Vlycho Beaches

Overview

Vlycho, nestled in the Ionian Islands, offers a serene gateway to Lefkada's stunning beaches. While Vlycho Bay itself, a tranquil marina hub, isn't recommended for swimming, the village is an excellent, peaceful base for discovering diverse coastal gems nearby. Its relaxed atmosphere provides a quieter alternative to more bustling island spots.

For your closest swim, Desimi Beach offers calm, family-friendly waters just a short journey from Vlycho. Iconic vistas await at the world-renowned Paralia Porto Katsiki, famed for its dramatic cliffs, while Milos presents breathtaking natural beauty accessible by hike or water taxi. For a more intimate experience, the charming cove of Afteli Beach is ideal for snorkeling. While many Lefkada beaches are pebbly, sandy options are also available.

Vlycho serves as a great starting point to explore Lefkada's varied coastline. The island's famed west coast beaches, including the spectacular Egremni Beach alongside Paralia Porto Katsiki, are accessible for memorable day trips. Whether you seek easily reached shores or secluded coves, our guide's longer list of beaches will help you discover more of Lefkada's seaside treasures.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Can you swim in Vlycho Bay itself?

Vlycho Bay is not recommended for swimming. This is due to the presence of ship repair facilities and boat-related activities, which can lead to water contamination with substances like oil. The water in the bay also refreshes slowly due to its shallow nature. There are no organized beaches directly in Vlycho for swimming.

What are the best beaches near Vlycho for swimming?

The nearest recommended beaches for swimming and snorkeling are Desimi Beach (about 3 km away), Nidri Beach (about 6 km away), and Mikros Gialos Beach (approximately 10 km away). Desimi Beach is particularly close and popular.

Desimi Beach

Is Vlycho a good destination for a family beach holiday?

While Vlycho itself doesn't have swimming beaches, nearby options like Desimi Beach and Nidri Beach are considered family-friendly due to their calm, shallow waters. Vlycho offers a quieter atmosphere compared to bustling Nidri, and some accommodations in the area may be more budget-friendly. However, you will need to travel to reach suitable beaches for children.

Desimi Beach

Are there sandy beaches near Vlycho?

While many beaches in Lefkada are pebbly, some sandy or partially sandy options near Vlycho include Limni Beach (mixed sand, about 9.1 km away) and Vasiliki Beach (partially rocky and sandy, about 10 km away). Further afield, you can find more expansive sandy beaches like Paralia Porto Katsiki (around 15.6 km) and Gialos Beach (around 12.2 km), though these require more travel.

Limni Beach

Vasiliki Beach

Paralia Porto Katsiki

Gialos Beach

Is Vlycho a good base for exploring Lefkada's famous west coast beaches like Porto Katsiki or Egremni?

Vlycho is on the east coast of Lefkada. While it's possible to reach the famous west coast beaches like Porto Katsiki (approx. 15.6 km) and Egremni from Vlycho by car, it involves a significant drive across the island, often on winding roads. Villages on the west coast or closer to it, like Athani or Agios Nikitas, might be more convenient if your primary focus is these specific beaches.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Paralia Porto Katsiki

Egremni

Agios Nikitas

How do I get to the beaches from Vlycho?

To reach nearby beaches from Vlycho, you will typically need a car or scooter, as the best swimming spots are a few kilometers away. Public buses also serve some routes, for instance, there are buses from Lefkada Town to Vlycho, and connections can be made to other beach areas. Renting a boat is another option to explore secluded coves and beaches in the wider bay area.

What's the vibe like in Vlycho? Is it a party place or more relaxed?

Vlycho is generally a quiet, traditional village known more for its marina, ship repair facilities, and as a haven for sailing enthusiasts. It offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the livelier tourist hub of Nidri. While there are tavernas and some bars, it's not considered a party destination.

Are there any secluded or hidden gem beaches near Vlycho?

Yes, by renting a boat from Vlycho or nearby Desimi or Nidri, you can discover secluded coves and smaller, less crowded beaches along the coastline and around the Geni peninsula. Lakka Beach, accessible by boat, is one such example known for snorkeling. Fteri beach, accessible via a dirt road from Dessimi, is another less frequented option.

Lakka Beach

Fteri Beach

People Also Ask

What kind of accommodation can I find in Vlycho, especially near any beaches?

Vlycho offers a range of accommodations, including apartments, studios, guesthouses, and some villas. While Vlycho itself doesn't have swimming beaches, accommodations are often located along the bay with views of the water and moored yachts. For beachfront accommodation, you would need to look at nearby areas like Desimi or Nidri.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Is it better to stay in Vlycho or Nidri for a beach holiday?

Nidri has its own organized beach with facilities and is a livelier tourist center with more amenities directly at hand. Vlycho is quieter, more traditional, and known for its marina; it does not have its own swimming beach, requiring travel to nearby options like Desimi. If direct beach access and a bustling atmosphere are priorities, Nidri might be preferable. If you prefer a quieter base and don't mind traveling a short distance for beaches, Vlycho could be suitable and potentially more budget-friendly.

Desimi Beach

What is the water like at the beaches near Vlycho?

Beaches near Vlycho, such as Desimi and Mikros Gialos, generally feature clear, calm waters, often with pebbles. Desimi is known for its clear water and marine life, making it good for snorkeling. The east coast waters are typically more sheltered than the west coast.

Desimi Beach

Are there boat trips available from Vlycho to visit different beaches?

While Vlycho itself is more of a marina for private yachts and repairs, you can rent small boats from nearby locations like Desimi or Nidri to explore various beaches and coves. Larger organized boat excursions to famous beaches like Porto Katsiki and Egremni typically depart from Nidri or Vasiliki.

Paralia Porto Katsiki

Egremni

When is the best time to visit Vlycho for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in the Vlycho area, and Lefkada in general, is during the summer months from June to September. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea temperatures are ideal for swimming and water activities.

Are the beaches near Vlycho organized with sunbeds and umbrellas?

Some beaches near Vlycho, like parts of Nidri Beach or Mikros Gialos, are organized with sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, along with nearby tavernas and cafes. Desimi Beach is less organized, offering more natural shade from trees, though some facilities are available in the area. Smaller, more secluded coves will likely have no facilities.

Paralia Mikros Gialos