Makrys Gialos
Ioanian Islands, Greece: Excellent water quality
Makrys Gialos lies 8.72 km from Argostoli Municipality in the Ionian Islands, Greece. The beach holds a Blue Flag award, which means it meets strict standards for water quality, environmental management, and visitor safety. It's open throughout the season, though April through June offer the…
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Makrys Gialos
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Makrys Gialos?
Makrys Gialos lies 8.72 km from Argostoli Municipality in the Ionian Islands, Greece. The beach holds a Blue Flag award, which means it meets strict standards for water quality, environmental management, and visitor safety. It's open throughout the season, though April through June offer the best conditions with fewer crowds. July and August are peak months and noticeably busier. Before swimming, check local water safety conditions. The Blue Flag is awarded annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education, making this a solid choice for families and swimmers looking for a well-maintained beach.
It sits alongside other certified beaches in Ioanian Islands, part of a broader network of other Blue Flag beaches in Greece certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Makrys Gialos faces east toward Ionian Sea. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in April, May, June. Direct sun hours follow that facing.
Planning
When to Go: Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 11°C | 8°C | Low |
| Feb | 12°C | 9°C | Low |
| Mar | 13°C | 10°C | Low |
| Apr | 16°C | 13°C | Med |
| May | 19°C | 16°C | Med |
| Jun | 23°C | 20°C | Med |
| Jul | 26°C | 23°C | High |
| Aug | 27°C | 24°C | High |
| Sep | 24°C | 21°C | Med |
| Oct | 20°C | 17°C | Low |
| Nov | 17°C | 14°C | Low |
| Dec | 13°C | 10°C | Low |
The best time to visit Makrys Gialos is April, May, June. Air temperatures peak around 25.8°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 22.8°C in July.
How crowded does Makrys Gialos get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Greece, Makrys Gialos sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Makrys Gialos open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (typically July–September). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Makrys Gialos
Is Makrys Gialos safe to swim?Makrys Gialos is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is rated Excellent. The beach does not have lifeguards stationed on the beach. Swim with appropriate caution.
What is the water temperature at Makrys Gialos?Peak water temperature at Makrys Gialos reaches around 22.8°C in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 10.9°C.
What is the beach like at Makrys Gialos?Makrys Gialos on the Ioanian Islands coast of Greece. It meets all Blue Flag criteria for environmental management, water quality, safety, and facilities.
Does Makrys Gialos have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Makrys Gialos meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services.
Makrys Gialos sits on the Ionian Sea: explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Ionian.
Planning a trip to Greece? How Greece earns the most Blue Flags , our editorial guide to certified beaches across the country.
Transport
Getting to Makrys Gialos
How do I get to Makrys Gialos by car?Makrys Gialos is approximately 8.72 km from Argostoli Municipality. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to Makrys Gialos?The nearest airport is Kefallinia Airport (EFL) (EFL), approximately 2.8 km away.
Can I get to Makrys Gialos by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Argostoli Municipality. The nearest recorded bus stop is 1.2 km from the beach.
Map
Find Makrys Gialos
Open the map or get directions to the Makrys Gialos pin. Amenity names are listed here only when OpenStreetMap has a mapped feature nearby.
Map loads when you ask. Tiles stay off the first paint.
Map: OpenStreetMap (ODbL)
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free: no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✗ |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✗ |
| Official Season | July – August |
| Beach Type | Coastal beach |
| Parking | ✗ No parking listed nearby |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.5 km from the beach |
| Nearest bus stop | 1.2 km from the beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 38.1444°N, 20.4904°E |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Greece |
Frequently Asked Questions
Makrys Gialos FAQ
Is Makrys Gialos suitable for children?
Makrys Gialos is Blue Flag certified in Greece, which requires meeting strict standards for water quality, safety, and facilities. Families should check current facility status with the local beach operator before visiting.
Is Makrys Gialos free to access?
Access to Makrys Gialos is free. There are no entry fees to enter the beach. It is a Blue Flag certified beach in Ioanian Islands, Greece, recognised for meeting international standards for water quality and environmental management.
When is the best time to visit Makrys Gialos?
The best time to visit Makrys Gialos is April, May, June. The peak season typically runs High season: July, August, when weather conditions and facilities are at their best. Peak water temperature reaches around 22.8°C in July. Outside peak season, the beach is quieter but some facilities may be reduced.
What is the water quality at Makrys Gialos?
Makrys Gialos is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict EU Bathing Water Directive standards. Water quality is rated Excellent. Blue Flag certification is awarded and reviewed annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). Beaches must pass water quality tests throughout the season to retain their status.
How do I get to Makrys Gialos?
Makrys Gialos is located in Ioanian Islands, Greece. It is approximately 8.72 km from Argostoli Municipality. The nearest airport is Kefallinia Airport (EFL) (EFL), 2.8 km away. By car is the most flexible option. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules to the area.
Explore More
Nearby Blue Flag Beaches
Editorial
From the Zeach Blog
Everything you need to know about what makes a beach qualify for Blue Flag status, from water quality to environmental education.
Read moreOur editorial team's pick of the standout Blue Flag beaches in Greece, rated for family friendliness, scenery, and facilities.
Explore GreeceWhat the flag actually means, how certification works, and why a Blue Flag is a genuinely reliable signal, not just a marketing tool.
Read moreSources
- Foundation for Environmental Education: Blue Flag programme
- FEE site listing for Makrys Gialos
- Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature (EEPF)
- European Environment Agency: bathing water quality
Last verified September 2026. National operator pages and FEE listings are the primary certification sources.