For British travellers seeking an escape from dreary weather without enduring a long-haul flight, the Greek island of Kefalonia presents a compelling alternative. Often overshadowed by popular destinations like Mykonos and Santorini, this Ionian gem offers scenery reminiscent of the Caribbean at a fraction of the cost, with spring temperatures reaching a pleasant 20°C and flights available from as little as £23.
A Budget-Friendly Paradise
Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian Islands with approximately 36,000 residents, has earned a reputation as an "unspoilt" destination that feels like a "home away from home." Located just three and a half hours from the UK, it provides accessible tropical beauty without the eye-watering price tags associated with Caribbean getaways. The island's appeal is set to grow with Jet2 announcing new flights from London Gatwick to Kefalonia starting in 2026, making this hidden gem more accessible than ever.
Spring Sunshine and Secluded Beaches
While summer months attract crowds, visiting Kefalonia during April and May offers ideal conditions for sun-seekers. Temperatures typically reach 19°C to 20°C towards late April, allowing visitors to enjoy the island's natural beauty during the quieter off-peak season. This timing provides the perfect opportunity to explore Kefalonia's spectacular beaches without the summer hustle.
Myrtos Beach, approximately 30 kilometres north of the capital Argostoli, stands out as a globally renowned destination. Nestled beneath steep limestone cliffs, its turquoise waters and white sand mirror Caribbean qualities that British travellers often seek. Travel blogger Alex Musewald, who visited in March 2025, described it as unforgettable, noting that "the view from the cliffs down to the sea takes your breath away." The beach's western position also creates legendary sunset views that enhance its magical atmosphere.
Beyond the Beach: Island Exploration
Kefalonia offers more than just stunning coastlines. A short 20-minute drive from Myrtos Beach leads to the picturesque village of Assos, where a Venetian fortress overlooks authentic Greek tavernas and waterfront bars. This destination embodies the concept of slow travel, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in local culture.
For those seeking variety, Kalamia Beach near Argostoli provides clear waters and fine sand in a typically quieter setting, while Makris Gialos offers a livelier atmosphere with watersports and golden sands. Travel enthusiast Isabel Fraser, whose grandparents live on the island, recommends both spots, though she cautions that Makris Gialos has limited shade, requiring visitors to bring flip-flops for hot sand.
The island's diversity extends to Xi Beach on the Paliki peninsula, famous for its rare red sands resembling Caribbean locations like Baie Rouge in St Martin. This beach also features white clay cliffs believed to have therapeutic properties, where visitors often create natural spa treatments by mixing clay with seawater.
Authentic Experiences and Affordable Living
Travel content creator Ben Johns, who visited Kefalonia in 2021, describes it as an "unpretentious" destination that's "not overrun" by tourism. He recalls discovering small, secluded beaches accessible through coastal walks, often having stretches of sand entirely to themselves—a rarity in more popular Greek islands. Dining proves remarkably affordable, with fresh seafood, homemade tzatziki with pita, and local Mythos beer available for under €10 at family-run tavernas.
Beyond natural attractions, the capital Argostoli offers cultural experiences with museums, restaurants, and shopping along Lithostroto Street's pedestrian high street. Its proximity to the airport—just a 15-minute taxi ride costing €20-€25—makes it a convenient base. Additionally, Kefalonia provides easy access to neighbouring Zakynthos, where the famous Shipwreck Bay (Navagio Beach) offers snorkelling opportunities around an actual shipwreck, eliminating the need for Caribbean travel to experience such historical maritime sites.
Practical Travel Costs
Budget-conscious travellers will find Kefalonia exceptionally affordable. EasyJet offers one-way flights from London airports to Kefalonia for as little as £23 in mid-April, though this typically excludes checked baggage and seat reservations. A week-long trip departing London Gatwick in early April currently costs around £88 with the same airline.
Once on the island, expenses remain reasonable. Local beers cost approximately €2, compared to €6 in Caribbean destinations like Aruba. Accommodation ranges from budget-friendly options like Hotel Myrtos near Divarata at £44 per night to luxury establishments such as Eliamos Villas Hotel & Spa in Spartià at £600 per night. Many apartments offer beach-front access, with Myrtos View Apartments providing cliffside views for £110 nightly.
Kefalonia represents an increasingly rare find: a Mediterranean destination that combines Caribbean-style beauty with Greek authenticity and British budget accessibility. As travel blogger Jess notes, while everyone flocks to Mykonos and Santorini, hundreds of other Greek islands offer comparable beauty without overwhelming crowds. Kefalonia, with its crystalline waters, fascinating caves, and welcoming villages, stands as a prime example—proving that paradise doesn't require crossing oceans or breaking banks.
