Summer Wine Corfu

The East Coast – Bays, Boats, and Beautiful Balance

The East Coast of Corfu offers a softer kind of magic.

Unlike the dramatic cliffs of the west or the wild terrain of the north, the east is more relaxed—made for slow drives, long lunches by the water, and spontaneous swims in crystal-clear bays. From the elegant suburbs of Corfu Town to the charming harbor villages like Kalami and Kouloura, this coast is dotted with small pebbled beaches, family-run tavernas, and views across the Ionian to the Albanian mountains.

This is where time stretches. It’s the part of Corfu where travelers find peace without needing to “escape,” where it’s just as easy to rent a boat and explore hidden coves as it is to settle in at a taverna for hours. It’s also home to a cluster of resorts and villas that draw families, couples, and long-time visitors who know exactly what they’re looking for: balance.

🍽 Where to Eat – Waterfront Taverns and Secret Gardens

1. The White House Restaurant (Kalami) Once the home of author Lawrence Durrell, this spot now serves elegant Greek fare on a beautiful stone terrace above the water.

2. Dimitri’s Taverna (Kouloura) A peaceful, no-menu gem where you eat what’s fresh—usually fish caught that morning. The harbor view is postcard-perfect.

3. Toula’s Seaside (Agni Bay) Fine dining meets barefoot beach vibes. Known for inventive seafood dishes and impeccable service.

4. Avlaki Taverna (Avlaki Beach) A quiet beachfront taverna with grilled meats, meze, and chilled rosé. Great for a long, lazy lunch.

5. The Sea View (Barbati) Perched above a stretch of turquoise sea, this place has classic Greek comfort food, house wine, and a peaceful terrace.

6. Etrusco (Kato Korakiana) One of Corfu’s most celebrated restaurants. Michelin-recognized and hidden in a village garden—reservations essential.

7. Kalami Beach Taverna (Kalami) Laid-back, traditional, and family-run. Great for souvlaki, fried calamari, and long evenings by the sea.

🏝 What to Do – Boats, Bays, and Laid-Back Days

1. Rent a Boat in Agni or Kalami No license needed. Cruise the coastline, explore secret beaches, and stop for lunch at a taverna you can only reach by sea.

2. Swim at Kalami Bay A peaceful, pebbled beach with some of the clearest water on the island. Ideal for floating the day away.

3. Visit the Durrell White House While it’s now a restaurant and guesthouse, this is a literary landmark for fans of The Durrells in Corfu.

4. Walk the Kassiopi–Kalami Coastal Path This scenic trail winds along the east coast, offering views, olive groves, and hidden swim spots.

5. Snorkel in Agni Bay The calm, transparent water is perfect for spotting sea life. Equipment available for rent at the beach.

6. Visit Barbati Beach A longer, pebbly beach popular with locals and families. Lounge chairs, tavernas, and water sports available.

7. Explore Kato Korakiana Village A quiet inland village with Venetian roots, known for its architecture, art, and great food scene.

🛍 Shops & Local Finds – Tasteful and Traditional

1. Kalami Corner Gift Shop Locally made soaps, ceramics, and Corfu-themed home goods. A cozy shop with helpful staff.

2. Barbati Beach Market A small but well-stocked stretch of beachside shops—bathing suits, linen clothing, and handmade jewelry.

3. Olive Wood Workshop (Nissaki) Browse hand-carved bowls, kitchen tools, and small gifts made from local olive wood.

4. Kalami Books & Prints Tiny but charming. A mix of new and used books, local photography, and handmade bookmarks.

5. Taverna-Stores in Kouloura Tiny hybrid tavernas that also sell local honey, wine, and herbs on the side. Great for impulse gift buying.

6. Avlaki Artisan Pop-Ups In summer months, local artists often set up by the beach, selling hand-painted tiles, driftwood art, and beachy keepsakes.

7. Etrusco’s Gourmet Shop (Kato Korakiana) Attached to the restaurant, this little shop sells chef-made sauces, infused oils, and curated Corfiot delicacies.

ℹ️ Need to Know

Getting There: The East Coast is best explored by car or boat. The main road runs

along the coastline with access to all major beaches and villages.

Best Time to Visit: June and September for fewer crowds and calmer seas. Early

morning or late evening swims are especially peaceful here.

Local Tip: Don’t skip the boat rental. It’s one of the most memorable ways to explore the

East Coast—some tavernas even offer moorings for guests.

🗓 7-Day Itinerary – East Coast, Your Way

This itinerary blends beach time, boat adventures, and peaceful inland escapes. Swap and combine days depending on your mood.

Day 1: Kalami Unwind

● Morning swim at Kalami Bay

● Coffee and breakfast at Kalami Beach Taverna

● Visit the Durrell White House

● Sunset dinner at The White House Restaurant

Day 2: By Boat, By Bay

● Rent a boat in Agni or Kalami

● Explore hidden coves and stop at Agni Bay

● Lunch at Toula’s Seaside

● Evening drinks on your villa or balcony

Day 3: Cultural Strolls

● Morning hike along the coastal trail

● Snack break in Kouloura

● Lunch at Dimitri’s Taverna

● Visit Kato Korakiana village in the afternoon

● Dinner at Etrusco

Day 4: Barbati Beach Bliss

● Full beach day at Barbati—rent chairs or try paddleboarding

● Snack at Sea View Taverna

● Early evening market browsing

● Casual dinner at Kalami Beach Taverna

Day 5: Inland Escape

● Morning visit to Kato Korakiana

● Art galleries and shops

● Long lunch in the village square

● Return for a sunset swim at Nissaki

Day 6: Snorkel & Siesta

● Morning snorkeling in Agni Bay

● Lunch at Avlaki Taverna

● Shop the artisan pop-ups or read by the sea

● Light dinner in Kalami or cook at your stay

Day 7: Choose Your Ending

● Revisit your favorite bay or book another boat

● Final lunch at a taverna you haven’t tried

● Toast your time on the East Coast with a sunset glass of wine