Ithaca, Ithaki or Ithaka is a Greek island located in the Ionian Sea, off the northeast coast of Kefalonia and to the west of continental Greece.
Modern Ithaca is generally identified with Homer’s Ithaca, the home of Odysseus, whose delayed return to the island is the plot of the epic poem Odyssey. During the Mycenaean period (1600–1100 BC), Ithaca rose to the highest level of its ancient history. Mostly based on the Odyssey and oral traditions, it is believed that the island became the capital of the Ionian Kingdom-State, which included the surrounding lands, and was referred to as one of the most powerful states of that time. The Ithacans were characterized as great navigators and explorers with daring expeditions reaching further than the Mediterranean Sea.
The epic poems of Homer, the Iliad and the Odyssey, shed some light on Bronze-Age Ithaca. Those poems are generally thought to have been composed sometime in the 9th or 8th centuries BC, but may have made use of older mythological and poetic traditions; their depiction of the hero Odysseus and his rule over Ithaca and the surrounding islands and mainland preserves some memories of the political geography, customs, and society of the time.
St. Andreas Bay (Blue Lake)
St. Andreas Bay in South Ithaca is a rugged coastal gem, where rocky cliffs meet crystal-clear waters. Despite the absence of sand, its wild beauty captivates visitors seeking adventure and tranquility. Dive into the pristine sea, explore hidden coves, or simply soak in the breathtaking scenery. St. Andreas Bay offers a serene escape for nature lovers and adventurers alike, promising an unforgettable experience on Ithaca Island.
Ideal For
- Swimming
- Snorkeling
- Sightseeing
Mooring
- Difficulty: Easy
- Well protected from all but avoid with south winds
Pera Pigadi Bay
Pera Pigadi Beach, nestled on the Sout East coast of Ithaca Island, is a hidden gem accessible only by boat. Flanked by lush greenery and surrounded by crystal-clear blue waters, this secluded paradise offers a tranquil escape into nature. Nearby, Lygia Island adds to the allure with its rugged cliffs and verdant landscapes. Ideal for swimming and snorkeling, these pristine spots promise serenity and breathtaking beauty amidst the azure seas of Ithaca.
Ideal For
- Swimming
- Snorkeling
- Sightseeing
Mooring
- Difficulty: Easy
- Not protected from west and south winds
- Avoid after mid afternoon
Sarakiniko Bay
Sarakiniko Bay, on Ithaca’s east coast, offers a pristine escape with limited tourist amenities. Embrace the untouched beauty of the area, where nature reigns supreme, and the rugged coastline meets the sparkling sea.
Ideal For
- Swimming
- Snorkeling
- Sightseeing
- Restaurants
Mooring
- Difficulty: Easy
- Protected from northwest and west winds
Filiatro Beach
If you’re seeking a more organized beach experience, look no further than Filiatro. Situated near Gidaki, it shares the same turquoise waters but offers the convenience of umbrellas and sunbeds available for rent. Also, in the same Bay exists a more private beach without access from land.
Ideal For
- Swimming
- Snorkeling
- Sightseeing
Mooring
- Difficulty: Easy
- Protected from northwest and west winds
Gidaki Beach
Gidaki can be accessed via a hiking trail from Ormos Schinos or by sailing. This isolated beach offers a journey back in time with its lack of tourist facilities. Renowned as a paradise on earth, Gidaki’s unspoiled scenery and popularity as a sailing spot make it a must-visit destination.
Ideal For
- Swimming
- Snorkeling
- Sightseeing
- Restaurants
Mooring
- Difficulty: Easy
- Only protected from south winds
- Prefer to visit with calm seas
Skinos Bay
Skinos stands as one of Ithaca’s largest bays, offering an excellent swimming spot amidst lush surroundings.
Ideal For
- Swimming
- Snorkeling
- Sightseeing
- Restaurants
Mooring
- Difficulty: Easy
- Well protected apart from strong north west winds
- Pay attention to the yellow buoy
Vathi Village (capital)
Lazareto Island stands sentinel before Vathi, the capital of the island. Its charming two-story traditional houses encircle the picturesque port, eagerly awaiting the arrival of bareboat or skippered sailing yachts to dock.
Ideal For
- Shopping
- Sightseeing
- Restaurants
Mooring
- Difficulty: Easy
- Port Protected up to 6 beaufort
- Preferable for any type of wind
Kioni Village
Welcome to the renowned village of Ithaca, a bustling hub for sailing yachts departing from Lefkada! Nestled amphitheatrically, its quaint houses blend seamlessly with the olive and pine trees, crisscrossed by charming paved alleys.
Ideal For
- Swimming
- Sightseeing
- Restaurants
Mooring
- Difficulty: Medium
- Port Protected up to 4 beaufort
- Avoid in case of strong East direction winds
Frikes Village
Frikes, the northernmost port, rests at the head of a long, narrow bay. Two meticulously maintained windmills stand tall over this quaint fishing village, which has transformed into a renowned tourist destination over the years.
Ideal For
- Swimming
- Restaurants
Mooring
- Difficulty: Hard
- Port Protected up to 3 beaufort
- Avoid in case of strong winds as also for night staying.
Agios Nikolas Marmakas Bay
Agios Nikolaos provides another secure anchorage option in Ithaca. However, it’s important to note the presence of a reef at the bay’s entrance, requiring careful navigation to prevent any potential accidents.
Ideal For
- Swimming
- Snorkeling
- Sightseeing
- Restaurants
Mooring
- Difficulty: Easy
- Only protected from northwest and west winds
- Entrance reef that requires attention
Afales Beach
Afales, some of the most stunning bays in the entire Ionian Sea! Picture-perfect white sandy beaches meet turquoise waters, surrounded by the lush greenery of inland Ithaca. Keep in mind that these bays may experience some waves, as they are open to the northeast.
Ideal For
- Swimming
- Snorkeling
- Sightseeing
Mooring
- Difficulty: Easy
- Not protected from north and northwest wind
- There are reefs that can be easily seen
Polis Bay
Polis Bay rests on the West coast of Ithaca, featuring a picturesque beach perfect for swimming. With its crystal-clear waters and lush green surroundings, Polis Bay offers an unforgettable landscape close to Stavros village with Odysseus’ home.
Ideal For
- Swimming
- Snorkeling
- Sightseeing
Mooring
- Difficulty: Easy
- Not protected from south and west winds
- Overnight on the left side