Best things to do in Kavos
It might be best known for its legendary nightlife, but there's more to this coastal resort on Corfu's southern tip than just partying. With beautiful beaches, stunning views and day trips to nearby islands or villages, Kavos holidays can be a more varied experience than you might expect.
Viewpoints and panoramas
Cape Asprokavos: The southernmost point on Corfu, the clifftop views over the Ionian Sea are incredible.
Arkoudilas Beach: A little further around the cape on the west coast, backed by viridescent cliffs and with views over to Paxos, secluded, golden-sand Arkoudilas is perfect for some Instagram-worthy shots.
Best districts
Parks and gardens
Mischopoulos Lake: This artificial lake is just 1.5km from Kavos, but surrounded by lush greenery, it feels a world away.
Lefkimmi Salt Flats: A little north of the eponymous town, these long abandoned salt flats have been given a new lease of life as a haven for wildlife, specifically avifauna.
Museums
Museum Kouris: If beach fatigue sets in, this little folklore museum is a hop, skip and jump away in Lefkimmi. Run by a local historian, the collection has been amassed over 30 years, and every piece tells a story of the island.
Historical monuments
Day trips in the area
Paxos and Antipaxos: Small and smaller, these islands punch above their weight with a mix of picture-postcard harbour towns, quiet beaches and electric blue waters.
Corfu Town: With a coveted UNESCO listing and a seemingly endless supply of museums, historical monuments, restaurants, bars and shops, Corfu's capital has plenty to keep you busy.
Activities for families in Kavos
Kavos is, first and foremost, a party destination, so yes, there is youth culture, but not necessarily the kind you'd have in mind for a family holiday, particularly in peak season. If your heart is set on Kavos, some hotels have kids' clubs, but PG family entertainment, water-based activities notwithstanding, is pretty limited.
Family-friendly beaches: Bouka Beach near Lefkimmi is a firm favourite with local families, with soft sand, a shallow seabed and natural shade. Kavos Beach, the resort's main beach, has pros and cons. It's well organised and offers banana boats and ringo rides, an inflatable assault course and loads of water sports; where things get iffy for families is the seaside club scene, which kicks off in the afternoons.
Boat trips: It's not all booze cruises. There are family-friendly options, too, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and snorkelling.
Free things to do in Kavos
Kavos is a pay-to-play kind of place. However, there are various freebies and promotions, and neighbouring Lefkimmi hosts summertime festivals and events if you want a cultural change of pace.
Beaches: Kavos Beach is the place to see and be seen. Arkoudilas Beach, on the other hand, is ideal if you want to relax away from the crowds. All Greek beaches must be 70 percent free of sunbeds by law, so you'll only have to pay for one if you want.
Free events: Most major bars and clubs run time-limited free bar sessions.
Annual festivals: The Alykes Lefkimmi Festival, staged every August, celebrates art, music, dance and film. Barring a concert or two, most events are free.
Nature and outdoor activities
Hiking: The southernmost tip of the island offers excellent hiking opportunities, with well-marked trails through scenic forests to the cliffs and secluded beaches.
Scuba diving and snorkelling: The waters surrounding Corfu offer some great spots for scuba diving and snorkelling. Many dive schools in the area provide lessons for beginners, making it easy to explore the underwater world.
SUP and sea kayaking: Paddling is the perfect way to get on the water and explore the coastline.
Parasailing: At first blush, holidays to Kavos may not seem the optimum moment to challenge any fear of heights. However, floating above the Ionian Sea can be an unexpectedly serene experience.
Jet skiing: Jet skiing is hard to beat for fast thrills, solo or with a passenger.
Waterskiing and wakeboarding: Are you a seasoned pro or a one-minute wonder? Getting up is one of the hardest parts.
Horse-riding: If you're more at home in the saddle than the water, Horseland Kavos offer a variety of guided rides, ranging from 10-minute hacks to 2-hour treks.
