Is Kefalonia a good destination for a beach holiday?
Yes, Kefalonia is an excellent destination for a beach holiday. The island boasts a stunning variety of beaches, from the world-famous Myrtos with its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters to long sandy stretches perfect for families, and secluded pebbly coves ideal for snorkeling. You'll find both organized beaches with amenities and wild, natural shores.
What's the best time of year to visit Kefalonia for beaches?
The best time for a beach holiday in Kefalonia is generally from late May to early October. June and September offer a great balance of warm, sunny weather, pleasant sea temperatures ideal for swimming (21-27°C), and fewer crowds than the peak months of July and August. July and August are the hottest and busiest, with sea temperatures at their peak.
Are Kefalonia's beaches mostly sandy or pebbly?
Kefalonia offers a mix of both sandy and pebbly beaches. You can find popular sandy beaches like Makris Gialos and Lourdas in the south, known for being family-friendly. Other famous beaches like Myrtos and Antisamos are predominantly pebbly. Many beaches in the north, near Fiskardo, are also pebbly. It's a good idea to check the specific beach you plan to visit; water shoes can be useful for pebbly shores.
Do I need to rent a car to explore the beaches in Kefalonia?
Renting a car is highly recommended to explore Kefalonia's diverse beaches effectively. While some beaches near popular resorts might be accessible by local buses or on foot, many of the island's most beautiful and secluded coves are best reached with your own transport. The island is quite large, and a car offers the flexibility to discover hidden gems at your own pace.
Which part of Kefalonia is best to stay for easy beach access?
The best area depends on your preferences. Lassi, near Argostoli, is popular for its access to organized sandy beaches like Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos. The south coast resorts like Skala and Lourdas offer long, family-friendly beaches. For picturesque coves and a more upscale feel, Fiskardo in the north provides access to beaches like Emblisi and Foki, though these are often pebbly. Renting a car will give you the best access to all beaches regardless of where you stay.
Are the beaches in Kefalonia suitable for families with children?
Yes, Kefalonia has many beaches that are great for families. Beaches like Lourdas, Skala, Makris Gialos, and Xi are popular choices due to their sandy shores, shallow and calm waters, and organized facilities. Some beaches, like Myrtos, can have steeper drop-offs and stronger currents, so they might be less suitable for very young children, especially on windy days.
What are the swimming conditions like at Myrtos beach?
Myrtos beach is renowned for its stunning beauty and clear turquoise waters, which are generally great for swimming. However, it's important to be aware that the beach is exposed to the open sea, and when it's windy, there can be strong waves and undercurrents. The seabed also deepens quite quickly. It's advisable to only swim when the water is calm and to pay attention to any safety warnings.
Are there many organized beaches with sunbeds and umbrellas in Kefalonia?
Kefalonia has a good mix of organized, partly-organized, and completely natural beaches. Popular beaches like Makris Gialos, Skala, Lourdas, and Antisamos are well-organized with sunbeds, umbrellas, and beach bars. Myrtos also has facilities, though sometimes these are set up later in the season. However, there are also many secluded coves and quieter beaches with no facilities, perfect for those seeking a more natural experience.
Can you find quiet, less crowded beaches in Kefalonia?
Yes, despite its popularity, Kefalonia has many quiet and less crowded beaches, especially if you have a car and are willing to explore. Beaches like Foki, Emblisi (outside peak times), and some of the smaller coves along the coast, particularly those accessible by dirt tracks or boat, offer more seclusion. Even on popular stretches, walking further along the beach can often lead to quieter spots.
What is the water temperature like for swimming in Kefalonia?
The sea temperature in Kefalonia is pleasant for swimming from late May to October. In May, it's around 18-21°C (64-70°F). During the peak summer months of June, July, and August, the water is warmest, typically ranging from 22°C to 27°C (72-81°F). September still offers warm waters, around 24-26°C (75-79°F). Outside these months, it can be too cold for comfortable swimming for most people.
Are there any beaches in Kefalonia known for turtle spotting?
Yes, some beaches in southern Kefalonia, particularly Mounda Beach (near Skala) and Kaminia Beach, are known as nesting sites for the Caretta caretta (loggerhead) sea turtles. While spotting adult turtles can be a matter of luck, you might see protected nesting areas on these beaches, especially during the nesting and hatching season (typically May to August). It's crucial to respect these sites and keep a distance.
What's special about Xi beach and its red sand?
Xi beach, located on the Paliki peninsula, is famous for its unique reddish-brown sand and the surrounding grey clay cliffs. The shallow waters make it family-friendly. Many visitors enjoy covering themselves in the clay from the cliffs, which is believed to have therapeutic properties for the skin. The beach is well-organized with amenities.
Are Kefalonia's beaches generally windy?
Kefalonia can experience some wind, particularly on its west coast where beaches like Myrtos are more exposed. The prevailing summer winds in the Ionian islands are generally northwesterly (Maistros), which can sometimes create waves. However, the island has many sheltered coves and beaches, especially on the south and east coasts, or within deep bays, that remain calm. Wind conditions can vary daily.
Which beaches are good for snorkeling in Kefalonia?
Kefalonia offers several good snorkeling spots due to its clear waters and rocky coastlines. Beaches like Foki, Emblisi, and Kako Lagadi are often recommended. Many smaller, pebbly coves, particularly in the north around Fiskardo or along the east coast, can provide excellent snorkeling opportunities with interesting marine life. Generally, calmer, rockier areas tend to be better than large, sandy, and wavy beaches.
Are there any nudist-friendly beaches in Kefalonia?
While there are no officially designated nudist beaches in Kefalonia, there are some more secluded beaches or parts of longer beaches where naturism is sometimes practiced discreetly. These tend to be more remote and less organized. It's always advisable to be respectful of local customs and other beachgoers. Some online resources and forums may mention specific coves, but official information is scarce.
