Kefalonia is one of the gems of the Greek Islands, with emerald waters, blue skies and the most beautiful beaches. The coastal area of the island of Kefalonia is 254 km, with about 40 spectacular beaches, many of which are blue flag. Among the largest, picturesque and clean in all of Greece. And after our glorious trip, we will share 12 of the best beaches you don’t want to miss in Kefalonia.

To North offers an unspoiled coastline, picturesque evergreen scenery, small bays, and shingle and pebble beaches, dominated by crystal clear water. It provides a true paradise of beautiful bays, ideal for snorkelling. Which shimmers in every shade from deep blue to aquamarine.

The west coast has sheer cliffs that plunge to sun-bleached coves, kissed by waters in unfathomable shades of blue and a few breathtaking scenic sandy beaches.

12 of the Best Beaches in Kefalonia you Don’t Want to Miss

1. Myrtos Beach – Kefalonia Beaches

Myrtos Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Kefalonia, Greece, in the northwestern part of the island. Known for its stunning natural beauty, the beach is surrounded by cliffs that rise to 300 meters above sea level. This creates a dramatic backdrop for the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea.

The beach is a long crescent stretch of white pebbles and shingles that slopes steeply into the sea. The water is deep and calm, a popular swimming, snorkelling, and diving spot. The beach is also popular with sunbathers and is an excellent spot for soaking up the sun and relaxing.

Myrtos Beach is a well-organized beach where you can purchase time on sun loungers and umbrellas. There are several tavernas and cafes nearby where visitors can grab a bite or a refreshing drink. The beach is accessible by car or boat, and parking facilities are available.

 Myrtos Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Kefalonia, as it offers breathtaking scenery and a truly unforgettable experience.

2. Petani Beach – Best Beaches in Kefalonia

Petani Beach is one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches in Kefalonia, Greece’s western coast. It’s known for its turquoise waters, golden sand, and stunning natural surroundings. Surrounded by cliffs 100 meters above sea level, the beach provides a dramatic backdrop for the crystal-clear Ionian Sea.

Petani Beach is a long, crescent-shaped beach that slopes gently into the water, making it an excellent spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach has sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent. There are also several tavernas and cafes nearby where visitors can enjoy a meal or a refreshing drink.

One of the highlights of Petani Beach is its stunning views. The beach offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and cliffs and the nearby island of Lixouri. Visitors can also take a short walk to the top of the cliffs for even more breathtaking views.

Petani Beach is relatively secluded; visiting early or late in the afternoon is best to avoid crowds. It’s accessible by car or boat, and parking facilities are available.

3. Alaties Beach – Kefalonia Beaches

Alaties Beach is a stunning, secluded beach located on the northwestern coast of Kefalonia island in Greece, near the village of Antipata. Characterised by its crystal-clear turquoise waters, the beach offers impressive rock formations, providing a unique and picturesque scenery. The beach is not very large but has a small tavern serving drinks and snacks.

The restaurant prides itself on sourcing ingredients locally; its food is freshly cooked with high-quality ingredients. The restaurant serves various Greek and Mediterranean dishes, including fresh seafood, meat dishes, salads, and vegetarian options. The pitta is exceptional.

With a relaxed, casual atmosphere, Alaties Restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating options. The outdoor terrace provides a lovely setting for a meal, with a stunning view of the sea and beach below—book to ensure a table.

The waters at Alaties Beach are perfect for swimming and snorkelling, and the beach is generally less crowded than some of the more popular beaches on the island.

Access to the beach is via a steep and winding road that may be challenging to drive for some, but once you reach the beach, you will be rewarded with an incredible view.

Overall, Alaties Beach is an excellent spot for those looking to escape crowds and enjoy a peaceful day on a beautiful, secluded beach.

4. Emblisi Beach – Best Beaches in Kefalonia

Emblisi Beach is a beautiful, secluded beach located on the northern coast of the island of Kefalonia in Greece. The beach is 8 kilometres from Fiskardo and is easily reached by car or on foot.

Emblisi Beach, best known for the crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand. This is surrounded by lush green vegetation. The beach is protected from the wind, making it an excellent spot for swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing. Thus one of the more relaxing beaches in Kefalonia.

The beach has no facilities, so visitors should bring their supplies, including food and water. However, there are several tavernas and cafes in  Fiskardo where you can grab a bite to eat or drink.

Emblisi Beach is relatively quiet, and its remote location and tranquil atmosphere make it a great place to relax and unwind. If you’re looking for a quiet, picturesque beach away from the crowds, Emblisi Beach is worth a visit.

5. Xi Beach – Kefalonia Beaches

Xi Beach is a unique and picturesque beach on Kefalonia’s southern coast, on the Paliki peninsula’s tip. Known for its red sand and clay cliffs, which provide a stunning contrast against the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea.

The beach is long and narrow, with soft red sand that slopes gently into the water. The water is calm and shallow, making it a popular spot for families with young children. The beach has sun loungers and umbrellas available for rent. Plus also several beach bars and tavernas for refreshments.

One of the unique features of Xi Beach is the red clay cliffs surrounding it. Use the clay to create natural mud masks, which have therapeutic properties for the skin. It’s a fun and relaxing activity for visitors of all ages.

Xi Beach is easily accessible by car, and parking facilities are available. It’s a popular destination that gets crowded during the peak summer months. However, there is plenty of space on the beach to spread out and enjoy the stunning surroundings.

6. Antisamos Beach – Best Beaches in Kefalonia

This beautiful beach is located on the east coast of Kefalonia, just north of Argostoli, surrounded by lush greenery. The crystal-clear water and the beach have sun loungers and umbrellas available.

Antisamos Beach offers a wide range of water activities for visitors to enjoy. The crystal-clear waters and calm conditions make it an excellent spot for swimming, snorkelling, and diving.

Snorkelling is a popular activity at Antisamos beach, as the water is clear and teeming with marine life. Visitors can rent snorkelling gear from one of the nearby shops or bring their equipment.

Diving is also popular at Antisamos Beach, with several nearby diving centres. Visitors can take diving lessons, rent equipment, and explore the underwater world of Kefalonia.

Kayaking and paddleboarding are other popular water activities at Antisamos Beach. Visitors can rent kayaks or paddleboards and explore the coast, enjoying the stunning natural scenery and crystal-clear waters.

Several water sports are available at Antisamos Beach for those looking for more excitement, including jet skiing, water skiing, and wakeboarding.

7. Skala Beach – Kefalonia Beaches

Skala Beach is located in the village of Skala on the southern coast of the island of Kefalonia in Greece. It is one of the island’s most popular and extensive beaches, known for its clear waters, fine white sand, and stunning views.

Skala Beach is about 3 kilometres long and offers plenty of space for visitors to relax and enjoy the sun and sea. It is well-organized, with sun loungers and umbrellas available for rent, and there are several beachside tavernas, cafes, and bars where you can grab a drink or a bite to eat.

The beach is also a popular spot for watersports, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and snorkelling. The sea is generally calm and ideal for swimming, but strong currents and waves can occur during windy days.

Skala Beach is easily accessible by car or public transportation, and ample parking is available nearby. It’s also within walking distance from the village of Skala, where you can find a range of shops, restaurants, and accommodation options.

8. Horgota Beach

If you have a sense of déjà vu when you see Horgota, it’s likely because you recognise it from the film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin. This untamed and rocky coastline instantly became one of the most popular beaches in Kefalonia after being featured in the movie.

Offering shade and a peaceful atmosphere. Horgota’s shoreline is adorned with lush vegetation and pine trees that almost touch the serene green-blue water. Whether you unwind here all day or venture to the nearby Agia Sofia beach, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the abandoned houses that line the shore. Accessing Horgota Beach is convenient and hassle-free, as it is easily reachable by road. 

You won’t find any readily available amenities, so bring supplies. This unspoiled stretch of coastline remains blissfully untouched, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature without the distractions of modern conveniences. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and embrace the simplicity of the surroundings.

9. Foki Beach -Kefalonia Beaches

Nestled along the serene east coast of Kefalonia, Foki Beach is a hidden gem that offers a truly tranquil and picturesque coastal experience. As you approach this secluded paradise, you’ll be greeted by the enchanting sight of olive trees surrounding the beach, creating a natural and rustic ambience.

Foki Beach is renowned for its crystal-clear waters. Thus inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its refreshing embrace. The transparency of the sea allows for excellent visibility, making it a prime location for snorkelling enthusiasts. The calm and gentle waves make swimming enjoyable and relaxing, providing a respite from the summer heat. Explore the underwater world and witness the vibrant marine life in these pristine waters.

For those seeking an adventurous twist, Foki Beach offers an exciting opportunity for rock jumping. As you explore the rocky formations that frame the beach, you’ll discover ideal spots for leaping into the clear blue sea. The adrenaline rush and sense of freedom that comes with plunging into the refreshing water is an experience that will be etched into your memory forever.

10. Fteri Beach – Best Beaches in Kefalonia

Fteri Beach presents a scene reminiscent of a captivating exotic sunscreen commercial. Nestled within a broad, semicircular bay, this pristine beach boasts a striking combination of fine white pebbles. The shoreline is adorned with massive limestone cliff faces adorned with intriguing caves and punctuated by holes, some of which provide welcome shade on sunny days. Right in the heart of the beach, a natural archway formed by a section of the cliff face connects both sides, adding an enchanting element to the picturesque setting.

Adventure awaits at Fteri Beach, as several rocky outcrops entice visitors to take exhilarating leaps into the inviting sea below. The opportunity to dive into crystal-clear waters and explore the underwater caves adds an element of excitement for those seeking underwater exploration. Swim around and discover the hidden wonders nestled beneath the surface, marvelling at the untouched beauty of the marine world. Alternatively, you can find a comfortable spot on the beach, soak up the sun, and relish the breathtaking surroundings.

Access to Fteri Beach is exclusively available by boat from Zolas Port near Agia Kyriaki Beach. Embark on a short yet scenic boat ride, marvelling at the captivating coastal views as you reach this hidden gem. The journey adds to the sense of adventure and discovery, enhancing the anticipation of getting to the pristine shores of Fteri Beach.

11. Makris Gialos Beach – Kefalonia Beaches

Suppose you’re seeking a serene or adventurous beach experience, Makris Gialos and its neighbouring beach, Platis Gialos. These two beaches have established themselves as the gold standard, offering a range of activities to suit every preference. The sand and crystalline waters create an irresistible allure that draws visitors far and wide. They are the ultimate destinations for your beach holiday soft yellow sandy in Kefalonia.

Makris Gialos, adorned with fluffy golden sand, is a beach that exemplifies excellence. Separated from the road by a border of pine trees, it provides a natural barrier that adds to the tranquillity and seclusion of the beach. Here, you’ll find a wealth of amenities to enhance your beach experience.

There is no shortage of comfort from sunbeds and umbrellas. For those seeking relaxation to beach bars where you can savour refreshing drinks and snacks. Makris Gialos offers various water sports activities for those seeking a more active day at the beach to get their adrenaline pumping and create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re travelling with family or friends, Makris Gialos caters to all ages and interests, ensuring that everyone can have a memorable time.

Accessible by road, reaching these extraordinary beaches is a convenient and straightforward. 

12. Avithos Beach – Best Beaches in Kefalonia

Avithos Beach is located near Argostoli on the south coast of Kefalonia. It’s a stunning coastal gem that will captivate you from the moment you set foot on its fine golden sands and gaze at the crystal-clear blue waters. This beach’s beauty is so remarkable that you might wonder why we saved it for last. But rest assured that there is no hierarchical order regarding the best beaches in Kefalonia.

Avithos Beach is embraced by lush greenery stretching down the hillsides, creating a harmonious blend of nature and seaside splendour. The amenities provided at Avithos Beach make it a popular choice for families. The shallow waters offer children a safe and enjoyable swimming experience, adding to the beach’s family-friendly appeal. Sunbeds and umbrellas ensure comfort and convenience as you soak up the sun and enjoy the beach.

Avithos Beach caters to your every need. When hunger strikes, you can indulge in delicious Greek cuisine at tavernas and snack bars where you’ll find near. Plus, quench your thirst with refreshing beverages. Ensuring you can spend the entire day relaxing. As the day draws to a close, be sure to stay and witness the breathtaking sunset, a reward for those who choose to linger on this remarkable stretch of coastline.

It is important to note that Avithos Beach is a nesting ground for sea turtles to nest. As you enjoy this picturesque beach, please tread carefully and respect the nesting areas to preserve the natural habitat of these magnificent creatures.

Kefalonia Beaches Conclusion

In conclusion, Kefalonia offers a diverse array of breathtaking beaches. Each beach has a unique charm, from the tranquil Foki Beach to the thrilling Fteri Beach. Makris Gialos sets the standard for beach holidays with its amenities and pristine beauty. Avithos Beach, near Argostoli, provides a family-friendly atmosphere with stunning sunsets. Take advantage of the nearby gem, Ai Helis Beach. Pack your sunscreen and prepare for an unforgettable beach experience in Kefalonia.