The island of Corfu was the first introduction to the joys of a Greek holiday for thousands of package tourists decades ago, and it is still a popular destination for beach-lovers and holidaymakers seeking guaranteed sunshine for their summer breaks or a quiet retreat during winter or spring. The island is one of Greece’s most beautiful holiday hotspots, with vineyards, olive groves and a great selection of beaches, both popular and secluded.
Corfu Town is the heart of the holiday scene ? a small, charming yet sophisticated conurbation with all visitor needs catered to within walking distance. The main square and the beachside promenade are the places for people-watching, dining and mixing with the locals, and the town’s beaches are crowded in summer. If a quieter seaside environment is needed, the choice of destinations across the island is huge.
Corfu’s spectacular coastline encompasses over 40 beaches, some with blue flag grading and many with eateries and other facilities either on the sands or nearby.
From undeveloped to resort-style, the beaches here cater for all preferences. For example, Guavia Beach lies to the north of Corfu Town, close to Dassia and Pyrgi, and boasts all the usual facilities, such as umbrellas and water sports. Around 16 miles north of town is spectacular Krouzeri Beach, an EU-awarded blue flag spot for its facilities and cleanliness.
More fine beaches with facilities include Messonghi Beach, 19kms from town to the south and perfect for families with young kids due to its gently sloping seafloor and fun water sports. For those needing a more vibrant place to laze and swim, pebbly Kassiopi Beach is surrounded with karaoke joints and beachside bars.
For rocky coves, a sandy beach and unparalleled natural beauty, Paleokastritsa Beach is the place and was traditionally the site of ancient King Alcinious’s palace. Scenic Palekas Beach lies on the island’s western shore, close to the village of the same name and offers a good number of traditional tavernas as well as water sports facilities.
Up-and-coming Roda, some 35kms from Corfu Town, has its own beach, set adjacent to its charming fishing harbour. Clear, shallow waters and shady palm trees make the village a great place for families with young children. On the northern shores of the island is famous Sidari Beach, a must-visit for its secluded coves, wind-sculptured rocky outcrops and glorious views.
For truly deserted beaches, a Corfu beach guide would list Agios Georgios Beach, 19kms from Corfu Town and located in splendid isolation; narrow, secluded and sandy Kouloura Beach in a lovely northeastern, undeveloped setting; and peaceful mountain-backed Liapades Beach, some 20kms from town. Myrtiotissa Beach, a gem of Corfu’s western coastline, is overlooked by a monastery and surrounded by vineyards and awesome views.
For families, there’s a great choice of beaches which are safe for young children, including Messonghi Beach and its fun water sports. Agios Stefanos Beach is 44kms from Corfu Town and has a reputation for safety, making it ideal for families, and Arios Beach, located 35kms from the island’s capital, is known for its family-friendliness.
For buzzing beaches close to nightlife and dance clubs, Ipsos Beach is the best choice, set on the eastern shore and offering everything for a lazy day in the sun and a fabulous night out. Another alternative is Dassia Beach, close to Corfu Town and lined with hotels, bars and clubs. For endless beaches, Almyros Beach had eight kilometres of sand as well as lots of bars, big hotels and a great selection water sports.
All of the more commercial beach settings offer water sports facilities, from snorkelling and diving to waterskiing, windsurfing and even pedalos. Parasailing is popular here and the more touristy beaches offer jet-skiing as well as beach volleyball and motorboats for hire. At the end of the day, dining on traditional Greek cuisine, close to the water’s edge, while the sun goes down fulfils every holidaymaker’s dream.
John is a guest blogger from eHolidayCollection who offer a great selection of villas in Corfu for rent in
