Despite it Odyssean fame, Ithaki, also known as Ithaca, is somewhat inconspicuous and is less visited than her neigbouring sisters, Lefkada and Kefalonia. However this small Ionian island is rich in natural beauty and has the charm of a Greek island from a few decades ago, low-key and unfussy.
Though the island’s beaches are not as well-known as those in neighboring Kefalonia or Lefkada, they are equally as stunning. Most of the beaches on the island are covered in pebbles, both large and small, and don’t have beach bars blasting out thudding beats over a sun-lounging cocktail crowd. This makes them a delight for those who enjoy unspoiled, natural experience. Many of the island’s most spectacular beaches are best accessed by boat, and there are several boat tour and transportation services available to take visitors around to the best coves and bays.
Sarakiniko
Sarakiniko is a secluded bay tucked away in a verdant landscape, making it an idyllic spot for a refreshing dip. Just 2.5 kilometers from the capital, Vathy, the beach can be easily accessed via a road leading straight to it. Upon arrival, you’ll find small boats and a canteen at the first section of the beach. However, for a more private experience, a short trail to the right leads to a larger, secluded pebbled beach with mesmerizing turquoise waters. It is advisable to bring essentials such as water and a beach umbrella for shade.
Filiatro
The island’s most frequented and cosmopolitan beach, Filiatro lures scores of people, drawn by its shifting shades of transparent blue waters, enabling swimmers to see all the way down to the seabed’s large alabaster stones. An olive grove directly behind the beach offers plenty of shade. Otherwise, the beach is serviced with beach umbrellas and sunbeds, while the beach bar serves coffee as well as fruit-juice drinks and food.
Keep in mind that the beach pebbles are quite sizeable. Rubber waterproof footwear may prove useful for more comfortable walking. Such footwear will also come in handy for the island in general, as most of its beaches are pebbled.
Platia Ammos
Platia Ammos, situated in the northernmost region of Ithaki, is widely considered to be the most captivating beach on the island. Boasting pristine white sands and striking turquoise waters, this beach exudes a tropical ambiance reminiscent of the Seychelles. However, unlike most beaches, Platia Ammos can only be accessed by boat from the nearby towns of Frikes or Kioni and does not offer any on-site amenities, making it necessary to bring along umbrellas and your own provision.
Yidaki
Yidaki is a spectacular beach renowned for its translucent azure waters and resinous pine trees that line the shore. This beach is widely considered to be the most beautiful on the island. Visitors can rent beach umbrellas and sunbeds, and a canteen is on hand to provide essentials. The beach is accessible either by boat from Ithaki’s port, Vathy, a cruise which provides a delightful view of the island’s coastline, or by vehicle to Skinos beach followed by a leisurely half-hour walk along a well-maintained trail through the pine trees.
Aspros Gialos
Aspros Gialos, named after the whiteness of its pebbles, is a stunning beach located along the road from Vathy to Stavros. Parking is available at the top of the beach, but visitors must descend a significant number of steps to reach the impressive bay,which is surrounded by towering rocks on both sides. While the beach does not have a canteen or beach bar, a limited number of beach umbrellas and sunbeds can be rented. Beach umbrellas will also be useful as the beach lacks natural shade. The sea here is a striking shade of light blue and transparent, and with a diving mask, you can explore the blanched seabed and the rocks just off the coast. On a clear day, the island of Kefalonia can be seen in the distance.
Map of Ithaka’s Beaches
Read also:
Savour the Tastes of Corfu: Food Adventures on an Ionian Island
The Ionian Island of Zakynthos and its Delicate Ecosystem
Unwind on the Unforgettable Beaches of Ikaria
