Best Beaches Of
Meganisi
Imagine an island oasis nestled within the mesmerising blues of the Ionian Sea, adorned with pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and a tapestry of greenery stretching as far as the eye can see. Welcome to Meganisi, one of Greece's most captivating and lesser-known destinations, where each day offers a tranquil encounter with nature’s majesty.
Located just south of the island of Lefkada, Meganisi is a small island renowned for its untouched beauty and rustic charm. A paradise for beach enthusiasts, it offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling crowds that frequent Greece's more mainstream coastal spots.
Although compact in size, Meganisi is incredibly diverse, especially when it comes to its beaches. From secluded coves only accessible by boat to charming shores lined with inviting tavernas, the beaches of Meganisi are as varied as they are captivating. The island's emerald waters offer a cool respite from the Mediterranean sun, while the gentle melody of the waves creates an atmosphere of tranquillity that feels almost therapeutic. Here, beach lovers can indulge in a plethora of activities, including sunbathing, swimming, snorkelling, or simply cherishing the beautiful landscape.
From families planning a summer vacation to solo travellers seeking solitude amidst nature, this guide is designed for all kinds of beachgoers contemplating a visit to Meganisi, so explore the hidden beach gems of this charming Greek island!
Agios Ioannis Beach
A slice of Mediterranean paradise tucked away in the west part of Meganisi, Agios Ioannis Beach offers an idyllic setting that perfectly encapsulates the tranquil allure of the island. Its harmonious blend of natural beauty and local charm captures the essence of the Greek island experience, making it an unforgettable spot for beach enthusiasts.
The first thing you'll notice upon arrival is the vibrant blue waters, occasionally a bit choppy, creating a stark contrast against the beach's unique terrain. This is no ordinary sandy stretch; Agios Ioannis Beach is distinguished by a blend of large pebbles and sand, offering a unique texture and landscape that adds an extra touch to its distinctive charm.
Embraced by verdant olive groves on one side and the seemingly infinite expanse of the Ionian Sea on the other, this coastline is more than just a place to unwind; it's a sensory feast. Despite the dynamic waters, the beach's shallow depths make it a great spot for families or those seeking a peaceful getaway. The turquoise sea is an irresistible invitation, offering a refreshing break from the Mediterranean sun. The beach is also an excellent spot for snorkeling, with a variety of marine life inhabiting the clear Ionian waters.
But Agios Ioannis isn't just about the natural beauty; it's also about immersing oneself in the local culture. You'll find a welcoming taverna a short stroll from the right of the beach situated in a lush green garden, where you can indulge in authentic local cuisine.
A small adventure away from the beach, a 15-minute walk up the hill will lead you to the neighboring village. While it may require a bit of effort, the spectacular views and the variety of local shops that greet you at the top are well worth the journey.
Cherniades Beach
Located on the Northern coast of Meganisi, Cherniades Beach is a tranquil gem that can be discovered by following the coastal road west from Spartochori village and Spilia Bay. This quaint, lesser-known pebble beach offers an ideal retreat for those who desire to unwind away from bustling crowds.
The beach itself, a harmonious composition of gentle slopes, is sheltered with rocks on either side. This makes it a perfect location for snorkeling and observing the diverse marine life in their natural habitat.
To reach Cherniades Beach, journey past the Esperides Hotel from Spartochori. At the first tight right bend, turn left and follow this road down and then up a small hill. Continue until you come to a gentle bend that widens on the left. This is the designated parking area for the beach, and from here, the path to the beach is accessible on the right through a lovely grove of trees.
Though small and hidden, Cherniades Beach's charm lies in its tranquility and raw, unspoiled beauty. It lacks the usual infrastructure or facilities found at larger, more commercial beaches. While there are no sun beds or food and drink options, the surrounding trees provide ample natural shade. However, it's advisable to come prepared with all essentials for your beach visit.
After a rejuvenating swim, you can unwind on the pebbly shore, taking in the relaxing sounds of the waves breaking gently against the shoreline. Whether you're an underwater photography enthusiast or a seeker of serene landscapes, Cherniades Beach offers an intimate communion with nature and a stunning palette of colors, making every visit unforgettable.
Spilia Beach
A short distance from the charming village of Spartochori, you'll find the captivating Spilia Beach. Set within a small but dramatically beautiful bay, this beach is the perfect fusion of convenience, natural allure, and Greek island charm. It's a gem in the heart of Meganisi that attracts both locals and visitors alike with its stunning visuals and inviting atmosphere.
As you make your way to Spilia Beach, the winding paths through Spartochori offer delightful views of traditional Greek architecture, interspersed with vibrant flora that paints the village in hues of green. The scent of the sea gradually grows stronger as the picturesque view of Spilia Bay unravels, showcasing a panorama of azure waters encased by rugged cliffs.
The beach itself is a blend of pebbles and sand, making for a unique tactile experience as you walk along the shore. The crystal-clear waters offer irresistible shades of blue, inviting you in for a cooling dip. Its also rich with marine life, so make sure you take your snorkel.
One of the most iconic features of Spilia Beach is its scenic harbour, a delightful hodgepodge of local fishing boats and high-end yachts. The sight of these vessels, set against the backdrop of the Ionian Sea, adds a touch of Greek island life charm to your beach day. It's not uncommon to see fishermen returning with their fresh catch, providing a glimpse into the local way of life.
In terms of facilities, there are sun loungers to hire, and a couple of bars and tavernas offering drinks, snacks, and delectable Greek cuisine.
Agrilia Beach
Situated further down the track from Agios Ioannis beach on the west coast, the beautifully curving Agrilia Beach lies adjacent to a unique natural wonder – a small wetland. This serene area serves as a haven for wading birds and other wildlife, making it a must-visit for nature lovers. The presence of natural springs enhances the already verdant landscape, adding another layer to its distinct charm.
To reach Agrilia Beach, you'll need to navigate from Agios Ioannis Church and follow the coastal road. Before long, you'll find this hidden gem on your right-hand side. It's important to note that its remote location means you'll need to organise your own transport and provisions. However, should you want to indulge in a lovely traditional meal set amidst olive trees by the coast, the nearby Il Paradiso is a great option.
Upon arrival, you're greeted by a sight that might leave you breathless. As you descend a small hill, the vibrant turquoise waters of the sea present themselves in all their glory.
Parking is available on the hill — just remember to secure your handbrake firmly. There's also an option to park under the shade of a tree on the right-hand side of the road, or a bit further ahead on the left, where a small cleared grass area provides additional parking space.
For those seeking a bit more exploration, there's a second section of Agrilia Beach which can be accessed by walking along the beach around the headland.
Fanari Beach
Fanari Beach, nestled on the scenic eastern coastline of Meganisi, is renowned for its turquoise waters and sun-bleached white pebbles.
Reaching Fanari Beach is facilitated by a road from Vathy or Katomeri via Atherinos Bay. Given the summer heat, walking can prove challenging, so you might prefer to book a taxi, hire a scooter, drive a rental car, or even hire a small motorboat from Vathy and make an adventure of exploring the stunning coastline en route.
Once there, you'll discover that Fanari Beach offers the perfect blend of amenities and untouched nature. To the right side of the beach, there's a bar equipped with umbrellas, sun beds, showers, and toilets. On the left side, you'll find free space—some of it shaded—where you can settle down. The waters are crystal clear and teeming with fish, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling.
If you're in the mood to explore, a track road leading past the beach bars invites you on a journey to a small beach and a lighthouse on the cape, underscoring the beach's name, since "Fanari" means "lighthouse" in Greek. Those seeking a full lunch or dinner can venture around Atherinos Bay to Niagas Taverna, where delectable traditional Greek cuisine awaits.
The smaller beach bar set back from the road, is known for its excellent snacks, drinks, and friendly service. They also offer comfortable sunbeds, and if you purchase from them, you're welcome to use their paddleboards and sit-on-top kayaks for free. A visit to Fanari Beach is not just about the picturesque setting; it's an all-around enjoyable experience, thanks to the welcoming service and great food available on this stretch of Meganisi's stunning coastline.
Elia Beach
Elia Beach, nestled near the charming village of Katomeri, is a narrow stretch of small pebbles. Its sheltered bay, safe from the winds, and the shallow clear waters extend a welcoming invitation for a rejuvenating swim in the sea's soothing clasp.
For those seeking solitude, Elia Beach is an oasis. Despite the presence of a couple of holiday accommodations nearby, the beach maintains its tranquility, only interrupted occasionally by boats anchoring further out in the bay during the high season. As the sun sets in the west, the opposite mountains on mainland Greece illuminate in a mesmerising pink hue.
The beach, mostly exposed to the sun, offers minimal shade from a few trees along the shoreline. It's advisable to bring a sun umbrella for comfort. The rocks on the right of the bay are home to vibrant marine life, creating a perfect snorkeling spot for nature enthusiasts.
Reaching Elia Beach is an easy journey downhill past the Town Hall in Katomeri. However, caution is advised for drivers as the turning point at the hill's bottom can be quite tight. There are no amenities on the beach, so it's recommended to carry your own food and drinks or you could explore back up the hill to enjoy a traditional meal amidst the captivating ambiance of the Greek village of Katomeri.