Gastouri Beaches

Overview

Gastouri offers a unique base for a Corfu beach holiday, combining the charm of a traditional hillside village with easy access to the island's stunning coastline. While the village itself is located inland, its central position means you are just a short drive from the diverse beaches on both the east and west coasts. This makes it an ideal spot for travelers who want to explore a variety of shores, from sheltered coves to expansive sandy stretches, all while enjoying a peaceful retreat away from the main tourist crowds.

From Gastouri, the entire island's coastline is your playground. For ultimate convenience, Benitses Beach is the closest option on the east coast. A drive to the west coast reveals some of Corfu's most celebrated spots, including the island's most famously scenic destination, Paleokastritsa, and the quintessential golden sands of Glyfada Beach. For those seeking an iconic photo opportunity, the twin bays of Porto Timoni Beach are a trending favorite that rewards a short hike with breathtaking views.

The choice between coasts often comes down to personal preference. The east coast offers calm, sheltered waters, while the west coast is home to dramatic sandy bays like Agios Gordios, known for its beautiful sunsets. Each beach presents a different side of Corfu's celebrated natural beauty. For a comprehensive look at all the nearby coastal gems, be sure to explore our full guide to the best beaches in the area.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Are there any beaches directly in Gastouri?

Gastouri is a traditional village located inland on a hill, about 10 kilometers south of Corfu Town. While it offers beautiful views, it does not have any beaches directly within the village itself. The nearest beaches are on the coast, a short drive away.

What are the closest beaches to Gastouri?

The closest beaches to Gastouri are on the east coast. Benitses beach, a mix of pebbles and sand, is about a 5-minute drive (around 2.5-4 km) away. Perama beach is also nearby. For large, sandy beaches, you'll need to travel a bit further to the west coast.

Benitses Beach

How do I get to the beaches from Gastouri?

The easiest way to get to the beaches from Gastouri is by renting a car, which gives you the flexibility to explore both the east and west coast beaches. Taxis are also available. Public transport is an option, with bus routes connecting Gastouri to Corfu Town and nearby areas like Benitses, but a car is generally more convenient for beach hopping.

Is Gastouri a good base for a beach holiday in Corfu?

Gastouri can be a great base if you prefer a quiet, traditional village atmosphere and plan to rent a car. It's ideal for visitors who want to combine cultural sightseeing, like visiting the Achilleion Palace, with beach days. However, if your priority is to be within walking distance of a beach and have many seaside amenities at your doorstep, a coastal resort like Benitses, Agios Gordios, or Glyfada might be a better choice.

Are there hotels in Gastouri with private beaches?

No, as Gastouri is an inland village, there are no hotels with private beaches directly in the village. However, some large beachfront resorts, like the Aeolos Beach Resort, are located in the coastal area between Gastouri and Benitses and do offer private beach access. These are a short drive from the main village.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Which is better for a day trip from Gastouri: a sandy west coast beach or a pebbly east coast beach?

It depends on your preference. The east coast beaches, like Benitses, are closer and have calmer, warmer waters, making them great for a quick and easy swim. The west coast beaches, such as Agios Gordios or Glyfada, are famous for their long stretches of golden sand, dramatic cliffs, and beautiful sunsets, but they are a longer drive away and the sea can be wavier.

Benitses Beach

Glyfada Beach

Are the beaches near Gastouri good for families with children?

Yes, several nearby beaches are suitable for families. Benitses on the east coast has calm, shallow waters which are great for kids. For families who prefer sand, Agios Gordios on the west coast is a popular choice with its long sandy shore and shallow entry into the water. Glyfada is another excellent sandy option with many facilities.

Benitses Beach

Glyfada Beach

What's the difference between Benitses and Agios Gordios beach?

Benitses, on the east coast, is primarily a shingle and pebble beach with very calm waters, located near a former fishing village with many tavernas. Agios Gordios, on the west coast, is a large, sandy beach set in a dramatic bay with cliffs on either side. It's known for beautiful sunsets but the water can have more waves than the east coast.

Benitses Beach

Saint Gordios Beach

People Also Ask

Can I walk to any beaches from Gastouri?

While technically possible for avid hikers, walking to the beach is not practical for most visitors. Gastouri is situated on a hill, and the nearest beach is about 2.5-4 km away via winding roads without consistent sidewalks. Some villas mention footpaths, but they can be steep. Driving or taking a bus or taxi is the recommended and safer option.

What is Kaiser's Bridge and is it a beach?

Kaiser's Bridge is a historic stone pier near the coast below Gastouri. It was built by German Kaiser Wilhelm II to access the sea from the Achilleion Palace. While there is a small pebble beach area next to it, known as Kaiser Beach, the bridge itself is a landmark. Only a portion of the original structure remains today.

Which sandy beaches are worth the drive from Gastouri?

For beautiful sandy beaches, it's worth driving to the west coast. Glyfada (approx. 12 km) is one of Corfu's most famous, with golden sand and beach bars. Agios Gordios (approx. 10-12 km) is another stunning option in a large bay. Further south, Issos Beach offers vast sand dunes for a wilder, more natural experience.

Glyfada Beach

Issos Beach

What is the water like for swimming near Gastouri?

The water on the east coast near Gastouri (e.g., Benitses, Perama) is typically very calm, clear, and warmer, as it's sheltered. This makes it excellent for relaxed swimming. On the west coast (e.g., Agios Gordios, Glyfada), the water is also clear but is part of the open Ionian Sea, so it can be cooler and have more waves, especially on windy days.