive and cypress trees grow right down to the water’s edge, offering plenty of natural shade throughout the day. The water is incredibly calm and emerald-green, perfect for a peaceful swim.

Best for: Natural Shade, Proximity to Fiskardo, Calm Waters

Surface: Pebbles

Facilities: None, but a taverna is just across the road.

Access: Very easy, right off the main road.

Insider Tip: There’s a fascinating sea cave at the far end of the bay that you can swim to and explore.

7. Emplisi Beach: A Stunning White Pebble Beach in Kefalonia

Another gem near Fiskardo, Emplisi is a stunning white pebble beach framed by large, flat rock formations on either side that are perfect for sunbathing. The water is crystal clear and deep blue, making it a fantastic spot for a quiet afternoon swim away from the crowds.

Best for: Snorkeling, Sunbathing on Rocks, Natural Beauty

Surface: White Pebbles

Facilities: None. Unorganized.

Access: Easy, a short drive from Fiskardo.

Insider Tip: Emplisi offers beautiful sunset views, making it a great alternative to the more crowded west-coast spots.

8. Vouti Beach: A Relaxing Double-Crescent Beach in Kefalonia

A stunning double-crescent of white pebbles and sand near the village of Zola.

A steep road winds down to this paradise, where you’ll be rewarded with unbelievably blue water and a relaxed vibe. It feels wonderfully secluded but has a small, charming beach bar for essentials.

Best for: Scenery, Relaxed Beach Bar Vibe

Surface: White Pebbles & Sand

Facilities: Partly-Organized with sunbeds and a small beach bar.

Access: A steep, paved road leads down to the beach.

Insider Tip: Locals love this beach, especially on weekends, which is always a good sign. It’s the perfect place to relax after hiking to Fteri or exploring the Zola area.

Best Beaches in Kefalonia: Golden Sandy Beaches (For Families & Relaxation)

When searching for the best beaches in Kefalonia for families and easy relaxation, the island’s golden sandy shores are the perfect answer.

9. Xi Beach: A Unique Red Sand Beach in Kefalonia

Famous for its unique, deep red-orange sand, Xi Beach is unlike any other on the island. The sand has a soft, clay-like texture, and the water is exceptionally shallow and warm, making it a playground for families with young children. There is endless parking space in both beach bars at the beach and plenty of food oprions (mostly Greek traditional and grilled dishes).

Best for: Families with young children, Unique Scenery

Surface: Fine Red-Orange Sand

Facilities: Well-Organized with sunbeds, bars, and watersports.

Access: Easy by car on the Paliki Peninsula.

Insider Tip: Don’t be shy—cover yourself in the grey clay from the surrounding cliffs for a natural, therapeutic skin treatment. Let it dry in the sun before washing it off in the sea.

You can also try the sibling beach of Xi beach, called Mega Lakos check our latest guide here.

10. Skala Beach: Kefalonia’s Quintessential Resort Beach

This is the quintessential resort beach. A seemingly endless 3km stretch of sand and shingle, Skala has something for everyone.

The main sections are bustling with activity, offering full bar service to your sunbed, while quieter corners can be found if you’re willing to walk a bit.

Best for: Amenities, Watersports, Resort Feel

Surface: Sand & Shingle

Facilities: Very well-organized with numerous bars, restaurants, and sunbeds.

Access: Very easy, located directly in Skala town.

Insider Tip: For a more relaxed vibe, head to the far end of the beach towards Poros.

11. Makris Gialos Beach: The Best Beach in Kefalonia for a Lively Vibe

The golden heart of the Lassi resort area, Makris Gialos is one of the most popular and organized beaches on the island.

It’s a beautiful stretch of soft, golden sand with vibrant, clear water and a lively atmosphere.

If you want everything at your fingertips- from watersports to cocktails-this is the place to be.

Best for: Lively Atmosphere, Watersports, Convenience

Surface: Golden Sand

Facilities: Very well-organized with beach bars, sunbeds, and watersports.

Access: Very easy, located in the Lassi resort area.

Insider Tip: This beach gets very busy in high season. Arrive before 10 AM to secure a front-row sunbed.

12.Lourdas Beach: One of the Best Kefalonia Beaches for a Taverna Lunch

Lourdas is a beautiful, long sandy beach backed by a dramatic, lush green hillside. It strikes the perfect balance between natural beauty and convenience, with a fantastic selection of beachfront tavernas offering delicious local food just steps from the sea.

Best for: A Great Lunch with a View, Relaxation

Surface: Sand

Facilities: Well-organized with sunbeds and many tavernas.

Access:  A steep road leads down to the beach.

Insider Tip: Plan to have lunch at one of the tavernas overlooking the water. The view of the bay from your table is just as rewarding as the swim.

13. Avithos Beach: A Kefalonia Beach Loved by Locals

A favorite among locals, this long, narrow sandy beach near the airport has a wonderfully relaxed vibe. It’s backed by low cliffs and has a couple of great tavernas, including one on the cliff above with amazing views.

Best for: Local Vibe, Excellent Food

Surface: Sand

Facilities: Partly-Organized with sunbeds and tavernas.

Access: Easy by car, near Svoronata.

Insider Tip: The restaurant Avithos Preview, located above the beach, serves some of the best calamari on the island.

14. Agia Kiriaki Beach: A Tranquil Beach with a Local Kefalonia Feel

A long, narrow beach of sand and pebbles near Zola, known for its tranquility and authentic, local feel. It’s from the small port in this bay that many water taxis depart for Fteri, but the beach itself is a worthy and much quieter destination.

Best for: Escaping Crowds, Local Feel

Surface: Sand & Pebbles

Facilities: Partly-Organized with a few sunbeds and a small beach bar.

Access: A narrow road leads down to the beach; parking is limited.

Insider Tip: This is the perfect beach to visit if you want a quiet swim away from the main tourist hubs. It offers a glimpse into a more traditional Kefalonian beach day.

15. Platis Gialos Beach: A Relaxed Sandy Beach in Kefalonia’s Lassi Area

Right next to its famous sibling Makris Gialos, Platis Gialos offers the same beautiful golden sand and crystal-clear water but often with a slightly more relaxed atmosphere. It’s fully organized and an excellent choice for families staying in or near the Lassi area.

Best for: Families, Full Amenities, Convenience

Surface: Golden Sand

Facilities: Well-Organized with beach bars, sunbeds, and watersports.

Access: Very easy, located in Lassi, right next to Makris Gialos.

Insider Tip: If Makris Gialos feels too crowded, just walk over to Platis Gialos. You get the same stunning beach with a bit more room to breathe.

Final Thoughts on the list of the Best Beaches in Kefalonia

As you can see from this guide, Kefalonia’s coastline is a treasure trove, and finding the best beach in Kefalonia for your specific taste is part of the adventure.

Use this guide to venture beyond the obvious, find your own piece of paradise, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

 

Extra info and FAQs – Best Beaches in Kefalonia

What is the number one best beach in Kefalonia?

While it’s subjective, Myrtos Beach is internationally recognized as not only the most famous and beautiful beach in Kefalonia but also one of the best in the world for its dramatic scenery and turquoise water.

Which are the best beaches in Kefalonia for families?

For families, the best beaches are typically the sandy, well-organized ones with shallow water. Xi Beach (with its unique red sand), Skala Beach, Makris Gialos, and Platis Gialos are all excellent choices that offer full amenities and a safe environment for children.

Can you visit Kefalonia’s best beaches without a car?

While some beaches near resort areas like Lassi and Skala are accessible on foot or by local bus, renting a car is highly recommended to explore the full range of the **best beaches in Kefalonia**, especially secluded gems like Petani and Fteri.