Why Corfu’s Beaches Feel Magical (and Unlike Anywhere Else in Greece)

Posted in: All Corfu Beaches 0

🏖️ Why Corfu’s Beaches Feel So Magical

Corfu isn’t just another island in Greece – it’s a mosaic of landscapes where the sea meets cliffs, caves, and golden sands in ways that feel almost otherworldly.

This page dives into the reasons behind the magic – what makes Corfu’s coastline stand out from other Mediterranean islands and why beach lovers keep coming back.

🏝️ A Few Highlights First…

If you’re dreaming of your next beach escape, here are a few names you’ll want to know:

  • Paleokastritsa: Nestled in lush hills, known for its emerald waters and hidden caves.
  • Glyfada Beach: Wide golden sands, lively beach bars, and water sports.
  • Agios Gordios: Peaceful bay framed by cliffs and olive groves.
  • Canal d’Amour: Mythical passage said to bond lovers forever.
  • Porto Timoni: A twin-bay paradise only accessible by foot or boat.

These are just the beginning. The magic lies in what connects them all.

🌅 What Makes Corfu’s Beaches Truly Magical?

1. Diverse Landscapes on One Island

Cliffs and golden sands at Loggas Beach in Peroulades
Cliffs and golden sands at Loggas Beach in Peroulades

From fine sand to pebble coves, hidden caves to towering cliffs, Corfu offers stunning visual variety. No two beaches look or feel the same.

  • Glyfada & Agios Gordios: Ideal for sand lovers.
  • Paleokastritsa & Rovinia: Rockier, more dramatic settings.
  • Porto Timoni: A landscape you’ll remember forever.

2. Crystal-Clear Waters of the Ionian Sea

Turquoise waters at Porto Timoni double beach
Turquoise waters at Porto Timoni double beach

The waters around Corfu are among the clearest in Greece, with visibility perfect for snorkeling and swimming.

  • Expect shades from turquoise to deep blue.
  • Rich marine life and underwater rock formations make every dip interesting.

3. Secluded Beaches for Peace and Privacy

Quiet, untouched shore at Erimitis Beach
Quiet, untouched shore at Erimitis Beach

Beyond the popular beaches, Corfu hides many quiet escapes, like:

  • Myrtiotissa: Often described as one of the most beautiful and remote beaches in Europe.
  • Erimitis: A string of untouched bays reached only on foot or by boat.

If solitude is what you’re after, you’ll find it here.

4. Natural and Cultural Fusion

Chalikounas Beach near Lake Korission and countryside
Chalikounas Beach near Lake Korission and the countryside

In Corfu, the beach isn’t just a beach — it’s often next to a Venetian fortress, a Byzantine monastery, or a traditional fishing village. The result?

  • You can swim in history — literally.
  • Many beaches, like Paleokastritsa, are linked to Greek mythology, including tales from The Odyssey.

5. Sunsets That Stay With You

Sunset over the cliffs of Loggas Beach
Sunset over the cliffs of Loggas Beach

The island’s west coast is a sunset-lover’s dream. Standout spots include:

  • Loggas Beach in Peroulades: The clifftop view is unreal.
  • Chalikounas: Long, open coast with uninterrupted views of the sun dipping into the sea.

It’s where evenings feel like postcards.

6. Accessibility + Comfort

Glyfada Beach with sunbeds and calm sea
Glyfada Beach with sunbeds and calm sea

Corfu strikes a rare balance: many of its most beautiful beaches are easy to reach and well-serviced.

  • You’ll find parking, sunbeds, tavernas, and showers at many beaches like Glyfada, Barbati, and Agios Stefanos.
  • Others, like Porto Timoni, require a little effort — but that’s part of the charm.

7. Hospitality by the Sea

Seaside taverna near Gardenos Beach
Seaside taverna near Gardenos Beach

The people of Corfu — warm, generous, and proud of their island — add something intangible to the experience.

  • Whether it’s a family-run taverna or a casual chat with a beach vendor, you’ll feel welcomed.

✨ Corfu’s Beaches: A Living Mosaic

Corfu’s coastline from above, a mix of beaches and cliffs
Corfu’s coastline from above, a mix of beaches and cliffs

It’s not just the sand or sea. It’s the sum of many small wonders:

  • The way a small fishing village smells of grilled octopus.
  • The feeling of jumping into a cool sea after a sweaty cliff hike.
  • The moment the sky turns pink, everyone on the beach pauses to stare.

This is why Corfu’s beaches are unforgettable. They aren’t just scenic — they feel alive, layered with story, history, and personality.

📌 Want to Explore Them All?

Head over to our full Corfu Beaches Guide — a visual index of over 50 beaches with maps, tips, and photos from locals.

Interactive Map of Beaches in Corfu

Posted in: All Corfu Beaches 0

Explore Corfu’s coastline like never before with our interactive beach map. Every beach is marked clearly, giving you a quick visual overview of the island’s best spots from north to south.

Click on any marker to view photos and short descriptions of each beach. Whether you’re searching for golden sand, crystal-clear waters, or hidden coves, this map helps you find the perfect destination in seconds.

From famous beaches like Paleokastritsa and Glyfada to more remote gems such as Stelari or Chomi, the map covers all categories and coastlines — East, West, North, and South.

Use it to plan your beach-hopping adventures or simply to check what each area offers. You can also zoom in for more detail or locate beaches close to your stay.

It’s the easiest way to discover Corfu’s beach variety in one place — fast, visual, and mobile-friendly.

Click on any beach marker to go to its full guide page.

Central Corfu map

Corfu Custom Maps of North, South & Central Coasts

Posted in: Corfu Areas Maps, Corfu Maps 0

Corfu’s coastline changes dramatically from one region to the next — from dramatic cliffs and coves in the northwest to long, sandy shores in the south.

This guide helps you explore the best places by area, using custom regional maps and quick links to detailed guides.

Each section below includes a handmade map and links to local guides you can trust — all written from firsthand experience.

🏖 View the Full Corfu Beaches Guide Go to All Corfu Maps

🏞️ Northwest Corfu Region

The northwest coast is wild and dramatic, with some of the island’s most photogenic scenery. Expect green hills, deep blue bays, and steep paths to hidden coves.

North West Corfu map
North West Corfu map

👉 [View Northwest Corfu Beaches Map]

Highlights Along the Northwest Coast

Paleokastritsa

Agios Georgios Pagon

Porto Timoni

Guides and Tips for Northwest places

Best Beaches in Paleokastritsa

Porto Timoni Hiking Guide

Sidari guide

🌅 Northeast Corfu Area

Calm waters, pebble coves, and great views of Albania define this region. Ideal for families and visitors seeking peace and good food by the sea.

North east Corfu map
North east Corfu map

👉 [View Northeast Corfu Beaches Map]

Must-Visit settlements in Northeast Corfu

Kerasia

Kalami

Nissaki

Explore More: Northeast Corfu Insights

Sinies Area Beaches & Northeast Corfu Guide

Kalami and the Durrells

Hidden Coves in North Corfu

🏖️ Central Corfu Region

Easy to reach from Corfu Town, the central coastline offers sandy beaches with sunbeds, beach bars, and water sports. Not the quietest, but very accessible.

Central Corfu map
Central Corfu map

👉 [View Central Corfu Beaches Map]

Popular places in Central Corfu

Glyfada

Agios Gordios

Pelekas with Kontogialos

Your Central Corfu Resources

Benitses guide

Messonghi Travel Tips

Moraitika & Messonghi Map

🏜️ South Corfu area

Wide sandy stretches, shallow waters, and quiet villages make the south perfect for laid-back beach days. The further south you go, the wilder and emptier it gets.

South Corfu map
South Corfu map

👉 [View South Corfu Beaches Map]

Top Picks on Corfu’s Southern Shores

Issos Beach

Halikounas Beach

Marathias Sandy Beach

More to Discover in Southern Corfu

Arkoudilas beach

Lake Korission

Kavos map

➕ Explore Corfu Beaches by Type on a Map

Prefer to search by experience instead of area? Use this visual guide to find beaches based on what matters most to you — family-friendly, sandy, remote, or west coast sunset views.

Corfu Beaches by type map
Corfu Beaches by type map

👉 [View the Map: Best Corfu Beaches by Type]

🧭 Need Help Choosing?

Every beach on this list is marked on the map for easy navigation. Whether you plan to rent a car or stay local, these maps make it easier to choose the right beach for your needs — and avoid long drives to the wrong coast.

Benitses Laopetra - painting

Benitses Beaches: Where to Swim, Relax, and Explore

Posted in: All Info to Benitses 0

The Beaches in Benitses

Water sports facilities in south Benitses
Water sports facilities in South Benitses

Benitses’ beaches have undergone a remarkable transformation, becoming wider and longer, offering ample space and comfort.

Near the north entrance of the village, there is a beach named after the standing rock ‘Laopetra’. Then comes the Beach outside the harbor, followed by Loutrouvia (or Chontakia) beach, and finally, the hidden, small, peaceful beaches to the south of the settlement.

Lifeguards ensure safety, and the beaches are meticulously maintained for a hassle-free experience.

But the excitement doesn’t end there – water sports enthusiasts will be thrilled by the crystal-clear waters, considered the best on Corfu’s Eastern coast.

With a perfect blend of shingle and sand, well-organized sunbeds, and easy access to water sports, these beaches offer a dreamlike setting for lounging and adventure alike.

1. Laopetra Beach

Laopetra rock at the beach
Laopetra rocks at the beach

Let’s kick off our beach tour with a visit to Laopetra Beach, right at the north entrance of the village. You’ll find it just a stone’s throw away from the yachting marina port.

Get ready to dive into tranquility itself. This beach is all about serenity, making it the calmest spot in town.

Picture pebbles and a sprinkle of sand right at the water’s edge, creating a serene escape for those seeking a little shoreline bliss. You won’t spot any high-octane water sports here, but what you will find is a sparkling clean sea that invites you to take a leisurely dip.

And oh, the views! Prepare to be swept away by the sheer magnificence of the landscape. Behold the grandeur of the colossal Laopetra rock that takes center stage, commanding the scenery like an ancient guardian.

So, if you’re in the mood for quiet bliss, Laopetra Beach has your name written all over it. Grab your towel and your favorite book, and let the waves of tranquility wash over you in this spectacular coastal haven.

2. The Beach at the port area

Benitses Beach at the port area
Benitses Beach in the port area

Right beyond the harbor, or as we like to put it, just a skip away from the port’s embrace, you’ll stumble upon the heart and soul of the village – its main beach.

This sandy haven boasts crystal-clear waters that practically twinkle with cleanliness. And for those craving a dash of adventure, you’re in for a treat.

Imagine gliding over the waves on skis or hopping onto a pedal for a leisurely cruise. And if you’ve got a bit of a skipper in you, there’s even the option to rent a boat and captain your mini adventure.

So, whether you’re diving in for a refreshing swim or gearing up for some playful water sports, this bustling beach right outside the port’s gates has got you covered. It’s like a sun-soaked playground where fun meets relaxation in perfect harmony.

3. Benitses Chontrakia Beach

Benitses beach at Loutrouvia
Benitses beach at Loutrouvia

Venture about 200 yards south to the Chontrakia region, and you’ll discover the expansive beauty of Benitses’ larger beach – affectionately known as Contrakia or Loutrouvia. Nestled between the inviting embrace of the Potamaki Hotel and the tranquil Koutsomaroula Bay at its southern tip, this beach is a showstopper.

Prepare for a dose of well-orchestrated relaxation, because Contrakia/Loutrouvia stands as the pinnacle of organization. Perched right along the main road, it’s the place to be. Think of it as a beach bazaar – shops galore, all at your fingertips. But that’s just the beginning of the adventure.

Here, the waves call out to the adventurous souls. From zipping across the water on skis to holding tight on banana rings, there’s a watery thrill for everyone. And for those who dream of soaring above the sea, paragliding will have you feeling like a modern Icarus.

So, if you’re seeking a beach experience that’s both organized and vibrant, Contrakia/Loutrouvia is your ticket. Get ready to dive into a world of shops, water sports, and sun-soaked delight – all framed by the stunning beauty of the Potamaki Hotel and Koutsomaroula Bay.

4. Discover the small, hidden Beaches just outside Benitses

South Benitses beaches
South Benitses beaches

Imagine a collection of small, secluded coves nestled to the south of Benitses, each a picturesque haven with waters that could take your breath away.

These gems have no names; they are named by the locals according to the name of a hotel, a house, or a sight near or next to them.

These coves are a true feast for the eyes, adorned with magnificent, sizable rocks and sandy shores that seem to have a calming effect on the soul.

But that’s not all; there’s not just one or two of these coastal treasures – there are dozens of them, each offering a unique experience and stretching down to the Moraitika area.

And if you’re seeking serenity and perfect weather conditions, you’re in luck.

These hidden paradises are known for their tranquility, with minimal winds. They are not busy even during the peak of summer, when the waters become deliciously warm, and nearly scorching, making them the perfect escape for relaxation.

What’s more, these gems are a bit of a local secret, embraced by lush vegetation, offering a sense of near-complete isolation, yet with effortless access as they lie just a stone’s throw from the main road.

The only hitch in this paradise is the increasing number of explorers finding their way here, gradually eroding the unique charm these coves possess.

So, if you’re ever in the area, hurry up before these well-kept secrets become crowded destinations.

5. Marine Life

The sea in Benitses is remarkably clean, thanks to a marine plant named Posidonia, which you can observe on the seabed.

Although its dark color may not appeal to swimmers, it effectively cleans the water by filtering toxic substances, heavy minerals, and carbon dioxide. Additionally, it provides oxygen and serves as a valuable shelter and food for small fish.

Posidonia is largely responsible for the delicious seafood available and contributes to the overall purity of the water.

While Posidonia meadows appear green, their leaves turn a dark brown color as they age.

These leaves eventually separate from the plant and, aided by tides, wash up on beaches. However, after winter storms, the beaches are meticulously cleaned, providing visitors with a beautifully pristine environment to enjoy.

It’s important to note that Posidonia is not seaweed, as some mistakenly believe, but rather a valuable marine plant that grows, blooms, and multiplies similarly to terrestrial plants. Its primary threats include trawlers, intensive fishing, and human ignorance.

A flourishing presence of Posidonia indicates a clean sea and a well-balanced environment, as it thrives only in the purest waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

6. Visit the sandy beaches of the West Coast

If you plan to rent a car or have your own, it’s easy to explore the vast sandy beaches of the nearby west and southern coasts.

More on the page about the Best Corfu beaches

Back to Benitses

Festivals and Panigiria in the Villages of Corfu

Posted in: Corfu Culture and Events 0

As in Corfu Town, so in the villages- the events of the Carnival are the same, plus a few villages have maintained some fascinating and entertaining traditions.

The Holy Marriage

Until 1960, this was called Karnavalitikos marriage and happened in most villages, but it is now preserved only in the villages of Chlomos, Marathia, Kritika, Giannades, and a few others.

It takes place on the Shrovetide Sunday, or Tyrinis. The men of the village dress the groom, shaving him and decorating him with cologne, but also with ashes from the fireplace.

In another area, the bride, who is also a man, preferably with a mustache, will be decorated by the women of the village.

The fact that a bride is a man comes from the patriarchal influences that forbade women from participating in community events.

The ceremony also involved a demon in the form of a satyr who does his best to spoil the wedding.

Throughout the ceremony, the villagers tease each other with endless obscenities.

The custom of the Vlachs

In the village of Argirades, Vlachs are the lords of the carnival.

There are only two of them, and they dance one leading the procession and the other at the rear. The dance they do is an ancient Greek ritual dance.

They hold in their hands the blossom of the first Spring flowers, and it seems that their mission is to force all visitors to smell the flowers.

The Dance of the Priests

In the village of Episkepsis, in the square of St. Basil on Shrovetide Sunday, the Dance of the Priests is performed.

The priest of the village starts the dance, and all the men follow each other in turn according to their age and their social position in the local society.

The chorus repeats the verse that the priest says without the accompaniment of music.

When the dance ends, the old women of the village follow on, and accompanied by the music, they dance a local dance called Corfiot.

This custom only happens here, and according to Mr. Klimis (a historian and journalist) is a remnant of an ancient Maenad tribe dating from 500 BC, as he writes in his book: The “History of Corfu”.

Festivals of Folkloric Groups

The different festivals that occur throughout Corfu over the year, but mostly in the summer, are endless.

Every village has at least 3-4 per year, so with more than 200 villages on the island, one can calculate that there are local festivals and celebrations almost daily.

We mention only the most important festivals and other events that attract the most people.

  1. 40 days after Easter: The feast of the Ascension, at the Analipsis area in Kanoni.
  2. May 8 and August 15: Festivals on the Assumption in Kassiopi and the Kanoni area.
  3. 20th of May: Festival at Alikes of Potamos village.
  4. May 21st: Konstantine and Helen feast in Koulines village.
  5. May 21st: Achillian race with its finish in the square of Benitses.
  6. June 9th: Celebrations in Alykes of Potamos, Petalia mountain village, and Potamos.
  7. June 12th: Celebration in Pelekas.
  8. June 24th: Day of Saint John, the festival at Mantouki and also in many villages with the lampatines festival, where people jump over fires.
  9. June 24th: Feast of the Holy Spirit in Kontokali, Argyrades, Stavros village, Kastellani Mesis, and Othoni island.
  10. June 29th: Peter and Paul feast in Kompitsi, Stroggyli, Vitalades, and Gaios at Paxos.
  11. July 2nd: Notre Blachernon, a festival in Garitsa.
  12. July 8th: Feast of Agios Prokopios in the villages of Agios Prokopios and Kavos Lefkimi.
  13. July 13th: Festival in the Sarocco Square for Saint Spyridon.
  14. July 20th: Feast of the Prophet Elijah in Magoulades village.
  15. July 26th: Agia Paraskevi at Porta Remounta festival and a celebration in Benitses.
  16. July 15-17thAgia Marina, a large festival in Benitses.
  17. July 27th: Saint Panteleimon festival at the Psychiatric Hospital.
  18. August 6th: Feast of the Transfiguration of the Saviour, in the Mouse island, Perivoli village, Strinnyla and Palaiochori, Agioi Deka and Agios Mattheos, and a six-day pilgrimage from August 1 to August 6 at the top of the Pantokrator.
  19. August 11th: On the first Sunday of November, Palm Sunday, and Holy Saturday, on these dates, 4 processions are accompanied by bands from all over the island.
  20. August 15th: Festival on the fifteenth of August in the Monastery of Platytera.
  21. August 16th: Gala weekend in the village of Kato Garouna.
  22. August 23: Feast of Our Lady Odigitrias in the villages of Gastouri, Pelekas, and Agioi Deka.
  23. September 8th: Feast at the villages of Afra, Sinarades, Marathia, and San Marcos Potami Lefkimi.
  24. September 14th: Feast of the Holy Cross at the monastery of St. John and in Sidari.
  25. September 14th: Feast of sardines in Benitses.
  26. September 24th: Celebrations at Vatos village.
  27. September 26th: Saint John the Theologian, a festival in Karousades and Porta Remounta.
  28. December 6th: Festival in Kampielo and Kanalia area.

Gossip with a Twist: Corfu’s Petegoletsa Tradition

Posted in: Corfu Culture and Events 0

Petegoletsa

Petegoletsa - Street theater
Petegoletsa – Street theater

On the last Thursday of the carnival, Corfu has revived a very old tradition, an integral part of the Corfu carnival, which dates from the years of Venetian rule. It is called the Petegoletsia; petegolia is simply the gossip, which means exactly what it says.
It is a popular street theatre that takes place in public, between the balconies of the old city along the narrow alleyways.

In these ‘gossip plays,’ the women come onto their balconies and gossip to their neighbors, making sly comments about recent events and also about the laundry of the other people. These are all played in the original dialect of Corfu and in a libertine language and style that would make even Aristophanes blush.

It is the famous indiscretion of Corfu, which was misunderstood in other parts of Greece, but here it is completely different, the Corfiots routinely use this phraseology many times in everyday social life, it helps to halt misunderstandings at a low level, giving chance to let off steam and avoid the use of force.

The Petegoletsia are watched every year by thousands of people; they satirize politicians, even by exposing their personal lives and scandals in public, both at the national and local levels.
Local MPs, mayors, and other public figures have to listen and at least pretend not to mind the jibes.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 51