Our top five Corfu beaches on the Ionian and Adriatic seas
A Nangle recce of the most interesting beaches in Corfu has provided a list that crosses this Ionian island from North to South and East to West. In general, the beaches on the Ionian west coast and the south coast are by far the sandiest. Often bordered by sand-dunes and little trodden, these were some of our favourites in Corfu. Swimming is possible in the waters around Corfu, which in April was a little fresh! Each of the Corfu beaches explored below have the added advantage of being close to a place of interest, for those who may not just want to lie on the beach.
Alykes beach and the nearby salt flats
Arriving through the olive groves along the Corfu trail from Perivoli, Alykes beach is a welcome sight. It is located just north of the historic town of Lefkimmi, a few kilometres away. This millpond sea’s deep blue waters stretch into the distance where rugged hills frame the view. In April, the narrow strip of beach is pleasantly quiet. Nevertheless, there are enough restaurants to prepare you a seafood platter and a Greek salad or provide snorkelling equipment.
Alykes salt flats, a bird watchers paradise
A kilometre’s walk east are the salt flats which once provided work for the community. It has long since been abandoned, but the waters are now the home to many migratory birds, shimmering white egrets and apparently flamingos. Sadly we didn’t get to see the flamingos, presumably as we hiked during the heat of the day.
Issos beach and nearby Korission lake
Issos beach just north of Agios Georgios is a location in the James Bond movie ‘For your eyes only’. Situated along the breezier south-western part of Corfu this is another section along the Corfu trail. In April, there were few on the beach as we struggled along the trail in deep soft sand. Scrubby sand dunes are part and parcel of the landscape here. As far as we could see there were no facilities on Issos beach, just a few abandoned buildings which may spring to life when the season starts in May. There are plenty of facilities however at Agios Georgios.
Korission lake
Nearby Korission lake is a haven for bird watchers. There is a 4-6 hour easy hike around the lake which does have an outlet into the Ionian sea. This stretch of beach continues up the whole length of Korission lake and has different names along the way. On various sections naturists have taken up residence. One can also find outfits that cater for windsurfing and kitesurfing along this section too.
Paleokastristas and the nearby Monastery
On the north-western coast and about 20kms from Corfu Old Town is the stunning location of Paleokastristas beaches. There are essentially three different corniches here and depending on the wind each has its benefits. Paleokastristas is well served with restaurants, boat trips and no doubt every other sporting activity. It was by far the busiest beach we visited in April, with coach loads of tourists descending on the little town. However, we were assured by restaurateurs that this was a very quiet time.
Paleokastrista Monastery to the Virgin Mary
A short 15-min hike up the little hill that towers above the beaches is Paleokastritsa monastery. This 13th century monastery is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Its location atop a hill is akin that found in Bled in Slovenia, and provides magnificent views of the bays around Paleokastritsa. This hike up the hill is well worth it to view the monastic gardens, the chapel and the small museum with its artefacts and intact whale bones.
Roda beach with views to Albania and the Pantocrator
Still struggling after the winter rains that carried on longer than it should have, Roda was beginning to get back on its feet. At the northern end of Corfu, it has the advantage of the rugged Albanian mountain views as a backdrop. We had our best Chicken Souvlaki here.
There is a large expat population here and the town was the largest seaside town we visited. It’s a great place to stroll along the beach or while away the time in the well-stocked cafes.
The Pantocrator, Corfu’s highest mountain
The Pantocrator, Corfu’s highest mountain is easily accessible from here as is the stunning medieval village of Perithia. You can either drive to the top for the most fabulous views or spend a few hours trekking through the olive groves of Northern Corfu to reach the top. This hilly area is criss-crossed with walking trails, most suitable for the ‘nearly-fit’!
Ipsos beach framed by mountains is good for picking up souvenirs
Descending steeply from Spartilas, a small mountain village, Ipsos beach contrasts the blue waters of the Adriatic Sea beautifully. This is a small narrow but long beach north of Corfu Old Town. From the beach, it is easy to see the mountains that frame this narrow section of soft sands.
Along the beach the restaurants are both plentiful and varied. It is a great place to spend some time after trekking in the mountains.
Nangle facts & tips
A few of these beaches can be combined with the Corfu trail.
Self-catering eco-accommodation can be arranged directly with Casa Lucia. You can read our blog on our stay at Cash Lucia here
Nangle angle
There is a beach in Corfu for every type of traveller
