Explore Zakynthos Island: Greece’s Ultimate Seaside Escape

Picture this: Zakynthos (or Zante – locals use both names!), the sun-drenched southernmost gem of Greece’s Ionian islands. This place beautifully balances its wild heart with just the right touch of traveler-friendly spots. While parts of the island pulse with energy, much of Zante remains an emerald paradise where pine forests meet crystal waters – proof you can have both vibrancy and untouched beauty in one unforgettable getaway.

Unmissable Zakynthos Experiences

Let’s start with beaches – Zakynthos’ crown jewels. Navagio (Shipwreck Beach) deserves its fame: imagine rusting hulls contrasted against electric-blue waters in a cliff-ringed cove. For wildlife magic, Marathonisi beach offers potential turtle sightings amid powder-soft sand. But Zakynthos isn’t just about sunbathing.

Trade your towel for hiking boots at Venetian Castle – wander through ruins with cannons peering over cliffside views. Families love Tsilivi Water Park’s slides, while sunset seekers head to Pure Beach Club for cocktails with golden-hour views.

Zakynthos’ Diverse Landscapes

This island serves three distinct moods:

• Northwest: Dramatic cliffs where mountains meet the sea
• Central Plains: Vineyard-dotted heartland producing local wines
• East & South Coasts: Lively resorts nestled in sheltered bays

Heading south? Laganás buzzes with nonstop energy from Easter through October. Prefer peace? Seek smaller resorts near Zakynthos Town or the pristine Yérakas beach on Vassilikós peninsula – golden sand without the crowds.

Getting to Zakynthos Made Simple

By Air: Zakynthos International Airport (in Laganás) welcomes direct flights from major European cities and Greek domestic routes.

By Sea:

• From Kefalonia: Summer ferries (1.5hrs) from Pessada port to Zante’s Shinari port
• From Mainland Greece: Year-round ferries from Killini in the Peloponnese (1hr journey)

Local Flavors & Hidden Gems

Sip crisp Popolaro white wine at family-run vineyards before honey-kissed mandoláto nougat satisfies your sweet tooth. Evenings come alive with kantádhes – soulful folk ballads blending Greek and Italian influences in cozy tavernas.

Nature lovers take note: Laganás Bay shelters endangered loggerhead turtles. These ancient mariners nest here between May and August – respect protected zones for magical wildlife encounters.

Protecting Zakynthos’ Sea Turtles

Loggerhead turtles face challenges from booming tourism. Here’s how you can help protect them while enjoying your holiday:

• Restrict beach visits to daylight hours at nesting sites (Laganás/Yérakas)
• Avoid marked nesting zones – never place umbrellas here
• Remove all beach litter (even small items can trap hatchlings)
• Keep night-time lights away from nesting beaches
• Obey 9kph speed limits in Laganás Bay
• Never touch nests or baby turtles

Supporting conservation means future travelers can witness turtles nesting – a truly magical alternative to typical beach activities!

Navagio Beach, Zakynthos © Neirfy / Shutterstock