Mykonos might be getting all the press, but there is a gem of an island on the west coast of Greece that is truly breathtaking and worth visiting, especially if you are a lover of natural beauty. Lefkada has some insanely magical beaches, many of which consistently feature on multiple ‘best of’ European or even global lists.

With turquoise waters, white sand, and rocks or fine pebbles, they are often reminiscent of the far-off Caribbean. One of the best things about the island, part of the Heptannese island complex, is that fact that while it is an island, Lefkada is connected with mainland Greece via a floating bridge which means you can avoid the hassle of boarding a ferry, and the fares that go with it.

The Chora, as the capital of the island, is called, has a Venetian aura, while a cosmopolitan feel is also prevalent, especially after the ‘60s when Aristotle Onassis bought the small island of Scorpio. But it is its exotic beaches that have made Lefkada a top destination for Greeks and foreigners alike.

From the town of Lefkada to the cape at the southern tip of the island, the west side of the island is full of unique, enchanting beaches of rare beauty; white, high, and steep cliffs, all shades between green and blue, fine sand or white pebbles make up a breathtaking vista. Here are four of the most popular beaches. But we would advise you to check around if you really want to discover the island’s hidden gems…

Porto Katsiki

It is the most famous beach in Lefkada. It is often included in lists of the best beaches in the world and the reason is the exotic blue-green colour, the steep white rocks, and its exotic scenery. It is about 40 km from the Chora and in the last part of the route, the road becomes very narrow and drivers need to be extremely attentive. The best way to reach the beach is by sea. There are small boats that leave Vasiliki during the summer for Porto Katsiki.

If you do choose to go by road, after parking you will need to go down multiple steps to reach the sandy beach. But once you reach the sand it will absolutely be worth it. If you get there in the morning, you can find shade under the rocks, but as the day progresses, the sun will beam down intensely, so a large umbrella is an absolute must. Since the beach is on the west part of the island, it is the ideal spot to snap some photos of the perfect sunset. It has sand and small pebbles and the waters deepen relatively abruptly.

Egremni

Nearly 2 km in total length, this stunning beach combines all the features of an exotic and unforgettable landscape and this is probably one reason to pick it even on busy summer days as its size means it is virtually never crowded.

It is probably more suitable for those who are more on the fit side, as you have to go down (and even worse come back up) the more than 300 steps. But once down, you will meet the perfect sandy beach with fine pebbles, white sand, and turquoise waters. The distance from the Chora of Lefkada is 38 km.

Kathisma

It is one of the most easily accessible beaches of the island since the asphalt road reaches down to the beach. It is 16 km from the city of Lefkada and is organised with many beach bars, sunbeds, and umbrellas.

The sand here is a little thicker, the waters are crystal clear and turquoise. On the left of the beach, there are nice rocks, ideal for exploring with a snorkeling mask.

Mylos

Access is only possible by boat from Agios Nikitas or via a trail after a 30-minute walk. That is why you will never see too many people on this beach, which has a fairly wide sandy beach.

The clear waters and the fine sand with the pebbles will make you fall in love with it. A good idea is to take all the necessary things with you (umbrella, water, and snacks, etc) to fully appreciate the beauties as you should stay there for a few hours.