Best Islands for Family Holidays in the Ionian

Welcome to Ionian Island Holidays. Let us share our passion for the Ionian Islands and guide you to the land we call home, where unforgettable family memories await and with over 25 years of experience you know you are in good hands 

Speak to a member of our experienced team who will match you to your perfect Ionian island. 

The Ionian Islands are some of Greece’s most family‑friendly escapes, a cluster of emerald‑green isles where calm seas, soft‑sand beaches and welcoming villages make travelling with children feel effortless. 

Each island has its own personality: some offer gentle, shallow bays perfect for little swimmers, others hide adventure‑filled forests, waterparks and boat‑friendly coastlines that the whole family will love. 

What they all share is that unmistakable Ionian charm - slower days, bluer waters and a sense of ease that lets families truly relax and unwind together.

If you’re planning a holiday that balances relaxation with fun, the Ionian is one of the best places to start. Let’s briefly explore the seven Ionian Islands and help you discover which one is the perfect match for your holiday style. 

Kefalonia

Kefalonia is one of the Ionian’s most rewarding islands for families, thanks to its wide sandy beaches, gentle shallows and relaxed, spacious feel. Towns like Lourdas, Skala, Assos and Fiskardo offer calm swimming spots, boat trips and easy dining. 

Nature‑loving families can explore Melissani Cave, Ainos National Park, cypress forests and quiet coves, while older teens can enjoy kayaking and snorkelling. Kefalonia balances beauty and practicality, making it a dependable choice for stress‑free family holidays. 

The island has a huge selection of diverse accommodation ranging from Family villas in Kefalonia,  Villas with pools in Kefalonia, Holiday apartments in Kefalonia. If you think Kefalonia is the island for your next holiday, then let us take you there.

Corfu

Corfu blends soft beaches, lush scenery and cultural variety, one of Europe's biggest water parks, making it ideal for families who want more than just sun and sea. 

Resorts like Kassiopi, Agios Stefanos, Nissaki, Paleokastritsa and Dassia offer safe swimming and plenty of activities, while Corfu Town adds history, museums and Venetian charm not to mention a spot of cricket in the summer . Boat trips to tiny bays, trips over to Albania,  waterparks and gentle hiking trails keep children entertained. 

Corfu’s mix of nature, culture and family‑friendly infrastructure makes it one of the Ionian’s most versatile islands. Why not have your very own Durrell's experience here on Corfu. Explore our fabulous Family Villas in Corfu, and Villas in Corfu.

Zakynthos

Zakynthos suits families who enjoy a lively island with bustling resorts paired with dramatic natural beauty. Tsilivi and Kalamaki offer long sandy beaches with shallow water, ideal for younger children, while older kids love boat trips to Shipwreck Beach and the Blue Caves. 

The island is also home to protected loggerhead turtles, adding an educational twist to beach days. 

With plenty of activities, family hotels and easy transport, Zakynthos delivers a fun, energetic holiday atmosphere. 

Paxos

Paxos is perfect for families seeking calm, beauty and a slower rhythm. The island’s sheltered coves, especially around Lakka and Loggos, offer safe swimming in crystal‑clear water. Boat trips to Antipaxos reveal some of the Ionian’s brightest turquoise bays, while older children enjoy gentle coastal walks through olive groves. 

The island's capital is Gaios, a pretty port lined with yachts and flotillas, welcoming family tavernas, boutiques and trendy cafes all in a relaxed peaceful atmosphere, Paxos suits families who value simplicity and nature over busy resort life. Discover Paxos with us your award- winning Greek specialists, discover more  Family villas in Paxos

Meganisi

Meganisi, the little big island, is a wonderfully low‑key island for families, with quiet gentle bays, friendly villages and a relaxed, intimate feel. 

Vathi and Spartochori offer safe harbours and easy dining, while the island’s coastline is dotted with secluded coves perfect for swimming and picnics. Hire a boat pack a picnic and explore nearby islets and sea caves for some added family adventure whilst the calm waters suit younger children.

Meganisi’s charm lies in its simplicity — a peaceful, easy going island ideal for quality family time. You will find here a genuine welcome typical of that Greek philoxenia (welcome to strangers) explore our Family villas in Meganisi or Properties near the sea in Meganisi, allow us to take you there..... 

Ithaka

Ithaka is a dream for families who enjoy quiet exploration, mythology and unspoilt landscapes. Villages like Kioni and Stavros offer calm harbours, easy swimming spots and welcoming tavernas. The island’s Odyssean heritage adds a fun storytelling element for children, while older kids love kayaking, snorkelling and scenic hikes. 

Ithaka’s beaches are small but beautifully clear and its gentle pace makes it ideal for families wanting a peaceful, authentic Ionian escape. Learn more about Greek mythology on this mythical island. There is a diverse selection of accommodation on Ithaka, choose from including Family villas in Ithaka, Holiday apartments in Ithaka and Small hotels and pensions in Ithaka

Lefkada 

Lefkada is perfect for active families thanks to its sheltered lagoons, calm beaches and accessible adventure. 

Vasiliki is famous for beginner‑friendly windsurfing, while Lefkada Town the busy capital has an abundance of tavernas, cafes, boutiques and souvenir shops. From Nidri take a boat trip to to local destinations like a three island cruise, Meganisi, Ithaka and Kefalonia plus trips to waterfalls and nearby islets. 

The island’s west coast has spectacular scenery and ideal in the afternoon for Kite-Surfers when the wind picks up on Agios Ioannis, but families often prefer the gentler eastern bays with shallow, clear water. 

With its mix of nature, water sports and relaxed villages, Lefkada suits families who want a balance of comfort and exploration. Learn more about this stunning diverse Ionian island with us your Greek island specialists stay in stunning Family villas in Lefkada the choice is yours.

Ready to experience the magic of the Ionian Islands? 

Discover our handpicked family villas and apartments in stunning locations, featuring private pools, breath-taking sea views and plenty of space for everyone to relax and unwind together. 

Book your perfect Ionian Island holiday today and create unforgettable family memories with our award-winning team of Greek travel specialists, bringing over 25 years of expertise in holidays to Greece and its beautiful islands. 

For more information, speak to our experienced team on 020 8459 0777 or email mail@ionianislandholidays.com.