Pelekas Beach is a quintessential Corfu beach resort, with alluring turquoise water, spectacular sunsets, watersports, traditional taverns, scenic landscapes and local festivals. The beach became popular as a hippy hangout in the 1960s. Appreciate its wide stretch of golden sand that slopes gently into the Ionian Sea. Today it attracts a mix of backpackers, couples and young families.
Rent a sun lounger and umbrella from one of several points along the beach. If you’re energetic, try various watersports, including parasailing and water-sled rides. Join a snorkeling or scuba diving excursion and discover the fascinating sea life that inhabits the offshore rocks.
Take a gentle stroll to the southern end of the beach and explore the small fishing harbour. Check out the rickety boats and watch local fishermen bringing in the day’s catch. Find a handful of long-established taverns along the beachfront. Sample delicious Corfiot cuisine such as bourdeto, which is a peppery fish stew. The taverns’ outdoor seating areas are great for watching the sunset.
Be sure to visit the village of Pelekas, about a 10-minute walk uphill from the beach. Wander around the flower-filled narrow streets to spot elegant archways, quaint churches and simple Greek homes. The streets spread out from a central square, surrounded by a lively collection of taverns, cafés and bars. In August the square springs to life with the Pelekas Festival, an event that celebrates the Virgin Hodegetria. Join the locals in a festivity of music, dance and street food.
Visit the Costume Museum to see displays of traditional outfits from the Greek islands and mainland, many from the 19th century. Alternatively, explore the lush countryside that surrounds the beach and village. Follow the marked trails that form part of the Corfu Trail, about 140 miles (220 kilometres) of trails that wind around Corfu’s rural areas.
Pelekas Beach is about a 30-minute drive from Corfu Town. Public buses run regularly between the two destinations. Parking is available, for a fee, close to the beach, although spaces are limited. A free shuttle-bus operates between the beach and village.
