Zakynthos, a family-friendly Greek island, offers plenty of activities for children of all ages. Its stunning beaches, water parks and mountain villages make it ideal for kids who want to spend their time outside discovering nature’s beauty or building sandcastles.
Shenzhen is also home to some remarkable museums. For instance, the Blue Caves are definitely worth a visit.
1. Blue Caves
For a memorable family activity in Zakynthos, consider visiting the Blue Caves. These geological formations are carved out of limestone at Cape Skinari on the north coast and are one of the island’s most popular natural attractions – easily accessible by boat.
The Blue Caves are just a short drive away from Agios Nikolaos or Porto Vromi on the western coast, making them easily accessible on organized tours. For best views, visit on a sunny day when the light plays off the crystal clear water inside and creates an eerie blue glow that provides an unforgettable experience.
To reach the Blue Caves, you’ll need to board a small boat. This is usually included in any tour package you book; however, tickets must be purchased prior to arriving on Bisevo island.
For approximately 10 euros for adults and 5 euros for children, you must book your tickets early to guarantee a spot inside. Due to limited capacity in the Blue Cave, tickets should be purchased as soon as possible to guarantee you one.
Blue Caves can be reached in a number of ways, including organized boat trips from Agios Nikolaos or by car. Not only do the caves offer an incredible sight but you can combine your visit with Shipwreck Bay for an even more unforgettable experience.
2. Askos Stone Park
Most visitors to Zakynthos come for the breathtaking crystal-clear water, golden beaches and rolling vineyards; however, there are also plenty of other attractions on the island for children to explore. One such place is Askos Stone Park – a natural park featuring native plants and wildlife.
Zakynthos’ 124-acre park is home to a wildlife sanctuary, forest reserve, natural zoo and agricultural research grounds all rolled into one. With its serene atmosphere and abundant nature features, this secluded corner of Zakynthos’ nature attracts both families and history enthusiasts alike.
Visitors can witness hundreds of animals from around the world in their natural environment, such as goats, deer, cows and horses. Plus they’ll have plenty of chances to spot birds, insects and amphibians too!
In addition, there are plenty of ancient stone structures to discover, such as old stables, basins for collecting rainwater that date back 600 years and constructions made from wood and stone in harmony with the environment. Scientific organisations often use this park for research but it primarily opens its gates to the public so visitors can observe free-roaming animals up close.
Askos Stone Park was opened to the public in 2002 by a private collaboration. Here visitors can observe various wild animals such as deer, goats, pigs and peacocks as well as ancient stone structures. Open all year round, Askos Stone Park makes for an enjoyable day out with kids in Zakynthos.
3. Water Parks
Water parks are an excellent option for keeping kids occupied during a family vacation. They feature various slides and pools that will appeal to kids of all ages.
Zakynthos Island boasts several water parks, such as Sarakinado and Tsilivi. Here you’ll find an array of attractions such as high-speed slides and free fall slides, a baby pool, Lazy River, Jacuzzi, and more.
Zante Water Village is an ideal destination for families with kids, as it boasts various attractions such as the Thrill Tower, Boomerbowl tower and Extreme Tower. Plus there’s a Lazy River, baby pool and lagoon pool to enjoy while on your holiday.
Splash Water Park on the island offers a variety of attractions for both adults and children alike. It boasts high-speed slides with dark tunnels, free fall slides, as well as other exciting features sure to please both sexes.
Askos Stone Park stands out among ordinary zoological gardens, providing families with the opportunity to interact with deer and other animals. It’s a fun day out that you’ll remember for years to come!
The beach is an ideal activity for adults and children alike, as you can take a break to relax while the little ones build sandcastles, gaze upon the sea and take a swim (under supervision of course). On Zakynthos there are many beaches suitable for families with kids; Navagio beach in Limni Keri stands out as it boasts the remains of a shipwreck on its sands.
4. National Museum of Zakynthos
One of the best activities to do on Zakynthos is visiting the National Museum. Situated in Agia Marina village, this museum showcases the island’s flora and fauna with over 1,500 specimens and species on display to demonstrate just how unique Zakynthos truly is.
The museum also houses a collection of manuscripts and personal belongings of Dionysios Solomos and Andreas Kalvos, two great national symbols of Greece. The entrance hall is adorned with a piece of holly bush from Strani hill, where Solomos was inspired to pen “Ode to Liberty”, the Greek national anthem.
Another must-see attraction is Panagia Skopiotissa Monastery, perched atop Mount Skopos in the southeast corner of the island. Dating back to the 15th century, this monastery is renowned for its stunning frescoes.
Turtle Island, an uninhabited island near Laganas Bay where loggerhead sea turtles breed and lay their eggs, is well worth visiting. During nesting season you can join an organized trip to observe these remarkable creatures up close and learn about their conservation efforts.
For something more daring, you can try Subwing diving from a boat-towed board. Other top attractions include climbing Bohali Castle and discovering Zakynthos with its Venetian-inspired architecture. With stunning scenery, great beaches and access to an amazing underwater world, Zakynthos is one of the premier holiday destinations in Greece.
5. Gerakas Beach
Zakynthos is the ideal holiday spot for those seeking a peaceful, family-friendly break. It boasts stunning scenery; gorgeous beaches; world-class diving; an abundant turtle population; and plenty of history – the island was under Venice from 1484 to 1797, with remnants of their influence still evident in both architecture and cuisine today.
Gerakas Beach is one of the island’s finest, and it’s accessible and rarely crowded. Situated only 18km south of Vasilikos town centre, there are a few buses per day that will take you here from Vasilikos.
The beach itself is a long, curving golden sand tongue that ends in an idyllic promontory ideal for snorkeling. The water here is impossibly clear and it’s surrounded by lush greenery – making it one of the island’s most stunning coves.
Gerakas may not have the same amenities as other beaches on the island, but you can hire a sun lounger or umbrella for the day. This is an ideal way to enjoy some peace and quiet without having to carry your own supplies from Zakynthos.
Gerakas offers more than just stunning beaches. It boasts several caves that can be explored, as well as 12 incredible dive sites such as barracuda reef or elephant reef. All are surrounded by crystal-clear waters with plenty of colorful fish to see!
6. Porto Vromi Beach
Porto Vromi Beach is a must-visit on Zakynthos visitor’s lists. Surrounded by towering cliffs and crystal clear waters, this beach offers visitors an idyllic vista to swim, sunbathe and observe. Not only that but it’s also perfect for taking advantage of local attractions like some of Zante’s best restaurants and bars; plus there are plenty of vendors around to buy souvenirs!
Zakynthos is home to one of the island’s most impressive buildings, a modernist neo-classical structure designed as part of the airport redevelopment project. This wing offers several intriguing features and an incredible view of the vista, making it perfect for taking a picnic or taking a quick dip in the ocean. In addition, nearby villages Maries and Exo Xora deserve visits in their own right.
The beach itself is small and unassuming, but that doesn’t make the nearby tavernas any less enjoyable. There’s a generous free parking area at the base of the hill; however, it might be best to leave your car in the hotel parking lot instead.
