Argostoli Port: Shore Excursion to Makris Gialos Beach

Planning a day in Kefalonia? If your cruise port is Argostoli, a shore excursion to Makris Gialos Beach offers a relaxing taste of Greece’s Ionian Sea. This tour combines sun-soaked beach time with a brief stroll through Argostoli’s charming streets. For travelers craving a straightforward, enjoyable day — with plenty of time to unwind and explore — this trip fits the bill nicely.

What we particularly like is how this tour balances beach leisure with the opportunity to explore the town at your own pace. Plus, the crystal-clear waters and golden sands are sure to make anyone smile. One possible consideration: if you’re looking for a full day of sightseeing or diving into Kefalonia’s deeper attractions, this tour is more relaxed and limited in scope. It’s best suited for those who simply want a restful beach escape with a flavor of local life.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate authentic beach days without the hassle of planning. It’s ideal for cruise passengers with limited time, families seeking a gentle outing, or anyone simply craving some sun and sea. If you’re after an easy, well-organized way to enjoy Kefalonia’s coastline, this trip might be perfect.

Key Points

• Relaxing beach experience at Makris Gialos, featuring crystal waters and soft sands
• Exploration of Argostoli Town for a taste of local life and shopping
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with pickup options
• Flexible itinerary with ample time at the beach and a quick town visit
• Affordable price point with good value for a half-day cruise stop
• Family-friendly activity, though non-swimmers should consider their comfort level

You can check availability for your dates here:

How the Tour Begins: Pickups and Getting There

From the moment you book this tour, the process is designed for ease. With 29 pickup locations spread across Argostoli and nearby hotels, your transportation is straightforward — a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle will collect you, ready for the short drive to Makris Gialos. For cruise travelers, staff will be holding signs at the Argostoli Cruise Ship Terminal, making it simple to find your guide. This direct pickup removes much of the stress often associated with independent exploration.

The transfer itself is brief — about 20 minutes — giving you just enough time to settle in and catch your first glimpses of Kefalonia’s lush landscape and coastline. The smooth ride sets an upbeat tone for the day ahead.

Makris Gialos Beach: Sun, Sand, and Crystal Waters

The core of this excursion is Makris Gialos, a beach renowned for its inviting golden sands and mesmerizing waters. Once you arrive, you’ll likely be greeted with the sight of loungers and umbrellas available for rent — though these are not included in the tour price. The beach bar offers refreshments, and water sports are available for the more active.

Facilities such as exterior showers, changing rooms, and toilets make your time here comfortable. Whether you want to kick back on your towel, peruse the shoreline, or take a dip in the clear sea, you’ll find this stretch of coast ideal for a carefree few hours. The water is shallow enough for relaxed swimming, and the beach’s natural beauty makes it perfect for photos.

Many visitors appreciate how stunning the views are here. The scenery is classic Ionian: rugged cliffs framing the beach, with distant islands adding to the postcard-perfect backdrop.

What the Reviews Say

One traveler mentioned, “The water was so clear I could see straight to the bottom, which was a real treat.” Others noted the cool, refreshing waters as a highlight. Several reviews appreciated the balance of free time at the beach with the convenience of a guided trip, saying it made for a stress-free experience.

A common theme was the easy organization — “The pickup was punctual, and the bus was comfortable,” one review noted. But some travelers pointed out that owning or renting sunbeds and umbrellas is an additional cost, so bring cash if you prefer extra comfort. Many also enjoyed the opportunity to snap photos and relax without feeling rushed.

Exploring Argostoli Town

After your beach time, you’ll reboard the bus for a quick drive into Argostoli, Kefalonia’s lively capital. Here, you get a brief window to stroll through the streets, perhaps enjoy a coffee, or browse local shops. The town offers a gentle contrast to the beach — a place to soak in everyday life, with cafes, boutiques, and charming architecture.

While the tour doesn’t include specific sightseeing in Argostoli, many travelers find this a valuable addition, turning a simple beach trip into a chance to glimpse the island’s local flavor.

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The Return and Drop-Off

After about an hour at the town, you’ll head back to the bus for the return journey, which takes roughly 10 minutes. Drop-off points mirror the pickup locations, so getting back to your hotel or cruise ship is straightforward.

At $50.82 per person, this tour offers good value for travelers wanting a relaxing half-day. The cost covers transportation, a friendly host, and a well-organized itinerary. While food and drinks are extra, the convenience and comfort make up for it, especially considering the hassle-free pickup and the stunning seaside location.

For those who simply want a sunny escape, this tour delivers. It’s especially appealing for families, first-time visitors, or cruise passengers limited on time. The inclusion of free time at the beach and a quick town visit means you get a slice of Kefalonia without feeling rushed.

This excursion is best suited for travelers who prioritize relaxation and scenic beauty over intensive sightseeing. If you’re after a low-stress day with plenty of sun and sea, it’s perfect. It also works well for those staying near Argostoli or arriving on a cruise who want a straightforward, organized outing.

However, if your interests lean toward exploring Kefalonia’s caves, villages, or historical sites, you might want to look for a more comprehensive tour. Also, non-swimmers should evaluate their comfort level, though shallow waters at Makris Gialos tend to be safe for most.

This shore excursion to Makris Gialos Beach from Argostoli offers a simple, enjoyable way to experience the essence of Kefalonia’s coastal beauty. It’s a no-fuss option that’s especially suitable for travelers craving sun, sand, and a taste of local life without the complexities of full-day tours.

The combination of crystal-clear waters, soft sands, and a charming town visit makes it a well-rounded choice for those on a cruise or short stay. The tour’s affordability and ease of organization make it a smart pick for many. Just remember to bring essentials like a hat, swimwear, and a towel — and perhaps some cash for extra comfort.

If this sounds like the kind of day you’d enjoy, it’s hard to beat the convenience and scenic rewards of this Kefalonia outing.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle with pickup and drop-off at selected locations, including Argostoli port or hotels nearby.

How long is the beach time?
You’ll have approximately four hours at Makris Gialos Beach, giving plenty of time to swim, relax, and take photos.

Are food and drinks included?
No, they are not included. You’ll need to bring your own or purchase them at the beach bar.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, but non-swimmers should consider their comfort in the water.

Can I rent sunbeds and umbrellas?
Not through the tour — these are available for an extra charge on the beach if you wish.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely — the group size and organized nature make it easy for solo travelers to join.

How do I find the guide at the port?
Look for staff holding “Kefalonia Excursions” signs at the cruise ship terminal.

Does the tour include sightseeing in Argostoli?
It includes a brief visit to explore the town, ideal for a quick glimpse rather than a full tour.

In essence, this shore excursion offers a straightforward, scenic taste of Kefalonia’s coast. Perfect for those seeking a relaxing day by the sea with a bit of local flavor thrown in.

You can check availability for your dates here: