Peloponnese, Western Greece and the Ionian, Greece

Argostoli Beaches

Overview

Argostoli, the vibrant capital of Kefalonia, serves as an excellent starting point for discovering the island's stunning coastal treasures. While the town itself is a bustling port, the nearby area of Lassi, just a few kilometers away, is where you'll find some of the most popular sandy shores. Visitors often wonder if Argostoli is a good base for a beach holiday, and the answer is a resounding yes, offering easy access to a variety of beautiful beaches renowned for their clear, inviting waters.

Kefalonia is home to some truly iconic stretches of sand, and many are within easy reach of Argostoli. The world-famous Myrtos Beach, with its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters, is a must-see. Closer to town, Makris Gialos Beach in Lassi is a lively hub, perfect for those seeking golden sands and clear, calm swimming conditions. For a unique experience, Xi Beach captivates with its distinctive red sand. Movie buffs will recognize the cinematic scenery of Antisamos Beach, known for its lush green backdrop. Many beaches in the Lassi area, like Makris Gialos and its neighbour Platis Gialos, are particularly well-suited for families due to their gentle waters and soft sand.

Beyond these highlights, Kefalonia's coastline offers a diverse range of beaches to explore, from secluded coves to expansive bays. Whether you're seeking vibrant shores or quieter spots, the island has something to suit every preference. This guide features a longer list of beaches around Argostoli and further afield, ensuring you can find your perfect seaside escape. The clear waters and picturesque landscapes are a common thread, promising memorable days by the Ionian Sea.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Is Argostoli a good base for a beach holiday in Kefalonia?

Yes, Argostoli is an excellent base. While the town itself doesn't have swimming beaches directly in the port, the popular resort of Lassi with its beautiful sandy beaches like Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos is just a few kilometers away and easily accessible. Argostoli offers good amenities, restaurants, and transport links to explore other beaches on the island.

Makris Gialos Beach

Platis Gialos Beach

What are the swimming conditions like at the beaches near Argostoli?

The beaches near Argostoli, particularly in the Lassi area, generally offer excellent swimming conditions with clear, calm, and relatively shallow waters, making them ideal for families. The water is typically warm and inviting, especially from late spring to autumn. Many of these beaches have been awarded Blue Flags for their cleanliness.

When is the best time of year to visit Argostoli for beaches?

The best time for a beach holiday in Argostoli is generally from May to October. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea temperatures are pleasant for swimming, typically ranging from 20°C (68°F) in May and October to 25°C (77°F) or higher in July and August. July and August are the peak months and can be more crowded.

Can you swim in Koutavos Lagoon in Argostoli?

No, Koutavos Lagoon is a protected nature reserve primarily known as a habitat for Caretta-Caretta sea turtles and various bird species. It's a great place for a walk, birdwatching, and spotting turtles, especially in the morning, but it's not designated or suitable for swimming.

Is it better to stay in Argostoli town or Lassi for easy beach access?

If your priority is to be directly on or within very short walking distance of sandy beaches, Lassi is generally a better choice as it's where popular beaches like Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos are located, along with many hotels and tourist facilities. Argostoli offers more town amenities, shops, and a wider range of restaurants, with Lassi's beaches still easily accessible by a short bus, taxi, or car ride, or a longer walk.

Makris Gialos Beach

Platis Gialos Beach

What's the difference between Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos beaches?

Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos are two popular, sandy beaches located next to each other in Lassi, near Argostoli. Makris Gialos ('Long Beach') is larger and generally more organized with more extensive facilities and watersports. Platis Gialos is a natural continuation, often considered slightly quieter, and you can easily walk or swim between the two. Both boast golden sand and clear waters.

Makris Gialos Beach

Platis Gialos Beach

Are there sandy beaches near Argostoli?

Yes, the Lassi area, just a short distance from Argostoli (about 2-3 km), is renowned for its beautiful sandy beaches. Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos are the most famous, offering long stretches of golden sand. Other smaller sandy coves like Gradakia and Paliostafida are also found in Lassi.

Which beaches near Argostoli are best for families with young children?

Beaches in the Lassi area, such as Makris Gialos, Platis Gialos, and Gradakia, are particularly good for families with young children. They offer soft sand, shallow and calm waters, and are generally well-organized with amenities like sunbeds, umbrellas, and nearby snack bars. Avithos beach is also a good option with shallow waters.

How do I get to the beaches in Lassi from Argostoli town?

The beaches in Lassi are about 2-3 km from Argostoli. You can reach them by a 20-40 minute walk, a short taxi ride, by renting a car or scooter, or by using the local public bus service (KTEL) which runs routes connecting Argostoli to Lassi and other parts of the island.

Are sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent at the beaches near Argostoli?

Yes, most of the popular beaches near Argostoli, especially the organized ones in Lassi like Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos, offer sunbeds and umbrellas for rent. Many also have beach bars where you can get refreshments. Some smaller or more secluded coves might have fewer or no facilities.

Makris Gialos Beach

Platis Gialos Beach

Are the beaches near Argostoli usually crowded?

The main beaches in Lassi, like Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos, can get quite busy, especially during the peak season of July and August. However, due to their size, you can usually find a spot. If you prefer quieter beaches, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (May, June, September, October) or exploring some of the smaller coves along the coast towards Fanari or further afield.

Makris Gialos Beach

Platis Gialos Beach

Are there any quiet or hidden beaches near Argostoli?

While the main Lassi beaches are popular, you can find quieter spots. The Fanari coastal road leading from Argostoli has some smaller coves and inlets. For more secluded options, you might need to travel a bit further from Argostoli or explore beaches accessible by boat, like Fteri or Platia Ammos (though Platia Ammos access has varied). Kalamia and Gradakia can sometimes be less crowded than Makris Gialos.

What is the 'Fanari Road' and are there beaches along it?

The Fanari Road (or Lighthouse Road) is a scenic coastal route that stretches from Argostoli towards the Saint Theodore Lighthouse (Fanari) and continues towards Lassi. Along this road, you'll find several small, charming coves and rocky inlets like Kalamia beach, offering quieter alternatives to the larger Lassi beaches. Some are within walking distance from Argostoli.

Kalamia Beach

Is it worth taking the ferry from Argostoli to Lixouri for beaches?

Yes, taking the ferry from Argostoli to Lixouri can be a great option if you want to explore the beaches on the Paliki Peninsula. Lixouri is home to unique beaches like Xi Beach, famous for its red sand and clay cliffs, and the beautiful Petani Beach. The ferry ride itself is quite scenic and takes about 20-30 minutes.

Xi Beach

Paralia Petani

Are there any clothing-optional or nudist-friendly beaches near Argostoli?

While Kefalonia has some beaches where nudism is tolerated, particularly more remote or unorganized ones, there are no officially designated nudist beaches very close to Argostoli or in the main Lassi area. Those seeking such options might need to explore more secluded coves further afield, and discretion is always advised. Official sources do not highlight specific nudist beaches in the immediate Argostoli vicinity.