Western Beaches

Brimming with charm, the beaches along Corfu’s western coastline are among the island’s most tranquil.

They’re tricky to reach by public transport, so if you’re planning to explore Corfu’s west-coast beaches, we’d recommend hiring a car. Several car rental agencies operate from Corfu airport and across the island’s main towns.

Pelekas or Kontogialos

This is a magnificent beach with a small harbour nearby and four tavernas where you can grab a bite. The sand is beautifully fine on this medium-sized yet spacious stretch, offering rental facilities and the chance to try various water sports. The sea isn’t particularly deep, though it can be somewhat cooler and choppier than the eastern coast. The charming traditional village is also worth exploring – you’ll pass through it to reach the bay, where a free minibus service is available.

Glyfada

Nestled between cliffs, two kilometres from Palekas, lies a stunning beach of fine sand that’s wonderfully spacious and stretches quite far. The sea is shallow, making it ideal for children, though you’ll need to navigate a winding path through rocky outcrops to reach it. The bay is fully equipped and ranks among the island’s finest, with the Mirtiotissas beach just a short distance away. Less crowded but equally enchanting, it’s surrounded by rocks, free of tourist facilities and perfect for snorkelling. Mirtiotissas permits naturism.

Sinarades

This village’s beaches remain relatively untouched by mass tourism and, whilst challenging to reach, are absolutely worth the effort. The village itself is exceptionally charming, with whitewashed and ochre-coloured alleyways, stone staircases and a few cafés dotted around the main square.

Agios Gordios

Crystal-blue waters lap this glorious sandy beach south of Sinarades, seven kilometres from Palekas village – one of the western coast’s largest coves. From the road, you’ll spot towering cliffs and a distinctive pyramidal sea stack offshore. The beach is framed by lush hillsides and makes an excellent spot for snorkelling and spearfishing. It’s equipped with sun loungers and umbrellas for hire, plus facilities including showers and toilets, with pedaloes and kayaks available to rent. Come evening, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.

Paramonas and Pendation Beaches

Paramonas beach is particularly popular with Greek visitors and sits four kilometres from Pendation, on Corfu’s southwest coast below Agios Matheos village. The settlement is recognisable by its colourful houses and sits completely surrounded by olive groves. Nearby you’ll find several other charming beaches and coves – Prasoudi, Kavouli and Skidi amongst them – some of which are virtually deserted. The beach itself is fairly broad but short, with soft sand and a few pebbles, and facilities are available; the sea deepens quickly. Paramonas is the first in a succession of little inlets that continue all the way to Lake Korisia. Afternoons can be somewhat blustery, but it’s absolutely worth visiting for the views alone – a couple of rocks enhance the seascape beautifully, and the beach has even been used as a film location.