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Kefalonia’s beaches: A Greek island paradise
On the Greek island of Kefalonia, you’ll find some of the Ionian Sea’s most impressive beaches, tucked between white rocky coastlines, green pine groves and turquoise-blue water. Life moves slower here, against a backdrop of wild, untamed scenery, making Kefalonia’s coast the perfect place for a relaxing beach vacation.
From lively seaside resorts to secluded coves, you’ll see the many different sides of Greece’s coastline here. Whether it’s fine sand, smooth pebbles, red cliffs or crystal-clear waters, no two stretches of the coast are quite the same. Alongside well-known spots like Xi Beach with its unusual red sand or the famous Myrtos Beach, you’ll find numerous hidden coves that can only be reached on foot or by boat.
Experience the best beaches in Kefalonia and book your flight at discover-airlines.com.
What’s worth knowing about Kefalonia
Lying west of the Greek mainland, Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian islands. Home to around 36,000 people, the island’s coastline also stretches for more than 200 kilometers (125 miles). Kefalonia has a Mediterranean climate year-round, though May through October is the best time to visit for long days at the beach. During this period, water temperatures hover between 22 and 26 °C (72 and 79 °F) and the island receives near-constant sunshine. In spring and fall, you can expect milder air temperatures between 18 and 25 °C (64 and 77 °F), perfect for relaxing by the coast or taking a peaceful walk along Kefalonia’s sandy beaches.
If you like to keep active while on vacation, Kefalonia also has plenty to offer. Try your hand at kayaking, snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding to see the coast from a different perspective. You’ll also find plenty of well-developed hiking trails along the island’s cliffs, through its forests and up into the hills that are popular with visitors. Head up to Mount Ainos or wander around Myrtos Bay for stunning views of the deep-blue waters of the Ionian Sea.
For a welcome change from the beach, make your way into the island’s interior and visit Drogarati Cave with its large stalactite chamber or the picturesque mountain village of Assos. No trip to the island would be complete without taking in the panoramic views from above Myrtos Bay, easily one of the most spectacular on the entire island.
The best beaches in Kefalonia
How to get the most out of your beach vacation in Kefalonia
To get your vacation off to a stress-free start, do a bit of research before you go and figure out how you’re going to get around the island. Most beaches in Kefalonia are easy to get to by car, but some of the more remote coves are only accessible by gravel roads or on foot. This means it’s worth renting a car if you plan on trying to reach more secluded stretches of coast. You’ll find many rental providers at Argostoli Airport, though prices vary significantly depending on the season. Keep in mind that some roads are narrow and winding, so drive carefully.
If you plan to visit some of the island’s hidden coves, allow yourself a little extra time. Approaching these areas often involves driving over gravel roads or through the mountains, followed by a short walk down to the sea when you get there. Pack sturdy footwear and plan your route carefully. Parking is usually available at most beaches, and it ranges from a small space near the beach to larger lots at more popular stretches. Keep some change on hand, as some parking areas may charge a small fee during peak season.
You get to the larger towns of Argostoli, Lixouri, Skala, or Sami by public bus. Just keep in mind that schedules depend on the season and are much more frequent in summer.
At many beaches in Kefalonia, you can rent sun loungers and umbrellas, and reservations aren’t usually required. Still, it’s a good idea to arrive early in the day during peak season to find a good spot. Take enough sunscreen, towels and drinking water with you, as some of the island’s coves don’t have kiosks or tavernas nearby. Where food and drink options are available, they range from small beach bars to family-run tavernas. If you want to visit more remote coastal areas, take some provisions with you.
Hotels, larger restaurants and supermarkets on Kefalonia accept all major credit and debit cards. In smaller tavernas, beach bars or local markets, however, cash payment is common. You’ll find plenty of ATMs in larger towns on the island, so you can withdraw cash at any time. Tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated, with five to ten percent being customary.
Kefalonia has no shortage of options when it comes to food. In many towns along the coast, you can enjoy fresh fish, salads and a chilled glass of wine, with sweeping views of the sea. Be sure to sample some local specialties such as goat cheese, olive oil, or the famous Robola wine, which is produced right on the island. Many wineries are open to visitors, so you can try the local specialties during your visit.
Keep the local environment in mind while you’re here too. Many beaches on the island are home to rare species, like the Caretta caretta sea turtle. Avoid playing loud music, take all of your trash with you when you leave, and keep an eye out for signs that mark any protected areas.
Book your beach vacation now at discover-airlines.com and get ready to explore the best beaches in Kefalonia!
January
Avg. Temperature:
11°C/14°C
Rainy days per month:
100-200
February
Avg. Temperature:
11°C/14°C
Rainy days per month:
80-140
March
Avg. Temperature:
12°C/15°C
Rainy days per month:
60-120
April
Avg. Temperature:
14°C/17°C
Rainy days per month:
30-80
May
Avg. Temperature:
18°C/21°C
Rainy days per month:
20-50
June
Avg. Temperature:
22°C/25°C
Rainy days per month:
5-20
July
Avg. Temperature:
24°C/27°C
Rainy days per month:
0-5
August
Avg. Temperature:
25°C/28°C
Rainy days per month:
0-10
September
Avg. Temperature:
23°C/26°C
Rainy days per month:
10-40
October
Avg. Temperature:
20°C/22°C
Rainy days per month:
60-120
November
Avg. Temperature:
17°C/19°C
Rainy days per month:
100-170
December
Avg. Temperature:
13°C/16°C
Rainy days per month:
120-200