Discover Corfu's Best Beaches With Our Top 10 Insider's Guide

Lapped by the warm waves of the turquoise Ionian Sea, Corfu has long been one of Greece's most popular islands – and for good reason. With a rich history, elegant architecture and dramatic landscapes, there's plenty to see and do. However, for many, it's the world-class beaches that truly seal the deal. From secluded coves only accessible by boat to buzzing sandy shores lined with sunbeds and beach bars, Corfu offers something for every kind of traveller. Whether you're seeking solitude or sizzling summer nightlife, our guide to Corfu’s best beaches will help you plan an idyllic island escape.

Corfu lies off the northwest coast of Greece, a short hop from Albania. With a hilly interior draped with forests of olive and cypress trees, it's one of the greenest and most beautiful Ionian islands. The island is roughly crescent shaped, with over 200 km of coastline. The west is marked by steep cliffs, the north by rugged mountains, while the east and south offer flatter, more gentle terrain. This varied geography gives each part of Corfu its own beach character.

With so many gorgeous options to choose from, it's hard to narrow it down but here's a list of our favourite Corfu beaches.

Postcard-perfect Paleokastritsa is one of Corfu's most charming villages, nestled among dramatic cliffs and pine forests on the island's rugged northwest coast. It boasts six beaches – a mix of sand and pebbles – with glassy turquoise water ideal for snorkelling and swimming. The main beach, Agios Spyridon, sits below a Byzantine monastery dating back to the 13th century, and is lined with traditional tavernas. Rent a boat from the little harbour to explore hidden coves and stunning sea caves, like the striking Blue Eye.

• 25 km from Corfu Town; 40 minutes by car or take the Green A9 bus.

On Corfu's west coast, Agios Gordios is a relaxed coastal village with 2.5 km of coarse golden sand. The shallow, clear waters make it ideal for families and couples, with plenty of space for swimming, building sandcastles or strolling along the shore. The beach is backed by craggy cliffs, while the huge Ortholithi rock rises from the sea at its southern end. You'll find plenty of local shops, tavernas and beachfront bars – perfect for sundowners and spectacular sunsets.

• 20 km from Corfu Town; 35 minutes by car or take the Green B10 bus.

This beautiful sweep of golden sand in Corfu's wild southwest is backed by rolling dunes and bordered by Lake Korission, the island's largest wetland. The dunes here offer a mix of desert-like beauty and rich biodiversity, with cedar forests, orchid-dotted paths and birdlife including herons and flamingos. Shallow, clear waters make it perfect for families, while steady winds attract windsurfers and kitesurfers. Sunbeds and a few tavernas cluster at the southern end, while the north remains blissfully empty.

• 30 km from Corfu Town; 40 minutes by car or take the Green B6 bus.

On the island's northeast tip, beneath the soaring slopes of Mount Pantokrator (Corfu's highest mountain at 906 m), Barbati offers a striking mix of mountain views, white pebbles and translucent waters. Though there’s no actual sand, the calm, clear sea and relaxed, upscale vibe make Barbati a favourite spot for a refined beach day. Unwind on a sunbed sipping iced coffees, dine beneath eucalyptus trees at a stylish seaside taverna or spend your afternoon snorkelling and strolling along the promenade.

• 20 km north of Corfu Town; 40 minutes by car or take the Green A5 bus.

Tucked into a sheltered curve in Corfu's northeast corner, the fishing village of Kassiopi blends coastal charm with a touch of Byzantine history. The main beach is a mix of sand and shingle, with nearby coves like Bataria and Kanoni offering crystal-clear waters, rockpools and quieter corners even in peak season. Climb up to Kassiopi Castle for panoramic views before finishing with a cooling swim and lunch in a local taverna.

• 36 km from Corfu Town. One hour by car or take the Green A4 bus.

One of the most popular beaches on Corfu's west coast, Glyfada is a lively stretch of soft golden sand backed by pine-covered hills and dotted with hotels and holiday villas. Shallow waters, soft sand and plenty of sunbeds make it a hit with families, while beach bars draw a stylish crowd for sunset cocktails and DJ sets. The northern end stays calmer, offering shelter from the breeze. For a change of scene, nearby Myrtiotissa and Kontogialos beaches are just a short drive away.

• 16 km west of Corfu Town; 25 minutes by car or take the Green B17 bus.

Porto Timoni isn’t your typical beach – it’s a breathtaking twin bay near Afionas, with turquoise waters and jungle-green hills that feel more Southeast Asia than the Ionian. Separated by a narrow strip of land, the two coves are best admired from above before tackling the steep, rocky hike down from the village square. Wild, remote and very photogenic, it’s one of the best beaches in Corfu. Be sure to pack a picnic and plenty of water as there are no facilities available, but the views and privacy are unbeatable.

• 26 km from Corfu Town. Drive or take the Green bus A6 to Afionas-Arillas, then hike 20–30 minutes. Or arrive by canoe or pedalo from Agios Georgios Pagon.

One of Corfu's best beaches for families, Dassia has calm, shallow waters and a long stretch of shingle ideal for little ones. Shaded spots, parasol rentals and a relaxed café-lined boardwalk make it perfect for an easy day by the sea. Adventurous types can paddleboard or jet ski, while loungers can settle in with a freddo espresso. Though it gets busy in summer, the vibe remains laid-back. Combine with Ipsos and Barbati for a day of beach-hopping along the coast.

• 13 km north of Corfu Town; 25 minutes by car or take the Blue 7 city bus.

If you're searching for quiet beaches with authentic local charm, head to Messonghi. Located in a quiet part of the southeast coast, the beautiful sand and fine gravel shoreline is a mellow alternative to the busy resorts nearby. Popular with locals, this sandy stretch offers shallow, calm waters and plenty of natural shade – perfect for families with young kids or travellers craving a quiet swim. The village atmosphere adds to its charm, with laid-back tavernas serving fresh seafood along the riverside promenade.

• 22 km from Corfu Town; 45 minutes by car or take the Green B7 bus.

This west coast gem is one of Corfu’s best hidden beaches, set in a secluded cove near Liapades. Framed by forested cliffs and vivid turquoise water, it's accessed via a steep footpath through olive groves or by boat from Paleokastritsa. The white pebbles and glassy sea make it a favourite with locals seeking peace and natural beauty. There are no facilities – just a floating snack boat in summer – so be sure to come prepared.

• 20 km from Corfu Town. Drive 30 minutes to Liapades and hike down 15–20 minutes, or hire a boat taxi from Paleokastritsa.

For a luxurious stay on Corfu's east coast, the five-star Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa is just 12 km from the airport and makes an excellent base for exploring. Prefer to stay on the mainland? Consider Mövenpick Resort Agios Nikolaos Sivota, which is ideal for day trips to Corfu.

Corfu has an excellent bus network (Blue city buses and Green intercity KTEL), making it possible to reach even the most remote villages and beaches. Hiring a car offers flexibility and taxis are readily available. For coastal exploration, consider renting a private boat or taking a mini-cruise with a skipper.

Corfu boasts a sunny Mediterranean climate for year-round exploration. High season (June-August) can be very hot and busy. Spring and autumn are ideal, with warm weather and fewer crowds. For an authentic experience, visit in winter, though be aware it can be rainy and some facilities may close.

If you're dreaming of diving into turquoise coves, lounging on golden sands and beach hopping along the Ionian coast, Corfu’s beaches offer endless possibilities. So pack your sunscreen, bring your sense of adventure and get ready to discover your own favourite sandy spot.