The Old Town, the Venetian Fortress, delicious food, and stunning beaches: all these attract many visitors every summer to Corfu, one of the most touristic places in Greece.
But the island is particularly large and has countless beaches. You will definitely have the opportunity to swim in Paleokastritsa or dive in Canal D’Amour. But if you feel the urge to enjoy swimming on a more secluded beach, these are the 5 best options in Corfu. Most require a little more effort, walking or driving on dirt roads, but are well worth the effort.
Rovinia
It is probably one of the most unknown beaches but also one of the most beautiful of Corfu. Driving from the Old Town towards Paleokastritsa, take a turn towards the village of Liapades. You will need to walk for about 10 minutes to reach the enchanting beach with the fine pebbles and crystal clear turquoise waters. The beach is not serviced and there is not much shade except for the small area below the rocks on the left, so you should bring an umbrella, some water and your own supplies. Sometimes a boat passes by selling cold drinks, water and coffee. The sea is cold, as it is in the whole area of Paleokastritsa.
Arkoudilas
At the southern end of the island, 50 km from the Old Town, Arkoudilas beach is a real paradise; a very long beach with fine sand and warm shallow waters with steep high cliffs looming above. You will hardly meet people here, as it takes about 2 km of dirt road to reach the beach. A few sunbeds and umbrellas are the only things available on the beach, as well as a quaint little café serving coffee, cold water and refreshments.
Giali
On the west side of the island, 20 km from the Old Town, below the village of Giannades, is the small beach of Giali. Deserted and difficult to access, it is ideal for those who want peace and seclusion. Even in August you won’t find that many people around. Follow the signs leading to the village of Giannades and once you have passed it, continue until you reach a plateau where you can park. The descent is quite difficult and in some places you will need to use a rope. Fluffy sand and crystal clear blue waters will make up for the hassle. Make sure you have all the essentials with you because the beach is not serviced. You can also rent a boat from the nearby settlement of Ermones.
Kerasia
You reach the beach, spread a towel under the trees, walk on the pebbles and swim in the bright blue cool waters, while gazing across Albania. Kerasia beach is located on the northeaster side of Corfu in the area of Kassiopi and is usually not very crowded. By the beach there is a tavern, but if it is coffee you are craving for, you should stop at Agnitsini village on the way to the beach. Specifically, KofiBros brews great coffee.
Info: ΚόφιBros, Agnitsini, Corfu, +30 26630 82141
Gialiskari
Along the west coast of Corfu and after the popular beaches of Glyfada and Kontogialos, there is another beautiful sandy beach, which is less crowded. The trees extend to the shore and spread their shade, while on the right side there is a vertical rock standing tall in the middle of the sea, an ideal spot for snorkelling. The water is clear and relatively shallow. On the beach there is a tavern serving traditional cuisine.
