Playa de Myrtos is the iconic jewel of Cephalonia, famous for its dazzling combination of white pebbles, dramatic cliffs, and breathtaking turquoise waters.
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La deshidratación es común en la playa. Beber agua constantemente es vital, tanto como el protector solar.
About this beach
Table of contents
Introduction
Ah, Playa de Myrtos... If there is one place among the beaches of Cephalonia that instantly evokes the image of Greek paradise, it is undoubtedly this natural wonder. We have visited it on several occasions and each time it leaves us breathless. Located on the northwest coast of the island, between the towns of Assos and Agia Efimia, Myrtos is not just a beach; it is a geological and chromatic spectacle that has consistently been ranked among the best beaches in the world. Its fame is well-deserved: the combination of its imposing white cliffs, its immaculate white pebbles, and the spectrum of blues ranging from the lightest turquoise to deep indigo in its waters creates a contrast that seems straight out of a postcard.
When you approach Playa de Myrtos, the first impression from the elevated road is absolutely overwhelming. It's the kind of view that forces you to stop the car, take out your camera, and simply absorb the immensity and beauty of the landscape. It is a place where nature has painted a masterpiece, a vibrant canvas that invites contemplation and immersion. For us, Myrtos represents the essence of beaches in Greece: wild, majestic, and absolutely unforgettable. It is a destination that every beach lover must experience at least once in a lifetime.
How to Get to Playa de Myrtos
Getting to Playa de Myrtos is part of the adventure and, honestly, is an experience in itself. The beach is located in the Pylaros region on the island of Cephalonia. The most common and recommended way to get there is by car or motorbike, as public transport is limited and does not go directly to the shore. We always advise renting a vehicle to have the freedom to explore the island at your own pace, and Myrtos is one of those mandatory stops.
From Argostoli (the capital)
If you are coming from Argostoli, the capital of Cephalonia, the journey is approximately 30 kilometers and will take you about 40-50 minutes. You will take the main road heading north, passing through picturesque villages and vineyards. The road is good, but it winds through the mountains, offering spectacular views at every turn. Keep an eye out for the signs indicating 'Myrtos Beach'; they are well signposted. We always recommend driving with caution on mountain roads, especially in Cephalonia, where the views can be a distraction.
From Agia Efimia or Assos
If you are staying in Agia Efimia (about 10 km to the south) or in Assos (about 10 km to the north), the trip is much shorter, about 15-20 minutes. Both routes are equally scenic, with the road descending down the mountainside, revealing the beach in all its splendor as you approach. It is from these high points that you get the most iconic photos of the Cephalonia beach. Its proximity to these towns makes Myrtos a very convenient day trip.
The Descent to the Beach
Once you reach the top of the cliff, there is a main viewpoint where many people stop to admire and photograph the beach from above. From there, a paved and quite steep road descends in a zigzag pattern down to sea level. It is a descent with tight curves, so it is important to drive cautiously and at low speed. We have seen some tourists get a bit scared, but with calm and attention, there is no problem. At the bottom of the descent, you will find a wide free parking area, although in high season (July and August) it can fill up quickly. It is always a good idea to arrive early if you want to secure a good spot. From the parking lot, it's just a few steps to the shore, so you don't have to walk far loaded with all your beach gear.
The Sand and Water
The uniqueness of Playa de Myrtos lies largely in its geological characteristics. What at first glance might look like fine white sand, you discover upon stepping on it that it is small pebbles and white marble stones, polished by the sea over millennia. This 'pebble' type of ground is what gives the water its unreal turquoise color. The pebbles reflect sunlight, and being such a light color, the water takes on that characteristic, bright hue that distinguishes it from other beaches in Greece.
The Shades of Blue
The water at Myrtos is incredibly clear and clean. As you go further in, the color changes progressively. Near the shore, it is an almost transparent sky blue, perfect for seeing your feet. A little further out, it transforms into a vibrant turquoise, and finally, in the depths, it becomes a dark, intense blue. It is a true spectacle of nature that fascinates us every time. We are always amazed at how crisp the water is, even on very busy days. This clarity is ideal for snorkeling, allowing you to observe the seabed and some small fish that venture near the shore.
Depth and Safety
It is important to consider that the beach has a relatively steep slope, and the water becomes deep quite quickly just a few meters from the shore. This is something to consider if you are with small children or if you are not a very experienced swimmer. However, during the high season, the beach has lifeguards who watch over the swimmers, which adds an extra layer of safety. We always recommend caution and paying attention to the lifeguards' instructions, especially if there is surf. Wearing water shoes or aqua socks is highly advisable to protect your feet from the pebbles, which can be a bit uncomfortable to walk on.
Services and Facilities
Despite its wild and natural appearance, Playa de Myrtos is not without amenities, making it a very practical destination for spending the day. We