Northern Corfu’s Most Beautiful Beaches
The utterly gorgeous and one-of-a-kind beaches of Corfu will captivate you long before your plane touches down at the airport. With their golden sands, turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs, these coastal gems are a highlight of any visit to this Greek island. To make the most of your beach-hopping adventure, it’s recommended that you book your rental car from a reliable car rental Corfu service, such as Royal Cars Rental, at the time of booking your ticket. This way, you can hit the ground running and start exploring Northern Corfu’s most beautiful beaches without delay.
Northern Corfu is renowned for its diverse coastline, where each beach offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural significance, and recreational opportunities. From secluded coves to bustling resort beaches, there’s something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family-friendly spot, or a place to unwind with breathtaking views, Northern Corfu has it all. Let’s dive into the eight most stunning beaches in this region, each with its own charm and allure.
Agios Stefanos Beach (San Stefanos)
Agios Stefanos Beach, often referred to as San Stefanos, is a small but picturesque beach on Corfu’s northwest coast, known for its sparkling clean water and serene scenery. This beach is a haven for those seeking a luxurious escape, as it’s surrounded by high-end villas owned by both local and international businessmen who flock here for their vacations. The area has evolved into a luxury resort destination, with upscale accommodations, fine dining options, and a vibrant atmosphere that draws crowds, especially during the peak summer months.
The beach itself is a lively hub of activity, with the water often filled with boats and yachts, creating a bustling yet glamorous vibe. Despite its popularity, Agios Stefanos retains a sense of charm with its shallow, clear waters, perfect for swimming and wading. If you decide to stay overnight, there are plenty of accommodation options, from boutique hotels to private villas, offering stunning views of the Ionian Sea. To explore nearby beaches and villages, a call to your rental car service ensures a seamless journey. You can easily hire a car of your choice from the wide options available at Corfu Airport Car Hire, where experienced drivers will whisk you off to your desired destination. Note that Agios Stefanos is quite far from the central road, so having a rental car is essential for convenience.
Arillas Beach
Arillas Beach is a family-friendly gem located 40 km from Corfu Town, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquility. The beach is renowned for its shallow waters, soft sandy shores, and clay slopes that visitors love to use as a natural beauty enhancer—rubbing the clay on their skin for its reputed exfoliating properties. However, the true highlight of Arillas Beach is its spectacular sunset views. If you stay until late afternoon, you’ll witness the sun seemingly dip into the clear waters, painting the sky with shades of orange, pink, and purple in a mesmerizing display.
Arillas is less crowded than some of Corfu’s more touristy beaches, making it an ideal spot for families or those seeking a peaceful retreat. You can spend your day swimming, building sandcastles with the kids, or simply relaxing with a good book while the waves lap gently at the shore. The beach is also a great base for exploring nearby attractions, such as the small village of Arillas, where you’ll find charming tavernas serving fresh seafood and local dishes. Accessing Arillas Beach is easy with a car hire Corfu service from Royal Cars Rental, and it’s highly recommended to have a rental car for your return journey to avoid being stranded at night, as public transport options are limited in this area.
Agios Georgios Beach of Pagon
Many visitors claim that Agios Georgios Beach of Pagon is the most beautiful beach on Corfu Island, and it’s easy to see why. Located on the northwest coast, this freshwater beach boasts a vast sandy shore that stretches for miles, offering a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. The beach is equally loved by couples and families due to its diverse offerings: one side features deep waters for thrill-seekers, while the other has shallow, calm waters ideal for children to splash around safely.
Agios Georgios has been recognized for its exceptional services, earning awards for its cleanliness and amenities. The beach is well-equipped with everything you need for a memorable day out, including delicious eateries serving Greek specialties, cozy coffee shops, and opportunities to engage in sea sports like windsurfing and paddleboarding. You can also rent boats to visit nearby islands or take diving lessons to explore the underwater world of the Ionian Sea. The beach’s versatility makes it a favorite for all types of travelers, whether you’re looking to relax or dive into adventure. Your driver from Royal Cars Rental’s car rental Corfu service will get you there from anywhere on the island in the least possible time, ensuring you can maximize your beach day.
Logas Beach
Logas Beach, also known as Peroulades Beach, is a special kind of beach that offers a unique experience on Corfu’s northwest coast, 36 miles from Corfu Town. The easiest way to access this tourist-favorite attraction is by renting a car from Royal Cars Rental, which allows you to navigate the island’s roads with ease. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking sight: a sprawling sea of turquoise water framed by vertical cliffs that tower above the beach, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape.
The path down to Logas Beach is steep and somewhat rough, so be prepared for a bit of a trek—but the reward is well worth the effort. Though small in size, the beach is relatively secluded, offering a peaceful escape from the island’s busier spots. The sunset views here are nothing short of mesmerizing, with the sun casting a golden glow over the sea as it dips below the horizon. Logas Beach also holds historical significance, as recent archaeological discoveries have uncovered a settlement dating back to the Middle Stone Age, adding an extra layer of intrigue for history enthusiasts. Pack comfortable shoes for the descent and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Glyfada Beach
Glyfada Beach, located 16 km west of Corfu Town, is one of the most popular beaches on the island, known for its pristine beauty and vibrant atmosphere. This beach has been awarded the Blue Flag for its cleanliness and the purity of its crystal-clear waters, making it a top choice for swimmers and sunbathers alike. The golden sand and cove-like location provide a perfect setting to relax under the sun, swim in the refreshing sea, or simply enjoy the scenic surroundings. The beach is framed by olive groves and pine-studded hills, adding to its natural charm.
Glyfada Beach is fully equipped with amenities to enhance your visit, including villas for those looking to stay overnight, a dedicated space for volleyball, and nearby attractions like the Corfu Golf Club and Corfu Horse Riding Club. These activities make Glyfada a favorite among adventure seekers and sports enthusiasts. The beach is particularly popular with younger crowds, often buzzing with energy and music, which can make it noisy at times. For dining, you’ll find a variety of options, from beachside cafes serving delicious snacks and extraordinary cocktails to restaurants offering Mediterranean cuisine. Glyfada’s lively vibe and stunning setting make it a must-visit spot on your Corfu itinerary.
Sidari Beach
Sidari Beach, located on Corfu’s northern coast, is another endless sandy beach renowned for its stunning sandstone formations that resemble the work of a skilled potter. The natural beauty of Sidari is complemented by its proximity to the famous Canal d’Amour, a series of narrow inlets carved into the cliffs. According to local legend, couples who swim through the channel will soon find their soulmate or strengthen their bond, making it a romantic spot for lovers. The beach itself offers plenty of space to relax, with soft sand and calm waters perfect for swimming.
Sidari Beach is also home to a popular water park, which is a hit with visitors of all ages. The park features thrilling slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones, providing hours of fun for families. For those looking for more adventure, you can rent a boat to explore the coastline or take a short excursion to nearby islets. The beach is well-equipped with amenities, including sunbeds, umbrellas, and tavernas serving fresh seafood and local dishes. Sidari’s combination of natural beauty, romantic legends, and family-friendly activities makes it a standout destination in Northern Corfu.
Nissaki Beach
Nissaki Beach is often hailed as one of the most beautiful beaches in Corfu, nestled between the villages of Barbati and Kassiopi on the northeast coast. Surrounded by lovely sandy shores and rocky formations, this beach offers a serene and picturesque setting that’s perfect for a peaceful day by the sea. Its location, slightly off the main roads, means it attracts fewer crowds, providing a more tranquil experience compared to busier beaches like Glyfada or Sidari. The beach is flanked by rocks on either side, creating a natural barrier that makes the shallow waters safe for children to play in.
One of Nissaki’s highlights is its rich marine life, visible through the crystal-clear waters. You can stand in the shallow areas and watch colorful fish dart around, or snorkel to explore the underwater landscapes and small caves. While Nissaki has limited tourist facilities due to its secluded nature, you can drive to the nearby small port, where fishing boats bob gently in the water, and quaint tavernas serve fresh seafood and local delicacies. A quick ride with Corfu Airport Car Hire from Royal Cars Rental will get you to this charming spot, where you can enjoy a meal with a view of the harbor. Nissaki Beach is a hidden gem for those seeking a quieter, more intimate beach experience on Corfu.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Northern Corfu beaches offer diverse landscapes, from sandy shores to rocky cliffs, with stunning views, clear waters, and unique cultural attractions.
Agios Stefanos Beach is surrounded by high-end villas, offers upscale accommodations, and attracts a glamorous crowd with yachts and fine dining.
Arillas Beach has shallow waters, soft sand, and clay slopes for natural beauty treatments, making it safe and fun for families.
Enjoy sea sports, boat rentals, diving lessons, or dining at award-winning eateries, with both deep and shallow waters for all ages.
Logas Beach features a recent discovery of a Middle Stone Age settlement, adding historical intrigue to its stunning sunset views.
Glyfada Beach earned the Blue Flag for its cleanliness and the purity of its crystal-clear waters, ensuring a pristine environment.
Enjoy swimming, volleyball, golf, horse riding, Mediterranean cuisine, and cocktails, with a lively vibe popular among younger crowds.
Legend says swimming in the Canal d’Amour at Sidari Beach helps you find your soulmate or strengthens romantic bonds.
Nissaki Beach is secluded with fewer tourists, offering sandy shores, rocky formations, and clear waters with rich marine life for snorkeling.
Drive to the nearby port with Royal Cars Rental to enjoy fresh seafood and local delicacies at quaint tavernas with harbor views.
Royal Cars Rental offers affordable, reliable cars for easy access to remote beaches, with convenient airport and hotel delivery.
Book online via their website before arriving in Corfu for a seamless, stress-free beach-hopping experience.
Royal Cars Rental provides a variety of vehicles, including four-wheelers, suitable for navigating Corfu’s diverse terrains.
Use a rental car for easy access, wear comfortable shoes for the steep path, and bring a camera for the sunset views.
Visit Royal Cars Rental’s blog or their contact page for more insights.