Lefkada, a stunning Ionian island in Greece, boasts some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world.
With crystal clear waters, white and mesmerising rocks, and lush green hills as a backdrop, it is no surprise that Lefkada has gained a loyal following of visitors who come to enjoy the sun, sand and sea every summer.
This beautiful island offers a charming mix of well-known beaches, such as Porto Katsiki, Egremni, and Kathisma, as well as lesser-known gems, making it a dream destination for beach lovers.
The western side of Lefkada is particularly known for its captivating beaches, where the deep blue colour of the sea provides a striking contrast against the soft sand.
Apart from their stunning beauty, these beaches also offer a variety of water sports opportunities, such as windsurfing and sailing, in locations like Agios Ioannis and Vassiliki.
With such an abundance of incredible options, visitors to this enchanting island will be truly spoilt for choice.
In this article, we will explore some of Lefkada’s finest beaches, providing an overview of each beach’s unique features and attractions.
Our aim is to help you plan a memorable beach escape to one of Greece’s most alluring islands, ensuring you make the most of your time on the pristine shores of Lefkada.
Revealed: The Top Beaches in Lefkada
Lefkada, a beautiful Greek island, is known for its stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters, fine sand, and lush natural surroundings. This section will focus on three of the best beaches in Lefkada: Egremni Beach, Porto Katsiki, and Kathisma Beach.
Egremni Beach
Egremni Beach is a gorgeous and unique beach situated on the western side of Lefkada island. The beach is renowned for its turquoise waters, steep cliffs, and white pebbles that create a striking contrast against the deep blue sea. Due to its remote location, visitors often access Egremni Beach by boat, as it can be challenging to reach by land. This secluded beach offers tranquillity and relaxation, making it an ideal choice for those looking to escape the crowds.
Porto Katsiki
Porto Katsiki is another breathtaking beach in Lefkada. Situated on the southern coast of the island, this spectacular beach is famous for its emerald waters, white cliffs, and fine, golden sand. Porto Katsiki beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the stunning natural landscape. Although it can get crowded during the high season, it’s worth a visit for its unmatched beauty and picturesque surroundings.
Kathisma Beach
Kathisma Beach is a popular and picturesque beach on the western side of Lefkada. This beautiful beach boasts fine white sand, pebbles, and tropical turquoise waters that are typical of the Ionian Sea. Expanding over a large area, Kathisma Beach offers ample space for all visitors. The pine and fir trees cascading down the mountainside add to the charm and make it a favourite destination for Instagram enthusiasts. Kathisma Beach strikes a perfect balance between a natural, wild atmosphere and well-arranged facilities, including sunbeds, umbrellas, and beach bars. The beach is also suitable for water sports enthusiasts and those looking for an active, vibrant experience.
Family-Friendly Beaches
Lefkada is home to some fantastic family-friendly beaches that offer safe, shallow waters and beautiful landscapes. In this section, we will focus on two popular family-friendly beaches: Agios Ioannis and Nidri.
Agios Ioannis
Agios Ioannis beach is known for its golden sand and crystal-clear waters. This beach is an excellent choice for families with children due to its shallow waters and well-maintained facilities. The beach offers a variety of amenities, including:
- Sunbeds and umbrellas: Available for rent, providing shade and comfort for families.
- Watersports: Agios Ioannis is a popular spot for windsurfing, making it an ideal location for active families.
- Dining options: Numerous taverns and cafes nearby cater to different tastes, offering delicious local and international cuisine.
Nidri
Nidri beach is another family favourite in Lefkada, featuring a mix of sand and pebbles alongside serene, shallow waters. This beach is suitable for families with children as it offers:
- Clear, shallow waters: Perfect for young children to swim and play safely.
- Easy access: Nidri beach is located near the town centre, making it easily reachable on foot or by public transportation.
- Facilities: Families can find sunbeds, umbrellas, and changing rooms to make their day at the beach more comfortable.
In both Agios Ioannis and Nidri, families can also enjoy the surrounding natural beauty and take leisurely strolls along the coast.
Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Beaches
Avali Beach
Avali Beach is a charming, secluded spot located on the northwestern coast of Lefkada. Surrounded by impressive cliffs, this beach offers crystal-clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking privacy and tranquillity away from the crowded, more popular beaches.
Reaching Avali Beach might require a bit of effort, as it’s accessible through a dirt road. It’s advisable to use a 4×4 vehicle to approach the area. Once there, visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and appreciating the unspoilt nature. There are no organised facilities on Avali Beach, so it’s important to bring your own supplies, such as food, drinks, and sun protection.
Agiofili Beach
Agiofili Beach is a small paradise located on the southern coast of Lefkada, near the village of Vasiliki. It’s known for its turquoise waters, white pebbles, and stunning natural beauty. Agiofili Beach is a perfect choice for snorkelling enthusiasts, as it has an abundance of marine life to explore.
To reach Agiofili Beach, you can either follow a hiking path from Vasiliki village (approximately 30 minutes’ walk) or take a short boat trip from the village’s harbour. The beach itself has minimal facilities, with only a few sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent. It’s advisable to bring your own equipment, and don’t forget to pack food and drinks to enjoy during your visit.
Visiting these hidden gem beaches in Lefkada offers a fantastic opportunity to escape the crowds and experience the island’s pristine beauty. Whether you prefer the serene atmosphere of Avali Beach or the crystal-clear waters of Agiofili Beach, both locations will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Practical Tips for Beach Visits
Best Time to Visit
The most suitable time to plan a holiday in Lefkada is between June and September, with the peak season occurring in July and August. During these months, you can experience the warmest temperatures, the least rainfall, and ideal swimming conditions. However, if you prefer a quieter atmosphere, consider visiting during the shoulder months of May or October, when there are fewer crowds but still pleasant weather.
Safety
- Always be cautious when swimming and ensure you follow any local safety guidelines or warnings.
- Keep an eye on the flags posted on the beach. A green flag indicates that it is safe to swim, while a red flag means it is advised not to swim due to dangerous conditions.
- Stay within designated swimming areas, as there may be strong currents or risks posed by boats outside these zones.
- Ensure you remain adequately protected from the sun by applying sunscreen with a high SPF, wearing a hat, and staying in the shade when necessary.
Facilities
Lefkada beaches are known for their natural beauty, as well as the range of facilities they offer. Many of the popular beaches have facilities such as sun loungers, umbrellas, beach bars and tavernas, and watersports equipment for rent. While some of the more secluded beaches may not have all of these amenities, they make up for it with their pristine surroundings and unspoilt landscapes. Keep in mind that visiting a more remote beach may require a longer walk or a boat ride, and it is advisable to pack essentials such as water, snacks, and sunscreen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best beaches for snorkelling on Lefkada?
Lefkada offers several beaches for snorkelling enthusiasts. Some popular options include Agiofili, Mikros Gialos, and Ammoussa. These beaches have crystal-clear waters and an abundance of marine life, allowing snorkellers to get up close to a variety of fish and other sea creatures.
Where are the most family-friendly beaches on Lefkada?
For families, the ideal beaches in Lefkada are those with shallow waters and soft sand. Agios Ioannis is a great choice, as well as the beaches on the eastern coast, including Nidri, Vlycho, and Desimi. These beaches have calm waters and provide a safe environment for kids to play and swim.
Egremni vs Porto Katsiki – Which is best?
Egremni and Porto Katsiki are two of the most famous and most beautiful beaches on Lefkada island. Both beaches are located on the western coast, and they’re known for their dazzling azure waters, steep cliffs, and stunning sunsets. Porto Katsiki is more accessible as it has organised facilities and car parking options. In contrast, Egremni is more remote and requires a hike down a long staircase, which makes it less crowded but also less convenient for some visitors.
Where are the best quiet, sandy beaches on Lefkada?
For travellers seeking less crowded, sandy beaches in Lefkada, Kalamitsi and Milos are worth checking out. Kalamitsi offers a relaxed atmosphere, while Milos is a secluded paradise that requires a short hike or boat trip to reach. Both beaches provide a peaceful environment and are great choices for visitors looking for tranquil beach experiences.
What are the best beaches near Nidri?
Nidri is a popular tourist spot in Lefkada and offers access to several nearby beaches. Some of the closest beaches to Nidri include Desimi, which is known for its calm waters and lush green surroundings, and Skorpios, a small, pristine beach on a privately-owned island that can be visited via boat trips from Nidri.
What are Lefkada town’s best swimming spots?
Lefkada town is located on the northern tip of the island, and while the town itself doesn’t have any prime swimming spots, you can find beautiful swimming areas just a short drive away. Agios Ioannis beach is only 3 km west of Lefkada town, offering golden sands and shallow waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Alternatively, you can visit Gyra and Kastro beaches located on the eastern side of the town, which are less crowded and offer a more natural setting.
Born and raised on the sun-drenched island of Crete, Sofia Mavromatis is a seasoned traveler and writer with a deep-rooted love for Greece’s vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history.
