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 didn’t exactly blow us away. We say this as people who have swum on over 50 Greek islands and know what’s 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.
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.
Tom & Ella
The shipwreck in Navagio Bay 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.
Many of the most beautiful swimming coves 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.
Here, we present our personal favorites among Zakynthos’ beaches and coves, divided by direction, so you know what to expect where and which part of the island suits you best.
🏖️ Dream beaches & hidden bays
🍽️ Restaurants, tavernas & cafés
🏛️ Must-see highlights & ancient sites
🗺️ Worthwhile spots & insider tips
🚘 Practical info like rentals & parking
♾️ Lifetime access & updates
Zakynthos Beaches in the West
The west coast is the heart of Zakynthos. No sandy beaches, no promenades—instead, sheer limestone cliffs, sea caves, and bays in a turquoise-green hue that you simply must see at least once. The coast isn’t accessible by car all the way; you’ll 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.
#1 Navagio Beach
Everyone knows the picture: white cliffs, turquoise-blue water, a rusting shipwreck on the fine sand. Navagio Beach 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’s most impressive natural spectacles.
→ You can find the most important information about Navagio Beach in our article: Zakynthos Shipwreck
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.
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’d never see on foot.
⛵ Navagio Boat Tours: The shortest trip departs from Porto Vromi (approx. 20 min.). If you want to see the entire coastline with its grottoes and caves, you’ll find suitable tours here: View boat tours on GetYourGuide*
#2 Porto Vromi
Although it is not a sandy beach, Porto Vromi is a small, natural harbour 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—no license required—and explore the cliffs on your own. From the boat, you’ll discover caves and the hidden Sfogio Beach, which can’t be reached on foot.
#3 Porto Limnionas
Emerald-green water, white cliffs, and green bushes in between. The deeply indented bay of Porto Limnionas is, in our opinion, one of the most photogenic spots on the entire island—even though it’s actually hard to find a comfortable spot to lie down here. There’s no traditional beach, just concrete terraces and rock slabs at various heights above the water.
The Porto Limnionas tavern 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.
🏡 Nearby Accommodation: Terra Lucis Mountain Residences (€€€)*
Three luxurious villas with private pools on a family estate above Porto Limnionas—just 800 meters from the beach, surrounded by olive groves and pine trees, with panoramic views of the Ionian Sea. Airport transfer is included.
#4 Porto Roxa
Porto Roxa 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 right on the bay offers good snacks and drinks at fair prices.
✓ Full coverage & unlimited mileage included
✓ Free cancellation until 24h before pickup
✓ Best price guarantee via Discover Cars
#5 Korakonissi
South of Porto Roxa Beach, a small peninsula juts out into the sea like a rocky outcrop. A trail leads up to Korakonissi, 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.
Zakynthos Beaches in the North
In the northeast, the island becomes more accessible. The coastline flattens out, and the beaches become wider. Here you’ll find Xigia Beach, one of the most unique swimming spots in Greece.
→ You can find all the island’s sights in our article: Zakynthos Highlights
#6 Xigia Beach & Xigia Pelagaki Beach
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’ll understand why locals have sworn by this spot for generations. The bath at Xigia Beach 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.
🏡 Nearby accommodation: White Springs Retreat (€€€)*
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.
The main section of Xigia Beach is completely packed during the season. About 600 meters further south lies the much quieter Xigia Pelagaki Beach, accessible via a steep staircase. Magda’s canteen at the top of the cliff supplies beachgoers with snacks and drinks via a pulley system—a small Zakynthos original.
🍺 Levante Beer Brewery: 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
#7 Makris Gialos Beach
The pebble beach at Makris Gialos Beach 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—the pebbles can be uncomfortable.
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’s best to arrive early: in midsummer, the few sun loungers are already taken by 10 a.m., and it gets crowded by noon.
#8 Climati Beach
One of the quieter spots on the east coast, popular with locals and often overlooked by tourists. Climati Beach is off the beaten path; access is via an unpaved path leading down from the EL Resto Bar to a small pebble cove with clear water. No amenities, no lounge chairs—but true tranquility even in the height of summer.
🏡 Nearby Accommodation: Kokkinos Studios With Pool (€)*
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’d like, you can even rent a small boat from the host upon request and explore the cliffs on your own.
Zakynthos Beaches in the East
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, which merge seamlessly into one another and together form one of the longest sandy beaches on the island.
Further south lies Tsilivi, one of the island’s most famous resorts, right on the outskirts of the capital. The beach has fine sand, is shallow, and well-organized—ideal 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.
The Skopos Peninsula in the southeast 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’t 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*:
➲ Go to the car rental comparison on Discover Cars*
#9 Alykes & Alikanas
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—our daughter didn’t want to leave at all. The crowd is quiet and diverse, a far cry from Laganas.
From the viewpoint at the “Fresh Orange Juice Bar” 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 Pentakámaro between the towns is a small, often overlooked relic and a great photo spot.
🏡 Nearby Accommodation: Ayïa Suites (€€)*
Tasteful suites in Alikanas with direct beach access, modern furnishings, and a quiet location—one of the better options on the east coast for anyone seeking comfort without mass tourism.
#10 Porto Zorro Beach
Porto Zorro Beach 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.
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.
#11 Banana Beach
Banana Beach 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’re looking for peace and quiet, this isn’t the place for you.
#12 St. Nicholas Beach
At the tip of the peninsula, the gleaming white church of Agios Nikolaos sits perched on a rocky outcrop directly above the sea, one of the most photographed sights on Zakynthos. St. Nicholas Beach below is quiet, with golden sand and family-friendly, featuring a gentle slope into the sea. During the off-season, the beach is less crowded, and umbrellas and lounge chairs are provided by the local restaurants.
#13 Gerakas Beach
A mile-long, light-sand beach featuring the striking rock formation known as Jason’s Bite at the edge of the bay. Gerakas Beach is also one of the most important nesting sites for the loggerhead sea turtle on Zakynthos. Those who wish to act responsibly toward the animals should avoid this beach as a swimming spot between May and September. Just before reaching the beach, it’s worth visiting the Mediterranean Marine Life Center, which offers free and very informative exhibits on sea turtle conservation.
🏡 Nearby Accommodation: Aluna Boutique Suites (€€)*
Two independent suites on a 20-hectare private estate surrounded by pine trees, palm trees, and olive trees, just one kilometer from Gerakas Beach. Earthy colors, natural materials, and a veranda with ocean views ensure true tranquility on the Skopos Peninsula.
💡 Zakynthos National Marine Park: The entire southern part of the island around Laganas Bay is a protected nature reserve. Motorized watercraft and water sports are prohibited in parts of the park. Please check the current rules on-site to ensure the Caretta-Caretta population can continue to nest on Zakynthos.
Zakynthos Beaches in the South
The southern part of the island is the most touristy and is best known for Laganas, Zakynthos’s party hub with its vibrant nightlife. But there are also quiet alternatives here, including Cape Keri, one of the most beautiful and wildest stretches of coastline on Zakynthos.
#14 Keri Beach
One of the quietest beaches on Zakynthos is located in the coastal hamlet of Limni Keri. Although Keri Beach is narrow and consists of gravel, it is lined with shady tamarisk trees. From here, you have a great view of Marathonisi, the “Turtle Island.” In the summer, the two beach restaurants rent out a number of sun loungers. Most visitors come to Limni Keri to rent a motorboat or take part in tours to the Keri Caves.
🏡 Nearby Accommodation: Athenea Villas (€€)*
Eight traditionally furnished apartments on a hill above Limni Keri, surrounded by olive groves with views of Laganas Bay and Marathonisi Turtle Island. Some units have their own private pool; according to guests, hostess Athina is one of the warmest people on the entire island.
The southwestern tip of Zakynthos, near the Keri lighthouse, is one of the wildest corners of the island. Coming from the mountain village of Keri, you’ll reach a spectacular viewpoint shortly after leaving the village. From there, you can look out at the Myzithres Rocks jutting out of the sea, which are among the most impressive photo spots on Zakynthos. You can book boat tours to the striking rocks and the Keri Caves on GetYourGuide*:
➲ To boat tours to the Keri Caves*
#15 Agios Sostis & Cameo Island
The quiet coastal village of Agios Sostis is located at the southern end of Laganas Bay, 2.5 km from Laganas, but worlds apart in terms of atmosphere. The town is particularly popular because of tiny Cameo Island, a private island accessible via a narrow wooden walkway from the harbor. However, the beach at Agios Sostis is less suitable for swimming, as it is mostly used as a parking lot and boat dock during the season.
🏡 Nearby Accommodation: Koklas Studios (€)*
Family-run studios 100 meters from the beach in Agios Sostis, featuring a large terrace with ocean views and a beautiful garden. Host Teresa and her family are known for their warm Greek hospitality and provide guests with fresh produce from their own garden, including homemade olive oil and wine. We’ve stayed here ourselves and felt completely at home!
💡 You won’t find Laganas Beach in any of our recommendations, and there are two good reasons for that. First, this notorious party beach is one of the dirtiest and most littered beaches on Zakynthos—to be honest, it really put us off when we visited. Second, and most importantly: Laganas is located in the middle of one of the most important nesting areas for the endangered loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta). Anyone who takes animal welfare seriously should avoid this stretch of beach. Read more in our post: Zakynthos Turtles
Zakynthos Boat Tours
If you explore Zakynthos only from land, you’ll miss out on many beautiful spots. The west coast, with its grottos, caves, and hidden coves, is accessible almost exclusively by boat. A boat tour from Porto Vromi, Cape Skinari, or Agios Nikolaos is therefore a must-do for us during a vacation on Zakynthos. Through our partner GetYourGuide*, you can check availability and prices for the boat tours and reserve your ticket in advance:
➲ To the Zakynthos Shipwreck Beach & Blue Caves boat tour*
• Blue Caves in the northeast
• Cliffs, caves & hidden coves on the west coast
• Keri Rocks & Lighthouse in the south
→ You can find many more tips for Zakynthos on our overview page: Zakynthos Blog
FAQ Zakynthos Beaches
Which beach on Zakynthos is the most beautiful?
Visually, Navagio Beach is of course spectacular, but since it’s currently closed off, the best way to experience it is from a boat. For a full day of swimming, Alikanas Beach is our personal favorite: quiet, shallow water, ideal for kids. St. Nicholas Beach on the Skopos Peninsula is also very beautiful in the off-season.
Can I access Navagio Beach?
Not at the moment; the shipwreck beach is officially closed due to the risk of falling rocks and the instability of the wreck. However, viewing it from a boat or right in front of it in the water remains an unforgettable experience. You can reach the overlooks above by rental car. It’s best to go very early in the morning, as long lines form starting around noon.
Which Zakynthos beaches are suitable for families with children?
St. Nicholas Beach and Banana Beach have shallow waters and fine sand. Alikanas in the north is also very family-friendly, with a particularly shallow entry into the sea. You should avoid Gerakas Beach during peak season due to the turtle nests.
Do I need a rental car on Zakynthos?
We highly recommend renting a car on Zakynthos. Without a rental car, you won’t be able to reach the island’s most beautiful spots; the west coast and the Skopos Peninsula, in particular, are barely accessible by bus. Alternatively, a quad bike or scooter is sufficient for short distances.
What is the difference between the east and west coasts of Zakynthos?
The east coast has sandy beaches, shallow waters, and classic vacation amenities. The west coast offers cliffs, coves, and caves, with few sandy beaches, but plenty of opportunities for climbing, jumping, and a backdrop you won’t soon forget. Ideally, you should visit both sides on different days.
Are the sulfur springs at Xigia Beach harmful to your health?
No. A quick dip in the sulfur springs is harmless; locals even attribute healing properties to them for joint pain and skin conditions. You do have to be able to tolerate the smell of rotten eggs, though.
Are there nude beaches on Zakynthos?
There are no official nude beaches, but nude swimming is tolerated at more secluded spots, such as Laperda Beach and some bays on the west coast, where the remoteness provides natural privacy anyway.
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