Located in the middle of the verdant Ionian islands Lefkada offers some of the most scenic and diverse beaches in Greece and some of the most beautiful in all of Europe. From hidden, totally secluded coves to lively shores with sunbeds and amenities, there’s something for everyone when it comes to choosing the best Lefkada Beaches.
Further reading: A Complete Guide to Lefkada
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Pefkoulia Beach
Pefkoulia is a spacious beach near Agios Nikitas, offering a mix of sand and pebbles, with pine trees providing natural shade. Known for being less crowded than its west coast neighbors, it offers a peaceful setting. The beach is popular with both locals and tourists and features cafes, restaurants, and sunbeds for hire, making it a comfortable spot for families and groups.
- Location: Near Agios Nikitas, accessible by car.
- Sunbeds and Umbrellas: Rentals available from €12-15 per set.
- Food & Drinks: One large beach bar on site.
- Parking: Free parking at the beach entrance and along the road, although it can be very full in summer.
- Family-Friendly: Spacious with fewer crowds than some beaches, making it perfect for families. The northern part is a known nudist camping spot however.
Agios Nikitas Beach
Located close to the charming village of Agios Nikitas, this beach is a family favourite due to its shallow, clear waters and scenic backdrop.
This is a very busy village in summer and one of the best places to stay on the island due to its relatelvaly central location. The beach is small but welcoming, with several tavernas along the shore offering fresh seafood, cold beers and even coffee. Agios Nikitas provides a laid-back atmosphere ideal for couples and families alike.
- Location: Close to the village of Agios Nikitas, about 10 km south-west from Lefkada Town.
- Sunbeds and Umbrellas: Available but limited, so arriving early is recommended.
- Food & Drinks: Beachfront tavernas and cafes and many others in the village.
- Parking: Free parking near the bus stop at the village entrance and along the road but can be impossible to find one in peak period. There are some small paid parking lots too.
- Family-Friendly: Shallow, calm waters make it ideal for families.
Where to stay in Agios Nakitas
There are many hotels, pensions and villas in and around Agios Nakitas. It’s a good idea to have a car so you can explore the many beaches.
The main road through the town and the small narrow alleys around it can be very congested in summer, so a place with a car park is highly recommended. From 10 am to midnight it can be almost impossible to find a free park on the street.
Also, the main street of the village, which runs from the main road to the beach – about 500 metres- is pedestrian-only so its another consideration.
Caltabania Suites are right near the seafront and have amazing ocean views from most rooms as well as a swimming pool and a small carpark.
At the other end of the village Katerinas’ Village also has a pool and parking and each villa has two bedrooms and can sleep up to 6 people.
Afroditi Pansion is a great budget option right at the entrance to the pedestrian street and surrounded by shops and cafes including a big mini-mart and the pharmacy.
Tip: Check locations very carefully. Some places are up very steeps lanes and may not be an easy walk town. Also some places say they are a close walk but it can be a long hot hike on a very busy, and not always pedestrian friendly especially in summer.
Milos Beach
Milos Beach is an untouched paradise with pristine turquoise waters. It is accessible by a hike over a hill or a water taxi from Agios Nikitas. Compared to the island’s busier beaches, it offers a more secluded experience, attracting visitors seeking tranquility. While sunbeds are available, there are no other facilities, so bringing food, water, and other necessities is essential although there are roving food vendors selling drinks like water and beer and snacks like donuts and corn on the cob.
To get to Milos Beach you can hike down from the road above. There are several tracks although some are not clearly marked and can be challenging. The best track is up over the hill from Agios Nikitas.
Most people arrive by boat. There are two boats that operate between May and October from the beach at Agios Nikitas. They wait until they are full or close to it but this usually only takes 20 minutes or so and the journey is less than 10 minutes. The cost is 5 euro per person each way.
- Location: Accessible from Agios Nikitas via a hike or a €5 water taxi.
- Sunbeds and Umbrellas: Around €30-35 per set.
- Food & Drinks: No facilities, so visitors should bring supplies although there are roving food vendors in summer selling snacks and drinks.
- Parking: Available in Agios Nikitas, with a hike to the beach over a big hill.
- Atmosphere: Unspoilt and peaceful, ideal for nature lovers.
Kathisma Beach
Kathisma is one of the liveliest beaches on the island, located near the village of Agios Nikitas.
It combines beautiful scenery with vibrant nightlife, featuring beach bars, restaurants, and pools. Despite its popularity, the beach’s length ensures visitors can still find quieter spots.
Lefkada is one of the premier destinations in Greece for parasailing and most of the time the come down and land on this beach, which makes it even more fun. Kathisma appeals to thrill-seekers as well as those looking to unwind.
There are several cafes and beach bars and Areia even has a patrolled swimming pool as well as many sunbeds on the beach. Clean, modern toilets too.
You can also drive right down to the beach where there are several carparks. You may need to leave the keys as they will move cars around as people come and go.
- Location: Northwest coast, near Agios Nikitas village.
- Sunbeds and Umbrellas: Rentals available from €12-40 per set.
- Food & Drinks: Multiple bars and restaurants, some with pools.
- Parking: Free parking and bus access from Lefkada Town. Large car parks are also available very close to the beach usually for around 10euro per car.
- Activities: Offers paragliding, water sports, and lively nightlife options.
Egremni Beach
Egremni is a remote, picturesque beach along the island’s southwest coast, offering a tranquil retreat with panoramic views. It is one of the longest beaches in Lefkada – almost 2.5 kilometers, so even on the busiest days its possible to find a quite spot.
Accessing the beach on land involves walking down a steep path for almost a kilometre from the carpark. You then need to walk down 360 steps to the beach, so this is not the best spot if you have mobility issues.
There are also daily boats from Vasiliki or Nidri or you can do the 7-islands cruise which stops here, either as a private tour or on the busy but fun group ferry.
The beach bar serves basic refreshments, and the deep waters are ideal for experienced swimmers and naturists.
- Location: Southwest coast, accessible via boat or steep paths.
- Sunbeds and Umbrellas: Around €20 per set.
- Food & Drinks: A beach bar offers light refreshments.
- Parking: Limited parking near the trailhead.
- Atmosphere: A quieter, naturist-friendly beach, ideal for beach lovers. Not so family-friendly.
Porto Katsiki Beach
Porto Katsiki is perhaps the most famous beach on Lefkada, known for its dazzling turquoise waters and steep white cliffs. The beach is both scenic and lively, attracting visitors from all over the world.
It is located right before Cape Dukato in the southern part of the west coast and is accessible from Vasiliki or Athani villages.
With food and drink available from nearby tavernas, it offers a blend of natural beauty and convenience. The deep waters make it ideal for swimming, but families with young children should take extra care.
If you don’t want to drive there are small boat tours that come from Nidri and Vasaliki each day in summer.
- Location: Southwest coast, approximately 40 km from Lefkada Town.
- Sunbeds and Umbrellas: not available for rent
- Food & Drinks: Nearby cafes and tavernas provide refreshments but there are none on the beach itself. There are usually roving food vendors however, selling drinks and snacks.
- Parking: Paid parking is available for around €10 per day.
- Family Considerations: Best for adults or families with older children due to deep waters.
Agiofili Beach
Situated near the village of Vasiliki, Agiofili Beach is a small, pebbled haven with exceptionally clear waters, perfect for snorkeling.
Due to its compact size, it can get crowded, especially in the summer months. Visitors often arrive by boat or follow a scenic hiking trail from Vasiliki. While there are a few sunbeds for rent, the lack of cafes means packing refreshments is necessary.
- Location: Near the southern village of Vasiliki.
- Sunbeds and Umbrellas: Rentals cost about €20 per set.
- Food & Drinks: No cafes, so bring your own refreshments.
- Parking: Paid parking for about €10/day or accessible by water taxi.
- Activities: Popular for snorkeling, with diverse marine life along the rocky edges.
Desimi Beach
Desimi Beach, located on the eastern coast of Lefkada near Nidri, offers calm waters and a relaxing atmosphere. Surrounded by lush greenery and olive trees, the beach is ideal for families thanks to its shallow waters and gentle waves.
It’s a popular spot for boating activities, with rental options allowing visitors to explore nearby coves and caves. The beach’s proximity to campgrounds makes it convenient, though it can get busy during peak season. Visitors will find several tavernas serving local cuisine, adding to the beach’s charm.
- Location: East coast, near Nidri and Geni peninsula.
- Sunbeds and Umbrellas: Not available, so visitors should bring their own equipment.
- Food & Drinks: Restaurants and tavernas nearby offer traditional Greek meals.
- Parking: Limited parking near the campgrounds.
- Activities: Boat and water bicycle rentals are available for exploring the surrounding area
Other beaches and activities in Lefkada
There are many other beaches to visit on this stunning island – over 50! You can access some of them with public transport, but having a hire car and exploring at your leisure is best.
Others to consider include:
West Coast Beaches (turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs):
- Gialos Beach
- Megali Petra
- Avalon Beach (Kavalikefta)
South Coast Beaches (Popular for windsurfing and small bays):
- Vasiliki Beach
- Agiofili Beach
- Ammoussa Beach
- Mikros Gialos (Poros Beach)
- Roudi Beach
East Coast Beaches (Calm waters, boating, ideal for families):
- Nidri Beach
- Perigiali Beach
- Episkopos Beach
- Nikiana Beach
Northern Beaches (Near Lefkada Town):
- Agios Ioannis Beach
- Gyra Beach
- Kastro Beach
Hidden and Remote Beaches (Ideal for hiking and adventure):
- Egklouvi Beach
- Spilia Beach
- Kamari Beach
- Agios Nikolaos Beach (near Nidri)
- Skala Gialou
- Tsoukalades Beach
There are also many islands and islets off the east coast that are perfect for exploring by boat. Numerous boat trips are available from Nidri and Lefkada Town, or you can even rent your own.
Due to its central location in the group, Lefkada is a haven for yachts and boats of all kinds and is the premier base for sailing trips around the Ioanian islands.
Its also perfect for kayaking, windsurfing and many other watersports.
Skorpios Island
Once a private retreat for the Onassis family, Skorpios Island is now an exclusive luxury destination off the east coast of Lefkada. The island is surrounded by lush greenery and pristine waters, making it ideal for a serene escape.
Though private and undergoing transformation into a high-end resort, visitors can enjoy certain beaches during guided boat tours, such as the scenic East Beach, originally landscaped by Aristotle Onassis himself. Skorpios is known for its crystal-clear waters, making it a fantastic stop for swimming during boat trips around the area.
- Location: East of Lefkada, accessible via boat tours from Nidri.
- Sunbeds and Umbrellas: Not available for public use, as the island is private.
- Food & Drinks: Limited—most tours bring their own refreshments for passengers.
- Activities: Popular for boat excursions, snorkeling, and sightseeing, with stops at secluded beaches and historic landmarks like the Onassis family tombs.
- Parking: Not applicable, as the island is only accessible by boat.
Visitors can only explore Skorpios on organized tours or private boats with much of the island reserved for private use, as it transitions into an ultra-luxury resort with limited guest capacity.
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