Corfu's coastline alternates pebble coves and long sandy beaches across 200 km. From central Corfu Town, Garitsa Bay is the closest swim, Glyfada (17 km west) the headline sandy beach, Paleokastritsa (25 km NW) the most photogenic cove cluster, and Sidari's Canal d'Amour (35 km NW) the famous sandstone channel. Off-season, leashed dogs are tolerated almost everywhere.
Garitsa, 49100 Corfu
The crescent-shaped Garitsa Bay south of the Old Fortress, a 1.5 km curved promenade with the small Mon Repos beach at its eastern tip. Mixed sand-and-pebble entry, calm sheltered water. The closest urban swim from the Old Town, walkable in 10 min.
💡 Walk 10 min from the Spianada along the Garitsa promenade. From November to April the western end (under the fortress) is empty and effectively a free off-leash beach for locals.
Glyfada, 49100 Corfu
Long sandy beach 17 km west of Corfu Town on the central west coast, backed by green cliffs and a small valley. Fine golden sand, gentle slope, family-friendly. In high season (Jun–Sep) dogs allowed only on lead; off-season the southern end becomes a de facto dog beach.
💡 KTEL Astiko bus 11 runs from Corfu Town to Glyfada (3 EUR, 35 min, small dogs in carrier free). Park at the southern end to skip the sunbed-rented main beach.
Paleokastritsa, 49083 Corfu
Cluster of six photogenic coves around the Paleokastritsa headland on the west coast, 25 km NW of Corfu Town, with the cliff-top Theotokos monastery (1228) overlooking the bay. Crystal turquoise water, lush green cliffs. The most photographed coastline in the Ionian.
💡 Boat taxis run from the main cove to the quieter Liapades and Ampelaki coves (10–15 EUR, dogs free); these smaller coves are calmer and dog-welcoming. The Theotokos monastery itself bans dogs at its interior gate.
Sidari, 49081 Corfu
Soft sandstone cliff formations on the north-west coast 35 km from Corfu Town, eroded by the sea into narrow channels and natural arches. The 'Canal d'Amour' is a sandy-bottomed inlet between two cliffs; legend says couples swimming through it together stay in love.
💡 Access the inlet via the steep sandstone steps; keep your dog on a short lead, the rock is slippery and crumbly. KTEL Iperastiko bus from Corfu Town runs 4 times daily to Sidari (5 EUR, 1h15).