Myrtos Beach (Παραλία Μύρτος) sits in a dramatic crescent bay in the Pylaros region of northwest Kefalonia, cradled between the peaks of Agia Dynati and Kalon Oros. Its arc of white marble pebbles and the turquoise water they create have seen it voted Greece's best beach many times over, and it appeared in the film Captain Corelli's Mandolin. As of 2026 it remains a free public beach in a largely wild state, offering only minimal facilities such as rented umbrellas, sunbeds and a small canteen. Come framed less around swimming and more around the clifftop viewpoint and the shifting water colours of morning and late afternoon.
The panoramic overlook above Divarata village, the classic photo of the whole bay from above
The dazzling white pebble arc, made of eroded marble, and the turquoise-to-emerald sea it produces
West-facing light that comes alive in late afternoon and turns dramatic at sunset
The staged views down the 2 km hairpin cliff road as you descend
The grand amphitheatre of Mount Agia Dynati and Kalon Oros enclosing the bay
Good to know
SafetyThe seabed drops away within a few steps, undertow currents are strong, and afternoon winds funnel into the bay and roughen the surf. Weaker swimmers and families with children should stay where they can stand, and always check the day's conditions and whether the central lifeguard is on duty.
SafetyThe access road is a continuous series of steep hairpin bends, so drive slowly if renting a car. In peak season (July-August) the free beachfront car park (about 100 spaces) fills by around 10:30, forcing roadside parking, so arrive early in the morning.
SeasonThe best window is May to October; July and August are very crowded and hot. Early morning is quiet with calmer water but the cliffs keep the beach in shade at first, while afternoon has the most vivid colour but more wind and crowds.
RulesThis is a smooth-pebble beach, not sand, so bare feet hurt and waves roll the stones against your ankles; bring water shoes. There is almost no natural shade, so plan sun protection with an umbrella, hat and sunscreen.
MannersFacilities are limited and the setting is close to protected nature. Take all litter away with you, and when shooting photos at the viewpoint or roadside, do not block traffic or other vehicles.
CautionSunbeds and umbrellas are charged per set in cash, so confirm the price before renting. Pickpocketing risk is low, but keep valuables in sight rather than left unattended while you are in the water.
Practical info
From the nearest village, Divarata, a roughly 2 km hairpin cliff road descends to the free beachfront car park; in summer seasonal KTEL buses run from the Agia Efimia and Argostoli direction, though a rental car is easiest. It is a free public beach with no entry fee; sunbeds and umbrellas are rented per set and the canteen typically runs until about 17:30. Prices, hours and bus timetables change, so confirm the latest information before your visit.
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