Discover Corfu

Marathias Beach

5 min read


MARATHIAS BEACH, CORFU: A GOLDEN SAND & SUNSET GUIDE 🟦

MARATHIAS BEACH AT A GLANCE

LocationSouthwest Coast
Famous ForVast Sandy Shore
VibeRelaxed & Spacious
AccessCar (Recommended)
Key SightsThe Sunset, Golden Sand
Best ForEveryone - Families & Couples

Overview: Discovering Marathias Beach

Marathias Beach is one of Corfu's most magnificent stretches of coastline, a seemingly endless expanse of fine, golden sand that has earned it a coveted Blue Flag award. This vast beach offers a perfect blend of organised sections with full amenities and quieter, more natural areas for those seeking peace. Its sheer size means it never feels overly crowded, making it ideal for everyone from families and couples to solo sun-worshippers.

Quick Planner

⏳ Time Needed
Full Day / Half Day
⭐ Don't Miss
The Spectacular Sunset
📍 Plan Your Day
Combine with Gardenos Beach

How to Get to Marathias Beach

Drive Yourself (Recommended)

A car is the most convenient way to reach Marathias and provides the freedom to explore the other beautiful sandy beaches of the south.

Local Bus Service

The B1 bus route serves Marathias, but the stop is not directly at the beach and may require a walk or a taxi.

Stress-Free Private Transfer

For a completely seamless experience, book a private transfer for door-to-door service without the hassle of driving or parking.


In-Depth Guide & Details

Location & Getting to the Beach

Marathias is on the southwest coast, about 35 km from Corfu Town. The scenic drive takes approximately one hour.

  • Parking: Street parking is available right behind the beach and many tavernas have their own car parks for customers.
  • Accessibility: The beach is flat and easily accessible from the car parks with no steep climbs, making it suitable for all.

Key Attractions & Features
  • Vast Golden Sand: A huge, long beach of fine, soft golden sand that offers an incredible sense of space for everyone to relax and play.
  • Shallow, Clear Water: The sea shelves very gently, making the water shallow and safe for a long way out, which is perfect for families with children.
  • Spectacular Sunsets: Its west-facing position guarantees breathtaking, unobstructed sunset views over the Ionian Sea.
  • Choice of Atmospheres: You can choose between lively, organised sections with beach bars and music, or walk just a few minutes to find completely quiet, natural stretches of sand.
Amenities & What to Expect
Marathias is very well-equipped. The main access points lead to organised sections with numerous beach bars and tavernas offering sunbed and umbrella rentals. You'll find a wide range of facilities including water sports, showers, and changing facilities. As a Blue Flag beach, the water quality is excellent. If you prefer solitude, simply walk a few hundred metres along the sand in either direction to find vast, empty stretches.
Is Marathias Beach Right for You?

You'll Love Marathias If...

  • You want a huge sandy beach that offers both lively sections and quiet spots.
  • You are a family with children who want safe, shallow water to play in.
  • You want to watch one of Corfu's most spectacular sunsets from a beach bar.
  • You enjoy having a great choice of amenities and tavernas right on the beach.

You Might Prefer Elsewhere If...

  • You are looking for a small, secluded pebble cove.
  • You want a completely undeveloped beach with no facilities at all.
  • You prefer the warmer, always-calm waters of the east coast.
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Marathias and Santa Barbara beach?

They are the same beach. Marathias is the northern end, while the southern end is often referred to as Santa Barbara. It's one long, continuous stretch of sand.

Is Marathias Beach good for families?

Yes, it is one of the best beaches on the island for families. The sand is soft, the water is very shallow, and the organised sections offer all the amenities you could need for a full day out.

Can it get windy at Marathias?

Being on the west coast, it can get a pleasant breeze, especially in the afternoon. This can sometimes create fun, small waves. The mornings are almost always perfectly calm.

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Explore More of the Wild South West

Relax at Gardenos Beach

Just to the south lies the beautiful and often quieter sandy beach of Gardenos, home to a small fishing harbour and excellent seafood tavernas.

Visit Agios Georgios South

A short drive north takes you to the popular family-friendly resort of Agios Georgios South, with its very long sandy beach and full amenities.

Explore Lake Korission

Discover the unique ecosystem of Lake Korission, a protected wetland that's a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, located a short drive away.


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