What is Xi beach known for?
Xi Beach is famous for its unique, soft, reddish-brown sand and the surrounding white clay cliffs. The contrast between the red sand and the clear, turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea creates a visually stunning landscape. Many visitors also enjoy the therapeutic properties of the clay, using it for natural spa treatments on the beach.
Is Xi beach good for families and swimming?
Yes, Xi Beach is considered very family-friendly. The water is shallow and calm for a good distance from the shore, making it safe for children to swim and play. The beach is also organized with sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent.
What is the clay at Xi beach for and how do you use it?
The grey clay found at Xi Beach, particularly at the base of the cliffs, is believed to have therapeutic and skin-cleansing properties. People often take pieces of the clay, wet it in the sea to soften it, and then rub the smooth, muddy layer onto their skin. They let it dry in the sun before rinsing it off in the sea, enjoying a natural spa treatment.
How do you get to Xi beach from Lixouri?
Xi Beach is located about 7-8 kilometers south of Lixouri. You can reach it by car, taxi, or local bus. The drive by car or taxi takes around 8-15 minutes. There is a local bus service that runs from Lixouri town center to Xi beach, but it's advisable to check the seasonal timetables.
Are there any hotels or accommodations directly on or very near Xi beach?
Yes, there are several hotels, apartments, and studios located very close to Xi Beach, some offering direct beach access or within a short walking distance (e.g., 400-500 meters). Options range from hotels with pools and all-inclusive packages to self-catering studios.
Are there sunbeds and umbrellas at Xi beach, and how much do they cost?
Yes, Xi Beach is an organized beach with plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent. While the exact cost can vary and may change, you can typically expect to pay a daily fee for a set (two sunbeds and an umbrella). It's best to confirm the price upon arrival as it can depend on the specific vendor or beach bar offering them.
What facilities are available at Xi beach?
Xi Beach offers a range of facilities for visitors. These include beach bars and tavernas serving food and drinks, watersports centers offering activities like jet skiing and paddleboarding, sunbed and umbrella rentals, and nearby mini-markets. Some areas also have public toilets and showers. You can also find convenience stores and ATMs a short walk from the beach.
Is Xi beach crowded?
Xi Beach can get quite busy, especially during the peak summer months of July and August. However, it's a long beach (around 3-4 kilometers), so it's often possible to find quieter spots if you walk further away from the main access points and beach bars. If you prefer a less crowded experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (May, June, September, October) or earlier in the morning.
Can you do watersports at Xi beach?
Yes, Xi Beach offers a variety of watersports. You can find facilities for activities such as jet skiing, wakeboarding, parasailing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. There are watersports centers on the beach where you can rent equipment or book activities.
Is there parking available at Xi beach?
Yes, there is parking available at Xi Beach. You can find on-road parking and dedicated car parks, often associated with the tavernas or beach bars. However, these can get crowded during peak season, so arriving earlier in the day might be beneficial.
What is the best time of year to visit Xi beach?
The best time to visit Xi Beach for warm weather and swimming is typically from late May to early October. July and August are the hottest and busiest months. For pleasant weather with fewer crowds, consider visiting in late May, June, September, or early October. The current weather in Kefalonia is sunny with a temperature of 74ยฐF (23ยฐC).
Are there places to eat and drink at Xi beach?
Yes, there is a good selection of beachfront tavernas, restaurants, and beach bars at Xi Beach. You can find options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and refreshing drinks, often with views of the sea.
Is Xi beach suitable for a relaxing holiday or more of an active one?
Xi Beach can cater to both types of holidays. Its calm, shallow waters and available sunbeds make it great for relaxation and families. At the same time, the presence of watersports facilities offers options for those seeking more adventure and activity.
How does Xi beach compare to other famous Kefalonia beaches like Myrtos?
Xi Beach offers a very different experience compared to Myrtos. Xi is known for its unique red sand, shallow calm waters, clay cliffs, and family-friendly, organized atmosphere with many amenities. Myrtos, on the other hand, is famous for its dramatic white pebble arc, deep turquoise waters, and more wild, natural beauty, though it is partly organized. Xi is generally considered more suitable for families with young children due to its shallow entry, while Myrtos offers breathtaking scenery but can have stronger currents.
What does 'Xi' mean and why is the beach called that?
The name 'Xi' (ฮ in Greek) is said to come from the shape of the cove or bay where the beach is located, which resembles the Greek letter 'Xi'.
