Corfu is famous for its beaches and green landscapes, but beneath the surface of the Ionian Sea lies another world waiting to be explored. Snorkeling around the island reveals rocky reefs, caves, colorful fish and seagrass meadows that few visitors take the time to discover. With calm, clear waters and plenty of sheltered bays, Corfu is one of the best Greek islands for snorkeling adventures.

Why Snorkeling in Corfu

The Ionian waters are calmer than the Aegean, making them perfect for beginners. Visibility is excellent, often reaching 20 to 30 meters. The coastline is diverse, with sandy beaches, rocky coves and underwater cliffs. This variety creates habitats for many species, from small schools of fish to octopus and even sea turtles.

Best Snorkeling Spots

Paleokastritsa
Perhaps the most famous snorkeling destination in Corfu. The area has rocky coves, underwater caves and crystal-clear waters. Snorkelers can see starfish, sea urchins and colorful wrasse darting between the rocks.

Nissaki and Barbati
On the northeast coast, these pebble beaches offer excellent visibility. The rocks are home to moray eels, parrotfish and the occasional octopus.

Porto Timoni
The double bay near Afionas is a snorkeling paradise. The shallow waters between the two beaches are perfect for beginners, while the outer edges hide reefs with more marine life.

Ermones
A quieter west coast bay with caves and underwater cliffs. It is ideal for exploring in the afternoon when the light filters beautifully through the water.

Diapontia Islands
For those willing to take a boat trip northwest of Corfu, the Diapontia Islands (Othonoi, Mathraki, Erikoussa) offer untouched underwater landscapes with rich biodiversity.

What You Can See

Snorkeling in Corfu reveals a surprising variety of marine life. Schools of damselfish shimmer in the light. Octopus hide in rock crevices, changing colors to blend with their surroundings. Sea bream and mullet move in groups, while sponges and corals add texture to the reefs. In seagrass meadows, lucky snorkelers might spot loggerhead turtles.

Tips for Snorkelers

  • Bring a mask, snorkel and fins. Equipment can be rented in most beach resorts.

  • Choose calm days with little wind for the clearest water.

  • Swim slowly and quietly. Marine life reveals itself when you move gently.

  • Always respect the environment. Do not touch corals or disturb animals.

Beyond the Water

Snorkeling is not only about what you see below but also the experience above. Many of Corfu’s best snorkeling spots are surrounded by dramatic cliffs, olive groves and quiet villages. A day spent snorkeling often includes a picnic on the beach, a walk along coastal paths or a meal in a small seaside taverna.

Snorkeling for Everyone

From families with children to adventurous travelers, snorkeling in Corfu is accessible to all. It requires no special training, only curiosity and a love of the sea. For many, the first glimpse of a school of fish or a hidden cave becomes one of the most memorable moments of their trip.

Corfu’s reefs may not be tropical, but they carry the beauty of the Mediterranean — subtle colors, rocky textures and a sense of calm that matches the island’s rhythm. To snorkel here is to discover another side of Corfu, one that lies just beneath the surface, waiting quietly for those who look closer.