The Best 35 Corfu Beaches: The Ultimate Guide

Last updated on October 22nd, 2024 at 09:04 pm

See All Corfu Beaches

Best Sandy Beaches on Corfu Island

Corfu Beaches are innumerable, stunning, and expansive. Most are sandy and bustling, with numerous tranquil and secluded shores to discover.

Mainly those in small bays of Erimitis on the northeast coast, and those on the Northwest side of the island, south of the amazing Palaiokastritsa.

In Corfu, there are the endless long sandy beaches of the west coast and the tourist pebble beaches on the eastern coast.

Most of them were awarded blue flags due to their crystal and clear water.

The best beaches in Corfu are scattered all over the Island. Small, remote, and tranquil beaches in the Northeastern part as well as in the area south of Paleolastritsa.

Sandy and busy beaches are almost everywhere even in some places on the East Coast.

The largest sandy beaches are on the southwest coast of the island. And they have easy access if you stay in any of the tourist resorts of the middle and southeast Corfu.

By car, bus, or bike, you need 20-40 minutes to drive from Corfu town to these beaches which are all well worth visiting. You will be amazed by their enormous size, the purity of the sand, the beauty, and sudden changes in the landscape.

Beaches in Northwest Corfu

1. Sidari and Canal D`amour beach

Let’s start by visiting Sidari Resort, one of today`s largest tourist destinations on the island that lies on the northwest coast of Corfu.

The beaches at Sidari are sandy and suitable for anybody.

In the East part of the village, a sandy stretch deepens softly and is good for families. It is fully organized with water sports and other amenities.

On the west side, we find Canal D`amour (Channel of Love), a strange and unique rocky formation ideal for romance as well as diving. It is equally good for young and older people.

The myth says that couples who meet on these rocks stay together forever, which is where the name comes from.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit one of the best beaches on the island.

Sidari and Canal D'amour beach

2. Peroulades and Loggas majestic beach

Peroulades is our next stop, this is a small village with simple apartments and villas.

People here can enjoy the wonderful sandy beach of Loggas below the cliffs, and see the famous sunset from the top of the cliff.

Loggas, the beach of Peroulades is a rare geological phenomenon with very steep tall sandstones that give a sense of majesty.

It is not an organized beach, it has some water sports but is quite narrow. When the sea is rough is almost totally lost under the waves.

It is aimed at romantics because of the fabulous sunsets. Also good for the adventurous type of person.

See more about Peroulades and Loggas

3. Porto Timoni beach

On the island, there are also some incredible places like Porto Timoni.

Porto Timoni is a double beach between the Gulf of Saint George of Pagoi and Afionas.

The scenery is breathtaking and the view from the surrounding heights is amazing. The beach is a slimline land that connects Corfu with a small height that otherwise would be an islet.

A downside is that this beach is accessible only by the sea.

Someone may try an approach by a narrow and rough lane between the mountains but it is difficult, it requires time and the skills of a young person.

Still one of the best beaches for nature lovers, good for relaxing too.

More about Porto Timoni

Beaches on West Corfu

4. Beaches in Paleokastritsa

Palaiokastritsa has been called the jewel of Corfu. Set on several bays which are beaches, separated by small promontories.

Paleokastritsa has exceptional scenery along with superb beaches. Cool and crystal-clear waters are ideal for swimming and water sports.

On most of the beaches, there are taxi boats, sunbeds, umbrellas, motorboats, and canoes for rent.

In the settlement`s area, there are seven beaches, separated by round-shaped capes.

On the headland farthest out to the sea is the beautiful monastery, still working and occupied by cat-loving monks, and containing the famous icon of the Virgin in its church.

Τhere also exists and kept the skeleton of a whale that had stranded years ago on the shores of the region.

Beaches inside paleokastritsa

There are hotels and apartments to suit all pockets here, and many tavernas and bars strung out along the road, some on the hillside, and others on the water’s edge.

The view from the village of Lakones on the hill above is stunning. Many visitors walk up the old donkey trail which goes between the two places, and some go on up into the hills above, exploring the inland villages of Krini and Makrades.

Read more about Paleokastritsa beaches

5. Rovinia Beach

Rovinia Beach is perhaps the most beautiful beach in this area and is located in the area of Liapades in western Corfu just south of the rocky shores of Paleokastritsa.

Small, remote, beautiful, and unspoiled, accessible from the sea as well as from the land through a small path with steps, about 600 meters long.

It is deserted, therefore not very crowded, with fine pebbles, little sand, and a turquoise crystal clear sea in a landscape of exceptional natural beauty, it could be a nudist beach.

The beach of Rovinia is a small petal-shaped beach, almost surrounded by tall rocks on both sides, with rocks at its southern end creating a small but spectacular cave.

The waters here are crystal clear, fairly cold, almost frozen, as well as in the whole area of Paleokastritsa, due to the cold streams from the Adriatic that end up on these coasts.

Rovinia beach

6. Myrtiotissa Nudist Beach

Myrtiotissa is one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Also known as “the only beach on the island of Corfu where nudism is officially tolerated“.

It’s a nudist beach reached by a steep path or by the sea. A rather small sandy beach is difficult to spot that lay just north of Glyfada which is separated by a thin but high rock. Also one of the best beaches in Corfu.

No hotels, apartments, or restaurants are on the beach. So it remains natural and unspoiled by progress.

Located between the villages of Pelekas and Vatos. In an isolated place on the western coast of the island.

See all about Mirtiotissa

7. Glyfada Beach

Ready for Corfu’s most cosmopolitan beach? Glyfada is one of the most popular and busy Corfu Beaches. A long sandy stretch lays on the island’s west side, opposite the town at a distance of about 15 km.

A large beach suitable for young, old, and people who love to meet new friends. One of the best Corfu beaches.

Buses from here go to Corfu Town, passing Aqualand, the largest water park on the island. Also going near the golf course in the Ropa Valley.

More about Glyfada

8. Pelekas and Kontoyialos Beach

Follow us for a visit to Kontoyialos (or Kontogialos), below the famous village of Pelekas. It was the beach that during the ’60s the hippies had as their favorite resort.

It`s a large organized beautiful sandy beach, good for relaxing moments.

The village of Pelekas can be seen from far away as it is situated on a hill overlooking all central Corfu.

At the top of the hill is a viewpoint. Said to have been a favorite spot of Kaiser Wilhelm 2nd who used to walk across from Achilleion Palace in Gastouri.

From this height you can look across Corfu Town, the bay of Gouvia, and right up to the coast to Nissaki. While in the foreground is the lush meadows of the Ropa Valley.

The most popular time to enjoy the view is sunset.

More about Pelekas and Kontoyalos beach

9. Gialiskari Beach or Yialiskari

Gialiskari is further south. A small yet quiet sandy beach, well-organized with sunbeds and umbrellas.

A place surrounded by woods that keep the temperature low, especially in the summer. Rather like natural air conditioning.

Nice beach for nature lovers and relaxing.

The beach has water sports facilities for the more adventurous types.

The background is rocky and magnificent. It offers natural shade and the wider area guarantees peace. Just behind the beach, there are several hotels and restaurants.

10. Agios Gordios Beach

The huge and very busy beach of Agios Gordios is a sandy beach that ends at a high rock called Ortholithi.

It looks like Glyfada. A bit less cosmopolitan though but still good enough for young people and families and surely one of the best beaches in Corfu.

Agios Gordis has plenty of restaurants and small bars for nightlife too.

Almost at the center of the west side, it takes only 20 minutes by car to get there as it is 15 km away from Corfu town.

It is the summer resort of the beautiful Sinarades village on the hills.

More about Agios Gordios

Beaches of Southwest Corfu

11. Chalikounas beach

Imagine a stretch of sand so vast and untouched that it seems to whisper tales of forgotten eras. This is Chalikounas, arguably the best sandy beach in Corfu.

Chalikounas unfolds as a golden ribbon along the southwestern coast of the island, a place where nature reigns supreme and the hand of modernity has scarcely brushed its surface.

The beach is an endless expanse, its landscape ever-changing with undulating dunes, a nearby forest, and a serene lagoon nestled just behind.

Walking along Chalikounas, you might feel as though you’ve stumbled into a different world, a miniature Sahara in Corfu, where the sand stretches out indefinitely under the vast blue sky.

Unlike many tourist spots, Chalikounas remains pristine, unmarred by hotels or unchecked development.

Here, the symphony of waves and wind remains undisturbed, a pure and tranquil escape from the hustle of daily life.

The absence of commercial chaos preserves its raw beauty, making it a haven for those seeking solitude and nature in its most authentic form.

In this part of Corfu, the sands seem infinite, the sun kisses the landscape with a golden hue, and the spirit of adventure lingers in the air.

Whether you seek a quiet refuge or a place to let your wanderlust roam free, Chalikounas stands as a testament to the island’s timeless allure.

Click to go to Chalikounas

12. Issos Beach

Issos sandy beach is in continuation and equally large and beautiful. It is considered among the best Corfu beaches.

The beach has another access from the main road, just after the long straight road of Linia. We hope the place will always remain as it is today. Photos illustrate the uniqueness of the landscape.

These two huge sandy beaches together are more than 10 kilometers long. With golden sand and permanent waves making them ideal for surfing, windsurfing, and paragliding.

Luckily they are next to the lagoon of Korission, a protected area, along with the habitat. So there are no hotels or restaurants here.

If one is thirsty or wants to eat something, there is a simple bar on the beach.

Between Halikouna and Issos beaches, there is a cedar forest three kilometers in length.

It starts at the end of the track of the sandy road in Chalikouna and finishes at Issos. There is a path through the cedar forest leading from Halikouna to Issos and vice versa.

Both Chalikounas and Issos are good for adventures. Depending on the weather, winds blow a bit stronger here and may not appeal to families.

Take me to Issos

13. Saint George Beach South at Argyrades

Before the ’90s, Saint George in Argyrades was a beach of wild beauty, accessible only by navigating unpaved roads between towering dunes.

The beach revealed itself suddenly, with the sound and scent of the sea leading the way. Back then, it was a pristine paradise, with nothing but the sand and the waves.

Today, the landscape has changed. Concrete development lines one side, while the sea graces the other.

Although it has lost some of its untouched charm, Saint George remains one of the best beaches, now equipped with umbrellas, sunbeds, and water sports.

For those who enjoy modern comforts, shops and restaurants are plentiful.

At the southern end of the resort, the restaurant “Cafessas” offers a dining experience not to be missed.

Read more about St George

14. Marathias and Santa Barbara

Marathias and Santa Barbara will be our next stop to the south of Saint George.

Two adjoining sandy beaches, about four kilometers long, make them a beautiful shore included in the top 10 beaches on the island.

Good for relaxing, families, and couples.

They can be reached by driving through Perivoli village and following the signs.

Nobody knows exactly where their boundaries are (the locals are still arguing about that!). But generally, the northern part is called Marathias, and the southern Santa Barbara.

If you see a sign on the main road showing the way to Malta or Marta Beach just remember that it is the same place with a different name used by the locals.

The beach is well organized, with many restaurants, and attracts many visitors. Although the parking area is quite small for everyone who drives down there.

Read more about Marathias

15. Gardenos Beach in Vitalades

Then we must stop at the beautiful large sandy beach of Gardenos at Vitalades.

Ideal beach for sand lovers, couples, and families too.

Gardenos Beach is situated at the southwest end part of Corfu and is the beachside of the traditional village of Vitalades.

The region took its name from a small river…

Read more about Gardenos

16. Megali Lakka (Kanoula beach), or Agios Gordios of South

The beach of Lakka or Agios Gordios of South or else Kanoula is under the traditional villages of the Lefkimi area, Paleochori, Neochori, and Dragotina.

But there is only a narrow road to drive down there. Another way to get to it is to walk from Gardenos.

This magnificent beach is just before Megas Choros, before one of the southern capes of Corfu named Arkoudila.

It is the natural continuation of Gardenos beach. It’s a remote beach with golden sand.

There is absolutely no tourist infrastructure there. So it would help if you had with you the necessary equipment to enjoy swimming.

To be honest, someone can not separate this beach from the next beach of Megas Choros down to the South.

17. Megas Choros

After Gardenos and Agios Gordis at the south of Corfu, just before the last beach of the island, Arkoudila at the southern end, there is another remote sandy beach called Megas Choros.

The name means Great Dance, we know the meaning but we don’t know the exact reason for this name.

Some people say that this place was so remote that it was used by the pirates after they looted the villages around the west coast of Corfu, they came here to celebrate their success by dancing. Therefore the name Great Dance.

Others say that it was used as a large dancing place for the locals of the villages.

Therefore the name may mean Large Space or Great Dance!, keep in mind that in Greek some words sound the same but have different meanings, in this case, one word is ‘Choros=Χορός=dance’ and the other is ‘Choros=Χώρος=space’.

Furthermore, there is another word from the same root, ‘Χορωδία’ (Chorodia in Greek or Chorus in Latin) meaning any group of people who sing together.

In any case, it is another lovely sandy beach, completely unspoiled.

There is a small dirt road leading down there through the village of Vitalades but the access is very difficult. But if you manage to reach down there you will get rewarded by the tranquility of the landscape and the unspoiled virgin sandy beach.

18. Arkoudillas beach

Nestled on the southwestern tip of Corfu, Arkoudilla is a hidden gem, a large expanse of golden sand stretching out towards the azure horizon.

As you approach, the first thing you notice is the vastness of the beach, seemingly endless, meeting the sea in a gentle embrace.

The journey to Arkoudilla is an adventure in itself, winding through narrow roads and lush greenery, heightening the anticipation of what lies ahead.

When you finally arrive, you are greeted by a pristine landscape where the sand is soft underfoot and the sea sparkles invitingly.

The water here is exceptionally clean, its clarity revealing the treasures beneath the surface.

However, Arkoudilla holds a secret: the underwater currents. These currents, while not visible, make their presence known with a subtle yet powerful pull.

Families visiting this serene spot must keep a watchful eye on their children, ensuring they stay close to the shore where the waters are calmer and safer.

Arkoudilla may be a bit off the beaten path, but its untouched beauty and serene atmosphere make it well worth the journey.

It’s a reminder of the raw, unspoiled charm that Corfu has to offer, a place where you can truly escape and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the island.

Apart from the beach, there are many more important facts about the area, check them all in detail on page:

Read more about Arkoudillas

Beaches in Southeast Corfu

19. Kavos

Kavos is on the southernmost edge of Corfu, in the region of Lefkimi. Currently is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island.

A Beach for parties and young British tourists, not recommended for relaxing or families.

Preferred mainly by young British tourists because of its rich and notorious nightlife. Offered by the many nightclubs which offer cheap drinks. Also due to the very cheap accommodation offered compared to other destinations.

In the area, there are approximately 15,000 beds divided between cheap hotels, apartments, or studios. But also there are some more expensive hotels outside the noisy settlement.

In Kavos, nobody sleeps before 06-07 in the morning.

Discover more about Kavos

20. Messonghi

Messonghi is one of the most popular tourist villages in Corfu.

Only a river separates it from Moraitika. It offers natural charm and beauty, is hidden among green hills and olive groves, and boasts a beautiful beach.

Messonghi is a place for families looking for a relaxing holiday.

The beach is sandy with some pebbles. Very well organized with sunbeds and parasols as well as plenty of water sports.

More facilities include showers and changing huts. Along the beach, there are many restaurants and Bars.

The sea is clean and calm, perfect for water activities. Suited to families, couples, and especially small children as the waters are very shallow even at large distances from the shore. Therefore, it is very safe.

There is a school for scuba diving run by a friendly Anglo-Greek couple. It’s the Nautilus Diving School on the shore of the Messonghi Beach Hotel. Also recognized as a British Sub Aqua Club (BSAC) school.

They also organize trips for qualified divers and equipment for hire is also provided.

Find more about Messonghi

21. Moraitika

The busy resort of Moraitika is perhaps the best beach on the East Coast for children. A mixture of sand and pebbles, getting deeper very softly indeed, so it is very safe.

This side of the island is also protected as it looks across to the mainland. Often when the sea is rough on the west coast it is calm here.

The old village of Moraitika sits on a hill at the base which lies the modern resort stretching down to the shore.

Families return again and again, renewing friendships with Corfiots they have known over the years. Relaxing in the bars and tavernas which they have visited in previous years.

Learn more about Moraitika

Beaches on the East Coast

22. Beach at Agios Ioannis Peristeron

Agios Ioannis Peristeron (St John of the Pigeons) has a seacoast that is a mix of sand and pebbles similar to that of Benitses. It’s a very popular beach among the Corfiots, especially at the weekends.

23. Benitses

Benitses is one of the original holiday resorts in Greece. A charming combination of mountains and sea.

It’s the ideal place for swimming, sailing, and water sports.

There is a beach at the north entrance of the village called Laopetra Beach, with shallow and warm waters.

Another beach is next to the new port at the center of the Skaloma settlement, close to most shops and restaurants.

The busier beach with water sports is the Chontrakia or Loutrouvia. It extends from the Potamaki Hotel up to the bay of Koutsomaroula, which is a natural fishing port.

See all about Benitses

24. Perama

Perama is the seaport of Gastouri.

A popular seaside tourist resort for many decades, especially during the `80s and `90s.

Beaches in Perama are basic. But still a good choice for those who love to relax and watch the plane’s landings and take-offs at the nearby airport.

Today the area still has many hotels and accommodations, surrounded by olive groves. It boasts several beautiful pebble beaches.

Perama has the privilege of the best possible view of the Mouse island and the monastery of Vlaherna. Some restaurants and bars at the beginning of the bridge to Kanoni are the best places to watch plane landings and take-offs to and from Corfu Airport.

Most visitors to Corfu pass through Perama. Nowadays fewer stay there than in the ’80s when it was one of Corfu’s most popular resorts.

Situated between Corfu Town and Benitses. Several of its hotels and coffee bars enjoy uninterrupted views of Corfu’s most photographed sight, Mouse Island (Pontikonissi).

See all about Perama

25. Dassia

Dassia was the site of Europe’s first Club Mediterranee. The sand and shingle beach is now popular with families.

Ikos Dassia is a luxury all-inclusive resort located in the Dassia area of Corfu.

The resort offers a wide range of amenities and services, including multiple swimming pools, spa facilities, restaurants, bars, and a variety of sports and leisure activities.

The hotel has 411 rooms and suites, each elegantly designed and furnished with modern amenities.

All rooms come with a balcony or terrace with either sea or garden views, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and minibars.

See more about Dassia

26. Ipsos

Ipsos lies in a large bay at the foot of Mount Pantokrator, Corfu’s highest peak.

It is a lively resort and long pebble beach with mostly English tourists. With water sports and a diving school. Dolphins are often spotted frolicking out at sea.

At the southern end, there is a small harbor with fishing boats.

Read more about Ipsos

Corfu Beaches at Sinies area

27. Barbati and Nissaki

Barbati is a place in the Sinies area. Until recently it was a stony beach beloved of Corfiots who came to picnic in the olive groves at weekends.

But a sudden building craze has turned it into a lively, vibrant resort which has become very popular with holidaymakers.

This beach has mainly pebbles with crystal clear waters which deepen arguably.

More about Barbati

28. Agni

Agni is a quiet bay site in northeast Corfu.

Olive groves are on either side of the bay.

There are only three tavernas, each with its jetty for mooring. And some houses for the locals. So you cannot say that it is a tourist destination rather than a peaceful location.

The beach is with pebbles and the waters are crystal clear. It is a good place for relaxing and eating during the day.

29. Kalami

Kalami is the village where Lawrence Durrell and his family lived in the 1930s. It has grown into a small resort, with several tavernas. One of which is in the house where Durrells lived– the White House.

It is an attractive bay with water deep enough in the middle for yachts to moor.

30. Kouloura

Kouloura is probably the prettiest cove on Corfu. Its ancient fortress house protects the horseshoe-shaped harbor. A settlement with just one taverna.

It is not a beach, but it lies between other Corfu beaches and is very iconic, therefore we include it among the best coast gems of Corfu.

There is a viewpoint on the main road looking down on the bay and over to the Albanian coast. There another fort, identical to Kouloura’s, has been allowed to fall into decay.

31. Kerasia beach

Kerasia is a long beach fringed by trees with several simple bars and tavernas. Somewhere to visit during the day though rather than a resort offering accommodation.

32. Agios Stefanos of Sinies

Agios Stefanos (Sinies) is much more sophisticated. Catering for the occupants of the luxury villas which can be seen all along this coastline. Some on the coast itself, but many are hidden in the olive-covered slopes above.

It is a lively yacht harbor, with tavernas along the waterfront. And it is difficult to imagine that in relatively recent times this was a forbidden area.

Permits were needed- as it is situated on the narrowest part of the Corfu Channel, only 1.5 km away from Albania.
More about Sinies

33. Corfu Beaches of Erimitis area

Erimitis is a protected paradise. There are 11 small isolated and pristine beaches in the area of Erimitis.

We mention them briefly here:

To the east of Kassiopi and in order: Avlaki, Vouvalomantria beach, Vrachli beach, Tzoufaka, the Arias beach, Akoli, Vromolimni, Kaminakia beach, Korfovounia, Aspalathras, and Xylokeratia beach.

All these secret havens belong to the Erimitis area.

All beaches on Erimitis area

Beaches on the North Coast of Corfu

34. Acharavi

This was once a small village, clustered around the well in the middle. But it is now a small town, with banks, supermarkets, schools, etc.

The old village can be found but has to be searched out. Hidden behind the modern buildings fronting the main road. It ends on the lanes leading down to the sandy beach.

Acharavi beach is very long, it covers about 30% of the north coast of Corfu. Therefore in some parts, it is sandy, and in other parts shingle. It is suitable for families and relaxing holidays.

There are many tavernas, bars, and shops here. So many local people no longer need to make trips to Corfu Town. Almost everything can be found on their doorstep!

Discover Acharavi

35. Roda

Roda is one of the older villages on the north coast where tourism has been well-established for many years.

A large sandy beach, good for relaxing and families.

The heart of the village is, of course, the sandy beach which is lined with shops, bars, and tavernas.

More about Roda

The Best Beaches in Corfu on a Map

Wrapping Up

The number of Corfu beaches is endless.

All the Corfu coast is suitable for swimming and everywhere the sea meets the land there is a beach.

In our list, we describe only the largest and most well-known to the general public.

But there are many more, every small cove at the east, north, and west of the island is a beach.

See also: 7 paradise beaches under Paleokastritsa, not included here.