If you’re looking for a perfect summer beach destination, Zakynthos has plenty of stunning sand beaches that will make your stay an unforgettable one.
Families and major tour operators flock to the beaches on the north east coast of Jamaica for a relaxing sun-filled holiday. There are also quieter coves along this part of the island which make for ideal family fun in the sun.
1. Xigia Beach
Zakynthos boasts an array of beautiful sandy beaches with golden sand and crystal-clear waters that are ideal for taking a leisurely walk or attending lively beach parties. These idyllic coves can be visited by all ages, from families to water sports enthusiasts.
These beaches not only boast stunning sand and crystal-clear sea, but they also provide plenty of facilities for those seeking a place to unwind. Sun loungers, umbrellas, bars and restaurants can be rented as well as changing rooms and showers.
Zakynthos’ most popular beaches are Argassi and Tsilivi, though there are many others to choose from. There are numerous taverns serving delicious Greek food at these locales, plus plenty of water sports activities and beach parties during your vacation.
Gerakas Beach is a long, sandy expanse whose soft white sand and sparkling waters will surely enchant any visitor. It is one of the area’s most scenic spots and home to endangered Loggerhead Sea Turtle nesting colonies.
Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts will love this beach, which features caves in the sea that can be explored. Additionally, those seeking a natural swimming experience will love this spot as it is surrounded by high cliffs with warm, clear water during summer months.
Though not considered one of the island’s finest beaches, Xigia Beach is a popular option for visitors looking for something special. The rocky cliffs surrounding it are filled with sulphur springs which spew milky white substance into the water.
Sulphur has many health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties and muscle pain relief. But the smell may be quite overwhelming at first, so it’s important to get used to it and not let that stop you from visiting.
Xigia Beach boasts stunning cliffs that lead to a gorgeous stretch of sandy beach. Additionally, you’ll find sulphur springs in the rocks around the shore that give off tiny bubbles which give off a jacuzzi effect when swimming in them.
2. Porto Limnionas Beach
Porto Limnionas Beach, situated on the west side of Zakynthos Island, is an idyllic spot for swimming and relaxation. Surrounded by high cliffs, this stretch of shore offers a welcome escape from all of Zakynthos’ busy lifestyles.
Zakynthos’ most beloved beach, this popular spot features plenty of amenities like a restaurant, changing rooms and toilets. It’s ideal for swimming, sunbathing and simply taking in the warm waters.
Watersports enthusiasts will love this area, which boasts plenty of caves and underwater springs to discover. Additionally, the sea here is crystal-clear and makes for excellent snorkeling opportunities.
You can reach this hidden gem by driving down the road from Agios Leon on the western side of the island. It’s a pleasant drive and there’s also a carpark at the top of the hill.
From here, it’s just a short stroll down some natural rocky stairs to this stunning bay. When you reach the bottom of the cliffs, take time to sit back and admire the stunning views.
Zakynthos offers a variety of beaches, but none quite compare to this wild spot. Stay here in an authentic Greek tavern with great food and stunning views of the ocean.
For a deeper exploration of Zakynthos, consider booking a tour that takes you around the entire island. While these will be more costly than just taking a day trip, they save you from renting a car and provide an immersive experience overall.
Porto Limnionas Beach can be enjoyed throughout the year, but for the best views it’s in the early afternoon when the sun is at its hottest and the sea looks its bluest. Plus there are fewer people around at this time of year so it’s an ideal chance to spend some time outside without having to fight through crowds on crowded beaches.
3. Navagio Beach
Navagio Beach in Zakynthos is renowned for its picturesque beach and clifftop viewpoint. Situated on the north-western coastline of the island, about 250km west of Athens, this secluded white sand beach has become one of the island’s most popular tourist destinations and has been featured in brochures, travel agents, stock photos and computer screensavers.
This beloved beach is known for its powdery white sand and crystal clear waters. At 14 km long, it’s a popular spot with sunbeds, umbrellas, bars and restaurants alike.
Surfside Beach is a favorite snorkeling and diving spot due to its crystal clear water. Furthermore, the shallow depths make it ideal for children to play.
Visit Navagio Beach by boat from Porto Vromi port. Several tour companies offer affordable boat trips to this beachfront paradise that often include a stop at an abandoned shipwreck – making for an unforgettable experience!
For an even closer view of the Navagio shipwreck, book a tour to its clifftop viewpoint. Not only will this provide you with stunning views of the beach and coastline, but it’s also the perfect opportunity for some amazing photos!
Another way to view Navagio Beach is by walking along the trail that runs alongside the cliffs. This trail is gated off and security guards stand guard at the top for your safety. While you are allowed to descend these cliffs, be aware that they may be slippery with large rocks which could easily cause you to lose your balance!
The beach is also renowned for its shipwreck, which was once a smuggling vessel. Now a symbol of the island, visitors to the shoreline often climb inside and leave their own messages on its rusted surfaces.
Traveling to Navagio Beach can be an exhilarating experience, particularly if you’re hoping for something unique to remember from your time in Zakynthos. But be wary of the crowds and ensure you bring along plenty of beach supplies with you.
4. Marathonisi Beach
Marathonisi Beach is one of Zakynthos’ most beloved sandy beaches, located off the coast of Laganas. Though small in size, the beach is encircled by dense pine, olive and green oak forest which creates an amazing contrast with its soft white sand and turquoise waters.
Zakynthos boasts some stunning beaches with caves, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. One of Zakynthos’ most picturesque, this spot is ideal for those wanting to unwind in a serene environment.
Marathonisi, also known as Turtle Island, is home to endangered Caretta Caretta sea turtles and Monachus Monachus sea seals. In summertime, turtles travel here to lay their eggs while sea seals rest and reproduce on this islet.
Marathonisi’s seawater is crystal clear, making it an ideal swimming spot. Unfortunately, there are no sun loungers present – making it ideal for those seeking a quiet respite.
Accommodation on the island is limited, but renting a boat for several hours allows you to visit both beaches and explore caves.
Due to its location within a National Marine Park, strict rules have been put in place to safeguard wildlife and the environment. Beaches are monitored by WWF volunteers and boats can only moor when there is a rope between them and the shoreline.
Visitors to the island are forbidden from going beyond five meters from the beach in order to protect the turtle breeding process. This is an essential conservation area for these critically endangered reptiles, which need our help in order to survive.
For those interested in turtle watching, there are various excursions available to the island offered by local companies. These usually include a visit to both the main beach and caves; cost varies based on boat size but ranges between 15-20 EUR per person.
Alternatively, you can take a taxi boat to Marathonisi Island that departs from Keri or Laganas beach and takes around 10 minutes. This will cost around 10EUR.
