Ionian Islands: The Most Beautiful of the Emerald Shores

Ready to trade the rugged volcanic rocks for lush green cliffs and electric-blue waters? Ionian Islands beaches are the crown jewels of western Greece, offering a breathtaking contrast to the stark landscapes of the Aegean. Whether you're dreaming of the world-famous Shipwreck Beach in Zakynthos, the towering white cliffs of Porto Katsiki in Lefkada, or the serene, pebble-shored beauty of Myrtos in Kefalonia, these islands deliver an unforgettable coastal experience. Join us as we explore the must-visit shorelines, hidden sea caves, and family-friendly lagoons that make the "Heptanese" a true Mediterranean paradise.

The Ionian islands are located on the western side of mainland Greece, forming the sea borders with Italy. The Best Beaches in the Ionian Islands: Popular for their green landscape and the wonderful crystal clear water.  Corfu and Zakynthos are the most popular islands, with Kefalonia and Lefkada also developing some popularity. Navagio, Myrtos, Agios Gordis and Porto Katsiki are the most photographed in the Ionian Islands. Lefkada is famous for its exotic blue water, while the islands of Paxi-Antipaxi have gorgeous bays.  The rest of the Ionian islands, like Ithaca and Kythira, do not have as impressive beaches, but they do attract visitors for their relaxing family atmosphere. Visit us on Pinterest here. Below is all of the best Ionian Island Beaches:

Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia

Myrtos Beach is about 30km from Argostoli, the capital of Kefalonia.  This serene strip of sugar-white pebbles and cobalt-blue water rewards the traveler with peaceful silence and simplicity.  You won’t find any jet skis here, just a simple kiosk to grab a snack and admire the view.  Myrtos Beach has long been one of the most famous beaches in Greece.  It is hard to get to, with 2 km descending down a mountain road, but you’ll be glad you did. If you have kids, be careful of the sharp shelving of the beach into deeper water.  For more information on Kefalonia, visit our Kefalonia Guide.

Voutoumi Beach, Antipaxos

Voutoumi Beach bookended by blonde rocks, a deep-green woodland backdrop, and cyan-hued water gently lapping at your feet. This beach is not known to most people and most travelers miss it. It’s found on the almost uninhabited island of Antipaxi.  You’ll have to catch a caique from sister island Paxi to reach it, and the last boat returns at 5:00 pm.   To plan your vacation to Antipaxi, visit our Antipaxos guide here.

Porto Katsiki, Lefkada

Porto Katsiki Beach is a very dramatic beach with foamy white waves rolling over aqua waters toward towering cliffs.  Porto Katsiki Beach is one of the world’s top beaches. The beach is wind-blown and ruggedly beautiful, and your first view of this dramatic beach and ocean will likely take your breath away.  In the late afternoon, the sun turns those serene white cliffs the color of honey.  For more information, visit our Lefkada review here.

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Petani Beach, Kefalonia

At Petani Beach on the Paliki you’ll find beautiful  navy-and-turquoise water. This is a lovely little beach with the finest white sand, and water so clear it looks as if the yachts which pull in for lunch are floating. There are loungers available for rent with sweet notes of bouzouki music that plays in the background.  This is a gently sloping beach with crystal clear water.  For more information on Kefalonia, visit our Kefalonia Guide.

Navagio Beach, Zakynthos

Navagio Beach (or Shipwreck Beach) is the most famous beach of Zakynthos, and is considered to be one of the best beaches in the world.  The Shipwreck is one of the most photographed landscapes in Greece.  The sand has completely surrounded the ship which now looks like it emerged from the sand. Enjoy the white sandy beach with amazing turquoise and crystalline waters. Huge vertical cliffs of white rocks surround the sand creating a unique and enchanting image. To reach this paradise, one has to take a little boat from the small port of Porto Vromi.   For more information on Zakynthos of the Ionian Islands, visit here.

Agios Spyridon Beach, Corfu

The popular resort of Paleokastritsa, surrounded by olive trees, fills the area down the mountain to its six small beaches.  Agios Spyridon Beach has sapphire blue water, with a backdrop of tavernas.  Its the perfect spot to swim and flop on the fine sand of the child-friendly, gently shelving beach. If the kids get bored, they can go on the nearby yellow submarine, a glass-bottomed boat experience.  For a lunchtime feast of swordfish, grilled prawns and a wonderful nautical theme, go to waterside Limani taverna which is only a five minute walk from Agios Spyridon Beach.  Learn more about Corfu here.

Agios Gordios Beach, Corfu

Agios Gordios Beach is one of the most popular beaches of Corfu. The beautiful cove is nestled among the lush green mountains surrounded by olive tree forests, vineyards and impressive rocks.   The clear waters are ideal for a refreshing swim,  and water sports equipment is also available for rent.  During the day, the beach is quite noisy with children playing in the waves. The beach is bordered by the impressive Ortholithi, a huge rock emerging from the sea.  Learn more about Corfu here.

Paleokastritsa Beach, Corfu

Paleokastritsa Beach is quite small but extremely known for its cold waters and delightful environment. It is considered as one of the best beaches in the Greek islands. It is surrounded by many bars and taverns, making it rarely quiet during the day. The area offers some excellent sea views.  The beach is surrounded by olive tree forests, creating a dramatic yet beautiful scenery.  Learn more about Corfu here.

Egremni Beach, Lefkada

Egremni Beach is a beautiful beach situated 40 km southwest of Lefkada. The long sandy beach is surrounded by impressive barren cliffs that create a magnificent backdrop. The white sand, shiny pebbles and crystal clear waters compose an exotic setting that attracts thousands of visitors every summer. The beach has a long row of sunbeds and umbrellas stretching to the end of the beach. Despite the amount of tourists that visit here, the rocky landscape offers a feeling of isolation. There are a couple of beach bars right on the beach.  For more information, visit our Lefkada review here.

Antisamos Beach, Kefalonia

Antisamos Beach is one of the most favorable destinations for swimming and sunbathing in Kefalonia.  It is located close to the port of Sami.  Antisamos Beach has natural beauty with turquoise waters and wonderful green hills surrounding the area with lush vegetation.  At the beach you’ll find umbrellas and sundecks.  The stunning scenery of the area will captivate you.  For more information on Kefalonia, visit our Kefalonia Guide.

Gerakas Beach, Zakynthos

Gerakas Beach is one of the most attractive beaches in Zakynthos.  This beach has turquoise water and unique unspoiled features.  Gerakas Beach offers a shelter for the endangered sea turtle Caretta-Caretta.  Then sandy beach is great for swimming and sunbathing.  It is a large cove with wonderful clear waters and golden sand.  Some rock formations are scattered along the seashore giving the beach a protected and isolated feel.  For more information on Zakynthos of the Ionian Islands, visit here.

Kathisma Beach, Lefkada

Kathisma Beach is arguably one of the most beautiful beaches in Lefkada.  It is located 15 km southeast of the main town, close to the village of Agios Nikitas. Kathisma Beach is one of the longest beaches in Lefkada with fine white sand and sparkling turquoise water. The beach is surrounded by a mountain backdrop which offers a feeling of total isolation, despite the major tourist activity.  It is a preferred destination among the young crowds.  For more information, visit our Lefkada review here.

Agios Ioannis Beach, Lefkada

Agios Ioannis beach is the closest beach to Lefkada.  The long beach stretches for many meters and is surrounded by golden sand and blue green waters. The area boasts an exotic landscape which attracts thousands of visitors.  At Agios Ioannis Beach you will find plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas. The beach here is usually windy, so windsurfing is very popular here and the area attracts many skilled windsurfers.  There are cafes and water sports centers along the beach as well.  For more information, visit our Lefkada review here.