Ionian Bliss. Beach Hopping in Lefkada, Greece

Leanne Liakos 

Instagram: @LLPrintshop

@LiakosPhoto

Lefkada is an island in the Ionian Sea on the west coast of Greece. In the main port town, you will find marinas, bars, and restaurants, as well as quaint squares, churches, and traditional homes. The island has several other towns, including the popular Nidri, with a lively seafront and many amenities. Lovely small villages can also be found both seaside and inland. The entire island is 35 kilometers from north to south, making it easy to explore by car.

Getting There

There aren’t any direct flights to Lefkada; however, you can fly into nearby Preveza, which is a short distance by car or bus to the island. The island is unique in that it doesn’t require a ferry ride to get there, as it is connected to the mainland by a long causeway and floating bridge. You can reach Lefkada by ferry from Corfu or Kefalonia. The island is very popular in July and August, so if you are able to visit in late May, June, or September, that is advisable.

Where to Stay

Most people stay in either Nidri or Vassiliki, but there are many options depending on whether you want something quiet in a traditional village or perhaps a more lively beachfront town. In terms of accommodations, you can choose from resort-style hotels, family-run guesthouses, apartments, or splurge on a gorgeous villa with a private pool. If you are visiting to enjoy the watersports scene, you will want to stay around Vassiliki.

 The Beaches

There are over 30 beaches on Lefkada, ranging from lively organized beaches with sun loungers, beach bars, and watersports to quiet secluded beaches. These Ionian beaches offer stunning turquoise water and lush greenery, with some being surrounded by dramatic, tall white cliffs. The island is a hotspot for extreme sports, including kitesurfing, windsurfing, and paragliding. 

Porto Katsiki

Porto Katsiki is famed for its ice-blue water and massive white cliffs. The setting is quite dramatic and is a must-see in Lefkada. The top of the cliffs is lined with lush green vegetation, and there are some amenities for changing, drinks, and snacks, but no beach bars or sit-down restaurants. There is a parking lot for a fee, and free parking along the road. In July and August, this beach is very busy, so head out early rather than midday or in the evening. 

It should also be noted that there is a long, steep staircase down the cliff to the beach; this is the only way to access the beach by land, so it may not be suitable for people with mobility issues. You can also access the beach by joining a boat cruise or hiring a water taxi. 

Pefkoulia

Pefkoulia beach is located nine kilometers southwest of Lefkada town. This is a long stretch of beach featuring clear blue water, sand, and smooth white stones. The seabed is made of small and medium-sized smooth stones, and some people may want to wear water shoes. This beach can get quite wavy at times, which is fun. The beach is well organized with a variety of sunbeds and umbrellas to rent. There are also a couple of beach bars, one with a free pool, rinse showers, and change rooms. The beach bars offer a selection of drinks and food items. There is also an unorganized section of the beach if you prefer to bring your umbrella. There is free parking in a lot beside the beach and along the road.

Nikitas

At the foot of the village of Nikitas lies Nikitas Beach, which is popular with locals and families. As it is next to the village, there are many amenities, including restaurants, bars, boutiques, and shops to buy water toys and equipment like goggles, snorkels, and floaties. There are some umbrellas to rent, but also a lot of space for you to set up your own blankets and shade devices. The beach features crystal clear water and some large rock formations. There is a small path along the shore to walk and take in the amazing views. There is a rugged trail that you can hike to get to Mylos beach; alternately, you can get a water taxi to Mylos right at the shore of Nikitas Beach.

Kathisma

Kathisma Beach is located 15 kilometers from Lefkada town. Its long stretch of pale sand, stunning blue water, beach bars, and a large variety of sunbeds make it one of the most popular beaches on the island. For adventure seekers, tandem paragliding is offered from the cliffs behind the beach to the shore. There are some large rock formations at one end of the beach that people enjoy climbing to jump into the sparkling sea.