Agios Petros Beach, Paleokastritsa

Agios Petros Beach is the main beach of Paleokastritsa on the north-west coast of Corfu, Greece, a pebbly cove ringed by steep green cliffs and one of the best-known scenes on the island. The shore is mostly pebble with some coarse sand at the edges, and the water is clear and blue-green, deepening quickly enough that swimmers and snorkellers can see rocks and fish close to the shore. The cove is moderate in size and shaped like a sheltered bay, so waves are usually small, and the setting beneath wooded headlands gives it a scenic rather than a wild character. It is a family and general holiday beach, busy through the day in peak season because it doubles as the starting point for boat trips. Excursion boats leave from here to the sea caves and grottoes along the Paleokastritsa coast, glass-bottom boat tours operate in the bay, and a diving centre runs introductory dives and courses in the clear water. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for hire, several tavernas sit directly behind the beach, and toilets and showers are found in the village area, although seasonal opening varies. Lifeguard cover is not guaranteed on every Corfu beach, so visitors should check on arrival. Paleokastritsa lies about 25 km from Corfu Town, around 45 minutes by road, and the green KTEL bus runs from Corfu Town to the village. Drivers should expect limited parking close to the beach in July and August, with roadside and paid lots filling by mid-morning. The final approach is a short walk on paved lanes. The beach is at its best between June and September, when the sea is warmest and all boat services operate. The quietest periods are early morning and late afternoon, when the light on the cliffs is also good for photography. The nearby coves of Agios Spyridon and Alipa are an easy walk or short boat ride away for visitors who want a quieter spot.