Visitors to Corfu are spoil for choice when it comes to beaches. Sandy or pebbly, lively or tranquil, organised or pristine, the island has something for everyone. However, with so much choice, it can be difficult to pick one for you! So here is the guide to my favourite swimming spots on Corfu.
Halikounas
A long stretch of sandy beach, perfect for walking along the dunes or listening to reggae at the beach-bar. On windy days it is fun to watch the wind-surfers speed across the waves. While in the area it would be a shame to miss the Korissia Lake nature reserve.
Glyfada
Another beautiful sandy beach, although with a completely different character to Halikounas. Glyfada is vibrant and busy, home to numerous beach-bars, including Pazuzu. Pazuzu was recently recognized as the 85th best club in the world at the International Nightlife Awards 2019. If you come prefer your beaches more serene, but do not want to miss the beautiful setting, visit in during the spring months. Speaking of springs, if you stay close to the rocks on the northern end of the beach you can experience the sensation of mixed cold and warm water currents, perhaps while watching the sun set in front of you.
Porto Timoni
For the more adventurous, a hike down to Porto Timoni makes the dip into the sea at the end all the more worthwhile. If a 25 minute hike to the beach does not appeal then there is also the option of being dropped off by boat from St. Stefanos. Both routes offer spectacular scenery – teal waters and dramatic cliffs from the sea or stunning panoramic views from the path.
Paleokastritsa
There are many bays in Paleokastritsa, a wide array of options for people of all ages. Locals like to talk about the chilly freshness of the waters, providing enervating refreshment on a hot summer’s day!
Rovinia
The unspoiled Rovinia beach can be reached by boat from Paleokastritsa, or even pedalo if you fancy the exercise! In the summer I suggest avoiding the dirt road to the beach, as it is too narrow for cars to pass one another and rough besides. Off-season it is much easier, though I would avoid it after heavy rains. At the end of the road there is limited parking (again, avoid in summer) and from here a beautiful stone path leads to the beach. Rovinia itself has no facilities but food and drinks can still be found – look out for the enterprising locals selling from their boats.
Paxos & Antipaxos
Crystal clear waters and beautiful scenery – an absolute paradise! Antipaxos has been described as the Caribbean of Greece. There are very few secret places left on these little islands, so for space and privacy I recommend going by boat or taking the flying dolphin over and renting a boat once you get there (in the summer be sure to book as many days in advance as possible).
Erikousa & Diapontia
While they are just beginning to become popular, for now Erikousa and the Diapontia islands still offer the chance for unspoiled scenery and serenity. I recommend booking for lunch at the Acantha Hotel after which you can use their facilities – including borrowing their canoes to explore the amazing green waters.
Psaromita
Even though the sun sets on the other side of the island, at this time of day, especially in late summer/early Autumn, you can watch the light moving through hues of orange and pink in front of the town of Saranda on the opposite coast. A beautiful conclusion to a day out on a boat on the Ionian sea.
And some others worth a mention…
Gouvia Bay
Not necessarily the best beach for swimming, being opposite the busy marina, but Gouvia Bay is a beautiful setting and its sheltered waters are ideal for watersports.
Cape Drastis & Peroulades
On the north coast of the island Cape Drastis & Peroulades are two spectacular places from which to take in the mesmerising sunset. Neither are ideal on windy days, but when the weather is calm they are very special places for a beach day. Cape Drastis is especially unspoiled, and best explored by boat.
Mouse Island & Kardaki Beach
The little island with its picturesque church is probably the most emblematic image of Corfu. If by boat you can watch the aeroplanes come into land at the airport while swimming in the clear waters of nearby Kardaki, at the tip of ancient Palaiopolis. The myth goes that anyone who drinks the water from the Kardaki springs will stay in Corfu forever!
Imabari Beach
This a beach-bar worth visiting partly because of its proximity to Corfu Town, which makes it ideal for combining with morning shopping, sightseeing or visiting Corfu Town’s many cultural sites. Imabari is a popular beach-bar and has a choice of facilities, whilst other local swimming spots provide a more tranquil setting for a swim near town. It is walking distance from the Corfu Town’s parking lot and offers a unique experience of a swim under the imposing and magnificent Old Fortress.
Where are your favourite swimming spots? Contact me to let me know!