Lefkada’s Beaches: 18 Must-See Shores and Hidden Gems

Ah, Lefkada! This Ionian Island is the stuff of daydreams, with its turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and sandy stretches that sparkle under the Greek sun. If you’re looking for a beach-lover’s paradise, Lefkada should be high on your list. Whether you’re after bustling beach bars, secluded coves, or that sweet spot where the waves and mountains meet, this guide will take you through the best of Lefkada’s beaches—from the famous to the wonderfully hidden. Grab your sun cream, sunglasses, and a bit of wanderlust, and let’s dive in!

18 of Lefkada’s Beaches that Beach Lovers Must Visit!

Let’s take a dive into the best 18 beaches you’ll find in Lefkada.

1. Porto Katsiki: The Star of Lefkada

Let’s start with the heavyweight champion. Porto Katsiki is the beach everyone comes to see, and honestly, it lives up to the hype. Nestled at the base of a cliff that glows gold in the sun, Porto Katsiki’s stunning contrast of white sands and sparkling blue waters is simply mesmerising. The name translates to “Goat’s Port,” as only goats used to roam here before the humans caught on.

Visitor Tips:

• Arrive early to snag a parking spot; it gets packed by midday.
• There’s a bit of a trek down a stairway to reach the beach, so be ready for some cardio.
• If you fancy skipping the crowds, visit in the late afternoon, when the sun is lower, and the colours are softer.

Best For:

People-watching, admiring turquoise waters, and enjoying the perks of a well-loved beach.

2. Egremni Beach: Lefkada’s Hidden Marvel

Egremni used to be hard to access—600 steps down from the cliffside kind of hard—but following some reconstruction, there’s now a newer (and far more manageable) path leading down to this iconic beach. The beach stretches for miles, so even in peak season, you’ll find your own slice of sand to spread out on.

Visitor Tips:

• The waves here can be quite powerful, so this isn’t a spot for novice swimmers.
• Bring supplies—there are limited facilities, so pack snacks, drinks, and an umbrella.
• This is one of Lefkada’s larger beaches, so expect to do a bit of walking if you want to find a secluded area.

Best For:

Adventurers, solitude seekers, and anyone looking to disconnect in an utterly beautiful setting.

3. Kathisma Beach: The Beach Party Scene

Now for something a little more social! Kathisma Beach is the life of the party, with beach bars, sun loungers, and lively music wafting down the shore. It’s a long, sandy stretch lined with loungers and parasols, and there’s no shortage of places to grab a cocktail and soak in the atmosphere. It’s popular with both locals and tourists, so if you’re after a buzzing beach day, this is the spot.

Visitor Tips:

• Arrive mid-morning if you want a front-row sunbed; Kathisma is one of the busiest beaches on the island.
• The beach bars play music well into the evening, so if you’re in the mood to stay and dance as the sun goes down, this is the place for it.
• Expect to pay for loungers—it’s not the cheapest beach experience, but the lively vibe is worth it.

Best For:

Social butterflies, nightlife lovers, and those who love a beach with energy.

4. Agiofili Beach: A Secluded Cove

Agiofili is a little slice of paradise tucked away near the village of Vasiliki. It’s a smaller beach with smooth white pebbles and crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkelling and swimming. If you’re looking for a peaceful escape, Agiofili delivers.

Visitor Tips:

• The beach is reachable by water taxi from Vasiliki or by a rather bumpy road—your call.
• There’s not much shade here, so bring a beach umbrella or plan to seek refuge under one of the larger rocks if it’s a hot day.
• Bring snorkelling gear; the underwater views are as lovely as the beach itself.

Best For:

Snorkelers, couples, and anyone in need of a quiet, postcard-perfect escape.

5. Milos Beach: A Hiker’s Reward

If you don’t mind a bit of a hike, Milos Beach is one of Lefkada’s most rewarding spots. A 15-20 minute walk from Agios Nikitas, this secluded beach offers a quieter experience than the more popular shores, with waves that attract local surfers.

Visitor Tips:

• Wear good walking shoes for the trek down—flip-flops won’t cut it here.
• There are no facilities at Milos Beach, so pack in whatever you’ll need.
• The walk back up can be tiring, but trust me, the peace and beauty of this beach make it worth it.

Best For:

Hiking enthusiasts, surfers, and those seeking a scenic reward.

6. Pefkoulia Beach: Nature-Lover’s Delight

Pefkoulia Beach is just north of Agios Nikitas and is one of the larger beaches on the island, offering plenty of space even in the height of summer. Surrounded by lush pine trees, Pefkoulia is a wonderful spot to unwind. The beach is partly organised, so you can either set up in the section with sunbeds or find a more natural spot further along.

Visitor Tips:

• Ideal for families as the shallow waters near the shore are safe for children.
• There’s a beach bar offering snacks and drinks, so you won’t need to bring too many supplies.
• Pefkoulia has a relaxed vibe, so you can easily spend an entire day here without tiring of the view.

Best For:

Families, picnic lovers, and nature enthusiasts.

7. Megali Petra: The Beach with Boulders

If you love unique rock formations, head to Megali Petra. “Big Rock,” as the name translates, is a beach surrounded by massive boulders scattered along the sand, giving the beach a dramatic look. It’s a bit of a hidden gem, meaning fewer tourists and more space to stretch out.

Visitor Tips:

• Megali Petra isn’t well-signposted, so have your GPS ready and keep your eyes peeled for turn-offs.
• Bring plenty of water, as there are no facilities or vendors here.
• The beach can get windy, which brings in some lovely waves—great for more experienced swimmers but not ideal for young kids.

Best For:

Explorers, photographers, and anyone craving a rugged, dramatic setting.

8. Gialos Beach: The Quiet Beauty

Gialos Beach, located near Athani village, is another beach that remains blissfully under the radar. With a long stretch of sand and pebbles, it’s perfect if you want to kick back with a book and some snacks without any interruptions.

Visitor Tips:

• The road to Gialos can be a bit rough, so take your time driving down.
• There are limited amenities here, so pack your own lunch if you’re planning a full day.
• There’s a lovely sunset view here, so consider staying into the evening if you’re up for a serene sunset over the water.

Best For:

Solo travellers, bookworms, and anyone seeking true tranquillity.

9. Ammouso Beach: The Family Spot

This small, sheltered bay is ideal for families and is popular with locals. The clear, shallow waters are great for kids, and the nearby tavernas make it easy to pop in for a meal or a quick snack.

Visitor Tips:

• Arrive early if you want a spot near the water; Ammouso’s smaller size means it fills up quickly.
• There’s plenty of natural shade from the surrounding trees, so you won’t need an umbrella here.
• The nearby tavernas serve delicious local food, so take a break from the beach for a taste of Lefkadian cuisine.

Best For:

Families, beach lovers who like amenities, and those craving a relaxing, low-key day by the sea.

10. Desimi Beach: A Calm Cove for Kayakers

Located near Vlicho Bay, Desimi Beach is a charming cove with calm, sheltered waters, making it a great spot for a peaceful swim or some light paddling. The beach is partly sandy and partly pebbly, with plenty of spots to set up your own little haven. Desimi is also a fantastic spot for kayaking, with nearby caves and hidden coves waiting to be explored.

Visitor Tips:

• You can rent kayaks on-site, so no need to bring your own.
• The water stays fairly shallow, making it great for beginners or for families with kids.
• There are a couple of tavernas nearby, serving up classic Greek fare—perfect for a post-swim meal.

Best For:

Kayakers, families, and those looking to explore Lefkada’s coastline from the water.

11. Avali Beach: A True Hideaway

Avali Beach is a well-kept secret among locals, hidden amidst olive groves and cliffs. This small, pebbled beach is perfect for those seeking total tranquillity away from the main tourist circuit. The crystal-clear water is framed by rocky cliffs that give the area a private, hidden-away feel. Avali has fewer crowds, making it ideal for anyone who wants to enjoy Lefkada’s natural beauty in peace.

Visitor Tips:

• The beach has minimal facilities, so pack snacks and plenty of water.
• The route to Avali involves some narrow and winding roads, so take your time and enjoy the journey.
• Sunsets here are breathtaking, so consider staying until early evening for a truly magical view.

Best For:

Solitude seekers, sunset chasers, and those who love a rustic, natural beach setting.

12. Nikiana Beach: The Fisherman’s Retreat

Nikiana Beach has a charming, local vibe and is located close to the village of the same name. This beach is a small, peaceful stretch of sand and pebbles, with crystal-clear, shallow waters that are perfect for paddling and snorkelling. Nikiana is a laid-back beach with small fishing boats dotting the shore, adding to its authentic, off-the-beaten-path charm.

Visitor Tips:

• There are plenty of tavernas serving fresh seafood nearby—don’t miss out on the grilled octopus!
• The waters are calm and safe, making it ideal for young children and swimmers who prefer a gentler beach experience.
• There’s a small harbour here, which means you can catch a boat or even try your hand at some fishing.

Best For:

Families, food lovers, and anyone looking for a slice of local life in Lefkada.

13. Kalamitsi Beach: The Surfer’s Playground

Kalamitsi is a beautiful stretch of sand located on the island’s west coast. Known for its lively waves, Kalamitsi is one of the best places on the island for surfing and bodyboarding. This beach has a wild, rugged charm with towering cliffs and stretches of sand perfect for spreading out and catching some sun. If you’re seeking a wilder, more adventurous beach experience, Kalamitsi delivers.

Visitor Tips:

• Bring a surfboard or bodyboard if you’re keen to ride the waves.
• There aren’t many amenities, so pack what you’ll need for the day.
• The waves here can get intense, so this beach is better suited to experienced swimmers and surfers.

Best For:

Surfers, adventure lovers, and beachgoers craving waves and rugged beauty.

14. Amousso Beach: A Cosy Bay with a Local Vibe

Situated on the southern coast of Lefkada, Amousso Beach (also known as Ammouso Beach) is a lovely, small bay that’s popular with locals and offers a much quieter experience than the island’s more famous beaches. This beach has pebbles rather than sand, and the clear, calm waters make it a great spot for snorkelling. It’s a cosy beach, ideal for a peaceful day out.

Visitor Tips:

• Arrive early to snag a good spot—Amousso is a smaller beach, so it fills up quickly.
• There’s a nice taverna overlooking the beach, perfect for a leisurely lunch or early dinner.
• The water is calm and shallow, making it ideal for children and novice snorkellers.

Best For:

Families, snorkelers, and anyone wanting a relaxing, low-key day at the beach.

15. Vathiavali Beach: Lefkada’s Unspoilt Paradise

Tucked away on the eastern coast, Vathiavali Beach is a quiet paradise that has managed to stay off the tourist radar. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and green hills, this pebbled beach is relatively untouched and maintains an unspoilt, natural vibe. The water is a rich shade of blue, and the lack of crowds makes it feel like your own private escape.

Visitor Tips:

• This beach is fairly remote, so come prepared with supplies as there are no facilities.
• The beach can be a bit tricky to reach—use a reliable map or GPS.
• It’s best to visit in the morning to make the most of the sun as it lights up the cove’s spectacular blue waters.

Best For:

Nature lovers, photographers, and those wanting a hidden beach adventure.

16. Kastro Beach: A Local Favourite

If you want to spend a beach day with the locals, Kastro Beach near the island’s capital, Lefkada Town, is the place to go. This sandy beach sits close to the historic Agia Mavra Castle, giving it a unique backdrop and a blend of culture and beach fun. Kastro is also one of the quieter beaches, offering a relaxed vibe and easy access to the town’s cafes and shops.

Visitor Tips:

• Take a short walk over to the Agia Mavra Castle for a bit of history before or after your swim.
• There are a few food vendors nearby, but it’s always a good idea to bring snacks if you plan to stay for a while.
• The beach is mostly sandy, making it ideal for beach games and lounging.

Best For:

History buffs, families, and anyone wanting a local, laid-back beach day.

17. Gyra Beach: Serenity with a Scenic View

Located near Lefkada Town, Gyra Beach is a long stretch of sand that’s typically quiet, even in the summer. With views of windmills and the surrounding mountains, Gyra Beach offers a serene escape with a bit of added scenery. The water here is generally calm, making it suitable for all types of swimmers.

Visitor Tips:

• This beach is popular with the locals, so it’s usually more crowded in the evenings when they come to relax after work.
• Great spot for a sunset; the setting sun lights up the water with beautiful shades of gold and pink.
• Pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely afternoon, taking in the natural beauty around you.

Best For:

Sunset seekers, couples, and anyone looking for a beach with great views.

18. Perigiali Beach: A Peaceful Local Spot

Perigiali Beach is close to Nidri and offers a quiet retreat without the buzz of some of the more popular beaches. The water is shallow and calm, making it a popular choice for families with young children. Perigiali offers beautiful views of the nearby islands and surrounding hills, giving it an intimate, off-the-beaten-path feel.

Visitor Tips:

• There are a few small cafes and shops nearby where you can grab snacks or a coffee.
• Take a short walk along the coast to explore the nearby village and check out some traditional shops.
• Ideal for families and relaxation; it’s a low-key spot with a friendly, local atmosphere.

Best For:

Families, relaxation, and anyone who prefers a quieter beach.

Which of Lefkada’s Beaches Will You Indulge in?

Lefkada’s beaches are just as varied as they are beautiful. From popular, bustling shores to hidden, wild coves, there’s a beach for everyone here. Pack wisely, respect the natural beauty, and don’t forget to look up from your beach towel every now and then—those cliffs, forests, and endless blue waters are worth savouring. So, whether you’re sunbathing on the sands of Porto Katsiki, snorkelling at Agiofili, or hiking to Milos, Lefkada’s beaches promise memories you’ll treasure long after the sunburn fades.