{"id":62179,"date":"2026-04-15T21:01:05","date_gmt":"2026-04-15T19:01:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/greece-moments.com\/?p=62179"},"modified":"2026-04-16T11:28:23","modified_gmt":"2026-04-16T09:28:23","slug":"zakynthos-beaches","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/greece-moments.com\/en\/zakynthos-beaches\/","title":{"rendered":"Zakynthos Beaches: The 15 Most Beautiful Swimming Spots on the Island"},"content":{"rendered":"

Two weeks on Zakynthos, having explored what felt like every other bay, and in the end, a conclusion that might come as a surprise: Zakynthos beaches<\/strong> didn\u2019t exactly blow us away. We say this as people who have swum on over 50 Greek islands and know what\u2019s possible. Fine, powdery sand like on Paros or Naxos? Not a chance. Crystal-clear water in every bay? Not really. Zakynthos shines in other areas.<\/p>\n

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What makes this Ionian island truly unique are its cliffs in the west. Dramatic limestone cliffs that plunge vertically into the sea, turquoise-blue water, and coves that can only be reached by boat or after a bit of a climb.<\/p>\n

Tom & Ella<\/cite><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n

\"zakynthos
Zakynthos beaches in the off-season<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The shipwreck in Navagio Bay<\/strong> and the Mizithres Rocks are, of course, simply unbeatable for photography. But for classic beach lovers looking for a week of lounging and cocktails, Zakynthos is honestly not the number one dream destination.<\/p>\n

Many of the most beautiful swimming coves<\/strong> in the north and west are accessible only by boat or on foot, which fortunately keeps the crowds there in check. In the south and east, on the other hand, there are plenty of organized beaches with lounge chairs and taverns nearby. Only around Laganas and Tsilivi does it get so crowded in midsummer that the fun quickly falls by the wayside.<\/p>\n

Here, we present our personal favorites among Zakynthos\u2019 beaches and coves<\/strong>, divided by direction, so you know what to expect where and which part of the island suits you best.<\/p>\n

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Zakynthos Beaches in the West<\/h2>\n

The west coast is the heart of Zakynthos. No sandy beaches, no promenades\u2014instead, sheer limestone cliffs, sea caves, and bays in a turquoise-green hue that you simply must see at least once. The coast isn\u2019t accessible by car all the way; you\u2019ll have to keep heading back to the main road through the mountain villages to reach the next cove. This deters many visitors, making this area ideal for anyone seeking peace and quiet away from the crowds.<\/p>\n

#1 Navagio Beach<\/h3>\n

Everyone knows the picture: white cliffs, turquoise-blue water, a rusting shipwreck on the fine sand. Navagio Beach<\/strong> is accessible only by boat and is currently officially closed due to the risk of falling rocks. From the water, however, it remains one of Greece\u2019s most impressive natural spectacles.<\/p>\n

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\u2192 You can find the most important information about Navagio Beach<\/strong> in our article: Zakynthos Shipwreck<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

You should head to the viewpoints above the bay early in the morning, before the first tour buses arrive. During peak season, it gets crowded there starting at 10 a.m. So, if you want photos without crowds, set your alarm.<\/p>\n

\"Navagio
View from the Navagio Beach Viewpoint<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

If you want to experience the entire coastline, drive your rental car to Porto Vromi or Cape Skinari and book one of the boat tours from there along the coast, past grottos, caves, and rock formations you\u2019d never see on foot.<\/p>\n

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\u26f5 Navagio Boat Tours:<\/strong> The shortest trip departs from Porto Vromi (approx. 20 min.). If you want to see the entire coastline with its grottoes and caves, you\u2019ll find suitable tours here: View boat tours on GetYourGuide*<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

#2 Porto Vromi<\/h3>\n

Although it is not a sandy beach, Porto Vromi is a small, natural harbour<\/strong> with two deeply indented bays and crystal-clear water. Many boats depart from here for Navagio. Our tip: Rent a small motorboat right at the harbor\u2014no license required\u2014and explore the cliffs on your own. From the boat, you\u2019ll discover caves and the hidden Sfogio Beach, which can\u2019t be reached on foot.<\/p>\n

\"Porto
Porto Vromi<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

#3 Porto Limnionas<\/h3>\n

Emerald-green water, white cliffs, and green bushes in between. The deeply indented bay of Porto Limnionas<\/strong> is, in our opinion, one of the most photogenic spots on the entire island\u2014even though it\u2019s actually hard to find a comfortable spot to lie down here. There\u2019s no traditional beach, just concrete terraces and rock slabs at various heights above the water.<\/p>\n

\"zakynthos
Porto Limnionas Bay<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Porto Limnionas tavern<\/em> has cleverly solved this by setting up sun loungers on these levels, so you can lie in the shade of a rocky coastline, climb down the ladder, and jump or dive in. The water is clear, the underwater visibility is good, and snorkeling here is truly worth it. Unfortunately, this swimming spot is hopelessly overcrowded during peak season.<\/p>\n

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\ud83c\udfe1 Nearby Accommodation: Terra Lucis Mountain Residences (\u20ac\u20ac\u20ac)*<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Three luxurious villas with private pools on a family estate above Porto Limnionas\u2014just 800 meters from the beach, surrounded by olive groves and pine trees, with panoramic views of the Ionian Sea. Airport transfer is included.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

#4 Porto Roxa<\/h3>\n

Porto Roxa<\/strong> is a fjord-like bay, ideal for watching the sunset. The white cliffs glow orange and pink in the evening, and the beach bars in front of them are understandably popular. Access to the water is via ladders and rocks; water shoes are mandatory, as the seabed drops off steeply and is only suitable for strong swimmers. The Ionion Beach Bar<\/em> right on the bay offers good snacks and drinks at fair prices.<\/p>\n

\"Porto
Porto Roxa on Zakynthos<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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#5 Korakonissi<\/h3>\n

South of Porto Roxa Beach, a small peninsula juts out into the sea like a rocky outcrop. A trail leads up to Korakonissi<\/strong>, where you can find a unique rock window offering great photo opportunities. The narrow bay with its wonderfully clear water is ideal for snorkeling; water shoes are essential due to the rocky seabed.<\/p>\n

\"Korakonissi
The dreamlike scenery of Korakonissi<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Zakynthos Beaches in the North<\/h2>\n

In the northeast, the island becomes more accessible. The coastline flattens out, and the beaches become wider. Here you\u2019ll find Xigia Beach, one of the most unique swimming spots in Greece.<\/p>\n

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\u2192 You can find all the island\u2019s sights in our article: Zakynthos Highlights<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

#6 Xigia Beach & Xigia Pelagaki Beach<\/h3>\n

The weirdest swimming experience on Zakynthos: Natural sulfur springs flow from the rocks into the water, causing the sea to shimmer a milky blue and smell like rotten eggs. Anyone who smells this for the first time instinctively turns away. But if you go into the water anyway, you\u2019ll understand why locals have sworn by this spot for generations. The bath at Xigia Beach<\/strong> is said to have healing effects for joint pain, arthritis, and skin conditions, and whether you believe it or not, the experience is certainly unique.<\/p>\n

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\ud83c\udfe1 Nearby accommodation: White Springs Retreat (\u20ac\u20ac\u20ac)*<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Four luxurious suites with an infinity pool and fantastic ocean views, just a five-minute walk from Xigia Beach. Panoramic views all the way to Kefalonia, absolute tranquility, and, according to guests, one of the most beautiful sunrise experiences on the entire island.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\"Xigia
Xigia Beach on Zakynthos<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The main section of Xigia Beach is completely packed during the season. About 600 meters further south lies the much quieter Xigia Pelagaki Beach<\/strong>, accessible via a steep staircase. Magda\u2019s canteen at the top of the cliff supplies beachgoers with snacks and drinks via a pulley system\u2014a small Zakynthos original.<\/p>\n

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\ud83c\udf7a Levante Beer Brewery:<\/strong> Just a few kilometers from Xigia Beach lies the Levante Beer craft brewery, run by a Bavarian master brewer. Six varieties; tours by appointment: www.levantebeer.com<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

#7 Makris Gialos Beach<\/h3>\n

The pebble beach at Makris Gialos Beach<\/strong> in the north of the island lies directly on the coastal road toward Agios Nikolaos and is one of the few spots on Zakynthos that you can reach without much climbing. Pack some water shoes anyway\u2014the pebbles can be uncomfortable.<\/p>\n

What really makes it special are the sea caves in the surrounding cliffs, some of which can be reached by swimming directly from the beach. The water is crystal clear but gets deep quickly, making it more suitable for experienced swimmers and snorkeling enthusiasts than for small children. It\u2019s best to arrive early: in midsummer, the few sun loungers are already taken by 10 a.m., and it gets crowded by noon.<\/p>\n

#8 Climati Beach<\/h3>\n

One of the quieter spots on the east coast, popular with locals and often overlooked by tourists. Climati Beach<\/strong> is off the beaten path; access is via an unpaved path leading down from the EL Resto Bar<\/em> to a small pebble cove with clear water. No amenities, no lounge chairs\u2014but true tranquility even in the height of summer.<\/p>\n

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\ud83c\udfe1 Nearby Accommodation: Kokkinos Studios With Pool (\u20ac)*<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Modern studios with a sea-view balcony and a pool right on Mikro Nisi Beach, just under a half-hour walk from Makris Gialos. If you\u2019d like, you can even rent a small boat from the host upon request and explore the cliffs on your own.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Zakynthos Beaches in the East<\/h2>\n

The east coast of Zakynthos is the domain of the classic beach vacationer: wide sandy bays, gently sloping water, plenty of lounge chairs, and taverns within walking distance. In the northeast lie Alykes and Alikanas<\/strong>, which merge seamlessly into one another and together form one of the longest sandy beaches on the island.<\/p>\n

\"alykes
Siesta at Alykes Beach<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Further south lies Tsilivi<\/strong>, one of the island\u2019s most famous resorts, right on the outskirts of the capital. The beach has fine sand, is shallow, and well-organized\u2014ideal especially for families with small children. However, those without a hotel right there will have a hard time in midsummer: Tsilivi is densely built-up, the beach promenade is packed with lounge chairs, and free spots for beachgoers with towels are scarce.<\/p>\n

The Skopos Peninsula in the southeast<\/strong> is a whole different story: the greenest and quietest stretch of the east coast. Pine trees and olive groves line the roads, the sea is clear and shimmers turquoise-blue, and the beaches are largely family-friendly and somewhat less crowded. However, you won\u2019t be able to reach every beach without a rental car. You can book a rental car for Zakynthos in advance through our partner Discover Cars*<\/em>:<\/p>\n

\u27b2 Go to the car rental comparison on Discover Cars*<\/a><\/p>\n

#9 Alykes & Alikanas<\/h3>\n

Two resorts that have grown together in the east of Zakynthos, featuring a long, light-colored sandy beach that slopes very gently into the sea near Alikanas. For us personally, Alikanas Beach is the most beautiful spot for swimming with kids on Zakynthos<\/strong>\u2014our daughter didn\u2019t want to leave at all. The crowd is quiet and diverse, a far cry from Laganas.<\/p>\n

From the viewpoint at the \u201cFresh Orange Juice Bar\u201d<\/em> on the northern mountain road, you can see all the way to Mount Skopos in the south of the island on a clear day. The Venetian stone bridge Pentak\u00e1maro between the towns is a small, often overlooked relic and a great photo spot.<\/p>\n

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\ud83c\udfe1 Nearby Accommodation: Ay\u00efa Suites (\u20ac\u20ac)*<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Tasteful suites in Alikanas with direct beach access, modern furnishings, and a quiet location\u2014one of the better options on the east coast for anyone seeking comfort without mass tourism.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\"Alikanas
A stroll along Alikanas Beach<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

#10 Porto Zorro Beach<\/h3>\n

Porto Zorro Beach<\/strong> on the Skopos Peninsula is one of the more beautiful organized beaches in southeastern Zakynthos. The narrow but long strip of sand is nestled between dense pine vegetation and steep cliffs that plunge directly into the turquoise-blue water. What sets it apart from other beaches on the east coast are the striking boulders in the water, which lend the whole area a special atmosphere and are a real bonus for snorkelers.<\/p>\n

The water slopes gently and is crystal clear, making the beach well-suited for families with children. However, water shoes are still a good idea, as the seabed becomes rocky in places. There are expensive lounge chairs and umbrellas, showers, restrooms, and a high-priced beach bar with a restaurant right on the beach.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/div>
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Over 195 curated spots like beaches, restaurants, photo spots and insider tips directly on your smartphone.<\/div>
To Zakynthos Map \u2192<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n

#11 Banana Beach<\/h3>\n

Banana Beach<\/strong> is one of the best-organized beaches on Zakynthos: a wide sandy beach, several beach clubs with rows of lounge chairs, water sports options, and plenty of activity starting at noon. The shoreline slopes gently and is therefore also suitable for families with children. However, it gets very busy here in the summer; if you\u2019re looking for peace and quiet, this isn\u2019t the place for you.<\/p>\n