Where to Stay on Corfu: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide (Updated for 2026)

From Corfu Town to Kassiopi, here’s what to expect from every beach area on the island of Corfu.

Corfu is one of the most popular destinations in the Mediterranean – and for good reason. I think it’s one of the best all-rounder islands, with amazing beaches and scenery everywhere and lots of lovely beach areas to choose from. The main problem is narrowing down where to go!

I’ve been to nearly every resort town and village on the island (it’s a compulsion…) so I can help you figure out where to go, where not to go, and tell you where to find the best beaches and hotels.

Shortlist – The Best Places to Stay in Corfu

Here are the hotels I’d pick for different purposes:

• Best Luxury Hotels: Conrad Corfu, Ikos Odisia, Grecotel Corfu Imperial  
  • I’ve got more detail on this over here: Corfu’s Best Luxury Beach Hotels
• Best Boutique Beach Hotels: Olivar Suites, The Yard Corfu
• Best Family Resort Hotel: Domes of Corfu, Ikos Odisia
• Best Hotels in Corfu Town: Calliston Corfu, Siorra Vittoria, Acanthus Blue
• Best Mid-Range Resort Hotels:
  • Domes Miramare
  • Domes of Corfu
  • Akrotiri Beach Hotel Paleokastritsa
  • LUXME Costa Botanica
  • LUXME Daphnilia Bay
  • Cooks Club Corfu – Adults Only
• For the Durrells Fans: The White House
• Beautiful Villas: Villa Regina, Villa Artemis, Odyssey Villas, Palms and Spas 
• Best Infinity Pools: Angsana Corfu, Villa Regina, MarBella Nido
• Best for Solo Travellers: Pink Palace (Agios Gordios), Tune Inn Guesthouse (Ipsos)

The Family Edit

Greek culture is very family-friendly and tourist resorts tend to be small and walkable. But beachfront promenades (like you see in Spain) aren’t common, neither are huge family resort hotels with waterslides, etc. Small family-run hotels with pools are what you’ll find in abundance, although there are an increasing number of big resort hotels at the luxury end. It’s usually better (in terms of quality) to book half board and eat locally in the evenings, unless you’re booking a high-end AI like Ikos Odisia. 

If you’re after sands and shallow seas, then North coast Sidari and Roda are usually the calmest sandy beaches, along with sheltered Agios Georgios Pagon. The latter has a more rustic vibe. Many West coast beaches can be wavy. Agios Georgios (South) is popular with families on a budget. There’s a waterpark called Aqualand just west of Corfu Town which is on the Number 8 bus route.

The Beach Edit

Sandy beach fans are spoilt for choice on the west coast – most resorts have a decent sandy beach. Paleokastritsa is the most scenic, but the beaches around Arillas, Agios Georgios Pagon and Glyfada/Agios Gordios are also beautiful. If you prefer endless windswept sands without sunloungers or crowds, head to the SW beaches like Gardenos.

Glyfada is where you’ll find the chicest beach clubs. I also like Bahia Mare over on the east coast at Barbati. This is one of my favourite pebble beaches. Beach clubs in Corfu tend to be vibey places with food, drinks, and sun loungers, lively during the day but not crazy party vibes. As is now unfortunately common across Greece, expect to pay a small fortune for sunbeds during the summer peak.

For beautiful and quiet pebble beaches, check out the North East Coast.

Read more: 10 Most Beautiful Beaches on Corfu

The Party Edit

Partytown Kavos has a boozy Brits-abroad reputation but, like most of these infamous resorts, it has mellowed over the years. You’ll still find a few party boats, foam parties, and no shortage of shots, but it also has plenty of family-friendly accommodation and loyal returners. North of Corfu Town, Ipsos is a small resort area which has a bit of a Spring Break vibe for Europeans during August (especially Italians). Both of these are on the cheaper end of the budget scale.

You can find late bars in nearly every Greek village or resort during the summer. Resorts geared towards package tourism are likely to have at least one bar with live entertainment in the evening. If you’re after a higher concentration of bars and clubs, then Corfu Town is your best bet, especially in July and August, although some beach bars do have more of a party/DJ vibe (check out Pazuzu in Glyfada for this)

The Quiet & Authentic Edit

Despite the number of tourist arrivals, the coastline in Corfu isn’t overdeveloped with large resorts. It’s easy to find beach areas that still feel authentically Greek. Have a look at Liapades, Kassiopi, and the North East Coast for pretty scenery.

The stretch of coastline from Agios Ioannis Periston to Moriatika, Messonghi, and beyond is rapidly becoming something of a luxury enclave. With big luxury beachfront resort hotels occupying spacious stretches of shore around small authentic coastal villages, it has a similar vibe to the Elounda/Plaka area in Crete.

Corfu – What You Need to Know

Most of the island is lush, green, and hilly, though the north is more mountainous. It’s roughly 60km long – you can drive from one end to the other in a couple of hours, although it’s not easy to do a circuit in one day due to windy mountain roads. Most visitors stick to either the north or the south. With the exception of Kavos, the south is much less visited.

Big mountains also mean higher rainfall, cloud cover, and humidity than many other Greek islands, but consistent summer breezes in the Ionians keep it feeling fresh. East coast beaches are mostly pebbly, west coast are mostly sandy.

I will say that most of the resort areas are small and lovely in their own way. If you prefer bigger. busier resorts with lots to do then you’ll probably prefer Rhodes or Crete. Big hotels here tend to be on the luxury end.

Corfu Town

One of Corfu’s unique selling points is its beautiful UNESCO World Heritage-listed Venetian Old Town. The star attraction is the Old Fort, which juts out on a promontory, but the town itself stretches out into several different areas.

The facades of the tall town buildings are varying shades of ochre and pink highlighted with dark green woodwork. Corfu has been occupied by many powers over the centuries, each leaving its mark on the city’s architecture (especially the British, the French, and the Venetians). You’ll find handsome cobbled streets, yacht clubs, a cricket ground, and homegrown ginger beer.

The Old Town area is large and atmospheric. One of the things I love about it is that it still feels like a local’s city; it hasn’t yet been hollowed out by Airbnb and tourist restaurants. It’s still busy – a visit to the Old Town is a popular excursion for tourists on the island so the main streets are lined with souvenir shops, however it doesn’t take much to get away from the crowds. It feels classier than Rhodes Town, more local than Chania. 

There are some great places to stay in the city, and in the Old Town especially (or very nearby), but they do book up quickly. Outside the Old Town, there are a few areas with charm worth checking for accommodation – I particularly like Garitsa, it has a proper villagey feel. To the north, you have Mandouki and the port areas, to the south the scenic sprawl of Kanoni and Perama (this is the hilly green area you see as the plane comes in to land).

If you’re visiting Corfu over the winter months (October-April) then Corfu Town is your best bet for accommodation as it’s open year-round. The only other towns on the island with much life in the winter are Acharavi in the north and Lefkimmi in the south.

The airport is really close to Corfu Town, it’s a 5-10 minute drive and bus links are good. If you’re a light packer it’s even walkable from some areas. Even if you have an early flight, there’s no real benefit to staying outside the Old Town though.

Just south of the Old Town is Garitsa Bay. If I wanted to stay close to the Old Town but somewhere less hectic, this is where I’d pick. It has a charming village feel and great views. There’s a cute little mini-market/bakery and a handful of good restaurants.

The town end of the bay is home to a Yacht Club and is a popular anchorage. The closest hotel to town – the 5-star  Corfu Palace Resort & Casino – is currently being renovated.

A graceful promenade follows the bay around to the lighthouse at the opposite end, where you’ll find the adults-only 4-star Mayor Mon Repos Art Hotel and a small shingle beach. It’s a good shout if you want to have pool and beach access but still be strolling distance to the city.

Charming boutique hotel Acanthus Blue is located in an 18th-century building halfway between Garitsa and the Old Town. It’s in a quiet and scenic area, no pool though.

Transfer time: Corfu Old Town is 10 minutes from Corfu Airport by car, Garitsa Bay is 5-10 minutes.

On the other side of Corfu Town, Kerkyra Blue & Spa by Louis Hotels is one of the closest big resort hotels to the city. It’s popular with package tour operators. There’s not much else in the immediate vicinity but there are frequent buses into town. The roads and building around here feel very chaotic, but it doesn’t matter too much if you’re spending most of your time in the hotel.

Transfer time: 35 minutes from Corfu Airport.

Kanoni

Kanoni is the peninsula directly south of Corfu Town. It was the original capital of Corfu and is so named for the canons which protected the bay.

These days it is an extension of Corfu Town, green and lush and home to a few medium-sized resort hotels. Keep walking through Kanoni and you’ll eventually reach the Korission Lagoons and the photogenic little islets of Vlacherna and Pontikonisi (Mouse Island). Kanoni is also home to the Mon Repos Estate (former summer residence of Prince Philip), a few ancient ruins, and a beach bar.

It’s a popular spot for watching the sunset in one direction, and the planes come in to land over the lagoon in the other. From here, it’s a 40-minute walk, 15 minutes by bus, or 10 minutes by car to Corfu Old Town.

Transfer time: 10 minutes from Corfu Airport.

Gouvia and Kontokali

If you want to be close to Corfu Town but not right in it, Gouvia and Kontokali are two of the first areas you’ll probably end up looking at. Both villages located in a bay to the north of Corfu Town and essentially blend into each other. 

The largest marina on the island, Gouvia Marina, is based here (actually in Kontokali rather than Gouvia) and it is a hub of the yachting industry.

The peninsulas on either side of the bay (Kontokali and Kommeno) are home to an increasing number of large resort hotels, some of which have access to lovely private beaches set amongst pretty landscapes. If you want to stay in a resort but have a few tavernas and bars within walking distance then the Kommeno Peninsula in particular is a great option.

Whilst the surrounding scenery on the peninsulas is lovely, don’t expect a charming fishing village vibe. It’s a functional place with enough amenities to keep locals and tourists happy. The main beach is shingle and a bit warm and muddy. Most of the resorts on this stretch of coast (up to Ipsos) suffer from being hemmed in by the mega busy main road, and are too close to Corfu Town to have a cohesive feel of their own. Some of the hotels are on the other side of the busy road which adds an element of stress to your day.

Nevertheless, Gouvia remains popular with ex-pats and regulars who value the transport connections, good value accommodation, lively bars, big supermarkets, and proximity to town (buses are frequent and cheap but a bit stressful) and the rest of north. Gouvia is busier and livelier than Kontokali. I wouldn’t hesitate to stay at any of the luxury resort hotels located in the peninsulas at either end (which are all sufficiently far enough from the main road), but I wouldn’t book budget accommodation in Gouvia if I wanted somewhere with a relaxing easy vibe.

Transfer time: 15 minutes from Corfu airport.

Dassia

The next bay around to the north, Dassia, has a long pebble-and-sand beach and a varied mix of hotels and restaurants, including several luxury all-inclusive hotels. The size of the hotels around here have sucked a little bit of the life out of Dassia, but it has a few good beach clubs, watersports, a few amenities, and a lovely seafront boardwalk lined by mulberry trees and tavernas.

The Ikos hotels occupy the nicest parts of Dassia. It’s the kind of place I’d book if I found the right hotel, but wouldn’t otherwise come here just for the vibe.

Transfer time: 20 minutes from Corfu Airport.

For more detail and photos check out: A Quick Guide to Dassia

Ipsos

Ipsos (you might also see it spelt Ypsos) used to be one of the big party resorts on the island but has calmed down over recent years. It’s one of the resorts that had its heyday in the 70s and 80s, and parts of it can feel run down and cheap, but money is being pumped into refurbishments and it is slowly improving. 

I wouldn’t come here just for the beach – it’s shingle/pebble and gets narrower by the year, but the surrounding scenery is great. But Ipsos has a friendly international vibe and is popular with Brits, the Irish, and young Europeans (especially Italians) on budget trips. 

The backstreets are home to spacious small guesthouses with pools and parking, many have had a recent glow up. The bar prices are some of cheapest you’ll find on the island. There’s a good range of restaurants and bars by the water, including cocktail bars, vibey cafes, and an Irish pub, but don’t expect much party-wise outside the summer peak. 

Ipsos marks the end of the Corfu Town city bus line; the coastal villages beyond are all on the cross-island routes.

Transfer time: 20 minutes from Corfu Airport.

For more detail and photos check out: A Quick Guide to Ipsos

Barbati

Barbati is a small but vibrant beach wedged between the mountains and the sea on the east coast, just around the corner from Ipsos. If you’re thinking about staying in the north east, just be aware that the main road is not at sea level but further uphill, so getting between the main road and the beach sometimes requires either a steep walk or driving down winding gravel tracks. Water taxis and private boat rentals are a common way to get around.

It has a mile-long Blue Flag beach at the foot of forested foothills. There are two beach bars by the water which attract a young crowd from the city and surrounding resorts during the day. There is a cluster of accommodation behind the beach, and more up on the main road (a short but steep uphill walk).

Barbati is one of my favourite beaches for swimming in Corfu. There’s just something about the way the sea reflects the green mountains and becomes this dazzling emerald colour. The pebbles are smooth, flat and white and unusually comfortable to walk on, but the seabed itself is sandy. The tavernas along the main road have spectacular vistas, but it might be too busy in the day and too quiet in the evening for some. 

Transfer time: 20 minutes from Corfu Airport.

Read more: A Quick Guide to Barbati

Nissaki

Nissaki marks the start of the serene and upmarket North East Coast. It’s a small and spread-out area encompassing several beaches, the largest of which is home to the TUI Atlantic hotel. 

If you like pebbles then this sheltered beach is one of the prettiest on the island, with crystal clear waters perfect for snorkelling and a couple of tavernas right on the beach. It’s ideal for a quiet and romantic beach holiday, although the hotel is large so you won’t have the beach to yourself.

Kaminaki and its shingle beach are a little further along to the south.

The downside is that it doesn’t feel like it has a centre, just a handful of places to stay along a sprawl of coast. I’m not sure I could imagine staying here for a length of time, but then I’m very much the kind of person who likes to be able to walk to stuff.

Transfer time: 30 minutes from Corfu Airport.

Read more: A Quick Guide to Nissaki

Agni Bay

Tiny bay Agni with its trio of beachside tavernas is a magnet for well-heeled clientele who jet in for leisurely seafood lunches. Agni feels like a piece of heaven – not sure I could imagine staying here for more than 2 nights though, it’s very tiny and feels quite cut off.

Transfer time: 40 minutes from Corfu Airport.

Read more: A Quick Guide to Agni Bay

Kalami

Kalami is another one of Corfu’s beauty spots, with its small pebbly Blue Flag beach looking across the water to Albania. Kalami is famous for its association with the Durrells – author Lawrence lived here with Nancy in an old fisherman’s cottage known as the White House, which is now a restaurant and villa.

It’s a small and charming resort, although there’s limited space and it can feel a bit crowded in the summer. I really like the vibe here and could happily spend a holiday here, but some people might find the beach a bit claustrophobic. It looks like a serene place but the beach bars are quite noisy. The surrounding area is lush and tranquil but you’ll have to walk, drive, or hop on a boat to get there.

Just around the headland are the lovely bays at Kouloura and Kerasia which are much quieter. There’s an amazing taverna at Kouloura harbour. 

Oh, and there’s a Festival of Pie in September!

Transfer time: 45 minutes from Corfu Airport.

Read more: A Quick Guide to Kalami

Agios Stefanos Sinion (NE)

Confusingly, there are two places called Agios Stefanos Sinion on Corfu. This one is on the northeast coast (hence the NE in brackets – find it here on Google Maps), north of Kalami and Kerasia. There’s another one over on the west coast which is often referred to by its Italian name – San Stefanos – in order to distinguish it. They have very different vibes.

I haven’t actually made it here yet but I’ve heard that Ag. Stefanos is the poshest place on the island. It’s another peaceful, unspoilt bay with a small harbour, good tavernas and a smattering of watersports in high season.

Transfer time: 55 minutes from Corfu airport.

Kassiopi

Buzzing Kassiopi is one of the most popular resorts on Corfu, yet it manages to retain something of a traditional fishing village feel thanks to its working harbour.

It has a picturesque setting (including a Byzantine castle) and a couple of small pebble beaches. It’s one of the more charming resort areas, with a good mix of package and independent tourism. It’s on the small side; nightlife is laid-back with a few cafes and bars around the main harbour. It tends to attract older couples.

The surrounding coastline is particularly beautiful so it makes a great base for exploring. Plenty of boat trips leave from the harbour, they’ll take you to several beaches and swim spots and feed you a BBQ lunch.

Transfer time: 50 minutes from Corfu Airport.

Read more: A Quick Guide to Kassiopi

Acharavi

Acharavi is the main town in the north of Corfu and is a bit of a mish-mash. Beach-wise, it has a whopping 7km long beach which is a mix of golden sand and pebble. 

It’s a working town with plenty of amenities for the locals who live there, including a large supermarket and ample parking on its wide main road. It’s not picturesque like neighbouring Kassiopi, but there’s plenty of space for small family-run hotels and medium-sized resorts, many of them right by the beach alongside cafes and tavernas (although most are separated by a small road or footpath).

This is the kind of place you book if you fall in love with a particular hotel rather than because you love the look of the town or the scenery (although the mountains behind the town give it a grand feel), but it does have some nice restaurants and bars including some right by the beach. It’s also one of the flattest resort areas on the island, but you can end up walking a lot up and down the beach and main road. It’s also well placed for exploring by car.

It’s on the quiet side in the evenings due to the number of all-inclusive hotels. There’s a watersports operator on the beach, and ample hiking trails in the hills beyond. There are some lovely smaller sandy beaches nearby at Antinioti and Agios Spiridon if you don’t mind a walk.

Acharavi is also one of the few resorts that don’t completely close down in the winter.

Transfer time: 50 minutes from Corfu Airport.

Read more: A Quick Guide to Acharavi

Roda

A short distance west of Acharavi sits Roda, a small fishing village with an excellent sandy beach and an unfussy family-friendly atmosphere. It’s one of the cheapest places to stay in Corfu and is popular with older British travellers (many of them regulars) as well as Central/Eastern European families. 

Roda fans appreciate its old-school package holiday atmosphere, bargain prices, and traditional accommodation. A few old village buildings remain and there’s a small harbour, but it’s still very much a purpose-built resort. Personally, I like Roda more than San Stefanos (which attracts a similar crowd, although the setting is less impressive) but less than Acharavi, but it all depends what you’re looking for. It’s more chilled than nearby Sidari but not dead in the evenings.

The beach is dark sand/shingle and prone to influxes of seagrass at certain times of year and feeling a bit muddy, but the sea is shallow and clean and the resort is flat and walkable. 

Acharavi is within walking distance.

Transfer time: 46 minutes from Corfu Airport.

Read more: A Quick Guide to Roda

Sidari

Originally a fishing village, Sidari is now a busy tourist resort, particularly popular with British couples and young families. It’s cheap, cheerful, and friendly, but bear in mind it is small.

Sidari’s generous and sandy main beach has Blue Flag status and watersports aplenty, but the big draw is its scenic rock formations. According to local legend, couples who swim through the scenic rocks at the Canal d’Amour (Channel of Love) will be married soon – just don’t expect to have it to yourself. It’s a popular day trip destination as well as a centre of package tourism in the north.

It’s a good choice if you like to be entertained but don’t want a crazy party scene, and enough to keep kids occupied. Restaurants are a mix of Greek and international, there are a few stylish beach bars, a wine bar, and the odd bar with evening entertainment like tribute bands. 

Transfer time: 50 minutes from Corfu Airport.

Read more: A Quick Guide to Sidari

San Stefanos (NW)

San Stefanos NW (also known as Agios Stefanos Avliotes) is in the NW corner of the island and has an incredible beach, with wide sands flanked by pale cliffs.

The resort itself is flat, on a gentle slope, and it feels a bit more spacious than other resorts along the northwest coast. It stretches back for a few blocks, and there’s plenty of room on the beach for everyone.

It’s a small and walkable resort, popular with British families and older couples, and with those looking for a moderate level of evening entertainment such as tribute bands, karaoke, happy hours, and sports bars. Personally it’s not my vibe, but the beach and surrounding scenery are amazing so I can understand why people keep coming back.

There’s a small harbour for fishing boats, excursions, and ferries across to the Diapontia Islands (well worth a visit if you enjoy untouristy places).

Transfer time: 1 hour from Corfu Airport.

Read more: A Quick Guide to San Stefanos NW

Arillas

The Blue Flag sandy beach at Arillas is protected from winds by the two steep headlands at either end and the waters are shallow. The main part of the beach is narrow, and to the north where it meets the cliff you will find the clothing-optional crowd. There are enough tavernas to eat somewhere different every night, and the village is home to a microbrewery, a burgeoning wellness scene, and hosts a small wine festival at the start of September.

I like the vibe in Arillas and could happily chill here for a long time (or maybe a short time, because it is pretty small) but the accommodation options aren’t as good as other resort areas. It still feels a bit under the radar.

Read more: A Quick Guide to Arillas

Agios Georgios Pagon

Agios Georgios Pagon (pictured above) has one of the most beautiful beaches in Corfu – a big beamy crescent of golden sand surrounded by lush green hills. On the headland between the two resorts is the picturesque village of Afionas and the famous double beach at Porto Timoni. 

I have mixed feelings about Agios Georgios. It really delivers on setting and could be an amazing place to stay, but somehow isn’t. The atmosphere is a little strange, the hotels aren’t great, and everything is very spread out. Lots of people drive in for the day at the beach, but it feels dead at night. 

There are a few traditional tavernas and bars along the beach but they are quite spread out, and there isn’t a proper walkway or road the whole length of the beach so it’s not great (especially at night) if you have mobility concerns.

Arillas is nearby but the two resorts are divided by a steep hill so you can’t easily walk between them. However, if you like to hike there are some fabulous walks in the area. You can hire SUPs and kayaks on the beach, or take a boat across to Porto Timoni. The sunsets are incredible. I’d recommend hiring a car to explore the wider area (and reach a wider range of places to eat)

Transfer time: 55 minutes from Corfu Airport.

Read more: A Quick Guide to Agios Georgios Pagon

Paleokastritsa

Often referred to as the ‘Jewel of Corfu’, Paleokastritsa is a pretty resort in the north of the island home to emerald waters. This stunning resort is surrounded by pines and has developed along a coastal road that winds around a series of six picturesque bays.

Beaches here are a mix of pebble and sand, but they get very busy due to the number of daytrippers from other resorts (and from the cruise ships).

The crowds thin out in the evenings, dont’ expect much nightlife beyond the tavernas and cocktail bars spread out along the road. Honestly, the scenery is so jaw dropping. If you’re the kind of person who likes to sit and soak it all in from a room with a view then you’ll be happy.

What it doesn’t really have is much of a village/resort feel. There aren’t as many restaurants and bars as you’d expect for such a popular place, and hardly any shops, and they’re spread out along the winding road. Getting between the various beaches can involve a lot of walking. If you like to spend your evenings browsing and strolling then this is probably not the place for you.

But it’s excellent for activities – it’s the best area on the island for snorkelling and diving (though the water is the chilliest in Corfu), there are some gloriously scenic hikes in the area, and I think the far eastern side of ‘Paleo’ is underrated.

Transfer time: 30 minutes from Corfu Airport.

Read more: A Quick Guide to Paleokastritsa

Liapades

A small beach village on the West coast, Liapades is one of Corfu’s hidden gems. Just 4km from Paleokastritsa, many travel between the two by boat.

The village proper is 10-15 minutes uphill and has a rustic feel. There’s an assortment of tavernas and accommodations on the road between the beach and the villas. It has escaped over-development and has more of a Greek feel than most resorts on the island.

The main beach is small and shingle-sand, and there are lots of small coves in the surrounding area to explore if you’re feeling adventurous, however they do get very busy with daytrippers. Especially the main beach. But the scenery is lush and it feels a bit different. Come here if you want to feel off the beaten track and surrounded by nature.

Transfer time: 30 minutes from Corfu Airport.

Read more: A Quick Guide to Liapades

Glyfada

Gorgeous Glyfada is one of the most stunning sandy beaches on the island. Straightforward to reach from Corfu Town, it’s a favourite with locals for its buzzing beach bars, watersports, and stunning sunsets. Check out Pazuzu for beach party vibes.  That said, it’s not the kind of place that you stay if you’re looking to party – there’s no entertainment strip or anywhere else to party other than the beach bars.

Up in the hills behind lies Pelekas, a village with typical Greek stone architecture and a handful of villas. From here, the roads wind down to slightly-less-busy neighbour Kontogialos.  North of Glyfada is the scenic and clothing-optional Myrtiotissa. All beaches have steep access, rugged scenery, and golden sand. 

Transfer time: 25 minutes from Corfu Airport.

Ermones

Ermones is a small scenic bay just north of Glyfada. It’s much smaller and quieter – it doesn’t attract day trippers and only has a handful of places to eat and drink. Perfect if you’re looking for a quiet holiday destination.

There is a daily bus to Corfu Town but you’ll need a car to explore elsewhere.

Transfer time: 20 minutes from Corfu Airport.

Agios Gordios

Laid-back Agios Gordios is in the centre of the west coast and surrounded by steep green mountains. It has a beautiful 1.5km long sandy beach (some parts are shingly), which is organised and has watersports.

The centre of the resort is flat and easily walkable although much of the accommodation (mainly apartments with just a few hotels) is up on the slopes.

Agios Gordios is a good all-rounder resort – not too isolated and with plenty of amenities, restaurants, activities, apartments, and decent road and public transport links. It’s lively enough for younger visitors but not rowdy. The beach is lined with tavernas and a few beach bars for watching the sunset. 

Transfer time: 25 minutes from Corfu Airport.

Benitses

 Up until the 80s, Benitses was a notorious party resort – right up there with Kavos. But since then Benitses has calmed down and is in the process of reinventing itself as a quieter destination with a quaint fishing village feel.

Benitses has a small modern marina next to the old part of town, which has an appealing pedestrian zone packed with tavernas and bougainvillaea. It even has some (minor) Roman ruins. The southern part is still in need of a bit of TLC. For now, it’s still a budget beach town, a little scruffy around the edges but surprisingly good for simple pleasures like eating and swimming.

The water seems particularly clear in Benitses and there are spectacular views across the water to Albania.

Proximity to Corfu Town is a selling point here: the journey is only 12km and it’s on the regular city line.

Transfer time: 20 minutes from Corfu Airport.

Read more: A Quick Guide to Benitses

Moraitika, Messonghi, and Agios Ioannis Peristeron

Away from Kavos and Benitses, the south of Corfu gets very little attention. But there are some wonderful places along the coast here, which are increasingly becoming the focus of luxury resort developers. 

The beaches tend to be narrow shingle (with some sand), the water crystal clear and Blue Flag-rated, and the villages are family-friendly and popular with locals.

Agios Ioannis Peristeron is the first village south of Benitses and it’s little more than a few tavernas and mini-markets in an area dominated by the various Mar-Bella resorts.

Moraitika is the largest and most cosmopolitan place on this stretch of town, and it seems to be growing by the day. Here you’ll find a lively low-rise resort with a small strip, a handful of bars, international restaurants, and watersports, as well as a slightly wider beach which is a mix of pebble and sand. 

Messonghi is a bit quieter but so close that the two are practically one – it’s separated from Moraitika by a small river. The vibe is more traditional.

Lefkimmi Bay is home to some tiny fishing villages and the long Mylos Beach.

Transfer time: 25 minutes from Corfu airport.

Kavos

Kavos has long had a reputation as a crazy party resort but is in the process of maturing. Recent years have seen small hotels refreshed, new restaurants open, and a more mixed crowd (though still mostly Brits) visiting. It has many loyal returners who have been coming here since the 80s and 90s.

It’s still party central in June, July, and August though – expect to see plenty of youngsters on cheap package deals. Check out Atlantis Beach Club for foam parties. 

But the rest of the time it feels similar to Sidari and Roda, only with nicer places to stay. You’ll still find lively bars, tourist shops, rental agencies, evening entertainment, and party boats. It’s not a huge place, most of the accommodation is in small family-run hotels, and the big sandy beach is honestly great. Booze cruise boat trips are a staple and often call at gorgeous coastline over at Syvota on the mainland.

Transfer time: 1 hour from Corfu Airport.

Agios Georgios South

The main resort on the South West coast is Agios Georgios South (aka St George South), a base popular with those looking for a traditional Greek bucket-and-spade holiday with big sandy beaches. I haven’t spent any time here yet but I know its fantastic sandy beach and low-key vibe make it popular with families looking for a good-value package break.

It has a small strip and a handful of restaurants, but location-wise is quite isolated and buses aren’t that frequent so it’s not the best base if you’re keen to exploring the island. But what you will find in the wider area is wild unorganised beaches – the vast dunes of Issos and Halikounas are nearby plus Lake Korission and more excellent beaches to the south. 

Transfer time: 40 minutes from Corfu Airport.

Read more:

10 Most Beautiful Beaches on Corfu

Corfu – A Quick Island Guide

How to Get Around Corfu By Bus

Crete vs Corfu – Which Is Better for a Beach Break?

15 Best Greek Islands for Beaches

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Image credits:

Kassiopi: © lukaszimilena / Adobe Stock

Erimitis: © ernestos / Adobe Stock

Sidari: © Netfalls / Adobe Stock

Paleokastritsa: © CCat82 / Adobe Stock

Kalami: © Marcin Krzyzak / Adobe Stock

Agios Stefanos NW: © CCat82 / Adobe Stock

Barbati: © Simon Dannhauer / Adobe Stock

Agios Gordios: © whitewizzard / Adobe Stock

All other images © The Mediterranean Traveller