Swimming fun for all tastes – the most beautiful beaches on Kefalonia
Relaxation on the North Coast: Foki and Emplisi
On the north coast of Kefalonia, near the charming fishing village of Fiskardo (a must-visit!), there are two rather quiet natural beaches. Foki Beach is a mix of pebbles and dry earth, bordered by cypress trees. The water is calm, perfect for snorkelling and swimming. Emplisi Beach is similar: no hustle and bustle; instead, white pebbles and stunning blue water.
Myrtos Beach – the legend
Crystal-clear water, a stunning sand and (mainly) pebble beach right at the foot of a sheer cliff – Myrtos Beach is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It slopes gently down to the water, making it ideal for families with children; sun loungers and parasols are available for hire. Water sports are not permitted, but beach volleyball is often played. A beach bar provides food, drink and toilets.
Caribbean feeling at Petani Beach
Even the winding road to Petani Beach in the bay of the same name is an experience in itself, as every bend offers a great photo opportunity. However, the number of parking spaces is limited. On the fine pebble beach with its clear turquoise water, you can hire sun loungers and parasols, and there are kiosks selling snacks and drinks. Take care when the swell is high; only confident swimmers should venture out.
Quiet days on Fteri Beach
When it gets a bit crowded elsewhere, there’s always a spot free on Fteri beach. This idyllic and secluded beach can only be reached by boat or via a hiking trail (2 kilometres, approx. 30 minutes). Water taxis run from Zola to the beach; they cost around CHF 9 for a return journey. There are no restaurants on the gravel beach. The turquoise water is inviting but the sea becomes deep immediately.
The red sand of Xi
The clean, three-kilometre-long beach on the Paliki Peninsula slopes gently into the water – perfect for families. The beach is surrounded by grey limestone cliffs; the colour of the sandy beach ranges from bright orange to terracotta. There are sun loungers and parasols for hire, many beach bars, cafés and water sports on offer. If things get a bit too lively: Mania Beach is right next door.
Lively beach life at Makris Gialos
Makris Gialos is the most popular beach on the west coast of Kefalonia, near the holiday resort of Lassi. The sand is fine and soft, and there is a wide range of beach bars, sun loungers, water sports and leisure activities on offer. If it gets too lively during the day, you can switch to the neighbouring cove Platis Gialos, which is smaller and quieter.
Golden sand at Avithos Beach
At Avithos Beach, near Svoronata – famous for its crystal-clear water and golden sand – there are two beach bars and plenty of sun loungers. It slopes gently, ideal for families, but bathing shoes are recommended because of the stones in the water. If you’re looking for a bit more peace and quiet, walk past a few rocks to Megali Petra beach.
Crystal-clear visibility on Antisamos Beach
Antisamos Beach, near Sami in the south-east of the island, is located in a sheltered bay. It’s a brilliant place for a dip, a swim and some snorkelling; sailing and diving are also available. Bathing shoes are recommended for the pebble beach; there are beach bars and restaurants, so you can spend a long day at the beach here – and there are a few smaller coves nearby as well.
Skala Beach, the all-rounder
The advantages of the three-kilometre-long sandy beach are obvious: there is a picturesque promenade, sun loungers, bars, changing rooms, restaurants and plenty of leisure activities, including water sports, whilst further south there are also quieter stretches. And if you prefer a bit more solitude, head on to the beautiful sandy beach at Mounda (also known as Kaminia).
Header - Photo by Nikolay N. Antonov on Adobe Stock
Paragraph 1 - Photo by adisa on Adobe Stock
Paragraph 1 - Photo by Mazur Travel on Adobe Stock
Paragraph 2 - Photo by cornholio4ya on Adobe Stock
Paragraph 2 - Photo by MNStudio on Adobe Stock
Paragraph 3 - Photo by pkazmierczak on Adobe Stock
Paragraph 3 - Photo by Igor Tichonow on Getty Images
Paragraph 4 - Photo by Ivan D/Wirestock Creators on Adobe Stock
Paragraph 5 - Photo by SCStock on Adobe Stock
Paragraph 5 - Photo by pavlemarjanovic on Getty Images
Paragraph 6 - Photo by Balate Dorin on Adobe Stock
Paragraph 7 - Photo by Chris Robbins on Alamy Stock Photo
Paragraph 8 - Photo by Hercules Milas on Alamy Stock Photo
Paragraph 9 – Photo by daliu on Adobe Stock
Paragraph 9 – Photo by Steve Bentley on Alamy Stock Photo
