10 Most Beautiful Beaches on Corfu | The Mediterranean Traveller

Corfu is one of the best Greek islands for beaches (with somewhere in the region of 50 to 60) and is celebrated for its stunning coastal scenery.

Sure, its famous beach resorts are busy in the summer months, but if you know where to look there are plenty of hidden coves and windswept sandy bays.

Roughly speaking, the island’s east coast is lined with picture-perfect pebble coves set amongst olive groves and pine forests, ideal for snorkelling and swimming. Head to the west coast for cliff-backed sandy beaches with impeccable sunset views.

Here are the top 10 of Corfu’s most beautiful beaches that beckon you to explore:

Rovinia

It’s not quite the secret it once was thanks to its proximity to busy Paleokastritsa, but Rovinia is still one of the prettiest beaches on Corfu and well worth a trip.

There are numerous water taxis in Paleokastritsa which will whisk you around some of the best beaches in the bay including Rovinia Alternatively, you can walk from the nearby beach resort Liapades or drive to the parking lot (which still requires a short steep downhill walk to get to the beach).

There are no facilities on the beach, the nearest are at Liapades, but a small boat does do the rounds selling cold drinks and ice creams!

Halikounas

The vast sandy dune beach of Halikounas is on the southwest coast and separates Lake Korission from the sea. It’s home to just Tayo Beach Bar and a kitesurfing club, the rest of the beach is empty and unorganised.

The sand is fine with some shingle where it meets the shallow sea. There is no shelter or shade so bring a parasol if you plan on using one of the quieter sections of the beach.

In the spring months, you can sometimes spot flamingos on the lake. It’s perfect for those who like big nature – however the dirt tracks are sometimes used by off-roaders

Its easiest to drive here but if you don’t have a car you can take the bus to nearby Issos Beach which is on the other side of the Korission sea canal.

Agios Georgios Pagon (NW)

If you’re looking to stay right by a big sandy beach then the one at Agios Georgios Pagon is one of the best. It sports coarse golden sand that stretches for 2km and is enclosed by steep green hills on either side.

It’s a small picturesque beach resort and not overdeveloped or overpriced. There’s a handful of tavernas and beach bars, but also plenty of free and unorganised space.

Kayaks, SUP and boat rental are available. Parking is a bit limited though.

Cape Drastis

Beaches don’t come more striking or unusual than those at Cape Drastis on the very northern tip of Corfu, where the wind and waves have sculpted the rock into curved forms. It even made a guest appearance in BBC TV series The Durrells.

Access by road/path is tricky so it’s best seen by sea. There are plenty of boat trips from neighbouring Sidari or San Stefanos NW. The small beaches do get busy in the summer months so don’t expect a tranquil day with the beach to yourself, but it’s a unique coastal area definitely worth exploring.

Porto Timoni

Porto Timoni has become one of Corfu’s most Insta-famous beaches. This iconic double pebble beach is at the foot of a steep hill a short but sweaty hike from the beautiful village of Afionas.

Or you can come here by boat or kayak, it’s not far from Agios Georgios Pagon. There are water taxis or you can rent your own boat.

If you do visit, make sure you bring a bag to take your litter with you. There are no facilities at all on Porto Timoni, which means no bins or toilets. Pack appropriately and leave no trace!

Read more: How to Get to Porto Timoni

Giali

South of Paleokastritsa is a remote section of the coast with steep limestone cliffs and difficult access. Tucked away along this shore is the wild Giali Beach.

The pebbles here are sharp, the water is cold, and there are no amenities. But the sense of freedom is unmatched.

It’s possible to hike down but be aware that both the road and the path down to the beach are difficult (bordering on dangerous) – steep, narrow and with loose rocks. Not suitable for children, flip-flops, or the faint of heart.

Much easier to go by boat. There are water taxis from nearby Ermones.

Erimitis Bay

Erimitis Bay is a well-kept secret usually accessed by boat from nearby Kassiopi and Agios Stefanos NE. It’s located on the island’s northeast tip and is one of the last areas on the island that can be considered undeveloped and untouched by tourism.

Erimitis is a protected area with three lakes and several secluded coves nestled amongst dense vegetation.

Unfortunately, it’s under threat from developers who want to build a luxury hotel – you can sign the petition against it here.

Glyfada

If you prefer a few more amenities on your beach then make a beeline for Glyfada on the west coast. It’s a straightforward bus journey or drive from Corfu Town, making it one of Corfu’s more popular spots.

The sand is mostly soft and golden with a few pebbly sections, and the beach is lined with lively beach clubs. It has one of the most youthful and vibrant vibes on the island but is also family-friendly (although the prices are on the high side these days so you might want to BYO).

Barbati

Barbati is a glorious and overlooked beach at the gateway to the posh northeast coast.

Smooth white pebbles cover the beach here, giving way to a sandy seabed once you’re in the water. The seashore is lined with trees giving it a tranquil feel and lending the sea a bright emerald colour. This is one of the nicest places to swim in Corfu.

There’s a handful of tavernas and beach cafes, and some free sections of beach. Private boat rentals are available if you want to explore the coast further.

Read more: A Quick Guide to Barbati

Gardenos

Corfu’s north coast is undeniably stunning but the south is much quieter. Towards the tip of the south coast is a series of sandy beaches at the foot of towering cliffs, very similar to places on the northwest coast like Arillas and San Stefanos but much less developed. Some of these are important turtle nesting sites.

One such highlight is Gardenos. There’s a taverna with parking right by the beach, it also has sun loungers and showers. But there are also acres of free space if you walk for a few minutes. The water is clear and shallow.

Top tip: stop by Secret Paradise for a drink (if you can find it).

Read more about Corfu:

Where to Stay on Corfu: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide

How to Get Around Corfu – Bus Guide

A Quick Guide to Corfu Town

Corfu’s North East Coast

Corfu’s North West Coast

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