Xi Beach Kefalonia
Kefalonia's Xi Beach captivates with its striking red sand and therapeutic white clay cliffs, offering a unique natural spa experience.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning photos
Xi Beach Kefalonia
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Kefalonia's Xi Beach captivates with its striking red sand and therapeutic white clay cliffs, offering a unique natural spa experience.
"Xi Beach is truly a one-of-a-kind destination, and it absolutely deserves a five-star review!"
Bring Water Shoes
The red sand can be a bit coarse; water shoes offer extra comfort. :athletic_shoe:
Clay Spa Time!
Don't miss the chance to try the natural clay for a fun, skin-smoothing experience. :sparkles:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Unique Red Sand
Xi Beach
Experience the striking contrast of deep red sand against the turquoise Ionian Sea.

Natural Clay Cliffs
Xi Beach
Apply the soft, grey clay from the cliffs for a free, invigorating natural spa treatment.

Calm, Shallow Waters
Xi Beach
Perfect for families, the gentle, shallow sea stretches far, ideal for safe play.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Red Sand & Clay
Sunbeds & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Water Shoes
The red sand can be a bit coarse; water shoes offer extra comfort. :athletic_shoe:
Clay Spa Time!
Don't miss the chance to try the natural clay for a fun, skin-smoothing experience. :sparkles:
Pack for Convenience
While bars offer sunbeds, service might be at the bar. Bring snacks if you prefer. :moneybag:
Capture the Colors
The red sand and blue sea create a stunning visual contrast, perfect for photos. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Water Shoes
The red sand can be a bit coarse; water shoes offer extra comfort. :athletic_shoe:
Clay Spa Time!
Don't miss the chance to try the natural clay for a fun, skin-smoothing experience. :sparkles:
Pack for Convenience
While bars offer sunbeds, service might be at the bar. Bring snacks if you prefer. :moneybag:
Capture the Colors
The red sand and blue sea create a stunning visual contrast, perfect for photos. :camerawithflash:
Family-Friendly Waters
The shallow, calm waters are ideal for children to play safely. :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Xi Beach is celebrated for its unique red sand and the interactive natural clay spa experience. Visitors appreciate the calm, shallow waters ideal for families and the convenience of nearby amenities. However, some find the service at the sunbeds lacking and note occasional issues with litter.
"Beautiful beach with red sand/soil and clay walls that you can apply it on your skin 😉. The bars close to the beach offer an umbrella with two sunbeds for 20€, but they don't offer services on the beach, I had to go at the bar to order. I would not pay this amount of money with no service on the beach."
Theodore Iliopoulos
"This reddish sand ⏳ beach has Close parking area that makes this beach 🏖️ ideal for all ages. It's possible to cover your body with clay that's melting in your hands. There's a saying that it makes you look younger - it didn't work on me. The only negative side was a lot of plastic bottles and other garbage left by the beach side as you might see 🙈 in my pictures. It seems like it might be from previous garbage 🗑️ dump but that's only my opinion."
Pavel Paul
"A very beautiful and quiet beach. The red sand was very good and gave the beach a beauty. There was also the other part with limestone that was a cure for the body. You just have to be careful because a small part could break off. There was also a sign to guide you. The beach was very good even for small children. Parking was free. There was also an umbrella for those who didn't have one with them, but I don't know the price because I didn't need it."
Krenar Gj
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The drive from Argostoli to Xi Beach takes approximately 40-50 minutes. You can rent a car or take a taxi. While there isn't a direct bus route from Argostoli to Xi Beach, some routes might connect through Lixouri. Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Kefalonia's beaches.
Public buses do run from Lixouri to Xi Beach, making it an accessible option if you're staying in or near Lixouri. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date timings.
Yes, there is a close parking area available at Xi Beach, which is convenient for visitors, especially families. Parking is generally free.
While Xi Beach is primarily accessed by land, some boat tours around Kefalonia might include it as a stop, offering a different perspective of the coastline.
Xi Beach is located a short drive from Lixouri, typically around 10-15 minutes by car, making it a popular destination for those in the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to access Xi Beach itself. You can enjoy the unique red sand and clay cliffs for free.
Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent, often as a package for around 20 euros. However, services might be limited to ordering at the bar.
No booking is required to visit Xi Beach. It's a public beach, and you can visit anytime during daylight hours.
Beach bars typically operate during daylight hours, especially throughout the summer season. Their exact opening and closing times can vary.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own umbrella and chairs to Xi Beach if you prefer not to rent them.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
Xi Beach is famous for its distinctive reddish-brown sand, which is a mix of fine sand and clay particles. It's a unique feature that sets it apart from other beaches.
Absolutely! The white clay cliffs are a natural spa. You can collect the clay, mix it with water, and apply it to your skin for a refreshing and smoothing treatment.
Yes, the waters at Xi Beach are generally calm and shallow, making it excellent for swimming, especially for families with young children.
Water sports are often available at Xi Beach, offering activities for those seeking a bit more adventure during their visit.
Late afternoon offers beautiful lighting for photos as the sun begins to set. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded for a more relaxed experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are beach bars and tavernas located near Xi Beach that serve local food and drinks.
You can expect simple, wholesome, and delicious local Greek cuisine at the tavernas near Xi Beach.
Service at the sunbeds might be limited, and you may need to go to the bar to order food and drinks.
Most Greek tavernas offer a variety of vegetarian options, such as Greek salads, vegetable dishes, and dips. It's always good to ask about specific options.
While not always advertised, some establishments might offer takeaway options. It's best to inquire directly with the restaurant or bar.
📸 📸 Photography
The unique red sand, the white clay cliffs, and the contrast with the turquoise sea offer numerous photo opportunities. The sunset also provides stunning light.
Late afternoon, especially during the golden hour before sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in Greece before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the beach and sea. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky.
The clay cliffs themselves offer elevated views. Walking along the beach can also reveal different angles and perspectives for unique shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While sunbeds are available for rent, consider bringing your own beach toys and snacks, as service to the sunbeds might be limited. The beach bars offer food options, but having your own provisions can be helpful for picky eaters or for a more relaxed mealtime. Overall, Xi Beach offers a blend of natural beauty and family-friendly amenities that make for a memorable day out.
Budget Travelers
Packing your own snacks and drinks can also help keep costs down, as ordering from the beach bars might add up. While there are restaurants nearby, exploring local bakeries or markets for picnic supplies can be a more economical option. The free parking is another bonus that contributes to a more affordable visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Xi Beach's Clay
This unique feature is a significant draw for tourists, offering a free and memorable activity. The contrast between the smooth clay, the coarse red sand, and the clear blue waters creates a visually striking and tactile experience. Many visitors share their excitement about this natural spa, with some even joking about its age-defying properties. It's a simple yet profound connection to the natural environment that makes Xi Beach stand out.
When exploring the clay, remember to be respectful of the natural environment. While it's encouraged to partake in this natural spa treatment, avoid excessive digging or damaging the cliffs. The goal is to enjoy the benefits of the clay responsibly, ensuring its availability for future visitors.
Navigating Xi Beach: From Parking to Sunbeds
It's worth noting that the service for these sunbeds might not extend directly to your spot on the sand. Visitors have mentioned needing to go to the nearby beach bars to place orders for food and drinks. This means that while you can rent the amenities, you might need to be a bit more proactive in getting service. For those who prefer their own setup, bringing your own umbrella and chairs is perfectly acceptable.
The beach itself can be somewhat narrow, with one lane of sunbeds often fitting along the shore. Despite this, the shallow and calm waters make it a pleasant experience for swimming and playing. The proximity of beach bars also means food and drink options are readily available, though it's always a good idea to have some snacks on hand if you plan on a long day.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit