Makris Gialos Beach
Golden sands meet crystal-clear turquoise waters at Makris Gialos Beach, a stunning Ionian gem framed by dramatic cliffs.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Makris Gialos Beach
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Golden sands meet crystal-clear turquoise waters at Makris Gialos Beach, a stunning Ionian gem framed by dramatic cliffs.
"Beautiful beach with crystal clear turquoise water. The sea gets deep quite quickly, but the beach itself is spacious."
☀️ Arrive Early for Best Spots
Secure your preferred spot on the golden sand before the crowds arrive, especially during peak season .
💰 Sunbed Costs
Sunbed rentals can be pricey (€30 for two). Consider bringing your own towel to save money .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal-Clear Turquoise Waters
The Ionian Sea
Dive into the mesmerizing, shallow turquoise waters that stretch out to a deep blue. Perfect for swimming and soaking up the sun.

Golden Sandy Shores
Main beach area
Relax on the spacious, soft golden sand. Plenty of room to spread out, though sunbeds can be a splurge .

Scenic Cliff Backdrops
Beach perimeter
Admire the dramatic cliffs that frame the beach, offering a picturesque setting and opportunities for unique photos.

Panoramic Viewpoint
Above the beach
Capture breathtaking shots of the bay from above. The contrast of blues and greens is stunning .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Sun and Sand
Navigating Makris Gialos
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Arrive Early for Best Spots
Secure your preferred spot on the golden sand before the crowds arrive, especially during peak season.
💰 Sunbed Costs
Sunbed rentals can be pricey (€30 for two). Consider bringing your own towel to save money.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking is generally available, making it convenient to access the beach.
🏊♀️ Deep Waters
The sea gets deep quickly, perfect for confident swimmers. Enjoy the vibrant blue and green hues.
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Arrive Early for Best Spots
Secure your preferred spot on the golden sand before the crowds arrive, especially during peak season.
💰 Sunbed Costs
Sunbed rentals can be pricey (€30 for two). Consider bringing your own towel to save money.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking is generally available, making it convenient to access the beach.
🏊♀️ Deep Waters
The sea gets deep quickly, perfect for confident swimmers. Enjoy the vibrant blue and green hues.
📸 Viewpoint for Photos
Head to the viewpoint for stunning panoramic shots of the bay and its clear waters.
🚗 Rent a Car
Essential for exploring the surrounding area and discovering hidden gems.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Makris Gialos Beach is widely praised for its stunning golden sands and incredibly clear, turquoise waters that transition to deep blue. Visitors appreciate the spaciousness and the scenic cliff backdrops. However, some find the sunbed rental prices to be overpriced, and the water deepens quickly.
"Beautiful beach with crystal clear turquoise water. The sea gets deep quite quickly, but the beach itself is spacious. You can rent a sunbed or just bring your own towel, and there’s also parking available."
Carina-Ioana Sirbu
"It was ok, another stunning beach, it was busy but not crowded. Not as clear as the pebbly beaches, but you still get great shots from the viewpoint."
Patrick Chiodi
"For sure one of the best beaches of the island. Not so hard to find parking and it's possible to find sunbeds for 30 euro. Or don't pay and put the towel on free area ;)
The sea is marvellous, with a variety of blue and green that emphasize the beauty of this bay, it's not crowdy and you may enjoy the sea sound"
Lorenzo Fior
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Makris Gialos Beach is located on the island of Kefalonia, Greece.
It's accessible by car, and parking is usually available nearby. Many visitors arrive via rental car to explore the island.Yes, it's a well-known and popular beach, making it relatively easy to locate. Some creators mention it's easy to drive by but worth seeking out.
While public transport options might exist on Kefalonia, renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility and exploring the island's various attractions, including Makris Gialos.
Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Kefalonia and reach Makris Gialos Beach. This allows you to stop at viewpoints and other attractions along the way.
Some boat tours, particularly those departing from Zakynthos, may pass by or stop near Makris Gialos Beach, showcasing its beauty from the water.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to access Makris Gialos Beach itself. You can enjoy the sand and sea freely.
Sunbed and umbrella rentals can be quite expensive, with prices around €30 for a set of two beds and an umbrella.
It's advisable to bring your own towel if you prefer not to rent.Makris Gialos Beach is a natural attraction and is open to visitors throughout the day and evening. There are no specific opening or closing hours.
No advance booking is necessary for beach access. However, if you plan to rent sunbeds, it's first-come, first-served.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but it's always good practice to respect the natural environment and follow any posted guidelines.
🎫 🏊♀️ Onsite Experience
The water is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise color and shallow entry, gradually deepening further out.
It's perfect for swimming and enjoying the vibrant sea.Yes, the shallow entry makes it suitable for families. However, the water does get deep quickly, so supervision is advised.
Swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling are popular activities. The clear waters offer good visibility for observing marine life.
While specific facilities can vary, popular beaches like Makris Gialos often have restrooms and sometimes showers available, especially near beach bars or rental areas.
Natural shade is limited. You can rent umbrellas or bring your own shade if needed. Some beach bars may offer shaded seating areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are beach bars and tavernas located near or on Makris Gialos Beach, offering refreshments and meals.
You can typically find traditional Greek cuisine, fresh seafood, and local specialties at the tavernas near the beach.
Many beach bars offer service to sunbeds, allowing you to order drinks and snacks without leaving your spot.
While beachside options can be pricier, exploring slightly further inland might reveal more budget-friendly tavernas and cafes.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is generally allowed, which can be a great way to save money.
📸 📸 Photography
The viewpoint above the beach offers stunning panoramic shots.
The clear turquoise waters and golden sand also make for beautiful beach photography.Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides beautiful lighting for photography. Morning light is also excellent for capturing the vibrant colors.
The contrast between the deep blue sea, turquoise shallows, and golden sand is visually striking. The surrounding cliffs also add to the scenic beauty.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and sea. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Makris Gialos Beach
The waters are a major draw, transitioning from shallow, vibrant turquoise near the shore to a deeper, mesmerizing blue further out. This makes it ideal for swimming and enjoying the refreshing sea. The beach is also framed by picturesque cliffs, adding to its scenic charm and providing a dramatic backdrop for photographs. While popular, the beach is spacious enough to accommodate visitors, though it can get busy during peak season.
For those seeking the perfect shot, the viewpoint overlooking the bay is a must-visit, offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of the coastline. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day by the sea or a picturesque spot to capture memories, Makris Gialos Beach delivers an unforgettable experience.
Navigating Sunbeds and Savings
However, the beach is quite spacious, and there are ample areas where you can set up your own towel without charge. Many visitors opt for this more budget-friendly approach, especially if they plan to spend less time lounging and more time swimming or exploring. The availability of free space means that even without renting, you can still comfortably enjoy the beach.
For those who prefer the convenience of a sunbed, it's worth noting that the beach bar Costa Costa is located here, potentially offering services or amenities that might justify the rental cost for some. Ultimately, the decision between renting and bringing your own gear depends on your priorities and budget for the day.
The Ionian Sea's Embrace
The depth of the water is another characteristic that visitors often note. While the initial entry is shallow and inviting, the seabed drops off relatively quickly, making it ideal for swimming and for those who enjoy deeper waters. This characteristic also contributes to the stunning visual contrast that photographers love to capture.
Beyond its aesthetic beauty, the Ionian Sea here is teeming with life, offering opportunities for snorkeling and observing the underwater world. The combination of clear, warm waters and the dramatic seascape makes Makris Gialos a quintessential Greek island beach experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit