The 11 Best Beaches in Corfu

Corfu is a historically rich and naturally beautiful island off the coast of mainland Greece, making up part of the Ionian cluster. Home to some of the country’s most picturesque sandy bays, crystal-clear waters and dramatic mountainous scenery, Corfu is an irresistible destination for beach lovers.

Beaches in Corfu are as diverse as they are idyllic, ranging from stretches of soft white sands to pebbly coves, offering a range of seafront experiences. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly spot with calm shallow waters, a secluded haven for romantic escapes or the best central beaches near the Old Town, Corfu’s coastlines cater to the desires of every traveller.

If you’re planning a trip to Corfu and eager to discover the island’s most breathtaking shores, grab your snorkel and dive into this guide where we unveil 11 must-visit beaches in Corfu for an unforgettable sun-kissed Greek getaway.

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Palaiokastritsa Beach

Located on the western coast of Corfu, Palaiokastritsa is one of the island’s most iconic beaches. Famed for its gorgeous turquoise-blue waters and rolling green mountains, Palaiokastritsa Beach is guaranteed to take your breath away. It offers several small sandy coves and peaceful shallow waters, perfect for snorkelling or swimming. Simply lay back and relax on the white powdery sand, and soak in the glittering Mediterranean sun. 

There are many activities to enjoy on Palaiokastritsa Beach, including scenic boat tours that take visitors to the magical blue caves. Swim in the cool waters of the island’s hidden sea caves, or why not explore the coastline on a paddleboard for a splash of adventure? Whether you’re seeking relaxation or exploration, Palaiokastritsa offers something for everyone, making it one of the best beaches in Corfu. 

Palaiokastritsa Beach gets its name from the nearby Virgin Mary Monastery, and visitors can blend seafront relaxation with culture by visiting the church. Only a 20-minute walk from the shore, the Virgin Mary Monastery is perched on a hilltop offering an idyllic view of the island and the Ionian Sea, making it a great addition to your Corfu itinerary. 

Agios Georgios Pagon Beach

Nestled along the northwest coast, Agios Georgios Pagon is one of the best sandy beaches in Corfu. With long swathes of golden sand, it’s an ideal destination for relaxing and sunbathing. Or, if you’re travelling with children, the beach’s shallow waters are great for a fun afternoon of splashing and playing. Whilst the beach is a 45-minute drive or an hour’s bus from Corfu Town, its peaceful ambience certainly makes the journey worthwhile. 

For adventure seekers, there are many watersports near Agios Georgios Pagon Beach including boat hires, jet skis and inflatable rides, making every day fun-filled and sun-soaked. For those craving luxury, opt for a sunset cruise on a chartered boat around the island’s coastline, sailing into the evening’s golden rays. 

Messonghi Beach

Situated on the southeastern coast, Messonghi is a popular resort town in Corfu with plenty of accommodation options, ranging from luxury villas to budget-friendly hotels. Messonghi Beach is a family-friendly destination, complete with long stretches of soft sand and calm waves that make it perfect for a relaxing getaway. 

This sandy beach in Corfu is lined with tavernas, so you’re never too far away from delicious cuisine and refreshments. After relaxing on the sandy shores, stroll along the vibrant shoreline to find a welcoming restaurant or cafe where you can shade from the heat and refuel before diving back into the clear azure waters.

The Best Quiet Beaches in Corfu

Mirtiotissa Beach

If you’re searching for the ultimate coastal tranquillity, the teal and white shoreline of Mirtiotissa is a dream come true! This secluded cove is one of the best quiet beaches in Corfu situated along the island’s western coast. Surrounded by dramatic green cliffs, lush vegetation and shockingly clear waters,  Mirtiotissa Beach is a haven for travellers seeking a serene escape. 

Reaching Mirtiotissa takes some effort, but the secluded charm makes the journey worth it. To reach it, visitors can take a bus from Corfu Old Town to the more well-known Glyfada Beach, then a 10-minute taxi to Mirtiotissa. This more challenging access keeps the crowds at bay, making it a favourite for those seeking peace and privacy.   

Limni Beach

Limni Beach is a hidden stretch of coastline nestled on Corfu’s northeastern side near the village of Nisaki. Compared to more well-known regions on the island, Limni is mostly untouched by tourist crowds making it one of the best quiet beaches in Corfu. Around a 35-minute drive from Corfu Old Town, the beach is distant from the busy central areas, imbuing the spot with an enchanting air of solitude. 

Imagine diving into azure waters surrounded by nothing but mountains, sand and stretches of sea before you. Soak in the quiet coastal ambience and immerse yourself in nature with an afternoon stroll through the surrounding forested walkways in Limni.

Limni Beach

The Best Beaches Near Corfu Town

Kanoni Beach

Whilst the secluded beaches of Corfu are stunning, you certainly don’t need to travel across the island to find them. If you’re searching for the best beaches near Corfu town, there are plenty to choose from, including Kanoni Beach just 5 kilometres from the centre. Found in a small district on the peninsula of Corfu Town, Kanoni is characterised by its idyllic turquoise waters and stretches of green foliage, making it a serene yet central destination. 

The nearby Valcherna Monastery is one of the most iconic and photographed landmarks on the island of Corfu and is nestled just off the Kanoni Peninsula. This enchanting whitewashed monastery is a must-visit destination for travellers seeking a blend of history, culture and gorgeous scenery close to Corfu Old Town. 

Faliraki Beach

Faliraki is one of the most accessible beaches near Corfu Old Town, situated only a short walk from the Fortress walls. Whilst sand is not abundant here,  Faliraki Beach is perfect for a quick dip on a sunny afternoon with pebbly shores and rippling shallow waves, 

Being so close to the ancient town centre, Faliraki Beach is the ideal destination to blend culture with coastal charm. After a morning of sunbathing, visitors can roam the winding streets, sip coffee in a quaint waterfront cafe or explore the city’s museums that showcase the island’s fascinating history.

The Best Beaches in Corfu for Families

Glyfada Beach 

One of the most popular sandy beaches in Corfu, Glyfada offers shallow azure waters, golden swathes of sand and plenty of fun watersports, making it the ideal coastal location for families. Only 11 kilometres from the city centre, this stunning beach is easily accessible by bus, making it convenient for visitors who prefer not to drive to faraway places. 

Younger children can splash and play in the shallow bay, and teens will love the range of marine activities on offer. Zoom across the Ionian waters on a jet ski, experience the thrill of parasailing, or for a more relaxed activity, try stand-up paddleboarding to enjoy the serene beauty of Glyfada. With such a fantastic range of fun experiences on offer, Glyfada is one of the best beaches in Corfu for families and a must on your itinerary. 

Dassia Bay 

Dassia Bay is located on the eastern coast of Corfu, offering an enticing blend of natural beauty and convenient amenities. Lined with swaying palms and plenty of sunbeds, Dassia Beach has many shaded spots that make it great for families with children.  

Families will love this beautiful beach in Corfu for its proximity to hotels, restaurants and bars, making it an easily accessible option without compromising on beauty. Similar to Glyfada, Dassia Beach is home to some great watersport activities, keeping thrill-seeking kids entertained for the whole holiday.

The Best Beaches in Corfu for Couples

Canal D’Amour 

The infamous Canal D’Amour Beach on the northern coast of Corfu is said to have magic in its waters, with the local legend claiming that couples who swim through it will soon marry! If you’re venturing on a romantic getaway, this mythical ‘beach of love’ is a must. 

Instantly recognisable for its dramatic rocky surroundings and teal water, the Canal D’Amour is breathtaking and couples can relax on the white sand before plunging into its cool sheltered waters. The beachfront is just a five-minute stroll from the bustling Sidari region, one of the best parts of Corfu for couples. Enjoy a candle-lit dinner in one of the traditional restaurants that line the coastline, and soak in the incredible sunset views from a beach bar. 

Rovinia Beach 

If you’re on a romantic getaway and seeking a secluded beach in Corfu, Rovinia is a true coastal haven. Nestled on the shores of Liapedes, a traditional village on the western coast of the island, Rovinia’s shingle shores are surrounded by cliffs and lush greenery, offering couples a peaceful spot to unwind.

Only accessible by foot or boat, Rovina is a perfect sandy sanctuary away from the tourist crowds. After soaking in the sun and snorkelling in the clear waters, make your way to the nearby fishing village, home to Venetian-style buildings, traditional white and blue churches and a relaxed atmosphere for dining.

Summary

Corfu is an idyllic island in Greece home to some of Europe’s most picturesque landscapes. Turquoise waters, soft white sands and golden sunsets make the beaches in Corfu truly enchanting, and visitors from across the world are eager to experience their sun-kissed beauty. 

Whether you’re dreaming of a secluded hideaway, family-friendly watersport activities or the perfect sandy beaches in Corfu, you won’t be disappointed with the range of options that this Greek isle has to offer. From the peaceful sheltered bays on the northern coast to the mountainous backdrops of the west, there’s something for every traveller to enjoy and explore in Corfu.  

If you’re planning a trip to Corfu, be sure to include some of these beaches in your itinerary for a splash of adventure and a bucket load of unforgettable memories.

FAQs

When is the best time to visit Corfu’s beaches?

Whilst Corfu is beautiful all year round, some seasons are especially charming for visiting its beaches. May to September are considered the best months for enjoying beaches in Corfu, with warm weather, clear skies and incredible sunsets. 

July and August are peak travel months in Greece with the hottest and driest weather, making them especially appealing for sunbathing and swimming. However, these are also the busiest months. If you’re seeking a peaceful escape, then the shoulder months in late spring and early autumn are ideal, with still-warm temperatures, fewer crowds and lower prices. 

Are there sandy beaches in Corfu?

Yes – the sandy beaches in Corfu are what makes the island so famous! There are many soft sandy swathes dotted all around Corfu, and some of the most popular are Palaiokastritsa, Agios Georgios and Glyfada, all offering long sandy spots perfect for sunbathing.  

How do I get to Corfu’s beaches? 

With many secluded regions on the island, some of Corfu’s beaches are slightly more difficult to reach than others. If you’re staying in central Corfu, Kanoni and Faliraki beaches are just a short walk from the Old Town. However, for more remote spots, like Limni or Mirtiotissa, you may need to take public transport, like the green buses that connect Corfu Town to beaches further away. You can also access some beaches by boat, or hop in a taxi if buses are unavailable.

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About the Author

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Alice Page

Alice is a content writer at SEO Travel, crafting articles for a variety of internal and external sites. Alice’s love of travel extends beyond work, having lived in Barcelona for two years and jetting off to as many destinations as possible. Copenhagen is her favourite European city, and next on her travel bucket list is Japan!