Exotic landscapes, crystal clear waters and golden beaches create a uniquely beautiful setting on Zakynthos.
Zakynthos is one of the Ionian's most spectacular islands and is famed for its exotic beaches. Turquoise waters, sheer white cliffs, golden sandy shores and lush green landscapes create scenes that are hard to find elsewhere. These images travel from one end of the earth to the other, as the island is one of Greece's most popular destinations for summer holidays.
On Zakynthos you'll find some of the Mediterranean's most impressive beaches, each with its own distinct personality. From the iconic Navagio and the protected sandy shores where Caretta caretta turtles nest to rocky coves, the island offers unique experiences to every visitor.
Navagio
Navagio is Zakynthos' ultimate symbol and one of the world's most photographed beaches. The cliffs that embrace the white sandy shore, the crystal-blue waters and the famous wreck of the ship "Panagiotis" impress every visitor. In recent years access to the beach isn't allowed, but you can visit it on the organized cruises that operate on the island and admire it from close range.
Laganas Bay
Laganas Bay lies a short distance from the town of Zakynthos and is part of the Zakynthos National Marine Park. It's one of the most important areas with Caretta caretta turtle nests in the Mediterranean. In the bay there are six nesting beaches with a total length of 5.5 km - Marathonisi, Eastern Laganas, Kalamaki, Sekania, Dafni and Gerakas-, which are among the most popular for swims across Zakynthos. On most you'll find organized facilities, beach bars, water sports and countless options for food and entertainment. Don't forget that special measures are in force for the protection of the population of sea turtles.
Marathonisi
One of Zakynthos' most impressive spots is Marathonisi, known as the 'turtle island'. The small island is located in Laganas Bay and is one of the breeding grounds of the Caretta caretta sea turtle. Here there are two exotic beaches, while on the back side you'll find caves ideal for swims and for photos. Anchoring isn't permitted on the island and there are no canteens or beach bars. You can visit it by boat on an organized excursion or rent your own from Keri or from Laganas Bay.
Porto Limnionas
If you love dives in crystal-clear waters, Porto Limnionas beach is an experience you shouldn't miss. It's a rocky cove with deep blue-green waters, ideal for swimming, snorkeling and jumps from the rocks. The landscape is wild and impressive, offering a different picture from Zakynthos' other beaches.
Banana
Banana Beach is one of the island's largest organized beaches. You'll come across a long stretch of golden sand with crystal-clear waters, with many choices in beach bars and water sports that make it especially popular with young people and families alike. Here you can enjoy anything from relaxing moments under the umbrella to choosing an activity in the sea.
Xigia
Xigia beach feels like a natural spa and stands out for its natural sulfurous waters from the nearby caves, to which many attribute beneficial properties for the skin. The white rocks combined with the turquoise waters make it one of Zakynthos' most beautiful beaches. In essence it consists of two beaches with rich vegetation and emerald waters, a rocky cove and a beach with white pebbly sand.
Porto Zoro
A beach with a calm atmosphere, Porto Zoro owes its name to the Italian Porto Azzuro, due to the color of its waters. For many it's Zakynthos' best beach, with large rocky formations in the sea. It's a popular choice for couples and families, as there are beach bars and options for food.
Agios Nikolaos
The beach of Agios Nikolaos, on the Vasilikos peninsula, is one of the most popular choices for those who love activities. It has lush vegetation, clear waters and golden sand and that's why it attracts everyone from groups to families. It stands out because it offers a wide variety of water sports, such as jet skiing and water skiing, while it also has plenty of options for coffee and food by the sea.
Blue Caves
In the northern part of the island lie the Blue Caves. It's a landscape that impresses and it's worth visiting them by boat and taking a swim. They start immediately after Agios Nikolaos and end near Cape Schoinari. The imposing rocks, the incredible colors and the beauty of the sea create a unique spectacle.
Makris Gialos
A beach with a tranquil atmosphere away from the crowds, Makris Gialos impresses with its crystal-clear waters and lush green landscape. It's on the island's northeastern side and is the ideal beach for snorkeling, as its seabed hides caves and rich marine life.
Tsilivi
Tsilivi is one of the island's most touristy spots, a short distance from the town of Zakynthos. There you'll find many hotels, restaurants and bars, as well as a large sandy beach with many options in beach bars and water sports.
Porto Vromi
At Porto Vromi we find two impressive beaches (Porto Vromi Maries and Porto Vromi Anafonitria), within a bay that resembles a fjord. On the beaches sand alternates with pebbles and the scenery is impressive. From there you'll reach Navagio quickly by boat, as it's a stone's throw away, while you can also go by canoe and pedalo to explore the nearby caves.
