Zante (also known as Zakynthos in Italian) is an idyllic island situated in the Ionian Sea off the Peloponnese coast that every traveler should experience.
Families will love this Greek island’s white sand beaches, thrilling water activities and historical ruins for an unforgettable holiday. With so much to explore on offer, it’s no surprise why it continues to grow in popularity every year!
1. Suneo Club Tsilivi
Zante has an array of beaches to suit every holidaymaker. From laid-back shorelines with plenty of water sports activities to more peaceful spots where you can rest after a long day in the sun, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a beach holiday in Zante.
Zante offers a selection of beachfront hotels that cater to families. Many feature kids clubs or playgrounds, making them ideal for young families.
Families willing to splash out for luxury will find plenty of resorts on Tsilivi beach that will make you feel like you’re on holiday all year round. Some are situated along the popular Tsilivi beach, while others can be found throughout the island.
This 4 star hotel is perfect for families with babies and toddlers, as it features an excellent shady playground complete with swings and see saws. Furthermore, it’s close to a stunning sandy beach with shallow waters perfect for little ones to paddle in.
Restaurants in Athens provide a range of dining options, from buffet restaurants to themed Greek nights with music and dancing.
For something a bit more energetic, Tsilivi offers its waterpark and minigolf courses. Additionally, those interested in exploring the island on foot or by boat have plenty of activities at their disposal.
With so many activities available on Zante, it can be easy to get lost in the maze of things to do. But with an island as beautiful as Zante – where you can spend hours by the beach or explore inland by car or bike – you really do have everything you need for planning your perfect holiday!
2. Aqua Bay Suites
On a holiday to Aqua Bay Suites, you won’t be short of activities during your stay. Plus, with its expansive waterpark and numerous pools spread across three hotels, TUI Kids’ Club is just minutes away! Additionally, you’re just a 10-minute walk from Tsilivi’s sandy beach as well as bars, restaurants and shops.
This stylish family-friendly hotel is situated in a serene environment, surrounded by olive trees and greenery. With 76 spacious rooms designed with contemporary architecture, the hotel provides an inviting atmosphere that guarantees unforgettable memories during your family holiday.
Each room comes complete with air conditioning, a private bathroom, satellite TV, Wi-Fi internet access, hairdryer, safe, tea/coffee making facilities, mini fridge and balcony or terrace. Furthermore, there’s 24-hour front desk service and free self parking available at the property.
If you’re searching for a place to unwind, the hotel offers an outdoor pool and sun terrace with bar service and loungers. Plus, you have unlimited access to the slides and wave pool at nearby waterpark!
Enjoy an array of delectable meals at the hotel’s buffet restaurant or the nearby waterpark. Additionally, there are various bars serving refreshing drinks and snacks.
Sister hotels of the hotel are nearby, allowing you to take advantage of their pools and restaurants too. There’s even a small gym and mini spa on-site as well as plenty of activities and entertainment for children.
If you’re looking to explore Zante Town, take a trip up Bohali Hill for stunning views, visit the old Venetian Castle or check out St Dionysius Church. Plus, the centre of Zante Town itself has plenty of museums and historic attractions for you to discover.
3. Zante Town
Zante Town is the main town on Zakynthos and an ideal destination for families with kids. It has plenty to offer – beaches, sightseeing options and restaurants fit for every age group. Plus, Zante Town boasts a range of accommodations so you can find something within budget.
Zante Town offers a tranquil atmosphere that may not be found elsewhere on Zakynthos. While it may not have as many nightlife attractions or some of the top beaches like Navagio Beach or Gerakas Beach, Zante Town still has plenty to offer tourists.
Aside from having an idyllic harbour, the town is packed with historic architecture and charming places to explore. Don’t miss the Church of Saint Dionisius – one of the most impressive buildings in town!
Other places worth visiting include the impressive Venetian fortification on Bohali Hill, where visitors can trace Zante’s history back to Medieval times. This fort is surrounded by ancient ruins that provide insight into the island’s vibrant past.
Another fantastic place to visit in Zante Town is the 1.5 kilometre seafront promenade that follows the harbour from The Monastery of Strofades (Mone Strophadon) all the way to Church Agios Nikolaos of Molos (Ekklesia Agios Nikolaos tou Molou). It offers stunning views and plenty of shops and cafes along the way.
Take a drive to Gerakas Beach, an idyllic stretch of golden powdery sand famous for its sulfur mud. This idyllic beach is perfect for families with kids to swim and it also serves as breeding grounds for Loggerhead Turtles.
4. Shipwreck Beach
Navagio Beach (also known as Shipwreck Beach or Smuggler’s Cove) is a must-see on the island, offering visitors the perfect setting for swimming and sunbathing in the picturesque setting of white sand and marble cliffs. A rusty shipwreck sits atop it all for an impressive backdrop.
Shipwreck Beach can get quite crowded during the day, so arriving early or after 6 PM may help you avoid the crowds. Plus, there’s a lookout point on the cliffs 200 metres above the ruins that offers fantastic photo ops.
For the ideal photo, you’ll need to venture off the main path and traverse some rough rocks. This isn’t recommended for children; so bring along a family member or friend as an extra pair of eyes.
If you would prefer not to take a boat trip, you can still view the beach from atop one of the limestone cliffs. Unfortunately, this won’t be nearly as picturesque or provide you with the same photos.
In 1983, the MV Panagiotis, a ship smuggling cigarettes and other goods, ran aground on this stunning shore in Zakynthos Greece. Since then, its rusty wreck has lain dormant atop the sands, slowly crumbling away.
Tour options abound, from full-day cruises that include visits to Blue Caves and Shipwreck Beach to more budget-friendly options. All tours provide an unforgettable experience that is well worth the money spent – no matter which option you select!
If you don’t have your own car, taking a taxi to the entrance of the beach and then walking along the sand to reach a viewing platform is another option. Although this method offers stunning views of the coastline, it may be challenging for young children due to its lengthy walk.
5. Bokhali
Bokhali is a popular holiday spot in Zante for families with children. Its peaceful beach makes it the perfect spot to unwind and take your family on picnic adventures.
When visiting Bakkhali island, the ideal time to visit is between November and February when temperatures are pleasant and dry. This period offers visitors the perfect opportunity to take advantage of all its attractions without crowding into other parts of the island.
This area is renowned for its stunning beaches. The 7-kilometer coastline is stunningly picturesque and sparsely populated, adding to its allure. A stroll on the beach at sunset is especially captivating.
Aside from its stunning seafront, this area also has several other attractions to discover. One of the most popular is Bishhalakshmi temple at the end of the beach. Visitors love to picnic here and spend a tranquil evening strolling on the shore while offering prayers in this ancient temple.
In addition to beaches, this region also features many stunning islands. Henry’s Island stands out as it was named in honor of British surveyor Henry and is the largest island within the Ganga-Brahmaputra delta, surrounded by mangrove trees.
Here, there is a small fishing harbour where you can purchase fresh catch for your meals. Additionally, the world-famous Crocodile Reserve Park is nearby – one of its few remaining in existence.
Bakkhali offers several budget-friendly fun locales for visitors on a tight budget, such as Hotels Portland, OYO 27745 Hotel Sanjog and SPOT ON 41364 Hotel Annapurna. These economical accommodations provide fast public transport access to Bakkhali’s top attractions plus low-cost dining options with outdoor activities.
