Corfu · Beaches
Corfu has beaches of every kind: turquoise coves under cliffs in the west, long sand in the south and shingle bays with a taverna in the north-east. The west coast catches the sunset, and the north-east faces Albania and the calmer water.
Our favourites
PebblesOrganised
A group of small coves under green cliffs, with water of a deep turquoise. The main beach has sunbeds and cafes, and the smaller bays are reached by boat or by steps.
Road to the village, then a short walk or a small boat to the other coves
Come before ten in the morning, or after five, when the day boats have gone. Hire a small boat to reach the sea caves.
The west coastStay in Paleokastritsa
PebblesWild
A double bay on either side of a narrow strip of land, reached on foot from Afionas. There are no facilities, only clear water, rocks and the view.
A 25-minute walk down a rough path from Afionas
Bring water and sturdy shoes, and walk down in the evening if you want the light on the cliffs. Remember you must climb back up.
The west coastStay in Afionas
Pick your kind of day
SandOrganised
One of the longest sandy beaches on the west coast, backed by a cliff, with sunbeds, beach bars and watersports.
Road from Pelekas, about 10 minutes
The beach gets busy in July and August. Walk to the quieter ends for more space.
The west coastStay in Pelekas
Sand & pebblesWild
A wide golden beach under steep cliffs, with a small monastery above it. It is quiet, with little shade and few facilities, and part of it is used by naturists.
A steep path or steps from the road above
Bring water and shade. The waves can be strong when the wind is from the west.
The west coast
SandEasy-going
A sandy bay in the south-west under a high rock, with tavernas along the shore and gentle shallow water.
Road to the village
The south
Sand & pebblesEasy-going
Near Sidari on the north coast, sandstone cliffs have been carved by the sea into narrow channels and small bays. Local legend says that couples who swim through the channel will stay together.
Road to Sidari, then a short walk and steps
Visit in the evening, when the stone turns gold and the crowds thin out.
The north
SandWild
A long strip of dunes at the south-west of the island, between the sea and the Korission lagoon. It is windy, empty and good for kitesurfing and walking.
Road to Issos, then dirt tracks
Bring shade and sun cream, as there is almost none. Take a walk along the lagoon for birds.
The south
PebblesEasy-going
A pebble bay with cypress trees to the water and tavernas on the shore, among them the Durrells' White House. The water is calm and clear, and a path leads south to the smaller cove of Agni.
Road to the bay, parking above
Walk the shore path to Agni for a second lunch with a view of Albania.
The north-east coastStay in Kalami and Agni
Sand & pebblesEasy-going
A sheltered bay in the north-west with a long beach, a few tavernas and boats in the water. It is quieter than Sidari and good for families.
Road
The north
Wind and sea change by the day. On windy days swim on the sheltered side of the island, and watch for red flags.