Arillas Beaches

Overview

Nestled on the northwest coast of Corfu, Arillas is a serene beach destination known for its quiet and friendly atmosphere. It's an ideal choice for families and visitors looking to escape the crowds, offering a peaceful alternative to busier resorts. The main bay is blessed with crystal clear water that remains shallow and calm, making it a safe and inviting spot for swimming and for children to play on the golden sand.

The area serves as a fantastic base for exploring some of the island's most celebrated coastal spots. The convenient, sandy expanse of Arillas Beach is the heart of the village. Nearby, you can discover the iconic rock formations of Canal d'Amour or the breathtaking double bay at Porto Timoni Beach, one of Greece's most photogenic views. For a memorable day trip, the dramatic cliffs and stunning coves of Paleokastritsa are considered by many to be the most scenic part of Corfu.

Beyond these highlights, the coastline around Arillas offers more to discover, from the wide, sandy beach at neighboring Agios Stefanos to secluded coves perfect for a quiet escape. A unique feature of the area is the natural clay found in the cliffs, which locals and visitors alike use for a natural skin treatment. To find more hidden gems and plan your adventures, be sure to explore our longer list of the region's best beaches.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Arillas a good choice for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Arillas is considered an ideal destination for families. The main beach features fine, golden sand and the water is crystal clear and remains shallow for a good distance from the shore, making it a safe environment for children to play and swim. The resort has a relaxed, low-key atmosphere and is equipped with family-friendly amenities like boat rentals and nearby tavernas.

Arillas Beach

What's the vibe in Arillas – is it a party town or quiet and relaxing?

Arillas is known for its quiet, peaceful, and relaxing atmosphere. It is not a party destination like Sidari or Kassiopi. The village has a friendly, low-key feel with family-run tavernas and a few bars, making it perfect for those looking to escape the noise and crowds of big cities. It also has a notable spiritual and wellness scene, with several meditation and yoga centers.

Can you swim in the sea at Arillas and what is the water like?

The sea at Arillas is excellent for swimming. The water is known for being crystal clear, calm, and very shallow, especially in the main bay area, which is protected from strong winds. The seabed is sandy and flat. The water temperature is comfortable for swimming from May through to November.

When is the best time of year to visit Arillas for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in Arillas is from June to September when the weather is warmest and sunniest. For those who prefer a quieter experience with pleasant temperatures, May, June, and September are ideal. July and August are the busiest and hottest months. Spring and autumn are also great for walking and exploring the natural landscape.

What are the accommodation options like near Arillas beach?

Accommodation in Arillas mainly consists of small, family-run hotels, apartments, and studios, rather than large, all-inclusive resorts. Many of these are located directly on or very close to the beachfront. This contributes to the village's authentic and friendly atmosphere. There are also private villas available for rent in the surrounding hills.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Arillas Beach

Is Arillas beach clothing-optional or is there a nudist section?

The main central part of Arillas beach is not clothing-optional. However, Arillas is well-known for being naturist-friendly. There are secluded sections at both the northern and southern ends of the beach, beyond the main tourist area, that are popular with naturists. The northern end, in particular, is widely recognized as a nudist beach.

Arillas Beach

How does Arillas beach compare to San Stefanos beach?

Both Arillas and San Stefanos are relatively quiet resorts with great beaches. San Stefanos beach is generally longer, wider, and flatter, which some find better for families with very small children. Arillas beach can sometimes be narrower depending on the sea currents but offers more seclusion at its ends. Arillas is often described as having a slightly more bohemian or alternative vibe, while both are considered relaxing. You can walk between the two resorts over a headland.

Arillas Beach

Agios Stefanos Beach

What is the 'Arillas clay' I've read about in reviews?

A unique feature of Arillas is the natural clay found in the cliffs, particularly at the northern end of the beach. Visitors often cover themselves in this clay, letting it dry in the sun before washing it off in the sea. It's said to have cosmetic properties that leave the skin feeling very smooth.

Arillas Beach

People Also Ask

How do I get to Arillas from Corfu Town/Airport?

Arillas is about a 50-60 minute drive from Corfu Town and the airport. The most common ways to get there are by rental car or taxi. There is also a public bus service (Green Buses), but it is less frequent, with the journey taking around 90 minutes. Some shuttle bus services may also be available.

Are there sunbeds and umbrellas for rent on Arillas beach?

Yes, the central part of Arillas beach is organized with sunbeds and umbrellas available to rent for a reasonable price. There are also free areas where you can lay your own towel. Many of the beachfront tavernas also offer sunbeds for their customers.

Arillas Beach

Can you walk to other beaches from Arillas?

Yes, Arillas is a great base for walking. You can walk over the northern headland to the neighboring resort of Agios Stefanos. To the south, you can follow paths to the village of Afionas and the famous twin beach of Porto Timoni, though this is a more challenging hike. The Arillas Trail is also a marked 8km footpath that explores the surrounding olive groves and countryside.

Arillas Beach

Agios Stefanos Beach

Porto Timoni Beach

Why does the size of Arillas beach seem to change?

The width of Arillas's sandy beach can change noticeably, sometimes from one day to the next. This is a natural phenomenon caused by sea currents and wind direction. Winds from the north tend to build up the sand and make the beach wider, while southerly winds can draw the sand back into the sea, making it narrower.

Arillas Beach