June 13, 2021

The only problem visitor’s encounter in Lefkada is choosing between so many incredibly beautiful beaches. Let’s take Pefkoulia, for instance, a stunning beach that has the “misfortune” of being situated on Lefkada’s superstar west coast. This year come see for yourself why Pefkoulia deserves to be on your “must visit” list.

Pefkoulia from above
Pefkoulia from above
A palette of blue
A palette of blue
Pefkoulia
Pefkoulia

At the cusp of an emerald green pine forest and the infinite blue of the Ionian sea lies the small earthly paradise aptly named Pefkoulia. This cool oasis of golden sand, sparkling pebbles and crystal clear water in every shade of blue is the postcard perfect beach you’ll never forget, perfumed by the scent of pine.

A portion of the beach is organized with umbrellas and sun loungers, while the rest if free. There is little natural shade, so if you don’t intend to rent an umbrella, be sure to bring your own. The perfect spot for basking endlessly under the hot August sun, cooling off with a plunge and, naturally, exploring. If, after all that summer fun, you’re craving a tasty snack, a refreshing frozen beverage or a cool cocktail, Deck Beachside Cafe has you covered with a bird’s eye view of the beach.

Deck Beachside Café at Pefkoulia
Deck Beachside Café at Pefkoulia
Deck Beachside Café at Pefkoulia
Deck Beachside Café at Pefkoulia
Pefkoulia just before sunset
Pefkoulia just before sunset

PEFKOULIA - BIKINI, 1 - 0

There’s room for everyone on this spacious beach cohabited by families and groups of friends, romantic couples and naturists. Even in August, you’ll find a secluded niche. If you like to skinny-dip and bask in the sun just as you came into this world, the clothing optional “section” is just past the large boulder on the left.

There’s room for everyone at Pefkoulia
There’s room for everyone at Pefkoulia
The pines stretch all the way to shore at Pefkoulia
The pines stretch all the way to shore at Pefkoulia
This summer, leave only footprints on the beaches of Lefkada
This summer, leave only footprints on the beaches of Lefkada

YOU’LL COME TO PEFKOULIA FOR THE SUNSET (TOO)

The magic doesn’t end with the aquamarine waters. Make sure you plan to stay until sunset and see the iridescent sea awash in every imaginable shade of orange and red.

A romantic sunset at Pefkoulia
A romantic sunset at Pefkoulia
As the sun sets
As the sun sets
On Lefkada’s west coast, sunset acquires a different meaning.
On Lefkada’s west coast, sunset acquires a different meaning.

HOW DO I GET TO PEFKOULIA?

Pefkoulia lies on the island’s northwest coast, between Lefkada’s old town and the seaside village Agios Nikitas. The beach is just 10km from the town and the road there is excellent. There is a free parking area as you approach, but from mid-July to mid-August, it’s likely you’ll have to park on the roadside. If you don’t have your own vehicle, take one of the buses that run frequently along this route in the summer months.

“Oh God, how much blue you spend, so that we cannot see you.” Odysseas Elytis
“Oh God, how much blue you spend, so that we cannot see you.” Odysseas Elytis
A refreshing swim at Pefkoulia
A refreshing swim at Pefkoulia

By Effie Barla
Photos: Andreas Thermos