Top Beaches in Paleokastritsa, Corfu

Turquoise Coves, Hidden Bays & the Most Beautiful Swimming Spots on the Island

If you’ve seen photos of Corfu with bright blue water, dramatic cliffs and secret little coves…

Chances are you were looking at Paleokastritsa.

This stretch of coastline on Corfu’s west side is easily one of the most beautiful places in Greece — not just the island.

Think:
💎 crystal-clear turquoise water
🏞️ green cliffs dropping into the sea
🚤 boat caves
🌿 hidden beaches
🌅 insane sunsets

It’s the kind of place where every corner looks like a screensaver.

If you’re visiting Corfu and love swimming, snorkelling or scenic beach days, Paleokastritsa is an absolute must.

Here are the best beaches in Paleokastritsa, plus local tips on where to swim, relax and explore.

📍 Where is Paleokastritsa?

Paleokastritsa is on the west coast of Corfu, about:

  • 🚗 25–30 minutes from Corfu Town

  • 🚕 €35–40 taxi

  • 🚌 reachable by Green Bus

  • 🚗 car recommended for exploring

The west coast has:
✔ clearer water
✔ dramatic scenery
✔ better snorkelling
✔ epic sunsets

It feels totally different from the east side of the island.

🏖️ 1. Paleokastritsa Main Beach (Agios Spyridon)

The famous one (and for good reason)

This is the main bay you’ll see when you arrive — and honestly, it’s stunning.

Bright turquoise water surrounded by cliffs and greenery.

Even when it’s busy, it still feels beautiful.

What to expect:

  • sunbeds & umbrellas

  • tavernas & cafés

  • pedalos & boats

  • shallow, calm swimming

  • great facilities

✨ Perfect for: first-time visitors & easy beach days

💎 2. La Grotta Beach

Cliff-jumping, cocktails & insane water

Okay this one is FUN.

La Grotta isn’t a traditional sandy beach — it’s a rocky platform carved into the cliffs with ladders into the sea.

But the water?

Ridiculously clear. Like swimming pool clear.

There’s also a bar right above, so you can go:
swim → cocktail → swim → repeat

Why people love it:

  • cliff jumping

  • snorkelling

  • music & vibe

  • sunset drinks

  • feels adventurous

✨ Perfect for: couples, friends & fun days out

🌿 3. Agia Triada Beach

Quiet, scenic & more local

Smaller and usually less crowded than the main beach.

Super pretty little cove with calmer energy.

If you want to escape the crowds but stay central — this is a great choice.

Best bits:

  • peaceful

  • crystal-clear water

  • shaded spots

  • easy swim access

✨ Perfect for: relaxing, slower days

🐠 4. Ampelaki Beach

Tiny hidden gem

This one feels like a secret.

Tucked away just a short walk from the main area, it’s much smaller and quieter.

The kind of place where you spread your towel and just float for hours.

Amazing for snorkelling too — loads of fish.

✨ Perfect for: couples & hidden-gem lovers

🚤 5. Paradise Beach (Boat Only)

The WOW beach

This is the one everyone talks about.

Accessible only by boat, Paradise Beach is surrounded by cliffs and caves with unreal turquoise water.

Feels wild and untouched.

You can reach it via:

  • boat hire

  • kayak

  • organised tours

Honestly? It’s one of the prettiest beaches in all of Corfu.

✨ Perfect for: bucket list swims & photos

🚣 Don’t Miss: Boat Hire & Cave Exploring

This is THE thing to do in Paleokastritsa.

Rent a small boat (no licence needed) and explore:

  • sea caves

  • hidden coves

  • secret beaches

  • crystal swimming spots

It’s cheap, easy and one of the best experiences on the island.

Total freedom.

✨ Highly recommend for at least half a day

🌅 Best Time to Visit the Beaches

Quick local tips:

☀️ Morning = quietest & clearest water
🌊 Afternoon = busier but lively
🌅 Sunset = magical light
🌬️ Windy days = west coast can get waves

If you want photos → go early or sunset.

🍽️ Where to Eat Nearby

After swimming, grab food at:

  • Akron Beach Bar – chilled + stylish

  • La Grotta Bar – drinks with a view

  • The Veranda – sunset dinners

  • local tavernas in the village

Fresh seafood + sea views just hit different here.

💡 Local Tips for Paleokastritsa

From Corfu Travel Co:

✔ arrive early in summer (parking fills fast)
✔ wear water shoes (pebbles/rocks)
✔ bring snorkels
✔ hire a boat if you can
✔ stay for sunset — trust me

Also… don’t rush. This area is made for slow days.

🌴 Final Thoughts

If you only visit one beach area in Corfu, make it Paleokastritsa.

It’s not just beaches — it’s caves, cliffs, boats, sunsets and that ridiculously clear Ionian water you’ll never forget.

The kind of place where you say,
“okay… just one more swim”… five times.

Save this list, explore a few coves, and enjoy what’s easily one of the most beautiful corners of the island.

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