Antisamos Beach

Antisamos is a short drive from Sami and one of the island's most inviting swimming beaches. A crescent of white and grey pebbles curves around a sheltered bay, backed by steep wooded hills, and the water shades from pale green near the shore to deep blue farther out. The sea here is typically calm and clear, and the setting feels more intimate than the exposed beaches on the west coast. It served as a filming location for the 2001 movie version of Captain Corelli's Mandolin, and a few simple beach bars and sun loungers now line the shore. Visitors come for the easy swimming, the cool shade of trees at the back of the beach, and the chance to unwind after the caves. It is one of the most family-friendly beaches on the east coast.

The beach is well suited to a relaxed half day. The water enters gradually enough for children to paddle, though the pebbles can be hot, so water shoes are a good idea. Snorkelling is rewarding along the rocky edges, where small fish gather. A few cafes serve cold drinks, grilled food, and salads, and there is parking near the entrance. The location in a sheltered bay means it is often calmer than the west coast when winds are up.

Visitors often combine Antisamos with the cave lake and cave. The linked tour includes Drogarati, Melissani, and a beach stop at Antisamos, which makes for a balanced day of dramatic geology and a restful swim. If you drive yourself, Sami is a handy base for lunch and supplies, and the beach is only a few minutes from town. Come early in summer to claim a good spot, as the bay fills by mid-morning.

The film connection adds a layer for fans of the novel. Louis de Bernieres wrote of the island's wartime history, and the movie used Sami and nearby coves as settings. You do not need to have read the book to enjoy the beach, but if you want to follow the story, pair the visit with the Captain Corelli tour linked elsewhere in this guide. Evenings in Sami's waterfront tavernas are pleasant after a day by the sea.

The surrounding hills hold small trails and lookouts for those who want a break from the water. A short walk from the beach brings views over the bay and the green slopes that frame it, and the shade of the trees is welcome at midday. Evenings are quiet, and the light on the water at sunset is gentle. Because the bay is protected, it works well as a fallback when winds make the west coast rough, which is useful to know on a changeable day.

Pack a picnic if you plan a long stay, as the beach bars are modest. Snorkellers should bring their own mask, since rentals are limited, and everyone should apply sunscreen often because the sea breeze hides the strength of the sun.

Weekday mornings are calmest, and weekends see more local families arriving for picnics and swimming.