Top beaches in Zakynthos

This iconic pearly-white lagoon is home to a rusty shipwreck nestling between its electric blue waters and winding limestone cliffs. No wonder it's one of the six most photographed beaches in Greece! Although visitors can no longer walk on the beach itself, they can still admire this breathtaking spectacle from a boat or by following the path leading to the green flag overlooking the cliffs. This viewpoint offers stunning panoramas and is also an ideal spot for sunbathing.

Imagine silky-soft sand meeting crystal-clear turquoise waters, fringed by lush groves for an exotic touch. Thatched umbrellas, watersports galore and beach bars complete this picture-perfect Zante beach scene – welcome to St. Nicholas Beach, the textbook definition of paradise!

St. Nicholas Beach Watersports caters to every adventurer. Soar above the waves with paragliding, or test your skills on water skis. Feeling playful? Go for a thrilling ride on a Ringo or the Crazy Sofa. For a unique experience, try fly fishing across the water's surface!

Located just outside Laganas, Agios Sostis is a mix of powder-soft sand and mint-green waters. Its impressive backdrop of rock formations and lush greenery creates the perfect setting for a sun-kissed glow. Perhaps the most unique feature of Agios Sostis is the small uninhabited Cameo Island, linked to the mainland by a narrow wooden bridge. Visitors can cross the island at low tide, adding a touch of adventure to your scorching beach days, and relax with a refreshing drink at the Cameo Beach Club, a busy little bar with white streamers hanging over the beach.

Anyone visiting Zante would be bananas to miss Banana Beach! Rows of colourful parasols stand guard along the shore, offering shade for beachgoers in between dips in the azure bay. For the adventurous, kayaking adventures, refreshing dives or thrilling jet ski rides await. Visit Banana Baya, a stylish beach bar in the dunes overlooking the beach, or Casa Playa Banana Beach Bar and Restaurant exudes Bohemian vibes and chill-out settings. Indulge in a refreshing mojito and sizzling garlic prawns. Their fresh seafood platters are the perfect way to end a blissful day at the beach, all while listening to the soothing sounds of waves gently lapping onto the shore. 

Escape the crowds at Dafni beach, a hidden gem just 24 minutes from Zakynthos town. Nestled between spectacular rock formations, this secluded cove boasts crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkelling. Unlike Laganas, Dafni offers a slice of natural beauty - and that's precisely its charm, ideal for those seeking a more tranquil experience.

Like Laganas, Dafni beach is part of the Zakynthos Marine National Park, which protects the nesting site of the caretta-caretta (loggerhead) turtles threatened with extinction. If you're lucky, you'll be able to witness the magical moment when the baby turtles emerge from their eggs! Visitors are advised to bring their own equipment, as the beach has limited facilities.

Imagine a crescent of golden sand, framed by olive groves, stretching as far as you can see - that's Gerakas Beach. Protected for loggerhead turtles, this haven offers shallow waters perfect for families (especially young kids) and nature lovers. Witness a miracle (if you're lucky!) - hatchlings emerge from the sand around July.

Access is limited after sunset to safeguard these turtles. The tavernas are located above the beach, allowing you to enjoy meals with stunning views while respecting their habitat. A nearby turtle rescue centre offers souvenirs and a chance to learn more about these gentle giants.

Golden sands stretching as far as the eye can see, crystal-clear waters lapping at the shore – Kalamaki Beach is a haven for nature lovers, tightly protected for its loggerhead turtles. Here, you can truly connect with the natural world. A scattering of restaurants lines the bay, offering picturesque vantage points – perfect for plane spotting as you soak up the sun and the sound of crashing waves.

Laganas Beach pulsates with an energy that enchants partygoers in Zante.

Turquoise waters, dotted with colourful umbrellas, lap at the shore, inviting refreshing dips. This beach holds a special place in nature as a nesting ground for endangered loggerhead turtles. Don't be surprised if you spot a lazing sea turtle or two basking in the sunshine. To protect these gentle giants, most motorised water sports are restricted.

As the sun sets, Laganas Beach transforms. Bars and restaurants come alive with music, pulsating with an energy that enchants partygoers. Grab a drink and soak in the vibrant atmosphere – Laganas caters to night owls until the early hours.

Turtle island, or Marathonisi, certainly lives up to its name. Loggerhead turtles, known as caretta-caretta, come to nest on its shores every year. Two picturesque beaches await you. One, with pebbles, can only be reached by swimming or snorkelling through a vast cool cave - a real entrance for adventurers! The other, Marathonisi Beach, with its soft sand, is ideal for paddling in the gentle waves. Ice-cream boats add a cool touch for sunbathers. Access to Marathonisi requires a maritime adventure: join an excursion, hire a private boat or, for the more intrepid, paddle a canoe.

On Zakynthos' north-west coast, Porto Vromi is a small, white pebble beach nestled amid lush green vegetation. The refreshing scent of pine trees fills the air as a few colourful boats bob gently in the cove's crystal-clear waters. Perfect visibility makes snorkelling a must, inviting exploration of the rocky ridges beneath the surface. This partially managed beach offers a handful of free-access sun loungers scattered along the shore, with plenty of space for visitors to spread out and relax. A beach bar/cafeteria just behind the shore provides the perfect spot to grab a refreshing drink at any time!

Relax in the shade of thatched parasols on the beautiful beach of Porto Zorro near Vassilikos at the south-eastern side of the island. If you're looking for a calm and dignified atmosphere, this is the place to be! On the west side of the bay, enjoy a delicious lunch at the Porto Zorro Beach Bar, watching the gentle waves lap the golden sand and pebbles.