21/03/2025
Lefkada, a jewel in the Ionian Sea, beckons with its cerulean waters and breathtaking beaches. Among its many treasures, Mylos Beach near Agios Nikitas stands out as a true spectacle, often lauded for its pristine beauty and a sense of secluded tranquility. However, for the discerning UK traveller, navigating the island's transport options to reach such a specific destination can sometimes feel a bit like cracking a code. This guide will unravel the mystery, focusing on the most efficient and recommended 'taxi' solutions to ensure your journey to Mylos Beach is as smooth and enjoyable as the Ionian breeze.
Many visitors to Lefkada naturally gravitate towards the popular large-scale boat excursions departing from bustling ports like Nidri and Vasiliki. While these trips offer fantastic opportunities to explore the Ionian islands and famous southern beaches like Porto Katsiki and Egremni, it's crucial to understand a key detail: these extensive boat tours do not typically serve the northern and western beaches, including the magnificent Mylos. This is where a more localised approach, often involving a 'taxi' service, becomes your best friend.
Why Mylos Beach? A Northern Gem Worth the Journey
Mylos Beach is not just another stretch of sand; it's an experience. Tucked away from the main road, its relative inaccessibility contributes to its unspoilt charm. Imagine crystal-clear turquoise waters lapping against a backdrop of dramatic cliffs, with soft white pebbles underfoot. It’s a photographer's dream and a sun-seeker's paradise, offering a more serene alternative to some of Lefkada's busier shores. Its allure lies in its natural, untamed beauty, making the effort to get there entirely worthwhile for those seeking a peaceful escape.
The Main Boat Trips: A Different Destination
Before delving into how to reach Mylos, let's clarify why the larger, more publicised boat excursions won't get you there. The majority of these popular daily boat trips, whether from Nidri or Vasiliki, are designed to explore the southern coast of Lefkada and nearby islands. They typically sail past significant landmarks like Cape Doukato and its lighthouse, making stops at the iconic Porto Katsiki and Egremni beaches, where passengers can disembark for swimming and sunbathing. Some even extend to other Ionian Islands such as Kefalonia (Fiskardo) and Ithaca, or explore sea caves like Papanikolis cave near Meganisi. While these are fantastic for island hopping and experiencing the popular southern beaches, they simply do not cover the northern stretch where Mylos Beach resides. The information is clear: "To other beaches of the north, such as Megali Petra beach, Kathisma beach, Mylos beach, etc. can’t be visited by a boat trip which depart from Nidri or from Vasiliki." This makes your choice of transport for Mylos critical.
Your Direct Route: The Agios Nikitas Taxi Boat
For UK holidaymakers keen on reaching Mylos Beach with ease and minimal fuss, the most direct and highly recommended method from Agios Nikitas is the dedicated taxi boat service. This isn't a grand excursion vessel; rather, it's a small, nimble boat designed specifically for shuttling passengers across a short stretch of water directly to Mylos Beach. It's a quintessential local experience, offering both convenience and a scenic start to your beach day.
These taxi boats operate from the main beach of Agios Nikitas village. The journey itself is remarkably quick, taking only a few minutes to traverse the short distance. It’s a delightful mini-cruise, offering stunning views of the coastline as you approach Mylos from the sea, a perspective often missed by those who attempt the more challenging overland routes. The convenience factor is paramount here: you simply turn up, pay your fare, and hop aboard.
Operating Details of the Taxi Boat:
- Departure Point: The main beach in Agios Nikitas village. Look for the small boats near the water's edge.
- Frequency: Boats typically depart hourly. During the peak summer months (high season), the schedule becomes even more frequent to accommodate demand.
- Payment: Payment is made directly on the boat after boarding. This means no need to pre-book or queue for tickets at a separate kiosk. It's a straightforward cash transaction, so ensure you have some euros ready.
- Journey Time: The trip is remarkably brief, taking "just a few minutes."
This taxi boat service is a true lifeline for accessing Mylos, bypassing any strenuous walks and delivering you fresh and ready to enjoy the beach. It’s the ultimate expression of direct 'taxi service' for a beach requiring water access.
Alternative Ground Transport: Reaching Agios Nikitas and Beyond
While the taxi boat is your final leg to Mylos from Agios Nikitas, you'll first need to get to Agios Nikitas itself. The provided information highlights that to visit northern beaches like Mylos, you might need to "rent a car, bike or quad, or take advantage of taxi service." This offers several viable options for UK travellers:
1. Renting a Car: Freedom and Flexibility
Renting a car in Lefkada provides the ultimate flexibility to explore the island at your own pace. This is an excellent option if you plan to visit multiple beaches and attractions across the island, including those in the north. You can drive directly to Agios Nikitas, park your car (be aware that parking can be limited, especially in high season, and often involves a fee), and then walk to the beach to catch the taxi boat. A car allows you to return to your accommodation whenever you wish and explore hidden tavernas or viewpoints.
2. Scooters or Quads: The Adventurous Choice
For those who enjoy a bit more adventure and the open air, renting a scooter (bike) or a quad bike is a popular choice in Lefkada. These are ideal for navigating smaller roads and can sometimes be easier to park than cars in busy village centres like Agios Nikitas. Like with a car, you'd drive to Agios Nikitas, park, and then proceed to the taxi boat departure point. This option offers a sense of freedom, but always prioritise safety and wear appropriate gear.
3. Traditional Taxi Service: Convenience on Wheels
For travellers who prefer not to drive on their holiday, or are perhaps staying in a different part of the island, a traditional road taxi service is a fantastic and stress-free option. You can arrange a taxi from your accommodation directly to Agios Nikitas. This provides door-to-door convenience, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic drive without worrying about navigation or parking. Taxis in Lefkada are generally reliable, and your hotel reception or local tourist office can assist in booking one. Once in Agios Nikitas, it's a short walk to the beach where you'll find the Mylos taxi boats. While potentially more expensive than public transport (if available to Agios Nikitas directly from your location), the comfort and directness of a private taxi often justify the cost, especially for families or groups.
| Transport Type | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rental Car | Ultimate flexibility, explore entire island, comfortable for families. | Parking challenges in peak season, navigating unfamiliar roads. | Extensive island exploration, self-guided tours. |
| Scooter/Quad | Easy parking, adventurous, good for short distances. | Less comfortable for long journeys, weather dependent, safety considerations. | Solo travellers, couples, short trips, agile explorers. |
| Traditional Taxi | Door-to-door service, no parking worries, comfortable, stress-free. | Can be more expensive, less spontaneous for multiple stops. | Convenience, direct travel, not wanting to drive, groups. |
| Agios Nikitas Taxi Boat | Direct access to Mylos, quick, scenic, affordable, no pre-booking. | Only for the final leg to Mylos (from Agios Nikitas beach). | Everyone in Agios Nikitas wanting to reach Mylos. |
Planning Your Journey to Mylos Beach
A little planning goes a long way in ensuring a perfect day at Mylos Beach. Here are some key considerations:
- Time of Year: If visiting during high season (July-August), expect more frequent taxi boat departures but also more crowds in Agios Nikitas itself. Early mornings are generally best for both avoiding crowds and securing parking if you're driving.
- Cash is King: Remember that payment for the taxi boat is made on board, typically in cash. Ensure you have small denominations of Euros with you.
- Beach Essentials: Mylos Beach is relatively undeveloped, so bring everything you need: water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, and a towel. There are no facilities directly on the beach itself, adding to its unspoilt charm.
- Footwear: While the taxi boat drops you right on the beach, comfortable footwear for walking around Agios Nikitas and to the boat departure point is advisable.
Beyond Mylos: Exploring Lefkada's North by Land
The transport options discussed for reaching Agios Nikitas and subsequently Mylos Beach are also applicable for exploring other stunning northern and western beaches of Lefkada that are not accessible by the main boat excursions. Beaches like Kathisma Beach, with its organised facilities, and the wilder Megali Petra Beach, can be reached by rental car, scooter, quad, or a traditional taxi service. Understanding this distinction between the island's northern and southern coastal access points is key to unlocking all of Lefkada's diverse beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I walk to Mylos Beach from Agios Nikitas?
While there is a walking path, it can be steep and challenging, especially in the summer heat. The text focuses on the taxi boat as the primary method from Agios Nikitas, suggesting it's the preferred and easier option. Given the emphasis on the taxi boat and its "few minutes" journey, it strongly implies that the walking alternative is not the recommended or straightforward path for most.
Q: How much does the taxi boat to Mylos Beach cost?
The provided information states that you "pay on the boat after boarding" but does not specify a price. However, these local boat shuttles are generally considered an affordable and convenient way to reach the beach, reflecting a good value for the short, scenic journey.
Q: Do I need to book the taxi boat in advance?
No, according to the information, "Book in advance in not neccessary, you pay on the boat." This makes it a highly flexible and spontaneous option for your beach day.
Q: How long does the taxi boat trip take?
The journey from Agios Nikitas beach to Mylos Beach by taxi boat is very quick, taking "just a few minutes."
Q: Are there facilities like sunbeds or tavernas on Mylos Beach?
The information doesn't explicitly state. However, given that it's often described as secluded and requires a specific boat taxi, it implies it is less developed than more organised beaches. It's always advisable to bring your own essentials like water, snacks, and shade.
Q: Can I reach Mylos Beach with the large excursion boats from Nidri or Vasiliki?
No, the article explicitly states that "To other beaches of the north, such as Megali Petra beach, Kathisma beach, Mylos beach, etc. can’t be visited by a boat trip which depart from Nidri or from Vasiliki." These larger excursions focus on the southern beaches and nearby islands.
Q: What's the best way to get to Agios Nikitas itself if I don't have a car?
A traditional road taxi service is an excellent option for direct and comfortable travel to Agios Nikitas from other parts of Lefkada. Alternatively, public buses might serve the village from main towns, though schedules would need to be checked locally.
In conclusion, while Lefkada offers a plethora of boat excursions to its southern wonders, reaching the pristine shores of Mylos Beach requires a more tailored approach. The Agios Nikitas taxi boat stands out as the quintessential solution, offering a quick, easy, and scenic transfer. Coupled with the flexibility of a rental car, scooter, quad, or a traditional taxi service to get you to Agios Nikitas, you're all set for an unforgettable day on one of Lefkada's most captivating beaches. Enjoy your Greek island adventure!
If you want to read more articles similar to Mylos Beach: Your UK Guide to Getting There by Taxi, you can visit the Transport category.