Peloponnese, Western Greece and the Ionian, Greece

Razáta Beaches

Overview

Razáta, nestled inland in Kefalonia, serves as a tranquil gateway to some of Greece's most breathtaking coastal scenery. While not directly on the water, its central location makes it an excellent base for exploring the island's renowned beaches. Kefalonia itself is a premier beach destination, celebrated for a stunning variety of shores, from expansive sandy stretches to picturesque pebbly coves, ensuring every visitor finds their perfect spot.

Among the island's treasures are iconic spots like the world-famous Myrtos Beach, with its dramatic cliffs and vibrant turquoise waters. For a more lively atmosphere near Argostoli, Makris Gialos Beach offers golden sands. The cinematic beauty of Antisamos Beach, framed by lush greenery, provides another unforgettable experience, while the secluded paradise of Fteri Beach awaits those seeking an unspoiled escape, typically reached by boat. Many other beautiful beaches, such as the popular Skala Beach known for its long sandy expanse, are also waiting to be discovered in our detailed guide.

Kefalonia truly caters to all preferences, whether you seek the vibrant energy of organized beaches or the tranquility of hidden gems. The island's crystal-clear waters are consistently inviting, making it an ideal choice for a memorable beach holiday. With Razáta as your starting point, a captivating journey through diverse coastal landscapes is just a short drive away, promising new discoveries around every corner.

Top Beaches

FAQ

What are the closest beaches to Razáta and how do I get there?

Razáta is an inland village, so you'll need to travel a bit to reach the coast. The nearest beaches are around Argostoli, approximately 7-10 km away. Beaches like Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos in the Lassi area are popular choices and are about a 10-15 minute drive. To explore these and other beaches around Kefalonia from Razáta, renting a car is highly recommended as public transport to more remote beaches can be limited.

Makris Gialos Beach

Platis Gialos Beach

Is Kefalonia (staying in Razáta) a good destination for a beach holiday?

Yes, Kefalonia is renowned for its stunning beaches and makes an excellent beach holiday destination. Staying in Razáta provides a central, quieter base away from the main tourist throngs, yet it's close enough to Argostoli and a short drive from many beautiful south-coast beaches. It's ideal if you prefer a mix of local village life with easy access to diverse coastal experiences, from famous organized beaches to more secluded coves.

What kind of beaches can I expect in Kefalonia – sandy or pebbly?

Kefalonia offers a diverse range of beaches. You'll find both long, sandy stretches, particularly on the southern coast (like Makris Gialos, Skala, Lourdas), and stunning pebbly coves, especially in the north and east (like Myrtos and Antisamos). Some beaches offer a mix of sand and fine pebbles. It's best to check specific beaches you plan to visit if you have a strong preference.

What's the best time of year to visit Kefalonia for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in Kefalonia is generally from late May to early October. June to August offer the hottest weather and warmest sea temperatures, but are also the busiest months. May, September, and early October provide pleasant warm weather, warm seas suitable for swimming, and fewer crowds.

Is it better to stay near a specific beach or in a central location like Razáta/Argostoli to explore Kefalonia's beaches?

This depends on your preference. Staying near a specific beach (e.g., in Lassi, Skala, Lourdas) offers immediate beach access but might limit easy exploration of the whole island. Staying in a more central location like Razáta (near Argostoli) provides a good base to explore beaches in various parts of Kefalonia with a rental car, offering a mix of local life and convenient access to the capital's amenities. Razáta itself is about a 10-15 minute drive to the nearest beaches in Lassi.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Can you swim in the sea in Kefalonia in May or October?

Yes, you can typically swim in Kefalonia in both May and October. In May, sea temperatures average around 18-21°C (64-69°F), which some might find cool but is generally comfortable for swimming, especially towards the end of the month. In October, the sea is still warm from the summer, with average temperatures around 22-23°C (72-73°F), making it pleasant for swimming, particularly in the first half of the month.

Are Kefalonia's beaches suitable for families with children?

Many beaches in Kefalonia are very family-friendly. Beaches like Makris Gialos, Platis Gialos, Skala, and Lourdas are popular with families due to their sandy shores, relatively shallow waters, and good facilities. Antisamos is also considered family-friendly with calm waters, though it's pebbly. Always supervise children near water, regardless of the beach.

Do I need to rent a car to visit beaches if I'm staying in Razáta?

Yes, renting a car is highly recommended if you're staying in Razáta and want to explore Kefalonia's diverse beaches. Razáta is an inland village, and while some beaches near Argostoli are a short drive, a car gives you the freedom to visit famous beaches like Myrtos or Antisamos, and discover more secluded spots at your own pace. Public transport options to many beaches can be infrequent or non-existent.

Myrtos Beach

Antisamos Beach

People Also Ask

What are the water conditions like for swimming in Kefalonia?

The waters around Kefalonia are generally crystal clear, with beautiful turquoise and emerald hues, making for excellent swimming conditions. Most popular beaches have calm waters, especially during the summer months. Some famous beaches like Myrtos can occasionally have stronger currents or waves, particularly on windy days, so it's always good to be aware of local conditions. The sea is typically warm enough for comfortable swimming from late May to October.

Myrtos Beach

Are there quiet, less crowded beaches in Kefalonia, perhaps near Razáta?

Yes, Kefalonia has many quiet and less crowded beaches, often referred to as hidden gems. While Razáta itself is inland, with a car you can explore. Some coves accessible by boat or a bit of a hike offer more seclusion. Beaches like Fteri (requires boat or hike), Kako Lagadi, or some smaller coves around the Lassi peninsula or further afield can be less busy than the main tourist beaches. Even some larger beaches have quieter sections if you walk away from the main entry points.

Fteri Beach

Kako Lagadi Beach

How do Kefalonia's beaches compare to those in Zakynthos?

Both Kefalonia and Zakynthos are Ionian islands famous for beautiful beaches. Kefalonia is generally considered to have a more rugged, natural landscape with a wider variety of beaches, from the dramatic cliffs of Myrtos to long sandy stretches and secluded pebbly coves. Zakynthos is well-known for Navagio (Shipwreck Beach) and its turtle nesting beaches in the south, often attracting a younger, more party-oriented crowd in certain resorts, though it also has quieter areas. Kefalonia is often perceived as more laid-back and family-oriented overall.

Navagio Beach

Myrtos Beach

Are there nudist-friendly beaches in Kefalonia?

While there are no officially designated nudist beaches in Kefalonia, some beaches or sections of beaches are known to be nudist-friendly due to their seclusion. Parts of Myrtos Beach (usually at the far ends), Mounda Beach, and some more remote coves might have naturists. It's always advisable to be discreet and respectful of other beachgoers.

Myrtos Beach

Mounda Beach

What's the parking situation like at popular Kefalonian beaches?

Parking can vary. Popular beaches like Myrtos and Antisamos have parking areas, but they can fill up quickly, especially during peak season (July-August). Arriving early is often recommended to secure a spot. Some smaller or more remote beaches might have limited or informal roadside parking. Beaches in resort areas like Lassi (e.g., Makris Gialos) often have parking, but it can also get busy.

Myrtos Beach

Antisamos Beach

Makris Gialos Beach

Are there beach bars and sunbed rentals available at most Kefalonian beaches?

Many of Kefalonia's popular beaches, such as Myrtos, Antisamos, Makris Gialos, Skala, and Lourdas, offer facilities like beach bars, cafes, and sunbed/umbrella rentals. However, Kefalonia also boasts numerous unspoiled and secluded coves that have no facilities, offering a more natural experience. It's a good idea to check ahead for specific beaches if facilities are important to you.

Which is generally considered more spectacular: Myrtos Beach or Antisamos Beach?

Both Myrtos and Antisamos are incredibly beautiful and among Kefalonia's most famous beaches, but they offer different experiences. Myrtos is iconic for its dramatic white cliffs, turquoise waters, and wild, natural beauty, often cited as one of Greece's most photographed beaches. Antisamos is set in a lush green bay, also with stunning clear waters, and is known for being a filming location for 'Captain Corelli's Mandolin'; it tends to have more organized facilities and beach bars. The 'better' one often comes down to personal preference for wild beauty versus organized comfort and scenery.

Myrtos Beach

Antisamos Beach