One of the questions I get asked a lot , usually by sunburnt tourists or uni friends that don’t own a car, is: “Are there actually any beaches in Corfu Town?”
And the answer is yes, there are! They might not be the almost-private, endless golden sand beaches you’ll find on the west coast of the island (like Issos beach), but for those of you staying in town, especially without a rental car, they’re a lifesaver.
As a local, spending my whole childhood around Garitsa or Corfu Old Town, I’ve had my fair share of salt-in-my-hair moments and I’m here to spill the tea on the 5 best beaches in or near Corfu Town. Some you’ve probably heard of. Others? Locals’ secrets. Let’s dive in (pun obviously intended).
1. Faliraki Beach & Imabari Bar
📍 Literally under the Old Fortress
👙 Best for: Impromptu swims, when you want to avoid getting sand all over you
Tiny, tucked away, and shockingly scenic, Faliraki is the definition of a hidden-in-plain-sight gem. Most tourists walk right past it thinking it’s just a pier, but in the summer it turns into our salty sanctuary.
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2. Anemomylos Beach – Where Locals Actually Swim
📍 Next to the windmill and the cannon
👙 Best for: Actual swimming, sunset selfies, old-man backstrokes
Anemomylos isn’t fancy. There are no beach clubs. No overpriced mojitos in pineapples. Just clean, clear water, smooth rocks, and the occasional yiayia doing water aerobics.
Why we love it: It’s walking distance from Garitsa Bay (a.k.a. frappe central), and it’s the kind of place where you’ll bump into your cousin, your neighbour, and that guy who sold you honey last week.
3. Mon Repos Beach – History and Tanlines
📍 Behind the palace, darling
👙 Best for: Swims + a side of culture
You came for the sea, but you’ll stay for the imperial nostalgia. Mon Repos is technically a palace — but locals know it’s also got a sweet little beach spot. Crystal-clear waters, pebbly goodness, and leafy shade if you’re anti-sunburn like me.
Fun fact: This is where Prince Philip was born. Coincidence? Or was he just really good at choosing real estate?
4. Vidos Island – The Beach with Bonus Rabbits
📍 A 10-minute boat ride from the old port
👙 Best for: Adventure vibes without actually going far
Okay, technically not in Corfu Town, but I’m including it because it’s closer than half the places people recommend on TripAdvisor. Vidos is pure magic — pine trees, pebble beaches, transparent water, and an army of rabbits that may or may not try to steal your koulouri.
Pro tip: Bring your own snacks and water. The taverna’s cute but closes early, and you don’t want to be stuck hangry on an island with bunnies.
5. Alykes Potamou – For When You Want Sand, Not Rocks
📍 Just 10 minutes north of town
👙 Best for: Sandy toes, families, beach games, actual lounging
Locals love to gatekeep this one, but I’m feeling generous. Alykes is one of the few sandy beaches close to town — and unlike Glyfada or Paleokastritsa, you won’t have to brave hairpin mountain turns to get there.
You’ll see families, volleyball nets, and lots of locals who don’t feel like driving far. It’s got the “real life” vibe — with a side of sun and saltwater.
Honorable Mentions (Because I’m Indecisive):
- Kanoni (near the café with the airport view): You’ll swim while planes land 10m above your head. Iconic.
- Royal Baths Mon Repos (now closed to the public, but we remember… we remember 😢)
- Tria Gefyria: Not technically a beach, more of a rocky dive spot, but we’ve all had our first beer and heartbreak there.
Final Splash 💦
There you have it — your local-approved, no-nonsense, sun-soaked list of beaches around Corfu Town. Whether you’re after a quick dip, a full day of sea-induced serenity, or a beach with vibes, Corfu’s got you.
Now go pack your towel, leave the sandals in the car (locals don’t wear shoes to the beach, come on), and remember:
Always bring an extra frappe. Always.
So whether you’re here for a quick dip, a sneaky swim between sightseeing, or just need to know where us locals actually go when we want to cool off — this guide’s for you.