Before my trip to Kefalonia, Antisamos Beach was honestly one I was debating skipping.
I had seen photos online and it looked nice… but not quite as impressive as some of the other beaches on the island. When you’re comparing everything to places like Myrtos Beach, a lot of spots can start to blend together.
But Antisamos is located just a few minutes from Melissani Cave, which I was already planning to visit. So I figured I’d stop by afterward.
I went in with pretty low expectations.
And I was completely blown away by how much I loved it.
First Impressions: The Kind of Place That’s Way Better in Person
The second I stepped onto the beach, I could tell I’d underestimated it. The water was insanely clear—like, you-can-see-every-pebble-on-the-bottom clear.
No waves, no noise, just that calm turquoise water stretching out in front of me. I immediately felt like I could stay all day—and I basically did.
I wasn’t expecting to be reminded of the Caribbean, but Antisamos gave me serious Magens Bay vibes (if you’ve been to the U.S. Virgin Islands, you’ll get it).
Calm, glassy water. Lush green mountains surrounding the bay. An easygoing, low-key setup that makes it really hard to leave.
What It’s Actually Like
The Beach Setup
Antisamos is a white-pebble beach, which means water shoes help, but it also means that the water stays super clear. There are several beach bars lining the shore, and most of them offer free loungers if you order a drink or food. (This is honestly such a good deal—one smoothie and you’ve secured a prime spot for the day.)
The Water
Antisamos has some of the clearest water I saw anywhere in Kefalonia.
Because the beach is made up of white pebbles instead of sand, the water stays incredibly transparent. You can literally see fish swimming around you while you’re in the water.
It’s perfect for snorkeling, floating, or just relaxing in the shallows.
The calm conditions also make it a great beach for families or kids, since there are usually no strong waves.
The Vibe
Antisamos has a relaxed, easygoing atmosphere. When I visited, there were lots of families, along with couples and small groups spread out across the loungers.
The calm water makes it especially popular with families since kids can swim without worrying about big waves. Even with plenty of people around, the beach never felt chaotic or loud.
It’s the kind of place where people settle in for hours — swimming, snorkeling, grabbing drinks from the beach bar, and just enjoying the day.
Parking at Antisamos Beach
Parking at Antisamos Beach
One of the best things about visiting Antisamos Beach is how easy it is to access.
There’s a large free parking area right next to the beach, so you don’t have to hike down cliffs or carry all your gear down the side of a mountain like you do at some other beaches around Kefalonia.
As you drive down toward the beach, there are usually workers guiding cars and directing people to open spots, which actually makes parking really smooth. Instead of circling around trying to find a space, they simply wave you into the next available spot.
When I visited in early June, parking was easy and there were plenty of spaces available. During peak summer months like July and August, it likely fills up faster, so arriving earlier in the day is probably a good idea.
Overall, Antisamos is one of the most convenient beaches on the island to visit — you park, walk a minute or two, and you’re already on the beach.
Pair It With Melissani Cave
If you’re planning a day exploring this part of Kefalonia, Melissani Cave is just a few minutes up the road.
It’s super touristy but worth it for the colors alone. You can easily do both in a single afternoon—just hit Melissani first before the tour buses arrive, then unwind at Antisamos after.
How to Get to Antisamos Beach
Antisamos Beach is located on the east coast of Kefalonia, about a 10-minute drive from Sami and only 5 minutes from Melissani Cave.
During my trip, I stayed near Myrtos Beach, which I absolutely loved as a base for exploring the island. The views there are incredible, and it’s a great location for visiting beaches along the west coast.
Antisamos was a bit more out of the way from where I was staying — about a 30–35 minute drive — but since I was already planning to visit Melissani Cave, it made sense to pair the two together.
To get there, simply follow the road from Sami toward Antisamos Beach. The drive is fully paved and winds through green hills before opening up to a beautiful view of the bay as you approach the shoreline.
When to Go
I visited in early June, which I highly recommend.
The weather was hot (but not oppressive), the water was warm enough to swim, and the beach wasn’t overcrowded. From what I heard, July and August bring way more crowds, so if you want the same chill atmosphere, aim for shoulder season—either June or September.
Antisamos Beach vs Myrtos Beach
Many people consider Myrtos Beach the most famous beach in Kefalonia — and it absolutely deserves that reputation for its dramatic cliff views and electric blue water.
But the two beaches offer very different experiences.
Myrtos is all about the view and the dramatic scenery. The waves can be strong, and it’s not always the easiest beach for swimming.
Antisamos, on the other hand, is much better for actually spending time in the water. The bay is protected, which means the water is usually calm and perfect for swimming or snorkeling.
If you have time, I recommend visiting both. Myrtos is incredible for the views, while Antisamos is the kind of beach where you can easily relax for hours.
Final Thoughts
Antisamos might not have been the most hyped beach on my list, but it ended up being one of the most memorable. It’s one of those spots that quietly impresses you the longer you stay. You don’t need to hike in, book a boat, or plan ahead. Just show up, grab a drink, and sink into a lounger for a few hours.
I almost skipped this beach. You shouldn’t.
