Picking the perfect vacation spot when traveling with little ones can be tricky, but Agios Georgios, on the island’s northwest coast, is undoubtedly among the best beaches in Corfu for families. This laid-back resort centers on a stunning stretch of golden sand and shallow, calm waters—ideal for sandcastle building and paddling. After you've worked up an appetite during your day by the sea, you can enjoy delicious Greek dishes at a variety of family-friendly tavernas.

Agios Gordios, on the central coast, is a top choice for families with older children. With an array of water sports on hand and the fun-packed Aqualand Corfu Water Park (home not only to waterslides and pools, but also Jacuzzis and spa treatments for parents in need of some rest and relaxation) just a 20-minute drive away, there will be plenty to keep kids entertained—without needing to compromise on beautiful scenery and delicious dining options.

Has Cupid made his way to Corfu? Claiming the crown in every Corfu beach guide for couples, Canal D’Amour is synonymous with love. Not only do its unique coves and rock formations, formed by thousands of years of weathering, and rugged sandstone cliffs make for a beautiful, romantic backdrop, Canal D'Amour has even become the subject of romantic folklore. Legend has it that any couple that swims together through the impressive canal carved out of the rock will soon get married.

Acharavi Beach is an optimal spot for sailing—plus surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. Its positioning leaves the beach fully exposed to the “maestro” (mistral) winds, which dominate during the summer months. Its unique combination of wind, waves, and a welcoming sandy shoreline ensure its place as king among Corfu beaches for surfers. Be aware of the season, though: In the summer months, conditions are ideal for beginners, while autumn and winter bring strong winds and high swells.

Though Corfu is certainly not short of snorkeling opportunities, Kassiopi is hard to beat, thanks to its rocky seabed that teems with marine life: Look out for a diverse array of fish, starfish, and pinkish-purple sea urchins. As Kassiopi boasts a collection of small coves, there’s plenty to explore, with the calm, clear waters making it one of the top Corfu beaches for snorkeling, no matter your skill level. If you’re looking to go deeper, diving centers can be found in most major resorts.

Home to a selection of small bays, Paleokastritsa isn’t, strictly speaking, one beach. Instead, the charming village is steps away from a number of idyllic sandy and pebbly coves, whose beachgoers can take advantage of the area’s highly rated eateries: from chic beach clubs to traditional tavernas complete with blue-and-white checked tablecloths. While many beaches on Corfu have excellent food and drink options, the range of high-quality offerings in Paleokastritsa sets it apart.

If getting in touch with nature is the name of the game, pack up a picnic and make a beeline for the golden sands of Halikounas Beach. Not only are the waters absolutely pristine and the beach a nesting ground for several species of sea turtles, but turn your head and you’ll be faced with Korission Lake: a NATURA–protected wetland home to 126 different kinds of birds. Thanks to the beach’s epic scale, Halikounas also almost always feels like one of the best quiet beaches in Corfu.

While Mykonos is often dubbed the Greek island party capital, Corfu certainly competes in the nightlife stakes. Kavos stands out as a major hot spot, drawing a lively, youthful crowd with its diverse range of clubs and bars. A number of clubs are right on the beach, meaning you can transition seamlessly from paddling to partying. For a slightly more mature crowd, Glyfada Beach serves up lively vibes, while Sidari holds its own when it comes to chic beachside bars.

When it comes to the best Corfu beaches for relaxation, one name crops up a lot. Well-organized yet utterly idyllic, the enchanting Kalami Beach manages to retain something of the old-world Corfu charm—maybe it’s the sight of local kids jumping off the jetty, or the gentle meandering of boats in and out of view, but it’s difficult to feel very stressed here. Plus, at the end of the postcard-worthy bay, you’ll find the former residence of British authors Gerald and Lawrence Durrell.

To take your thrills (quite literally) to another level, look no further than Dassia: Corfu’s premier parasailing destination. Complete with scenic views of Corfu’s eastern seaboard and all the way across to nearby Albania, parasailing from Dassia offers an exhilarating way to experience the island’s stunning coastline from above. As you soar high above the beach and Ionian Sea, it’ll soon become clear why Dassia is consistently recommended among the top Corfu beaches for adventure seekers.