Corfu beaches

The Ionian Islands boast some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. As well as clean beaches and clear waters, these resorts are located in naturally beautiful settings, so here's our pick of the best, from secluded coves to popular resorts.


Sidari

Sidari has developed into one of Corfu's thriving holiday resorts, whilst retaining much of its original charm. Sidari's broad, sandy beach and shallow water make it popular with families but its most dramatic features are the stunning rock formations that rise out of the seas. The sandstone here has been carved by the pounding waves into sandy coves with caves and ledges.

Roda

Roda, on Corfu's picturesque north coast, is a growing beach resort that maintains it's fishing traditions amidst the increasing number of tourists. The main reason for this surge in popularity is the golden sandy beach, which stretches for miles into neighbouring Acharavi.

Kassiopi

This peaceful resort is delightfully set on a pretty hillside leading down to a colourful, traditional harbour and shingle bays, by day, secluded coves wait to be explored and by night, the bars and restaurants come to life.

Agios Georgios (North)

Located at the Northern End of the west coast, between two headlands in a horseshoe shaped bay, this is a secluded resort approached by a steep, narrow road. Small and untouched by the crowds it is exclusively a tourist development with no native village life and is very quiet in low season. The beach of golden sand is one of the best on the island, with a range of water sports in the high season. Fresh breezes make it especially good for windsurfing. There are some local tavernas specialising in fish.


Barbati
Barbati is located towards the northern end of the east coast, just as the island widens. It clings to the steep green slopes of magnificent Mount Pantokrator where they plunge to the sea. There are fine views across the bay towards Corfu Town. There is a long, white shingle beach that is sheltered and safe but shelves quite steeply. It can be reached by foot or car by a road that leads steeply down from the main road. There is a selection of water sports, pedaloes and dinghies available. There are several tavernas.

Agios Gordios

Midway down the west coast of the island, this is a peaceful setting against a backdrop of tree-covered hills and approached by a steep road. There is an authentic Greek atmosphere and fishing and farming come ahead of tourism in the local economy. Around the beach, though, it's a busy holiday resort, crowded with visitors. It's a dramatic picture, a great curve ending at a steep craggy islet, and is a good base for walkers and nature lovers as well as seekers of a quiet beach holiday. The beach itself is one and a half kilometres of sand and pebble. There are pedaloes and sun beds for hire. There are some tavernas, renowned for their local produce and fish, as well as fast and tourist eateries.

Mirtiotissa

Located on the west coast, Mirtiotissa has been described by some enthusiasts as the most beautiful beach in Europe. Sheer cliffs covered with trees and shrubs drop directly to the sand creating a sense of wonderful isolation. At both ends of the long beach curl rocky promontories offering marvellous snorkelling in crystal blue water. Miritiotissa is unofficially recognised as the island's nudist beach. There is a nearby taverna.

Glyfada

Glyfada is situated on the west coast. The steep descent to the beach offers fine views of the bay backed by towering slopes. Glyfada has developed as a tourist resort by virtue of its sandy beach, which is the great attraction, although the sea can be a bit rough when the west wind blows. There are canoes and pedaloes for hire. Less than 3 miles away is the mountain village of Pelekas, famous for its sunsets. There are some trendy beach bars and restaurants.

Paleokastritsa

Located on the northwest coast the resort is hilly and nestles beneath the folds of steep verdant slopes of olive groves and citrus orchards. Paleokastritsa enjoys a spectacular setting on five, small-enclosed bays. At the northern most promontory is a 12th century monastery. Magnificent views are obtained from both the monastery and the hills above, particularly from the village of Lakones. The main beach is shingle. The crystal clear blue-green water is usually icy-cold due to underground freshwater streams. It is deep and unsuitable for your children. There are many other small shingle coves, some reached only by boat.

North Coast

Also on the north coast of Corfu island there are many beatiful beaches like Agni, Kalami, Kouloura, Agios Stefanos, Kerasia, Kommeno and Kalami.