Kathisma 1, Sand beach on the island of Lefkada, Greece

Kathisma 1 is a long sand beach on the west coast of the Greek island of Lefkada, close to the village of Agios Nikitas. The shore is made of soft golden sand with scattered pebbles, backed by green hills covered in pine and olive trees.

Kathisma was once a quiet fishing spot before tourism on Lefkada grew in the second half of the 20th century. Over time, bars and services appeared along the shore, turning it into a known summer destination.

The name Kathisma comes from the Greek word for a seat or a place to sit, a reference to the flat rock ledges above the sand. The beach is reached by a path from the road, and the tavernas and beach bars along the shore serve grilled fish and local Lefkada wine. Agios Nikitas, a short walk north, holds its panigyri, a village festival with music and food, in summer.

The road to the beach is generally easy to drive, but the last section becomes narrow with sharp turns, so drivers should go slowly. In high summer it is worth arriving early in the morning, as parking spots nearby fill up quickly.

Paragliders launch from the hill just above the beach and land on the sand itself, making them a regular sight for anyone sitting on the shore. Those who prefer to see the water from above can join a tandem flight and take in the whole coastline from the air.