Kefalonia Beaches: The 5+1 Best beaches for Your Summer Holiday
Follow me Kefalonia guide Follow me kefalonia video Introduction The island of Kefalonia is one of the most popular summer destinations for thousands of visitors, as it combines lush green landscapes with deep blue, crystal-clear waters, picturesque coastal villages, and natural attractions of rare beauty in a setting that is simply magical. From secluded coves […]
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Introduction
The island of Kefalonia is one of the most popular summer destinations for thousands of visitors, as it combines lush green landscapes with deep blue, crystal-clear waters, picturesque coastal villages, and natural attractions of rare beauty in a setting that is simply magical. From secluded coves with turquoise waters to organized beaches with golden sand and easy access, the island offers options for every type of beach experience you may want to enjoy your holiday.
At the top of the list is the famous Myrtos, while for many the best beach on the island is Petani. Some are captivated by the secluded beach of Fteri, while others never give up on Emblisi, a small bay next to Fiskardo, which for them is a true earthly paradise.
Kefalonia has countless beautiful beaches; here we have gathered the 6 best, aiming to help you discover not only the most famous ones but also those that hide their own unique magic.
Below you will find some of the best beaches in Kefalonia
Myrtos Beach
myrtos beach video
One of the most famous beaches in the world is located in Kefalonia. Myrtos, the postcard-like beach with its deep blue crystal-clear waters and white pebbles, appears in major international lists as a must-see destination.
It is located in the northern part of the island and is only 40 minutes from Argostoli, while the closest village is Divarata. Surrounded by tall, steep cliffs, the beach shelters its intense turquoise waters, creating an impressive view from above that will leave you speechless when you see it for the first time. The beach stretches for over 800 meters. Part of it is organized, while the rest is free, ideal for those seeking peace within the wild natural beauty of the landscape.
Bring your umbrella or sunshade, as there is no natural shade. It is recommended to arrive early in the morning to find a good spot and stay until sunset to enjoy the unique sunset experience.
On the right side of the beach there is a famous cave, while for those seeking action there is the possibility of paragliding, an experience that raises adrenaline and offers an incredible view from above.
If you are visiting with family, it is important to know that the sea deepens relatively quickly and often has waves or currents, so extra caution is needed especially with small children. However, if you are a couple looking for a romantic atmosphere, the beach is an ideal choice. Our suggestion is to stay here for an unforgettable, impressive sunset.
Pro tip: Even if you choose to spend your day elsewhere, make sure that at sunset you are at a spot where the view of Myrtos from above is clearly visible. That view at that time is truly magical.
Petani Beach
petanoi beach video
On the western coast of Kefalonia, about 15 kilometers northwest of Lixouri, Petani Beach unfolds like a natural work of art that constantly changes shape depending on the light and weather. It is no coincidence that many call it the “twin of Myrtos,” as it shares the same striking wild beauty but with easier access and a quieter atmosphere.
As you descend the winding road toward the coast, the landscape suddenly reveals itself before you. Steep cliffs, green hills, and the endless blue of the Ionian Sea compose a scene that feels almost cinematic. It is one of those moments when the view stops you without you even realizing it.
The beach is not just blue. It is a palette of constantly shifting colors: deep blue, turquoise, and transparent shades that break in the sunlight. The white pebbles and natural rock formations complete a landscape that is almost exotic, like natural sculptures shaped by time and the sea.
Petani is ideal for cliff jumping, swimming, and snorkeling, especially in the clearest and deepest part of the beach, where the seabed reveals all its beauty. At the same time, the area offers organized facilities such as sunbeds and tavernas, making the experience more comfortable for visitors.
However, the beach also has its wild side. Strong winds often affect it and can make the sea rough, so caution is needed, especially for families with small children. On calmer days, though, Petani becomes one of the most impressive and peaceful destinations on the island.
Ideal for sunsets, relaxation, and connection with nature, Petani Beach is not just another summer destination. It is an experience that stays with you, like an image that returns again and again to every visitor’s memory.
Xi Beach
Xi beach video
Xi Beach is another fantastic alternative option for those vacationing in Kefalonia. It is a beach that resembles a natural palette of vivid colors, between the reddish-orange sand and the clear waters with shades of green and blue.
Known for its unique appearance, Xi Beach is located on the Paliki peninsula, just 8 kilometers from Lixouri. The strong contrast of colors places it among the most impressive beaches on the island.
Unlike most beaches on the island, Xi does not have white pebbles but fine red sand, while the white clay cliffs surrounding it provide natural mud, which many visitors use as a free natural spa for face and body.
For families visiting Kefalonia, Xi Beach is an ideal choice, as its shallow, warm, and usually calm waters make it particularly safe for children. Most of the beach is organized, with beach bars, sunbeds, umbrellas, and water sports options, covering the needs of both children and adults. At the same time, there is also free space for those who prefer a quieter experience. Easy road access and available parking further enhance its popularity.
A good idea is to stay until sunset and enjoy it, with the sun “diving” into the sea and the shades of red and blue creating an impressive scene.
Compared to wilder and more imposing beaches on the island, such as Petani or Myrtos, Xi Beach offers a calmer and more family-friendly experience, combining natural beauty with comfort and easy access.
It is therefore an ideal choice for those seeking a different side of Kefalonia without sacrificing basic tourist infrastructure.
Fteri Beach
Ftery beach video
Fteri Beach remains even today one of the most impressively magical and “hidden” beaches of Kefalonia, known for its wild natural landscape and turquoise waters. It is located on the northwestern side of the island, near the village of Zola.
It stands out for its white pebbles and crystal-clear, blue-green waters, while it is surrounded by tall white limestone cliffs and dense vegetation that reaches almost to the shoreline. This impressive scenery creates an exotic landscape that enchants every visitor. It has rightly been voted by The Guardian as one of the 40 best beaches in Europe, while in 2025 it was also ranked among the world’s top beaches (Top 50), achieving a high position. Many consider it the most beautiful beach in Kefalonia.
The white pebbled beach resembles a scene from an exotic advertisement. In the area you will find limestone slabs with natural holes and small caves, some of which offer natural shade. A short distance from the shore, a rocky formation creates an impressive natural arch connecting the two sides of the bay.
For the more adventurous, there are spots for impressive cliff jumps, while the area is suitable for swimming and exploring caves. Alternatively, you can simply relax and enjoy the unique landscape.
The white steep cliffs surrounding the beach make it relatively inaccessible, keeping it quiet and non-touristic. Access is either via a long hiking path of about 45–50 minutes of moderate difficulty, with the return requiring more endurance, or alternatively by boat from the port of Agia Kyriaki. The beach is not organized, so bring water, snacks, and necessary equipment. At the same time, boat trips are organized that include stops at nearby beaches and caves accessible only by sea.
Fteri Beach, hidden among steep white cliffs and lush greenery, is a small natural “treasure” of the Ionian Sea that rewards every visitor with unique images and absolute serenity.
Antisamos Beach
Antisamos beach video
Antisamos is for many the most impressive beach in Kefalonia, even compared to the famous Myrtos. Its waters stand out thanks to their dazzling color, with intense shades that change from green in the shallow areas to deep blue as you move away from the shore, blending with the endless green hills that surround it and create a tropical paradise.
It is located on the eastern side of the island, about 30 kilometers from Argostoli, near Sami. It is easily accessible by road, while the route from Sami is enjoyable for nature lovers as it passes through lush landscapes with pine forests and offers unique views of the mountain-sea combination. Many stop to take photos or enjoy the view from specially designed viewpoints.
The beach has coarse pebbles and is located in a natural, enclosed cove surrounded by two green capes. Across the water, Ithaca is visible, completing a landscape of strong natural contrast between green and blue. The coarse pebbles allow you to sit comfortably by the waves and enjoy the view toward Ithaca, the endless blue of the Ionian Sea, and the lush pine forest backdrop.
The beach is fully organized, with umbrellas, sunbeds, beach bars, and water sports options. During the summer months it gets quite busy, so it is recommended to arrive early for a quieter experience. Access is easy, with a nearby parking area. It is ideal for families, couples, or those who love natural color contrasts.
The beach became internationally famous through the film “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin,” as it was a key filming location.
This is Antisamos: a seaside paradise in Kefalonia. So lay down your towel and relax, try snorkeling or enjoy water sports.
If you are also interested in hiking, near the beach you will find the Monastery of Panagia at Agrilia, from where the view toward the strait between Kefalonia and Ithaca is striking. It is also worth asking for directions to the (now abandoned) Monastery of Agioi Fanentes, which is nearby and offers another beautiful experience in the natural landscape.
Skala Beach
Skala beach video
During your holiday on the island of Kefalonia, treat yourself to a swim or a relaxing day at Skala Beach. If you are considering visiting, know that it is an option that will not disappoint you!
Skala Beach is one of the most well-known beaches in Kefalonia. Its large extent, exceeding 5 kilometers, creates the feeling of an “endless” beach, while the turquoise waters and green pine trees compose a beautiful natural landscape.
The shore is sandy and gradually turns into white pebbles as it approaches the sea, offering space both for those who want to enjoy the summer sun relaxing on their towel away from crowds, and for those seeking a more organized experience, as it offers plenty of beach bars and water sports options along the coastline. Do not miss the opportunity to go diving and enjoy the clear crystal waters of the area.
Skala Beach is easily accessible by car; ideally, arrive early in the morning to easily find parking.
🔎 Bonus beach – A lesser-known option
Platia ammos beach video
Just after Petani Beach and the Monastery of Kipouria, near the village of Kaminarata on the Paliki peninsula, there is another impressive beach of Kefalonia. Platia Ammos Beach is about 1 hour from Argostoli and just a few minutes from the town of Lixouri.
At Platia Ammos, nature remains raw and imposing. It is one of the wildest and at the same time most impressive beaches of Kefalonia, surrounded by large white cliffs combined with deep blue waters and a long shoreline of fine pebbles. Hidden at the foot of a massive cliff, it reveals itself as a landscape of wild beauty, impressing with the contrast of the imposing rock embracing it and the endless shore and crystal-clear waters that compose an experience of isolation and freedom.
The clear waters, the endless blue, and the extensive sandy beach with fine white sand that changes color, turning golden as it interacts with the sun, create a destination not for everyone but for those seeking something more authentic and unspoiled.
While in the past access to the beach was via stairs—about 400 steps that had to be descended and mainly climbed—after the 2014 earthquake and subsequent landslides, the stairs collapsed and some ropes were added for descent. For greater safety, we recommend visiting the beach by boat, combining it with another nearby beach as a day trip.
Platia Ammos stands out as a destination for nature lovers seeking contact with nature and tranquility. The silence with a view of the endless blue landscape and the feeling of isolation create a scene of authentic and at the same time wild beauty that enchants everyone, proving it to be one of the most untouched beaches on the island.
Platia Ammos is ideal for couples or groups who wish to isolate themselves and enjoy the wild beauty of the island in its most authentic form. It is not considered suitable for small children, both due to the difficult access and because the waters deepen quickly and abruptly. Also, if it is very windy or there are large waves, it is better to avoid swimming, as currents can be strong and dangerous.
The beach is considered one of the well-known ones, yet it remains secluded and has no organization whatsoever—there are no sunbeds or beach bars. If you wish to visit, bring all necessary supplies such as water, food, and equipment to ensure shade. This lack of infrastructure and facilities makes the beach…
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