The Top 10 Things to do in Kefalonia for Adventure Lovers
Kefalonia (also spelt Cephalonia) is Greece’s biggest island that spans the Ionian ocean. Picture sweeping mountainous landscapes, giant limestone cliffs, and stunning beaches with turquoise seas. This description only scratches the surface of this wonderful destination. The good news is that such a big island means that you will be spoilt for choice for things to do in Kefalonia. This Kefalonia guide will help you discover beautiful beaches and varied activities to create your ultimate travel itinerary.
Things to do in Kefalonia: Contents
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1) Paragliding in Myrtos Beach
Myrtos Beach is the most iconic beach in Kefalonia and one of the most recognisable across the Ionian islands. The chances are that you have already seen an aerial photo of the azure waters, white cliffs and what looks to be white sands (it is actually pebble).
This incredible beach covers three great things to do in Kefalonia.
- Firstly, stop off at the viewpoint above the beach and take scenic photos.
- Secondly, swim to the secluded cave entrance at the left of the beach.
- Finally, for the adrenaline junkies among you, consider paragliding from the top off the cliffs, landing onto the beach. You can organise Myrtos Beach Paragliding directly with the noborders team on the beach and after a short drive you’ll be on the top of a cliff ready for the experience of a lifetime.
2) Grab lunch with a view in the Assos Village
As you approach Assos, you will be in awe of its striking and unique structure. Then, you will fall in love with the pastel coloured houses and crystal clear waters. Then, take a dip in the sea and laze around on the pebble beach. Or, enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants that have great views of the bay.
Assos is not only one of the most picturesque villages in Kefalonia, but it is also one of the best places to watch the sunset. Just climb to the top of Assos castle to grab a front-row seat to the greatest show on earth. Built in the 14th century, this Venetian Castle provides spectacular views of the bay and is one of the most beautiful things to do in Kefalonia.
3) Visit the Melissani Cave & River
One of the best things to do in Kefalonia involves a visit the Melissani Lake. Head there between 1100-1400 to see the sun pass the cave’s opening at the perfect point to create a glistening glow that illuminates the blue waters beneath. A wooden boat will take you into the mouth of the cave, which was once an underground lake. The entrance is approximately 6 euros, and this natural marvel is worth every penny.
Top Tip: if you’re the last on the boat, you will likely have the best seats for taking photos without other people being in them!
4) Explore Drogarati Cave
If more traditional caves are your thing, then make a trip to the impressive Drogarati Cave. Walk into the dark, wet cave and feel the cool air hit your skin immediately. Marvel at this unique and intricate natural wonder and enjoy your escape from the heat. If you’re an Assassin’s Creed fan, you might recognise this cave from the Odyssey series. It’s an interesting thing to do in Kefalonia and worth the 5 euros entrance fee.
Top Tip: Plan this into your Kefalonia itinerary early or late in the day as you might have the cave to yourself. There are several steep steps down and back up, so please consider if you have mobility issues.
5) Spot the Loggerhead Sea turtles in Argostini Harbour
Have you ever seen a sea turtle in the wild? If you have, I bet you haven’t seen one come right up to the harbour? Like clockwork, the Loggerhead turtles of Kefalonia island come to the shore to scavenge fish guts and scraps from the local fishing boats. It’s a perfect way to see such beautiful creates in a completely natural way. Head to the harbour for breakfast, and you’ll be sure to have a turtle encounter; it’s a genuinely one of the best free things to do in Kefalonia.
While you’re in the area, another one of the popular thing to do is to pose with the I love Kefalonia sign. Continue up the Argostoli harbour towards the central square and you cannot miss it.
Top Tip: head to the Kefalonia sign in the late morning when many boats will have left the harbour, so they don’t clog the background of your photos with advertisements.
6) Skala to Ithaki Island
Not only is Skala a brilliant area to enjoy the sandy beach, fantastic amenities and calm, shallow waters, but it’s also the port where you can explore nearby Ithaki (Ithaca) Island. This infamous island is most commonly known as the birth place to Odysseus (also known as Ulysses), a Greek hero who fought in the Trojan war. Learn more about this at the Ithaca Folklore and Nautical Museum in the capital of Ithaca, Vathy. If you want to discover more fantastic beaches and viewpoints then the Gidaki beach is a must.
7) Rent a private boat in Fiskardo harbour
Located at the northern tip of the island, Fiskardo is a lively area popular for yacht and boating holidays. While you can self-drive and hire a boat from many different locations, Fiskardo has the biggest harbour, an ample selection of unique and cosy restaurants and plenty of shopping opportunities. Boat rental here starts from approximately 70 euros per day (plus fuel), with the price varying depending on the season.
Unlike many other areas in Kefalonia, this village survived a terrible earthquake that left beautiful traditional Greek architecture to discover. It also has a quaint pebble beach for you.
8) Take a ferry to Lixouri and visit the blue flag beaches
Whether you’re driving a rental car, or travelling on public transport, catching the ferry from Argostoli to Lixouri is cheap and easy. The ferry schedule frequently runs with a ferry every half hour (hourly from 7 pm), making it easy to add to your Kefalonia itinerary. The cost is approximately 8 euros each way (for a car with 2 people) and will take about 20 minutes from port to port.
Xi Beach is only a short drive away and is the perfect place to swim, relax and enjoy the varied beach bars or water sports available. A visit to the red beach is one of the best things to do in Kefalonia.
Forty minutes further north is the beautiful Petani Beach. This blue flag beach is similar to Myrtos, but it has more dining options and a mixture of white pebble and sand. The rocky cove to the right is brilliant for snorkelling, so be sure to visit during a day trip to this region.
9) Go Snorkelling at Antisamos Beach
Kefalonia has some of the best places to snorkel from all Greek Islands, and Antisamos beach is fantastic for marine life. It is not typical for sandy beaches in Greece to offer free sunloungers and parasols, but in Antisamos, these are included when you order food or drink from the beach bars.
When you’re not relaxing in the sun, step into the stunning turquoise waters to see an abundance of fish and explore the rocky cliffs on either side of the beach.
Located only 3km from the famous port town of Sami and close by the Melissani Cave, this popular beach is a perfect way to relax after a busy day.
10) Take a trip to Zakynthos and explore the shipwreck island
Zakynthos island is approximately an hour ferry ride from Kefalonia island. The easiest way to do this is by organised a boat tour which includes a visit to the shipwreck beach (Navagio) and the stunning blue caves. Not only is Zaknthos a stunning Ionian Island, but it has the striking postcard beauty and turquoise waters that you cannot miss.
Summary of the best things to do in Kefalonia
There are so many wonderful things to do in Kefalonia it is challenging to know where to start. Do you explore the beautiful beaches and beach towns, or the incredible views of the mountains, lush vegetation and pine trees? Wherever you turn, you will discover amazing views, blue water and beautiful villages.
If you’re planning a trip to Kefalonia, or just to Greece more generally, you will love the following posts:
- The 10 Best Beaches in Kefalonia, Greece
- Zante Island Greece, Explore the Best Zakynthos beaches
- Discover the Best Places to Snorkel in Greece
- Santorini Itinerary: 4 Days to Explore this Stunning Greek Island
- Santorini Sunset Kayak Tour – A Unique Way to Watch the Sun Go Down
Which of the best things to do in Kefalonia appeals to you most, or which did you enjoy? I’d love to know about your trip or help to answer any questions you may have. So let me know in the comments, and please like and share on social media.
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This island love so magical and beautiful, the turquoise water as clearly To die for. Amd paragliding onto one is something special. So will make sure to do this and get one of the go pro videos to prove it.