Makris Gialos Beach
Golden sands meet crystal-clear turquoise waters at Makris Gialos, a stunning and family-friendly beach on Kefalonia.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, prime sunbed spots
Makris Gialos Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, prime sunbed spots

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Golden sands meet crystal-clear turquoise waters at Makris Gialos, a stunning and family-friendly beach on Kefalonia.
"Crystal clear water, shallow and ideal for families and young children, sandy beach."
🩴 Hot Sand Alert!
Sand gets very hot; bring flip-flops or water shoes for comfort.
💰 Pack Snacks & Drinks
Beach bar prices can be high; consider bringing your own refreshments.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal-Clear Ionian Waters
Makris Gialos Beach
Dive into shallow, warm, turquoise waters perfect for swimming and families.

Golden Sandy Shoreline
Makris Gialos Beach
Relax on soft, golden sand that stretches along the bay.

Beach Bar & Amenities
Makris Gialos Beach
Enjoy convenient access to beach bars for snacks and drinks, plus rentable sunbeds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Sun Protection is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🩴 Hot Sand Alert!
Sand gets very hot; bring flip-flops or water shoes for comfort.
💰 Pack Snacks & Drinks
Beach bar prices can be high; consider bringing your own refreshments.
🚗 Parking Availability
Plenty of parking at the top, but can get busy. Arrive early!
⛱️ Sunbed Strategy
Rentable sunbeds are available, or find a spot for your own umbrella.
Tips
from all over the internet
🩴 Hot Sand Alert!
Sand gets very hot; bring flip-flops or water shoes for comfort.
💰 Pack Snacks & Drinks
Beach bar prices can be high; consider bringing your own refreshments.
🚗 Parking Availability
Plenty of parking at the top, but can get busy. Arrive early!
⛱️ Sunbed Strategy
Rentable sunbeds are available, or find a spot for your own umbrella.
🌊 Water Sports Fun
Options for water sports are available for the adventurous.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Makris Gialos Beach is widely praised for its stunningly clear turquoise waters and soft golden sand, making it ideal for families and swimmers. While beautiful, some visitors find it can be very crowded and note that services like sunbeds can be overpriced compared to other beaches. Despite this, its natural beauty and convenient amenities make it a popular choice.
"Nice sandy beach, cristal clear water and sun-beds options - cafe area with paid sun-beds or public beach area where you can use your own umbrellas. This is one of the most crowded beach but you can always find a spot. Water sports are also possible option here."
Alex R.
"A small but nice beach with crystal clear waters and fine sand hidden in a bay with a beach bar with parking nearby.
It is a well-sheltered beach where you can walk peacefully when strong winds blow on the island, it is only slightly affected by waves due to the bay and the huge rocks in the water on the side of the beach"
Liviu Hinoveanu
"Crystal clear water, shallow and ideal for families and young children, sandy beach. Sand can get very hot, so take flip flops/shoes. Plenty of car parking at the top and the steps down are not too steep, but can be a bit sandy/slippy. Loads of sun beds and parasols to choose from at ok prices and there is a large section where you can lay towels and take umbrellas. Several public toilets and a couple of beach bars which are great for snacks and drinks - prices are quite high though. Overall a great beach and facilities."
Ben
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Makris Gialos Beach is located near Lassi on Kefalonia. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available at the top. Taxis are also an option, and some visitors mention it's a pleasant walk from nearby accommodations in Lassi.
There are beaches named Makris Gialos on both Zakynthos and Kefalonia. The most frequently discussed and visually stunning one, known for its golden sand and clear waters, is on Kefalonia, near Lassi.
While specific bus routes can vary, it's generally recommended to check local bus schedules for Kefalonia. Taxis or renting a car/scooter are often more convenient ways to reach the beach, especially if you plan to explore other areas.
Yes, there is ample car parking available at the top of the beach, which is convenient for visitors. However, it can get busy during peak season, so arriving early is advisable.
Makris Gialos Beach is located just a short drive or a moderate walk (about 1km south of Lassi) from Argostoli, the capital of Kefalonia. It's a popular destination for those staying in or visiting the Argostoli region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Makris Gialos Beach is a public beach, so there is no entrance fee to access the sand and water. You only pay if you choose to rent sunbeds and umbrellas.
As a natural beach, Makris Gialos is accessible at all hours. However, the beach bars and facilities typically operate during daylight hours, from morning until early evening.
Sunbed prices can vary, with some reviews mentioning costs up to €60 per day, which is considered high by some. Standard prices in the area are typically around €15-€20. It's wise to check current rates upon arrival.
Absolutely! Many visitors bring their own umbrellas and towels to enjoy the public beach area, which is a great way to save money. Supermarkets nearby sell them.
Yes, there are public toilets available at Makris Gialos Beach, adding to the convenience for visitors.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
Makris Gialos features fine, golden sand. It's soft underfoot, but can get very hot during the midday sun, so wearing footwear is recommended.
Yes, the water is shallow and warm, making it ideal for families with young children. The sandy beach also provides a comfortable play area.
Water sports are available at Makris Gialos Beach, offering activities for those seeking a bit more adventure during their beach day.
Makris Gialos is one of the most popular and can get quite busy, especially during peak season. Arriving early or visiting during weekdays can help avoid the largest crowds.
The beach offers several facilities including public toilets, beach bars for snacks and drinks, and rentable sunbeds and umbrellas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are beach bars directly on Makris Gialos Beach offering snacks and drinks. Nearby Lassi also has a wide selection of tavernas and restaurants.
The beach bars typically serve light snacks, sandwiches, salads, and refreshing drinks. Some may offer more substantial options, but it's best to check their menus.
While beach bar prices can be high, you can find more affordable options by walking a short distance to Lassi or picking up takeaway from local eateries like Zorbas restaurant.
Yes, some local restaurants like Zorbas offer takeaway services, allowing you to bring your own food to enjoy on the beach.
According to some visitor experiences, there is no reliable internet connection at the beach, so don't count on Wi-Fi for work or staying connected.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning offers soft light and fewer people for serene shots. Late afternoon provides a beautiful golden hour glow over the water and sand.
The combination of golden sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and the scenic bay makes Makris Gialos highly photogenic.
The path leading down to the beach offers a good vantage point. Exploring the rocky edges of the bay can also provide interesting angles for your shots.
You can capture wide-angle shots of the beach and sea, close-ups of the sand and water, and lifestyle photos of people enjoying the sun and swimming.
Drone regulations can vary by location and time. It's always best to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone over any beach area to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make your family day even smoother, consider bringing plenty of water and snacks as beach bar prices can be high. Water shoes are a good idea for little feet on the hot sand. While sunbeds are available for rent, bringing your own umbrella offers flexibility and shade. The convenient parking and public toilets are also big pluses for families.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save on food and drinks, pack your own picnic from a local supermarket. This is often more affordable than purchasing from the beach bars. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (May, September) for potentially lower accommodation and rental prices, and fewer crowds.
couples
Consider renting a sunbed in a slightly more secluded spot if available, or find a quiet patch of sand to relax together. Enjoying a cocktail from a beach bar as the sun sets can be a perfect end to the day.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Appeal of Makris Gialos
The beach is well-equipped with amenities, including a selection of beach bars that provide refreshments and snacks. For those who prefer dedicated lounging, rentable sunbeds and umbrellas are readily available. However, visitors also have the option to bring their own umbrellas and towels, utilizing the ample public beach space. The convenience of nearby parking and public toilets further enhances the visitor experience, making a day at Makris Gialos comfortable and enjoyable.
While the beach's beauty is undeniable, some visitors note that it can become quite crowded during peak season. Additionally, the cost of services like sunbeds can be higher than at less popular spots. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall consensus is that Makris Gialos offers a quintessential Greek island beach experience, combining natural splendor with essential comforts.
Navigating Makris Gialos: Practicalities & Tips
While the beach bars offer convenience, their prices can be on the higher side. Many visitors find it more economical to pack their own snacks and drinks. Supermarkets are available nearby for purchasing essentials like umbrellas and refreshments. For those looking to save on sun loungers, utilizing the public beach area with your own umbrella is a popular and cost-effective strategy.
Parking is available at the top of the beach, but it's advisable to arrive early, particularly during July and August, to secure a spot. The steps down to the beach are generally not too steep but can be sandy and a bit slippery. Despite the potential for crowds and higher service costs, Makris Gialos remains a favorite for its stunning scenery and family-friendly atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit