The Enchanting Haven of Agios Nikitas

On the endless blue west coast of the Ionian island of Lefkada, Greece, just 12 km from the sophisticated capital of Lefkas Town, lies the traditional, cosmopolitan village of Agios Nikitas.

Agios Nikitas is a seaside fishing village that has managed to keep its traditional natural beauty, charm and character (The Ministry of Environment has declared Agios Nikitas a traditional settlement). The village is in a prime location for exploring the island, being in close proximity to both the famous beaches and the city nightlife.

The village nestles around the bay in a beautiful area full of olive groves and enchanting landscapes. The lush green hills and white rocks coexist peacefully; magical views of the endless ionian sea to the misty tops of the mountains of Epirus on the horizon.

Agios Nikitas is truly an ideal vacation spot for its friendly and refreshing environment; an enchanting haven for everyone!

We spoke to local residents and owners of Afroditi Pansion Studios and Apartments who have been in operation in Agios Nikitas since 1985 to discover more about this charming village. We asked: When is the best time to visit Agios Nikitas? Enjoy beautiful days during the months of April, May, June, September and October; ideal for families who want to escape the peak tourist trade and extreme climate during the months of July and August. The good news, local accommodations are often able to offer special discounted rates during this period. This is also the best time to enjoy the azure water, enchanting landscape colours, the sunsets, the flowers, fragrance from the trees and euphoric atmosphere of this enchanting village.

Local Beaches to Visit? Agios Nikitas is surrounded by the most beautiful beaches in Lefkada; Agios Nikitas, Milos, Pefkoulia, Kathisma, Kavalikefta and Megali Petra (Kalamitsi), Gialos, Egremni and the Island's most famous beach 'Porto Katsiki' (only a 40 minute drive away).

Stunning Milos Beach is located northwest of Agios Nikitas. It is accessed from the village by a footpath with amazing views through the olive and pines trees. It can also be accessed via water taxi from the seafront. This beach has both shingles and sand and catches the sun all day long, perfect if you want to spend the day sunbathing.

Pefkoulia beach also known as Agios Nikitas because of its close proximity to the village is easily accessible with both sand and shingle and magical blue waters.

Things to do in Agios Nikitas?

Entertainment & Restaurants for Families, Couples & Young Adults?

Traditional architecture and local amenities include fresh fish tavernas (from local fishing boats), restaurants, cafe-bars, mini supermarket, souvenir shops, ATM, car rentals, bus stop and the beautiful Saint Nikitas' church. These can all be found on the stone paved pedestrian street, which provides an endless Ionian horizon view with its crystalline waters and picturesque sandy beach. The beach is protected by a break water wall, therefore very safe and ideal for families with small children and old people. There is a cave on the left side of the beach which you are able to swim inside and pass through from the hall of rocks and relax in the small sandy beach. Island walks through the footpaths and mountainous areas offer breath-taking views of the Ionian sea.

Cafe-bars including 'Captains Corner' 'On the Rock' and 'Gonia' offer great selections of snacks, drinks and cocktails, or just take a 12 minute drive to the island’s capital for a wider selection of cafes, restaurants & bars with nightlife beats until sunrise. Agios Nikitas offer an array of dining options including 'Nikitas' Fresh Fish Taverna 'Mylos' 'Agnantio' 'Maistros' 'Portini' and 'Lefteris' to name just a few restaurants and tavernas. Alternatively, a short 15 minute drive will take you to Rachi Restaurant, high up in Exanthia, with world class infinity horizon views.

Copla Beach Bar and Areia Club are located on Kathisma Beach, just a 5 minute drive away, with weekly beach and pool parties. These are often hosted by famous DJ's from around the world and are an ideal venue for a destination wedding or that special event.

With sunbeds, drinks and snack service, organised watersports, chic restaurants and paragliding from Exanthia its no wonder Kathisma is rated as the No.1 'Go to Beach' by frequent visitors to this paradise isle. For water sports head to Agios Ioannis just a 10 minute drive away for first class Wind and Kite surfing.

Agios Nikitas in the Winter Time?

During the winter/off season months approx 50 people reside in the village. The main business is fishing, oil production from the olive trees and general agricultural work as the village prepares for the new season as a tourist hot spot! The only tourist you will find in Agios Nikitas during the winter time are of course the Fishing Village Cats!

History of Agios Nikitas?

Before the 1980's the village and the Island main source of business was through oil production, wine and fish. The bay of Lefkada was the main port to sell and move products between Italy and other countries via ship. Many people lived in the mountains to be protected from pirate ships and came down to the sea to sell local products to transfer abroad. The village itself started to build around the 1900's as it became an important transfer point for local produce around the world.

The Lefkadian Wine is famous around Europe for its tasty and strong assortment of flavours.

The climate of Lefkada also assists in the production of Olive Oil from the Olive Trees, taste at your first opportunity!