A Perfect Beach Day in Corfu: Sun, Sand, and Serenity
If you are looking for a family-friendly beach, these ones are for you:
Agios Gordios Beach
Agios Gordios is a fantastic family-friendly beach located on the island’s western side. This long, sandy beach has gentle slopes into the water, making it safe for young swimmers. The surrounding area is peaceful and picturesque, with lush green hills providing a beautiful backdrop. There are plenty of beach bars and restaurants serving delicious Greek food, so you can easily spend the whole day here.
Facilities:
Shallow waters and soft sand perfect for children
Plenty of family-friendly cafes and restaurants nearby
Sunbeds and umbrellas for comfort
Ideal for a peaceful, relaxing day
Kassiopi Beach
Kassiopi Beach, located in the charming village of Kassiopi on the northern coast of Corfu, is perfect for families. The waters are shallow, calm, and sheltered by rocky outcrops, which makes it an excellent spot for children to paddle and swim. The beach has a relaxed vibe and is close to the village, where you’ll find restaurants and shops.
Facilities:
Shallow, calm waters for safe swimming
Nearby amenities like restaurants, shops, and cafes
Scenic views and plenty of space for family picnicsEasy access for strollers and families with young children
Agios Stefanos Beach
Located on the northern part of the island, Agios Stefanos Beach is an excellent family-friendly destination. The beach is sandy, with shallow waters perfect for children to swim and play. It’s quieter compared to other beaches, making it a wonderful choice for families looking for a relaxing day by the sea. You can also find various restaurants and cafes along the beach for a pleasant lunch.
Facilities:
Shallow, sandy waters ideal for young children
Calm, relaxed atmosphere
Family-friendly tavernas and cafes
Ideal for families with younger kids
Corfu is home to several secluded and tranquil beaches, perfect for couples seeking privacy and natural beauty. Here are some of the best remote beach options for couples:
Rovinia Beach
Rovinia Beach is a hidden gem located near the village of Liapades on the west coast of Corfu. This small, pebbly beach is surrounded by lush greenery and steep cliffs, offering an intimate and romantic atmosphere. It’s only accessible by foot, making it a more secluded option for couples looking to escape the crowds.
Why it’s perfect for couples:
Secluded location with fewer tourists
Clear turquoise waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling
Romantic, quiet atmosphere with stunning views
Limni Beach
Located in a quiet corner of the island, Limni Beach is a serene and isolated spot that offers peace and quiet. Its pebbly shoreline and clear blue waters make it a wonderful place for couples who want to enjoy a more secluded beach experience, away from the usual crowds.
Why it’s perfect for couples:
Quiet, off-the-beaten-path location
Beautiful, clear waters ideal for a refreshing swim
A peaceful atmosphere perfect for unwinding together
Agios Georgios Pagon Beach (Northwest)
This beach is located on the northwestern coast of Corfu and is a peaceful, quiet spot with soft sand and shallow waters. It’s ideal for couples looking to relax, swim, and enjoy some time together in a more isolated setting. There are a few tavernas nearby, but it remains calm and tranquil, even during peak season.
Why it’s perfect for couples:
Quiet beach with minimal crowds
Shallow waters, great for swimming and relaxing
Peaceful, natural surroundings for a romantic escape
La Grotta Beach
La Grotta Beach, located in Paleokastritsa, is one of the more remote beaches on the island, accessible by a steep path or by boat. This small, pebble beach is set in a beautiful cove surrounded by cliffs, making it an ideal secluded spot for couples. The beach is peaceful, with crystal-clear water perfect for a swim or a peaceful day of relaxation.
Why it’s perfect for couples:
Access by foot or boat for a more adventurous, intimate experience
Secluded cove surrounded by cliffs
Clear waters, ideal for snorkeling and swimming
If you’re looking to enjoy some fun, vibrant nightlife and a lively beach atmosphere, Corfu has several party beaches that are perfect for letting loose and having a good time. Here are some top options for party beaches in Corfu:
Sidari Beach (Canal d’Amour)
Sidari is famous for its stunning natural rock formations, including the iconic Canal d’Amour, but it’s also well-known for its lively nightlife. The town of Sidari, located near the beach, has a number of bars, clubs, and tavernas where you can enjoy drinks and dance until the early hours. The area attracts young crowds, making it an energetic and fun party destination.
Why it’s a great party beach:
A vibrant atmosphere with plenty of bars and nightclubs
Canal d’Amour, a unique natural formation that adds to the area’s charm
Live music, dance floors, and beach parties
Glyfada Beach
Located on the island’s western coast, Glyfada Beach is not only one of the most popular beaches in Corfu but also one of the liveliest. During the summer months, the beach comes alive with beach bars, music, and water sports. Many bars and restaurants offer day-to-night entertainment, from daytime lounging to evening DJ sets and beach parties.
Why it’s a great party beach:
Beach clubs and bars with live music and DJ sets
Water sports and activities for fun during the day
Stunning views and vibrant atmosphere
Messonghi Beach
Messonghi Beach offers a more laid-back party atmosphere compared to some of the more intense party spots, but it’s still a great place to enjoy a lively beach day with friends. The beach is lined with beach bars, offering live music, DJ sets, and drinks while you relax by the sea. Messonghi is also close to Moraitika, a nearby resort town with plenty of bars and nightclubs for partying after sunset.
Why it’s a great party beach:
Fun beach bars and music throughout the day and night
Nearby resorts with plenty of nightlife options
A vibrant but not overwhelming party atmosphere
Dassia is another well-known beach on Corfu that offers a lively vibe, especially in the evenings. Located just a short distance from Corfu Town, Dassia’s beach clubs and bars provide plenty of opportunities for dancing, enjoying cocktails, and partying with other travelers. Many venues have themed nights, live music, and entertainment throughout the summer.
Why it’s a great party beach:
Popular beach bars with lively music and entertainment
Close to Corfu Town, making it easily accessible for partygoers
A mix of day and night entertainment, including water sports during the day
Traditional Dishes to Try in Corfu
Sofrito
Sofrito is a Corfiot specialty that blends tender beef or veal with a rich garlic, white wine, and vinegar sauce, served over rice. It’s a flavorful and comforting dish that combines the island’s Venetian influences with Greek culinary traditions. Perfect for a hearty meal!
Pastitsada
Pastitsada is another iconic Corfiot dish. It features slow-cooked beef or chicken in a tomato-based sauce with a variety of aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaves. The dish is usually served with pasta, making it a perfect blend of flavors.
Bourdeto
Bourdeto is a spicy fish stew native to Corfu, typically made with scorpion fish (though other fish may also be used). The dish is cooked with olive oil, tomatoes, and red hot pepper, creating a flavorful, slightly spicy sauce. It’s often served with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Cheese Varieties
Corfu is home to several varieties of cheese, with Kasseri (a hard, yellow cheese) and Feta being particularly popular. Anthotyros, a mild, soft cheese made from sheep’s or goat’s milk, is often used in Corfiot recipes or served on its own as an appetizer.
Savoury Pies
Another Corfiot favorite is the Cheese Pie (Tiropita), typically filled with feta cheese and wrapped in crispy, flaky pastry. It’s a popular snack or breakfast option across the island.
Corfiot cuisine offers a delightful array of options that can easily accommodate vegetarians. The island’s long history and diverse cultural influences are reflected in its food, where fresh, local ingredients take center stage. From fragrant herbs and olive oil to an abundance of seasonal vegetables, Corfu’s culinary offerings provide plenty of choices for those who prefer a plant-based diet.
Fasolada
A classic Greek bean soup, Fasolada is made with tomatoes, olive oil, and various vegetables, including carrots, celery, and onions. It’s often seasoned with herbs like oregano and is both nutritious and filling.
Gemista
A staple in Greek cuisine, Gemista is made by stuffing tomatoes, peppers, or zucchini with a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes vegetables like mushrooms or peas. It’s baked until tender and often served with a drizzle of olive oil.
Greek Salad, or Horiatiki Salata,
A fresh and vibrant dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors. Made with simple, high-quality ingredients like ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, and creamy feta cheese, it’s dressed with olive oil, oregano, and a squeeze of lemon. This refreshing salad is a perfect accompaniment to any meal, offering a burst of flavors while showcasing the island’s rich agricultural bounty. It’s light and healthy.
Local Drinks to Try Koum Quat Liqueur (Kumquat Liqueur)
One of Corfu’s most famous drinks is the Koumquat Liqueur, made from the island’s locally grown kumquat fruit. The fruit, which is small, bitter, and orange, is transformed into a sweet, fragrant liqueur. It’s often served as an aperitif or after dinner drink and makes for a wonderful souvenir to bring back home.
Corfiot Ouzo
Like the rest of Greece, Corfu serves up Ouzo, the famous anise-flavored aperitif. It’s often enjoyed as an aperitif before meals or with meze (small appetizers). Corfu’s version can be found in various local tavernas, and it’s frequently paired with seafood or fresh bread.
Tsipouro
Similar to ouzo but stronger, Tsipouro is a distilled spirit made from grape pomace. It’s commonly served in small glasses and enjoyed as a digestif after meals. In Corfu, some varieties are flavored with herbs or citrus for added complexity.
Corfiot Wine
Corfu produces some wonderful wines, especially Robola, a white wine that’s crisp and refreshing, perfect for pairing with seafood or light dishes. Vertzami, a red wine variety, is another local favorite, known for its deep flavors and complexity. Be sure to try some locally-produced wines at Corfiot tavernas!
Must-Try Snacks & Street Food
Bougatsa
A sweet or savory pastry filled with custard, cheese, or minced meat, Bougatsa is a popular street food in Corfu. The sweet version, filled with custard, is particularly famous for breakfast or a mid-day snack.
Souvlaki
Though not exclusive to Corfu, Souvlaki (grilled meat skewers, often served with pita, vegetables, and sauce) is a delicious and affordable option for a quick meal. The meat, usually lamb or chicken, is marinated with herbs and served with fresh toppings.
Dining Experiences in Corfu
Seaside Taverns
Corfu’s coastal charm is best enjoyed while dining at one of the many seaside tavernas. Whether you’re overlooking the Ionian Sea or nestled in a quaint harbor, the setting makes the food even more enjoyable. Here, you can savor fresh seafood, like grilled sardines, octopus, and calamari, paired with local wines or ouzo.
Meze Platters
A fantastic way to experience Corfiot cuisine is by trying a meze platter. Meze includes a variety of small dishes, perfect for sharing. Expect to see an assortment of dips like tzatziki (yogurt and cucumber), melitzanosalata (eggplant dip), hummus, and dolmades (stuffed grape leaves). You’ll also find cheeses, olives, and fresh bread to enjoy.
Farm-to-Table Dining
Corfu has a long tradition of agriculture and local food production, and many restaurants emphasize farm-to-table dining. You’ll find fresh vegetables, local cheeses, and organic meats incorporated into a wide range of dishes, ensuring that you taste the best of what the island has to offer.
Sweet treats
Greek Baklava
No trip to Corfu is complete without trying a piece of Baklava. This sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough, nuts, and honey syrup is a Greek classic, and Corfu has its own variations, often with extra pistachios or walnuts.
Loukoumades
These deep-fried dough balls are soaked in honey syrup and often sprinkled with cinnamon or powdered sugar. They’re a sweet and comforting treat, often served at celebrations or enjoyed as an indulgent dessert.
Karydopita (Walnut Cake)
Karydopita is a traditional Corfiot dessert made with walnuts and soaked in syrup. The cake is moist and fragrant, offering a delightful end to any meal.
