Top beaches in Kefalonia

Fortunately for us, this majestic sandy oasis is best known to the locals. It is located on the north-west coast of Kefalonia, on the outskirts of the village of Zola. Calm, peaceful and relaxing are the three words that come to mind when lounging on this exotic beach. Grab your goggles and venture into an underwater world of coral, stretching as far as the eye can see.

If anything, Alaties is a cosy bay overlooked by boulders that form a gateway to the ocean, a fantastic change of scenery from the exotic shores of Kefalonia. Its crystal-clear waters are dotted with purple jellyfish, and you can enjoy the dish of the day at Alati restaurant, made with fish caught fresh in the morning.

Welcome to Kefalonia's most famous beach. Have you ever seen Zakynthos' most famous jewel, Navagio Bay, Shipwreck Beach? If so, you'll probably recognise the similar setting of Myrtos. The powder-white sand and pebbles of Myrtos beach are surrounded by sheer limestone cliffs that contrast with its perfect blue waters. As at Navagio, you can enjoy a stunning view of the entire beach from above, with its peaceful landscape, by stopping at the viewpoint at the side of the road before descending to the sandy cove.

Yet another of Mother Nature's magnificent creations, Antisamos beach is a tropical paradise for beach lovers. Its deep blue waters are surrounded by rolling hills with lush foliage, creating a serene setting where you can spend days basking in the sun. Sami Harbour provides easy access to the beach, which is well equipped with restaurants and sun loungers. The Acron Beachclub is the perfect spot to soak up the views. Popular with both families and couples, Antisamos is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, where you can swim in total relaxation.

Set in a secluded cove, this stunning islet can be reached in ten minutes by boat or water taxi from Zola, followed by a short hike to its ice-white dunes. The photogenic bay of Fteri offers an incredible backdrop and electric blue waters which are perfect for diving, although it's best to bring water shoes to protect your feet from the rough pebbles on the seabed! Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and relax on Kefalonia's most beautiful beach.

Lourdas Beach oozes a magical atmosphere. The sandy haven is surrounded by lush foliage and cascading waterfalls and stretches along a promenade lined with restaurants, cafés, markets and water sports facilities, making lazy days on the beach even more special. Don't miss the monastery of Sissia, near to the beach, an archaeological site well worth a visit.

Nestled only a seven-minute drive from Argostoli, Makris Gialos Beach has endless rows of sun loungers and facilities for a sunny day out with the family. After munching on Costa-Costa's club sandwich for lunch, rent out a jet ski or a vast float at Kefalonia Watersports and soak up the moment.

Nestling on the west coast of the island, near Lixouri, Petani beach is bound to impress. The name Petani comes from 'epietani', which refers to the abundance of water all year round. Its rocky crescent has incredibly turquoise waters, perfect for swimming or snorkelling. If you're travelling with children, take care as the sea tends to deepen quickly. Once you've admired the scenery, climb up to the viewpoint at Paralia Petani or devour some delicious prawn pasta at Erasmias Petani.

Xi Beach exudes Hawaiian charm, with its authentic restaurants and thatched deckchairs nestling on its neon orange stretch of sand. Like most of Kefalonia's beaches, the bay is wedged between cliffs at the southern end of the Paliki peninsula. Although quite narrow, the silky-soft sand contains tiny amounts of clay to play in, making this beach a favourite with families. The Baywatch or Fishbones restaurants offer succulent gourmet burgers and grilled seafood dishes for lunch or dinner.