Lefkada, Ionian Islands, Greece

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.

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
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
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
Limni Beach
Vasiliki Beach
Vasiliki Beach
Paralia Porto Katsiki
Paralia Porto Katsiki
Gialos Beach
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
Paralia Porto Katsiki
Egremni
Egremni
Agios Nikitas
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
Lakka Beach
Fteri 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
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
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
Paralia Porto Katsiki
Egremni
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
Paralia Mikros Gialos

Beaches for Every Taste

Dog Friendly Beaches in Vlycho

Sand Beaches in Vlycho

Local gems for everyone

Explore More Local Beaches

📍 5.7km - Vlycho
Pasha Beach

Pasha Beach

Pasha Beach is a unique and serene beach located in Kavala. It is...

📍 10.7km - Vlycho
Ammoussa Beach

Ammoussa Beach

Ammoussa Beach is a popular destination known for its pebble beac...

📍 12.2km - Vlycho
Gialos Beach

Gialos Beach

Gialos Beach is located on the western coast of Lefkas. It is kno...

📍 15.3km - Vlycho
Pefkoulia Beach

Pefkoulia Beach

Pefkoulia Beach is a remarkable coastal area nestled on the weste...

📍 9.7km - Vlycho
Episkopos Beach of Nikiana

Episkopos Beach of Nikiana

Episkopos Beach is a small, tranquil beach located in Nikiana. Th...

📍 11.7km - Vlycho
Lygiá Beach

Lygiá Beach

Lygiá Beach is a small, quiet beach that is highly appreciated fo...

📍 12.5km - Vlycho
Avali Beach

Avali Beach

Avali Beach is a stunning beach located in Lefkada, known for its...

📍 9.1km - Vlycho
Limni Beach

Limni Beach

Limni Beach is a small beach located 50 meters from Nikiana's har...

The fastest way to find the best Vlycho Beaches

Vlycho Beaches Map

Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Vlycho: Weather Today

📅 Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Today looks like a very pleasant day to be at Vlycho beach. The sun will be shining with very few clouds in the sky. The air temperature will reach a high of 28.9 °C, so it will be warm and comfortable. The sea temperature is a balmy 25.9 °C, ideal for swimming. The wind will be light, and the waves are expected to be gentle. With a UV index of 6.9, remember to apply sunscreen.
🌬️

Air

Low / High21.3°C/28.9°C
Feels Like (High)29.8°C
🌊

Sea

Sea Temperature25.9 °C
Wave Height0.3 m
🌧️

Rain

Rain Chance0%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
🌞

Sun

Sunrise / Sunset07:14/19:53
Sunshine Hours11.1 hrs
UV Index6.9
Cloud Cover13%
💨

Wind

Speed12.3 km/h
Gusts22 km/h
DirectionW

Find your perfect beach with our expertly crafted lists

Lists

Top 10 Gay Beaches in Greece
Top 10 Gay Beaches in Greece

More Beaches Nearby

Explore More

Greece
Greece Beaches
Ionian Islands
Ionian Islands Beaches
Lefkada
Lefkada Beaches