Paleokastritsa Caves
Explore the stunning sea caves and the iconic 'Blue Eye' of Paleokastritsa by boat, marveling at aquamarine waters and dramatic cliffs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer seas
Paleokastritsa Caves
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer seas
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the stunning sea caves and the iconic 'Blue Eye' of Paleokastritsa by boat, marveling at aquamarine waters and dramatic cliffs.
"The 'Blue Eye' is a highlight, offering a mesmerizing aquamarine glow that seems almost unreal."
Boat Tour Duration
Tours range from 45 mins to longer. Choose based on your time & desire to explore more coves.
Manage 'Cave' Expectations
Many are open inlets, not enclosed caves. The 'Blue Eye' is a highlight for its light effects.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Blue Eye Cave
Paleokastritsa Coast
Witness the surreal aquamarine glow of the 'Blue Eye' as sunlight pierces through rock formations.
Coastal Boat Tour
Paleokastritsa Coastline
Explore hidden coves, dramatic cliffs, and secluded beaches on a scenic boat journey.
Snorkeling in Aquamarine Waters
Near Agia Triada Beach
Dive into crystal-clear waters and discover vibrant marine life just beneath the surface.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Boat Tour Essentials
Manage Expectations for 'Caves'
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Boat Tour Duration
Tours range from 45 mins to longer. Choose based on your time & desire to explore more coves.
Manage 'Cave' Expectations
Many are open inlets, not enclosed caves. The 'Blue Eye' is a highlight for its light effects.
Snorkel from Shore
You can snorkel near rocks from Agia Triada beach; no need for a boat if you're on a budget.
Book Tours Locally
Book tours with companies near the beach/docks for a great experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Boat Tour Duration
Tours range from 45 mins to longer. Choose based on your time & desire to explore more coves.
Manage 'Cave' Expectations
Many are open inlets, not enclosed caves. The 'Blue Eye' is a highlight for its light effects.
Snorkel from Shore
You can snorkel near rocks from Agia Triada beach; no need for a boat if you're on a budget.
Book Tours Locally
Book tours with companies near the beach/docks for a great experience.
Claustrophobia Alert
Some narrow passages might be tight; if you're claustrophobic, consider this.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often find the Paleokastritsa Caves to be a beautiful coastal experience, particularly the mesmerizing 'Blue Eye' with its unique blue water. While some feel the 'caves' are more like open inlets and the boat tours are a bit touristy, many still enjoy the scenic ride, the chance to swim in clear waters, and the overall beauty of the Paleokastritsa coastline. It's recommended to manage expectations regarding the 'cave' aspect and focus on the stunning natural scenery and boat trip experience.
"It's not that big of a deal. The way the rock is formed, there's an open space at the bottom of the rock. And the wayer level is actually above the hole in the rock. So when you are on the shaded side of the rock on a sunny day , you will see the light shine through. Of course, the water in the area is clear with a wonderful blue color that is created from the sea floor. The hole allows the light to shine through, which illuminates beautifully.
You have to be in a boat. It's actually more of an inlet formed by rocks, and they seem to be called caves. In my opinion, to draw tourists to pay for boat rides along the edge of cliffs and rocks. At no point are you actually traveling through a cave with a ceiling above you.
The blue rock cave is part of a tour with a so-called cave. Yes, seeing that blue water and actually being on a boat is fun. But I thought we would be in a boat going into caves, and that was not the case.
But, for something to do and to have a view of land from the water. It may be worth it for you. I wouldn't do it again."
Sylvie Ward
"It's a nice, relaxing boat ride out to see some nearby caves. The whole affair is ~45 minutes; 15€/adult, 5€/child. Going into it knowing all the above, it was a very fun trip, with a captain that gave interesting facts about the area and gave some wonderful context to the island. If you expect more than a leisurely cruise and a few minutes in islands, you will be disappointed. If, like me, you know what you're signing up for, it's a blast."
Filippos Rempoutzakos
"Visiting Blue Eye Cave near Agia Triada Beach was one of the highlights of our trip to Corfu. My partner and I were absolutely mesmerized by the intense blue water, which seemed almost unreal. From the boat, we could see schools of fish swimming just beneath the surface, so close it felt like we could reach out and touch them.
The boat tour itself was fantastic, taking us to hidden caves, dramatic cliffs, and secluded beaches along the Paleokastritsa coast. The captain shared fascinating local stories, making the experience even more special."
Yarys
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Paleokastritsa Caves are best accessed by boat tour from Paleokastritsa or nearby beaches like Agia Triada. You can reach Paleokastritsa by local bus from Corfu Town or by car.
No, you cannot drive directly to the caves. Access is exclusively by boat. Parking is available near the main beaches in Paleokastritsa.
Boat tours are the most popular and recommended way to explore the Paleokastritsa Caves. They offer access to various inlets and the famous 'Blue Eye'.
Yes, some longer boat tours from Corfu might include stops at the Paleokastritsa Caves, like those going to Paxos and Antipaxos.
Boat tour operators are readily available along the main beaches and harbor areas in Paleokastritsa.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Prices typically range from 15€ per adult for shorter tours, with child prices being lower. Longer excursions will cost more.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist season, to ensure availability.
Most tours include a scenic boat ride along the coast, visits to several caves/inlets, and sometimes a stop at a secluded beach. Snorkeling gear may be provided.
There are no direct entrance fees for the natural cave formations. The cost is for the boat tour service.
Boat tours generally operate daily from morning until late afternoon, weather permitting. It's best to check with local operators for specific times.
📸 📸 Photography
Morning light offers clearer water and fewer boats, while late afternoon provides beautiful golden hour illumination on the cliffs.
A waterproof camera or phone case is highly recommended for capturing the stunning water colors and potential splashes.
Absolutely! The boat tours offer fantastic vantage points of the coastline, rock formations, and the 'Blue Eye' cave.
Yes, if you have an underwater camera or a waterproof case, you can capture the marine life and the illuminated water from below.
The 'Blue Eye' is famous for its intense aquamarine glow, created when sunlight refracts through the water and rock formations, making it a unique photographic subject.
🎫 🐠 Activities & Experiences
Yes, many boat tours include opportunities to swim and snorkel in the clear, aquamarine waters. You can also snorkel from Agia Triada beach.
The 'Blue Eye' is an inlet where sunlight creates a mesmerizing blue glow. It's a highlight of many boat tours, offering stunning visuals.
While some passages are narrow, most 'caves' are open inlets. However, if you are severely claustrophobic, it's worth considering.
The Paleokastritsa area itself is known for its beautiful beaches, monasteries, and stunning viewpoints, offering plenty to explore.
For many, the boat tour is worth it for the unique coastal views and the 'Blue Eye' experience. However, some feel snorkeling from shore is sufficient.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing along snacks and drinks, as well as sun protection like hats and sunscreen. While the 'caves' are more like inlets, the novelty of exploring the coastline by boat and seeing the unique blue water can be a memorable experience for the whole family.
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the 'Caves' of Paleokastritsa
Many visitors arrive expecting traditional caves but find these open inlets. The beauty lies in the interplay of light, water, and rock. Boat tours are essential for accessing these spots, allowing you to get close to the formations and appreciate the clear, vibrant waters. Some tours may also include stops at secluded beaches and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, making it a comprehensive coastal exploration.
While the geological formations are impressive, it's important to manage expectations. The experience is largely about the scenic boat ride, the stunning coastal scenery, and the unique visual spectacle of the 'Blue Eye'. For those who enjoy boat trips and natural beauty, it's a highly recommended activity.
Navigating Paleokastritsa Boat Tours
It's advisable to book your tour with operators located directly at the beaches or harbor in Paleokastritsa. This often ensures a more authentic experience and potentially better value. During peak season, booking ahead is a good strategy to guarantee your spot. Some tours may offer snorkeling gear, allowing you to explore the clear waters up close.
When choosing a tour, consider your interests. If you're short on time, a shorter tour might suffice. If you want to see more and perhaps swim or snorkel, opt for a longer one. Be aware that some passages can be narrow, which might be a consideration for those with claustrophobia.
Snorkeling and Swimming Opportunities
The underwater visibility is generally excellent, allowing you to see schools of fish and the vibrant colors of the seabed. If you have an underwater camera or a waterproof phone case, this is an ideal location to capture the beauty beneath the surface. The experience of swimming in these clear waters, surrounded by dramatic cliffs, is a highlight for many visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit