The best on the island. Tourism lives is
relative harmony with the endangered Caretta caretta. A steep road leads
to low cliffs and a beautiful crescent of golden sand. No watersports here
- the bay is off limits to anything but a pedalo (worth a trip to turtle
spot). The view to Marathonisi Island on a clear day is magnificent. There
is little here except for a couple of tavernas on the approach, where
you'll also find the Turtle Protection Society of Zakynthos (worth a
visit).
Please note that the beach is off-limits
between dusk and dawn.
Kalamaki
A long sandy beach with shallow water,
this is a quieter beach than its neighbour, Laganas. Ideal for families,
the only drawback is the aircraft flight path directly above. You can hear
the engine noise from the taxiing aircraft if the wind is blowing in the
direction of the village.
One of Kalamaki's plus points is the
abundance of classy restaurants, bars and clubs. Head up to the hills
during the evening and you'll find the great Byzantino Club, offering
great views of the bay as you party the night away.
Laganas
Laganas is the 'San Antonio' of
Zakynthos. The nine kilometre bay hosts a long sandy beach which is very
crowded in the summer. Beach entertainment is de rigeur here (although
watersports are severely restricted) and the town itself is a deafening
mixture of bars and nightclubs. Everything here for the livelier visitor!
Very popular with English tourists.
Navagio (the shipwreck)
This beach is only accessible by boat
and has become a regular stop on any island cruise because of the famous
shipwreck. The water is very cold in this area (even in the height of
summer) but the imposing cliffs make the place very atmospheric.
Porto Koukla
Further south from Laganas is the small
beach at Porto Koukla. One of the quieter beaches on the island, its warm
shallow waters are ideal for a relaxing day away from its busier
neighbours.
Porto Roma
Porto Roma is a small sand and pebble
beach with a small fishing port. Off the beaten track (most visitors head
straight to Gerakas), before midday you can very often find yourself alone
on the beach. Nearby you will find three excellent tavernas and a couple
of small shops. Porto Roma is located 17 kilometres southeast of Zakynthos
Town.
Tsilivi
You can spend all day endulging in one
of the many varieties of watersports on offer here. A long sandy beach
with plenty of facilities nearby. Located 7 kilometres northwest of
Zakynthos Town.