Halikounas Beaches

Overview

Halikounas, in the Ionian Islands of Greece, offers a unique beach experience, distinguished by its wild, natural beauty and the presence of Lake Korission, a protected wetland, which the main beach separates from the sea. Visitors often wonder about the swimming conditions; the waters are generally clear and shallow, making it suitable for swimming. Another common question is about the type of activities available. Due to its consistent winds, Halikounas Beach is particularly famous for kitesurfing and windsurfing. While some parts of the beach offer sunbeds and umbrellas, much of it remains unspoiled, inviting visitors to connect with nature.

Among the must-visit spots, Halikounas Beach itself is a vast expanse perfect for those who love nature and thrilling watersports. Nearby, Issos Beach is celebrated for its stunning golden dunes and clear waters, offering a picturesque setting. For a memorable day trip, Paleokastritsa provides iconic scenery with its beautiful coves ideal for snorkeling. Families will appreciate Agios Georgios, a long, sandy beach with shallow waters, ensuring a safe environment for children. Many visitors also seek out the serene beauty of Marathias Beach, known for its wide sandy stretch and calm waters, which you can find more about in our longer list of beaches.

The beaches in the Halikounas area are generally known for their tranquility and natural, unspoiled vibe, offering an escape from more crowded tourist destinations. The unique landscape, with Lake Korission providing a backdrop to beaches like Halikounas and Issos, creates a distinct environment rich in wildlife. While some beaches are more organized, many retain a wild character, which contributes to their charm and appeal for those seeking peace and natural beauty. For more details on specific beaches and what they offer, explore our editor's picks and the comprehensive list included in this guide.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Is Halikounas beach good for swimming?

Yes, Halikounas Beach offers excellent swimming conditions with gentle waves and clear, shallow waters that deepen gradually, making it suitable for swimmers of all skill levels and families with children.

Halikounas Beach

Are there sunbeds and umbrellas for rent at Halikounas beach?

Yes, some parts of Halikounas Beach are organized and offer sun loungers and umbrellas for rent, particularly near beach bars like Tayo Beach Bar. However, much of the beach remains unorganized, so visitors can also bring their own equipment.

Halikounas Beach

Is Halikounas beach family-friendly?

Halikounas Beach can be suitable for families due to its shallow waters and ample space. However, it's important to note that facilities like restrooms and dedicated lifeguard services are limited or absent in many parts of the beach. Some sources explicitly state it is not family-friendly due to the lack of these amenities.

Halikounas Beach

What is the best time of year to visit Halikounas beach?

The best months to visit Halikounas Beach are generally from late May to early October, with June, July, August, and September being particularly favorable due to warm temperatures and sunny days, ideal for swimming and water activities. Spring (April-June) can also be pleasant with fewer crowds and good conditions for kite surfing.

Halikounas Beach

Are there any hotels or villas directly on Halikounas beach?

Due to the protected status of the area around Lake Korission, there are no large hotels built directly on Halikounas Beach, which helps maintain its unspoiled character. However, there are villas and some smaller accommodation options available in the wider Halikounas area or nearby, some offering beachfront or close beach access.

Halikounas Beach

Can you do watersports at Halikounas beach? What kind?

Yes, Halikounas Beach is a popular spot for watersports. It's particularly well-known for windsurfing and kitesurfing due to consistent winds. You can also find options for SUP surfing, kayaking, jet skiing, and paddleboarding. Some areas have rental facilities and schools.

Halikounas Beach

Is Halikounas beach a nudist beach?

Yes, parts of Halikounas Beach, particularly its more secluded and southern ends, are known for being clothing-optional and popular with nudists.

Halikounas Beach

How do you get to Halikounas beach and is there parking?

Halikounas Beach is accessible by car, located about 30km (a 45-minute drive) south of Corfu town. There is generally ample street parking along the road near the beach, though there isn't a dedicated parking lot. The road leading to the beach can be bumpy and sandy in places. Some sources mention it's difficult to reach without a private vehicle.

Halikounas Beach

What is near Halikounas beach? Is it next to Lake Korission?

Yes, Halikounas Beach is uniquely situated as a long strip of sand separating the Ionian Sea from Lake Korission, a significant wetland and protected nature reserve. This lagoon is a haven for birdlife, including flamingos. Nearby attractions include the Byzantine Gardiki Castle and the village of Agios Matthaios.

Halikounas Beach

Are there restaurants or food options at Halikounas beach?

While Halikounas is largely unspoiled, there are some food options. You can find a few beach bars, like Tayo Beach Bar, and some beachside tavernas that offer refreshments, snacks, and local cuisine. However, options are limited compared to more developed beaches, and some sources suggest packing your own food and drinks, especially if you plan to be in a more remote section of the beach.

Halikounas Beach

Is Halikounas beach crowded?

Despite its length (nearly 3 kilometers), Halikounas Beach generally remains relatively uncrowded and peaceful, even during peak season. Its size allows for ample space, and its somewhat more difficult accessibility compared to other Corfu beaches contributes to its tranquility. Quieter spots can often be found at the far ends of the beach.

Halikounas Beach

What is the sand like at Halikounas beach?

Halikounas Beach features fine golden sand along its shoreline and sea bottom. Some descriptions also mention large, coarse grains of sand that don't cloud the crystal-clear water and impressive sand dunes.

Halikounas Beach

Is Halikounas beach suitable for people with disabilities?

Some parts of Halikounas Beach are accessible to disabled visitors, with sea tracks or ramps available in certain locations. For example, Tayo Beach Bar mentions having a wheelchair ramp. However, the natural terrain and general lack of formal facilities on much of the beach might pose difficulties.

Halikounas Beach

What's the difference between Halikounas beach and Issos beach?

Halikounas Beach and Issos Beach are essentially a continuation of the same long stretch of sand separating Lake Korission from the sea. Issos is often considered the southern extension of Halikounas. Both are known for their natural beauty, sand dunes, and suitability for wind/kitesurfing. Issos also has a designated area for nudists and some facilities like a beach bar and watersports rentals. Halikounas is noted for being very long and generally uncrowded, with some organized sections.

Issos Beach

What is the vibe like at Halikounas beach?

Halikounas Beach offers a tranquil, natural, and unspoiled vibe, ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape from crowded tourist spots. It's known for its raw beauty, vastness, and connection to nature, with Lake Korission and its wildlife nearby. While generally quiet, it's also a haven for adventurous types, especially windsurfers and kitesurfers, adding an active element to certain areas. Some beach bars like Tayo offer a more organized and lively atmosphere with music on weekends.

Halikounas Beach