Kefalonia with kids: shallow beaches, caves and turtles (2026)
Shallow beaches, caves and sea turtles: what to know before a family holiday in Kefalonia, including where to stay and how to get there from Israel.
- Easiest beaches for kids: Avithos, Xi and Agios Thomas, with shallow water.
- Don't miss Melissani Lake, Drogarati Cave and the turtles in Argostoli harbour in the morning.
- No direct flight at the moment; fly via Athens or Preveza and rent a car.
For a relaxed family holiday with nature, Kefalonia fits well. Book a car in advance, stay near Argostoli, and check before summer whether a direct flight is running.
Why is Kefalonia good for families?
Kefalonia is the largest Ionian island, with nature, caves, colourful villages and clear water. It is quieter than the party islands, so it suits families who want a relaxed holiday with a bit of adventure. The easiest family base is usually Argostoli, the capital, or nearby Lassi, close to the airport and the beaches.
Kid-friendly beaches in Kefalonia
| Beach | Why it works for kids | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Avithos | Shallow water | South-west of the island |
| Xi | Gentle slope, soft reddish sand | On the Paliki peninsula |
| Agios Thomas | Clear, shallow, warm water | Good for kids learning to snorkel |
| Makris Gialos | Water sports, lively | In Lassi, near Argostoli |
| Myrtos | One of Greece's most famous beaches | Better for older children |
Tip: on windy days the southern beaches and sheltered coves are easier for small children.
Things to do with kids in Kefalonia
- Melissani Lake: a small boat glides over bright blue water into a cave with a hole in its roof. Around noon the light turns the water turquoise.
- Drogarati Cave: a huge stalactite cave that stays at about 18°C all year. A nice break from the heat; bring a light jumper.
- Turtles in Argostoli harbour: loggerhead turtles come in the morning to eat scraps from the fishing boats. Don't touch or feed them.
- Boat trips from Argostoli: some go looking for turtles and dolphins.
- Fiskardo and Agia Efimia: colourful fishing villages, perfect for an afternoon stroll and an ice cream by the water.
Where to stay in Kefalonia with kids
- Argostoli and Lassi: close to the airport, beaches, supermarkets and restaurants. The easiest choice for a first week.
- Skala: in the south-east, with a long beach and promenade.
- Agia Efimia and Fiskardo: quiet and pretty, but further from most sights.
How to get to Kefalonia from Israel
Kefalonia has an international airport near Argostoli. Sun d'Or has run seasonal direct flights from Tel Aviv in past seasons, but current schedules show no direct flight. You can fly to Athens and connect, or in summer fly to Preveza (Israir, June–September) and continue. All options are in our Greek islands with direct flights from Israel guide, and current fares on the flights page.
Car: you really need a car in Kefalonia, as distances are long and buses are sparse. See our car rental guide.
Tips for families
- Roads are mountainous and winding. If your children get car-sick, keep drives short.
- Turtle nesting beaches in the south are protected. Keep away from marked nests.
- Kosher food: there is no Chabad house or kosher restaurant in Kefalonia. Order ahead from Chabad Athens' delivery service. Details on our Shabbat times & kosher page.
- More on the island: live weather, news and strikes on the Kefalonia page.
FAQ
Is Kefalonia good for a holiday with small children? Yes. It has shallow beaches such as Avithos and Xi, and nature sights such as Melissani Lake and Drogarati Cave. Stay near Argostoli and rent a car.
Which Kefalonia beach is best for kids? Avithos and Xi are known for shallow water and a gentle slope. Myrtos is stunning but better for older children.
Is there a direct flight from Israel to Kefalonia? No direct flight currently appears in schedules. Sun d'Or flew a summer route in past seasons. Check before summer, or fly via Athens or Preveza.
Where can you see turtles in Kefalonia? In Argostoli harbour in the morning, when the fishermen come back. Boat trips from Argostoli also look for them.
