Kaneo Beach
Iconic Macedonian Orthodox church on a cliff overlooking Lake Ohrid, with a charming pebbly beach below.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light for photos
Kaneo Beach
Best Time
Magical light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Macedonian Orthodox church on a cliff overlooking Lake Ohrid, with a charming pebbly beach below.
"The Church of St. John at Kaneo is the symbol of Ohrid; if you haven't been, you haven't visited."
🪨 Wear Reef Shoes
The beach is pebbly; reef shoes are essential for comfortable swimming and walking. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during sunset for the most spectacular views and photos of the church and lake. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Church of St. John at Kaneo
Cliff overlooking Kaneo Beach
Iconic Macedonian Orthodox church with breathtaking views of Lake Ohrid. A must-see symbol of the city.
Kaneo Beach
Ohrid
Pebbly beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and relaxing with stunning lake vistas.
Lake Ohrid Sunset
Kaneo Beach
Witness magical sunsets over the tranquil waters of Lake Ohrid, painting the sky with vibrant colors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beach Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🪨 Wear Reef Shoes
The beach is pebbly; reef shoes are essential for comfortable swimming and walking. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during sunset for the most spectacular views and photos of the church and lake. :camerawithflash:
💰 Sunbed Rentals
Sunbeds with umbrellas cost around 300-600 denari, but you can also use your own towel. :moneywithwings:
🚶♀️ Walkable from Town
The beach is accessible by a pleasant 30-40 minute walk from Ohrid town center. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
🪨 Wear Reef Shoes
The beach is pebbly; reef shoes are essential for comfortable swimming and walking. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during sunset for the most spectacular views and photos of the church and lake. :camerawithflash:
💰 Sunbed Rentals
Sunbeds with umbrellas cost around 300-600 denari, but you can also use your own towel. :moneywithwings:
🚶♀️ Walkable from Town
The beach is accessible by a pleasant 30-40 minute walk from Ohrid town center. :walking:
👗 Modest Dress for Church
If visiting the Church of St. John, dress modestly out of respect. :womaninturban:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kaneo Beach is widely praised for its breathtaking views, especially the iconic Church of St. John at Kaneo. Visitors love the relaxing atmosphere, clear lake waters, and the stunning sunset vistas. Some find the pebble beach and rental prices a bit high, and evening service could be elevated, but overall it's considered a must-visit in Ohrid.
"This is a beautiful beach that I recommend to everyone. I have come to Ohrid multiple times to visit family, and this beach is always a must.
At the time of my visit, there are sunbeds you can pay for, the wooden ones are 600 denari, the plastic ones are 300 denari. You get a little table and umbrella to go along with it. It's a bit on the pricey side, but you're allowed to put your towel on the ground as well. Most people opt to pay for a sunbed though, as the pebbles can get annoying should you choose the latter.
There is a cafe there with food such as pizza, and different variations of pancakes for dessert. They also make beverages such as coffee, alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, etc... Also slightly on the more pricey side, but that is due to the convenience of the cafe being right there on the beach. The staff were also very friendly.
As for the beach itself, it's got stunning views of the lake, and should you want to do some sightseeing before coming down there, there is the beautiful St John Kaneo church above that is accessible via a path on foot. The views from there are stunning. Just remember to dress modestly if going inside! There is also music they play from loud speakers for a nice beachy vibe.
Overall, this is a beach I recommend to anyone who visits, and for those who are staying relatively close near the town, it is pretty much accessible by walk. I myself walked from my apartment to the beach, it took about 30-40min, but when you get there, it makes it all worth it.
Key things: Bring sunscreen, it can get hot in the sun there. Also recommend bringing reef shoes if you plan to swim. They have placed sandbags at the entrance to the water that acts like an "underwater footpath", but beyond that there are more rocks, so having reef shoes can be very helpful.
Seriously, come to this beach if you want to relax and get a feel of the stunning fresh water lake."
Kiki293
"such a nice beach. 1 sunbed with an umbrella is 10€. also the bar there is reasonably priced (aperol around 6/7€) and they got good ice cream! also the staff there is very friendly and helpful🥰"
Katharina Alfon
"Kaneo is a beautiful beach located at a corner of Lake Ohrid , full of lakeside restaurants and bars"
J
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kaneo Beach is easily accessible by a scenic walk from Ohrid town, taking about 30-40 minutes. You can also take a taxi or local bus.
Parking can be limited near the beach, especially during peak season. It's often easier to walk or take a taxi.
While walking is popular, local buses do run in the Ohrid area, and a taxi is a convenient option if you prefer not to walk.
The path to the church above the beach involves stairs and uneven terrain. The beach itself is pebbly, which can be challenging for some.
Combine a visit to the iconic Church of St. John at Kaneo with relaxation time on the beach, and don't miss the sunset over Lake Ohrid.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Kaneo Beach itself is free. However, there are charges for renting sunbeds and umbrellas.
Sunbeds with umbrellas can range from 300 to 600 denari, with wooden ones being more expensive than plastic ones.
Generally, there is no entrance fee to visit the Church of St. John at Kaneo, but donations are appreciated.
The church is typically open during daylight hours, but it's best to check locally for any specific timings, especially outside of peak tourist season.
Yes, swimming in Lake Ohrid from Kaneo Beach is free. You can also bring your own towel and find a spot on the pebbles.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers the most magical light for capturing the Church of St. John at Kaneo and Lake Ohrid. +1
The view of the church from the beach, the church itself from various angles, and the panoramic views from the cliff are all highly photogenic.
Drone footage is popular for capturing the stunning aerial views of the church and lake. Always check local regulations regarding drone usage.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and church. A telephoto lens can be useful for details of the church architecture.
Photography inside churches may be restricted. It's best to be discreet and respectful of any posted signs or requests from church officials.
🎫 🏊♀️ Swimming & Activities
Yes, swimming in Lake Ohrid from Kaneo Beach is generally safe. The water is clear and refreshing.
Kaneo Beach is a pebbly beach, not sandy. This is why reef shoes are highly recommended.
While primarily a relaxation spot, you might find opportunities for paddleboarding or kayaking on Lake Ohrid nearby.
Water temperatures vary by season, but it's generally pleasant for swimming during the summer months.
These are likely referring to sandbags placed at the water's edge to create a smoother entry into the lake, though rocks are still present beyond.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several lakeside restaurants and bars located at Kaneo Beach offering seafood and other dishes.
You can find traditional Macedonian cuisine, fresh seafood, pizzas, and desserts like pancakes.
Prices can be slightly higher due to the prime location, but many find them reasonable for the convenience and views.
The cafe offers a range of beverages including coffee, alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, and ice cream.
While the beach is great for daytime, some reviewers noted that evening service could be elevated beyond plastic cups for cocktails to match the ambiance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Visiting the Church of St. John at Kaneo is also a worthwhile experience for families, offering a glimpse into local history and architecture. Ensure children are dressed respectfully if you plan to enter the church. The stunning views from the cliff above the beach provide a great opportunity for family photos and a memorable experience of Ohrid's iconic landmark.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Beyond the classic shots, explore different angles. The view from the beach looking up at the church is stunning, as are the panoramic vistas from the cliffside. Drone footage offers a unique perspective, highlighting the church's dramatic placement and the beauty of the lake.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
The walk to Kaneo Beach from Ohrid town is a fantastic free activity that allows you to soak in the scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Church of St. John at Kaneo
Visitors often climb the steps to reach the church, and while the exterior is the main draw, stepping inside reveals a serene interior. It's important to remember to dress modestly when entering any place of worship. The church's location makes it a perfect spot to visit during the golden hour, when the setting sun casts a warm glow on the ancient stones and the tranquil waters below.
Many travelers describe the church as a spiritual and visually stunning experience. Its enduring presence on the cliffside is a testament to its historical and cultural significance, making it a focal point for anyone exploring the beauty of Ohrid.
Experiencing Kaneo Beach
+1While the beach is free to access, renting sunbeds and umbrellas is a popular choice for those seeking extra comfort. These rentals come at a cost, but provide a dedicated space to lounge.
For those looking to explore beyond the immediate beach area, a walk along the shoreline or up to the Church of St. John at Kaneo offers different perspectives and photo opportunities. The beach is a fantastic place to soak in the natural beauty of Lake Ohrid and enjoy a leisurely day by the water.
Photography Tips for Kaneo
For unique perspectives, explore different vantage points. The view from the beach looking up at the church is classic, but also try capturing the church from slightly higher ground or from the water if you have the opportunity. Drone photography offers breathtaking aerial views, showcasing the church's isolation and the stunning expanse of the lake.
When visiting the church itself, be respectful of any signage regarding photography inside. While the exterior is the main photographic subject, the serene interior can also be captured if permitted. Overall, Kaneo provides endless opportunities for stunning landscape and architectural photography, making it a highlight for any visitor with a camera.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit