Xi Beach

The basics

Lined by white clay cliffs, the red-sand Xi Beach offers a unique play of colors that makes it one of the top seaside destinations in Kefalonia. Most of the beach is given over to private beach clubs that rent umbrellas, sunbeds and water sports equipment. Alternatively there is a small free public beach where you can spread out a towel and relax, or coat your skin with the natural clay along the edges of the beach as a DIY spa treatment. Visit Xi Beach as part of a boat tour along Kefalonia’s coastline or stop here before or after exploring the local sights by land.

Things to know before you go

• Families are drawn to this beach for the clean sand and water, plus shallow wading area along the shore.

• Erosion has left very little public beach; if the free area is full, rent a sun umbrella and chair at one of the private beach clubs.

• Visitors to Xi Beach often improvise mud bath treatments with the natural mineral clay found along the cliffs: Cover your face and body with the wet clay and let it dry in the sun before cleaning yourself off with a quick dip in the sea.

• There is free public parking just behind the beach.

• There is no boardwalk to make the waterfront accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.

How to get there

Public buses run from the main ferry and transport hub of Lixouri to Xi, or you can arrive at the beach by taxi or rental car—there’s a parking area just behind the beach. You can also visit by water as part of a Kefalonia boat tour or private charter.

When to get there

One of the most dazzling and accessible beaches on Kefalonia, Xi Beach gets very busy during the peak summer months of July and August and you may not find space available on the public or private parts of the beach. Arrive in the early morning or late afternoon when there are fewer sun-seekers, or visit in the spring or fall.

Western Kefalonia’s best beaches

The Ionian island of Kefalonia is ringed by otherworldly stretches of sand and crystalline water, but some of the most dazzling are on the island’s western coast. Xi may be the most technicolor, but Myrtos is the most famous—its soaring white cliffs, blinding pebble beach, and deep blue waters are the stuff of Greek postcards. Farther south, Fteri and Petani are both lined by dramatic cliffs and transparent waters, making them popular with both beach enthusiasts and photographers. Set between them, the quieter cove of Atheras is a favorite for families.