Mountainous Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian group of islands, is a justifiably popular beach holiday destination. Although the island is dominated by Mount Ainos, and pine-clad hills that run down to the sea, it's the sandy beach coves lapped by the turquoise waters that draw the most visitors. The best way to enjoy the top beaches on Kefalonia is to book your accommodation so that some of the many enchanting beaches are within easy reach.



If you arrive by ferry at the capital, Argostoli, head south for the nearby beaches of Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos, which end at the tiny islet of Tourkopodaro. Makris Gialos has an area of sun lounges ideal for soaking up the sun, but there is jetski hire if you feel like being more active. The smaller Platis Gialos is quieter and less developed than its neighbour. Both beaches have bars and you will find a choice of excellent villa accommodation at nearby Lassi.

Just a few kilometres further south, the tavernas and fine red sand bring visitors to Avithos. Naturists will find a clothing optional beach at adjoining Ligia. From the shore, you'll see the tiny islet of Dias with its small church. It's possible to take a short boat trip to the island and, depending on the season, the beaches could be deserted. The nearby village of Svoronata offers villa lodgings, tavernas and cafes. Backed by steep, white cliffs, the isolated beach at nearby Spartia is less developed and there is good accommodation. Trapezaki has another inviting beach and here you'll find a choice of villas and hotels. Some of the best beaches for marine life are found in the southeast of Kefalonia, at Skala, where loggerhead turtles nest.

Myrtos, 30km north of Argostoli, lays a claim to having one of Greece's most famous beaches, with its white-sand backed by vertical rock cliffs. Although very popular and crowded in summer, the beach is large enough for you to find a spot and the seas here are generally calm. Nearby, the village of Zola has good villa accommodation. The fishing village of Fiskardo, in the far north, retains much of its Venetian-style architecture and is set around a small tree-lined bay. Nearby Emblisi Beach, edged by interesting rock formations, is composed of small white pebbles, so be sure to bring a mat.

Sami, the main tourist port on the east of the island, was used as the main location for the film that popularised Kefalonia, Captain Corelli's Mandolin. Like many of the east coast beaches it consists of pebbles, but there is a taverna-lined waterfront with numerous shops and cafes. And from Sami, you could hire a car and drive down the coast to Antisamos, one of the more dramatic of Kefalonia's beaches.