The 11 most beautiful beaches on Zakynthos – Map

Zakynthos is located in western Greece and, with an area of ​​406 square kilometers, is the third largest of the Ionian Islands after Corfu and Kefalonia. Due to its exceptionally lush vegetation and the Mediterranean Sea's abundance of fish, Zakynthos is also called the "Flower of the East." Although Zakynthos is only 40 kilometers long and 20 kilometers wide, it has numerous beaches. Whether it's miles of sand or hidden coves: We'll show you the most beautiful beaches on Zakynthos .

One of the most popular and largest beaches on Zakynthos is located in the south of the island. Laganas Beach stretches for nine kilometers and offers everything you could need for a vacation: soft sand, crystal-clear water, parasols and loungers, and plenty of space for everyone. There's also a strong focus on water sports such as windsurfing, jet skiing, and sailing.

Laganas Beach on the Greek island of Zakynthos stretches for nine kilometers.

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Laganas Beach is also one of six beaches on Zakynthos where loggerhead turtles lay their eggs. Sea turtle nesting sites are frequently discovered. Laganas is also famous for its vibrant nightlife. There are numerous bars and restaurants where you can party hard.

Kalamaki Beach borders Laganas Beach to the east. The two resorts are separated by a large pine forest. The fine sandy beach is suitable for everyone, as it essentially has two areas: the area near the hotels is where life takes place, while at the end, where a mountain almost drops into the water, there are far fewer people and it is quieter.

Wooden and metal cages are set up in several places, as loggerhead turtles also nest here. Anyone on the beach should be careful, keep their distance, and protect the animals. Kalamaki's main street is home to supermarkets, bakeries, cafes, and restaurants.

In the southeast of the island, the long sandy beach of Gerakas Beach stretches like a crescent along the coast, ending at a small hill that reaches into the sea. Located on the Vasilikos Peninsula, the beach enchants with fine sand and clear, azure water. The water slopes gently, making it safe for small children to swim.

Gerakas Beach on Zakynthos is one of the most important nesting sites for sea turtles.

Source: IMAGO/Depositphotos

There are kiosks and shops above the beach. Gerakas Beach is one of the most important turtle nesting sites. Many nests are fenced off. Therefore, access to the beach after dark is prohibited.

Another secluded beach is located on the southwest coast of Vasilikos. Dafni Beach is located within a nature reserve, as it is used as a breeding ground by loggerhead turtles in the summer. It can only be reached via a narrow road and is therefore relatively deserted.

The beach is protected as part of the National Marine Park, and some sections are therefore off-limits. The bay and surrounding area are a paradise for snorkeling enthusiasts and underwater enthusiasts. There are small tavernas on site where you can stop for refreshments.

Navagio Beach in the northwest of the island is one of the most famous beaches in Greece. In the so-called Smugglers' Bay, Zakynthos's most famous motif lies in the water: the wreck of a smuggler's ship. This is why the bay is also called Shipwreck Bay or Shipwreck Beach. In 1980, the "Panagiotis" was pursued by the coast guard in stormy seas, shipwrecked, and ran aground.

View of Navagio Beach on Zakynthos, the so-called smugglers' bay.

Source: IMAGO/Panthermedia

The beach has particularly light sand and is surrounded by impressive cliffs. The water is a particularly blue color. At high tide, sulfur is released from the many caves in the area, giving the water such an intense color. The bay is accessible only by boat.

A great place for swimming is located on the west coast of the island: Limnionas Bay is quite hidden between cliffs and bizarre rock formations. There's no traditional beach, but the clear water is perfect for both swimming and snorkeling.

The beach is best reached from the small mountain village of Agios Leon. From there, follow the signs and drive a few kilometers along a paved road that ends at a large parking lot. You can access the water via a small jetty or the rocks at the edge of the bay.

In the northeast of the island lies Xigia Sulfur Beach, which holds special significance for the islanders. Its water is said to have healing properties, as it is enriched by a sulfur spring located in a nearby cave. The high natural sulfur content ensures particularly clear and bright water.

The water at Xigia Sulfur Beach on Zakynthos is said to have healing properties.

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The location is also special: The small beach is surrounded by cliffs in a picturesque bay, offering an exceptionally beautiful backdrop. Those who wish can even swim into an underwater grotto and immerse themselves in the sulfurous waters.

Makris Gialos Beach on the east coast of the island is also a paradise for divers and snorkelers. Due to its extremely clear water, shimmering in various shades, and the high cliffs that frame the beach, it is considered one of Zakynthos's signature postcard motifs.

Makris Gialos Beach offers a mix of sand and pebbles. The water slopes steeply downwards, which is why many vacationers come for diving and snorkeling: the underwater visibility is excellent. However, if you're traveling with children, be sure to pack armbands.

On the southern east coast of Zakynthos lies Banana Beach, the island's longest beach. Banana Beach is easily and quickly accessible from the center of Vasilikos. The beach is considered young and hip. This is due to the numerous beach bars and the wide range of sports on offer, including banana boats, parasailing, water skiing, beach volleyball, and much more.

One of the most popular beaches on Zakynthos: Banana Beach on the southern east coast of the island.

Source: IMAGO/Panthermedia

Because the water slopes gently, families also like to come here. The sand is very wide, making it perfect for building sandcastles or digging holes. A large area is lined with tavernas and beach bars, often hosting parties, live music, and DJs.

In the north of the island lies the small resort of Tsilivi with its eponymous beach. Families with children in particular come here for the gently sloping waters and fine, golden sand. There's a wide range of activities on offer: there are many water sports, and numerous restaurants and bars are located along the beach promenade.

Like Kalamaki, Laganas, Argasi, and Alykes, Tsilivi is a typical tourist resort that has been developed in recent years. Therefore, in addition to hotels, restaurants, and shops, it now also offers entertainment such as bowling, mini golf, and even a water park. However, it can get quite crowded in the summer months.

On the west coast, about 18 kilometers from Zakynthos Town, lie the sister beaches of Alykes and Alykanas. Alykes is a typical tourist village with hotels, apartments, restaurants, pubs, and shops, and is popular for its long, stretched-out bay with its light sandy beach.

Over time, Alikes merged with another village, Alikanas. The two villages are connected by a sandy beach and today form a large tourist town with numerous recreational opportunities. The water is gentle and shallow, and there are numerous sun loungers and parasols.

Looking for more inspiration? You can find even more tips for Zakynthos on our themed page . The best travel offers can be found on our deals page .

travel reporter