The beaches of Zakynthos are among the most beautiful not just in the Ionian Sea, but in all of Greece. The island boasts sunny weather, hidden coves, dramatic cliffs, and powdery white sand, making it an ideal destination for a beach holiday.
From the picturesque sunsets at Tsilivi Beach to the iconic Shipwreck Cove, Zakynthos has a variety of beaches ranging from calm family spots to secluded natural harbors surrounded by cliffs. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly beaches, romantic spots, party places, or the overall best beach on the island, Zakynthos has something to offer.
During our two-week stay, we rented a car and a boat to explore nearly every corner and lagoon of Zakynthos. We discovered and swam at some of the island’s most stunning beaches.
The best time to visit Zakynthos beaches is between May and September, when the weather is warm for sunbathing and the sea is suitable for swimming. However, July and August can be very crowded. For fewer crowds, consider visiting from April to May or September to early October.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the top beaches you shouldn’t miss:
Navagio Beach
Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Cove, is an iconic white sandy bay surrounded by 200-meter high cliffs and bright blue waters. Accessible only by boat or viewed from a cliffside viewpoint, it’s home to a shipwreck that has become a famous sight. Day tours to Navagio Beach often include a stop at the beautiful Blue Caves.
Porto Azzuro
Porto Azzuro is located on the Vasilikos Peninsula, about a half-hour drive from Zante Town. It’s a hidden cove with stone karsts in the water, making it a charming spot for families. The beach offers facilities like a beach bar, sunbeds, umbrellas, toilets, and showers.
Gerakas Beach
Gerakas Beach, known for its golden sand and calm waters, is also a nesting ground for loggerhead turtles. Managed under the Zakynthos National Marine Park, it’s open from 7 am to 8 pm to protect the turtles. There are a few sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent, but personal umbrellas are not allowed to avoid disturbing the turtle nests.
Banana Beach
Located 15.4 kilometers south of Zante Town, Banana Beach is the longest on the island and is popular for its golden sand and various watersports. Beach bars like Banana Bayan Beach Bar provide sunbeds, umbrellas, and food.
Porto Limnionas Beach
Porto Limnionas, not quite a beach but a rocky cove, is great for snorkeling and swimming. It features clear waters, surrounding caves, and a taverna offering sunbeds for rent.
Spanzia Beach
Situated between Porto Azzuro and Banana Beach, Spanzia offers a more peaceful vibe with the same golden sand. It’s close enough to Banana Beach’s restaurants and watersports.
Kalamaki Beach
Kalamaki Beach is quieter than its neighbor Laganas Beach but still busy enough with sunbeds, umbrellas, and luxury resorts.
Laganas Beach
Laganas Beach is famous for its party atmosphere during peak season but also offers beautiful golden sand and good facilities during quieter months. It’s also a place where you might encounter loggerhead turtles.
Tsilivi Beach
Tsilivi Beach offers a quieter setting with fine white sand and plenty of activities like windsurfing and jet skiing. The beach has sunbeds and a range of accommodation options.
Alykes Beach
Alykes Beach is a favorite with its calm waters and beach bars. Porto Paradiso bar offers free sunbeds with food and drink orders.
Xigia Beach
Known for its natural sulfur hot spring, Xigia Beach is popular for its therapeutic waters despite its strong smell. The sulfur is said to help with joint, bone, and skin-related ailments.
Psarou Beach
Psarou Beach is a clean and tranquil spot perfect for relaxing sunsets, offering a beautiful setting for swimming and dining.
Agios Sostis Beach
Agios Sostis is a picturesque bay connected to the mainland by a suspension bridge. Though busy in summer, it’s well worth a visit for its unique beauty.
Turtle Island (Marathonisi Island)
Best visited as part of a day trip for swimming with turtles, Marathonisi Island is a protected area in the Zakynthos National Marine Reserve. It’s a crucial nesting site for the endangered loggerhead turtles.
Agios Nikolaos Beach
Near the ferry terminal to Kefalonia, Agios Nikolaos is a pebble beach with nearby restaurants and hotels, illuminated by neon blue water. It’s a growing tourist destination worth a stop during your island tour.
Overall, renting a car is the best way to explore Zakynthos beaches efficiently, as public transportation can be less reliable and time-consuming. A car allows you to visit multiple beaches in a single day, making your trip more flexible and enjoyable.
Zakynthos is a top choice for a beach holiday in Greece, offering pristine sands, clear waters, and friendly locals. It’s an island where you’ll not only find incredible beaches but also fall in love with the local charm and atmosphere.