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Top beaches in Corfu
Corfu has many magnificent beaches. Most are a mixture of pebbles and sand, but there are a few sandy spots to discover. All the major beaches have changing rooms, toilets, sun loungers etc., but there are also several little gems along the rugged coastline that have not been developed. It's a great place to escape the crowds, but make sure you're prepared to be self-sufficient for the day.
Top beaches in Corfu
Glyfada Beach
On the opposite side of Corfu town, around 15 km away, is the charming beach of Glyfada. This is one of the few sandy beaches on Corfu and is therefore very busy. So be sure to arrive early to secure a sunbed and parasol. The light brown beach is bathed by a warm, shallow sea, making it ideal for swimming and other water activities, and particularly suitable for families. There is no shortage of restaurants and beach vendors, so it's not difficult to get food and drink. Be sure to try a doughnut or a slice of fresh fruit from one of the street vendors strolling along the beach.
Canal d’Amour
Just a short journey north of Dassia lies the resort of Sidari, where you will find a beach with a difference. Not only is Canal d’Amour one of the most stunning beaches on Corfu, it also has an interesting backstory. The coastline here has formed a rocky, extended U-shape, which channels the sea down onto a sandy beach.
Greek superstition says that if two people swims together along the naturally formed canal, they will marry in the near future. Whether true or not, the Canal d'Amour, French for Canal of Love, is well worth a visit for all kinds of people, whatever their relationship status.
The beach is made up of smooth rocks and pebbles, and several rock formations create little coves and caves that are fun to explore. Many prefer to set up their sunbeds on the top of the cliffs rather than the sometimes crowded beach area. For the more adventurous, there are several places to jump off the cliffs - if you dare.
Paleokastritsa Beach
To the west of Corfu lies one of the quaintest Greek villages on Corfu, Paleokastritsa. Sitting in a gently curving bay and surrounded by tree-lined rocky outcrops, this small but beautifully formed part of the island is home to several sandy beaches, the best of which is Paleokastritsa. On the outskirts of the village, the beach is surrounded by steep green hills dotted with houses and villas, making it a very picturesque spot. One of the great attractions of Paleokastritsa is the clear blue waters, ideal for marine life and snorkelling. When you've finished your day on the beach, stroll over to the historic monastery for a spectacular sunset before heading to a local taverna for a well-deserved meal and drink.
Barbati Beach
Located on the east coast and the first decent-sized beach outside Corfu town, Barbati beach is a beautiful spot that is rarely crowded. The beach of smooth rocks and pebbles is surrounded by lushly vegetated mountains, providing shade in the mornings and late afternoons, offering a welcome respite from the scorching summer sun. A number of outlets serve the beach with snacks and drinks, including a good selection of cocktails. You can also hire boats and canoes to explore some of the area's hidden bays.
Issos Beach
To the west of Corfu, discover the watersports paradise that is Issos beach. The rolling sand dunes combined with the strong prevailing winds provide ideal conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing, as evidenced by the large number of people who try these sports every day. If you don't fancy braving the Ionian Sea, the sandy beach is the ideal place for sunbathing and gentle paddling. Lake Korission, famous for its pink flamingos, is just a short walk from the beach.
