Looking for top luxury hotels in Zakynthos? Enjoy white beaches, sea turtles and a party atmosphere that make Zakynthos, or Zante, a favorite vacation destination in the Ionian Sea.
Zakynthos is home to the worldwide famous Navagio (Shipwreck) beach and is one of the most popular Greek islands. Breathtaking landscapes, exotic beaches with sugar-fine sand and turquoise waters and crazy nightlife are the main reasons why this island is wildly popular.
So indulge in a swim at the famous Shipwreck Beach, watch the sunset from the cliffs of Keri and Kryoneri, listen to the islanders sing their cantatas and see the endangered caretta caretta sea turtles lay their eggs in the island’s white sands. Welcome to your holidays in Zakynthos, the Ionian island that has it all. Visit the most amazing beaches of Greece here, or on Pinterest.
Zakynthos Weather – When to Visit
The best time to visit Zakynthos is during the spring and autumn, where you will find the most temperate climate of any season. The winter may be too rainy for some travelers, but it’s an excellent option if you’re looking to enjoy a milder experience with only occasional highs nearing 86 °F.
Summer on Zakynthos is perfect for swimming in the beautiful beaches, water sports are plentiful, and watching gorgeous sunsets. However, Zakynthos does become very busy during summertime tourism, and finding your spot on the beach might be a little difficult.
For most people, the best time to visit Zakynthos is from March through May (mid 60s to lower 70s) and September until early December (mid 60s to mid 80s). The weather is pleasant with nice temperatures perfect for sightseeing without being too hot or humid.
Best Zakynthos Beaches
Navagio (Shipwreck Beach)
This is one of the most well-known of the island’s beaches, so expect it to be busy if you are visiting in high season. However, that does not detract from the stunning cliffs that surround this western facing beach or the great waters and enticing sand. It is accessible only by boat, but you will find water taxi’s leaving most hours of the day.
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Gerakas Beach
Considered among the most beautiful beautiful beaches of Zakynthos, the long sandy beach of Gerakas has wonderful crystalline waters. There is a convenient free parking lot which puts you right next to the path to this little slice of paradise.
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Kalamaki Beach
Kalamaki is the closest beach to the airport and among the most developed resorts in Zakynthos Town. It gets very popular and has plenty of tourist facilities. The area is protected, and the locals are proud of the fact this is a natural rather than man-made.
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Porto Zoro Beach
Surprisingly quieter than a lot of the other top beaches you will love the gorgeous scenery here. With perfect swimming waters nestled in breathtaking beautiful rock formations, this really is a hidden gem. Should the mood take you, there are some rental rooms just a stone’s throw away so you can wake up next to this glorious beach.
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Agios Nikolaos
Named after the chapel found to the left of the beach, Agios Nikolaos Beach is another busy beach that attracts lots of people. There are plenty of water-based activities and other typical tourist facilities, and you will find a great selection of sunbeds and umbrellas for those who prefer to bask and watch from the safety of the shore.
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Best Zakynthos Tours & Activities
Small Group Tour to Navagio Shipwreck Beach Blue Caves & Top View
Combine mysterious shipwrecks and with crystal-clear waters and sulfur-filled hot springs on this action-packed beach crawl. Other highlights include a visit to the region’s blue caves in a glass-bottomed boat, two panoramic lookout points over Navagio shipwreck, and a photo stop along stunning Cameo, or “Wedding Island.” Book Your Tour to Navagio Shipwreck Beach, Blue Caves & Top View Here.
Turtle Spotting Cruise in Zakynthos
Cruise through the sparkling blue waters of the Ionian Sea on this wildlife and sightseeing cruise from Zakynthos. Spot native loggerhead turtles swimming in Laganas Bay, and take in views of Marathonisi, nicknamed ‘Turtle Island’ thanks to its resemblance to the adorable hard-shelled creatures. Get close to the fantastic rock formations of Keri Caves, where you can splash into the crystal-clear waters straight from the boat. https://beachtraveldestinations.com/hmorBook Your Turtle Spotting Cruise Here.
Zakynthos Smugglers Cove Full-Day Cruise
Sail to Smugglers Cove, also called Shipwreck Beach, along Zakynthos’ coast on this full-day cruise. Board a sightseeing boat in Zante Town and relax as you cruise past beaches and resorts. Pass the Blue Caves, drop anchor off Smugglers Cove to swim and soak in the views, and then cruise back to port with another swim stop on route. Book Your Full-Day Smugglers Cove Cruise Here.
ATV Safari in Zakynthos Greece
This activity provides to our guests an amazing prospect of Off-road mountain tracks with the chance to visit old Monasteries, breathtaking view spots with the full educated tour guide about the history of Zakynthos Island. Passing by the verdant region of Vassilikos with its stunning panoramic sceneries and most magnificent beaches of Zakynthos such as Porto Azzuro, Banana, St Nicholas, and Gerakas. We drive, with safety, through isolated beaches, traditional Greek farms, and Venetian monuments. Book Your ATV Safari Here.
Half Day Trip-Turtles and Keri Caves
Zakynthos is known as a breeding ground for the endangered loggerhead (Caretta caretta) sea turtle. Immerse in their watery world on this small-group day trip to southern Zakynthos. Visit the nesting beach of Kalamaki, look for turtles from a glass-bottom boat, and swim at Marathonisi (Turtle Island) and the Keri Caves. Wrap up with a photo stop at Cameo Island and a visit to the Aristeon Ecological Olive Press. Book Your 1/2 Day Turtles & Caves Tour Here.
Best Zakynthos Restaurants
Prosilio $11 – 30
Gourmet dinner-only restaurant, with a boutique interior and a romantic garden courtyard. The hushed atmosphere may be unusual, but the service is relaxed and friendly, and if you love Greek food you’re sure to relish inventive dishes such as Greek blue-crab risotto. The wine list abounds in well-priced local choices. Telephone: 30 2695 022040 Web: Prosilio
Malanos $11 – 30
This much-loved family-run tavern, set amid fields on the southern outskirts of town 2km from the center, is renowned island wide for its huge portions of rich local favorites such as rooster, rabbit and wild boar, served at simple, plaid-clothed tables. For an authentic Greek dining experience it’s unbeatable. Telephone: 30 26950 45936 Web: Malanos
Cross Tavern $11 – 30
Perched above the west-coast cliffs at the end of the road that climbs beyond Kambi, and marked by a huge white Christian cross, this top-notch tavern extends over terraces, so diners can enjoy views so stunning they’ll understand why someone built such a big cross here. The menu covers all bases, from omelettes to baked standards and grilled fish. Telephone: 30 697 333 4560
Allegro $11 – 30
Don’t expect to get much of a say in what you eat at this delightful, very welcoming tavern-cafe on Keri’s village square. The chatty woman who runs it will likely take one look at you and decide what you’re going to like. Fortunately, she’s normally right! Whatever you have, it’ll be good, home-cooked local food. Telephone: 30 697 926 1627
Nobelos Bio Restaurant $11 and Up
This exquisitely romantic restaurant is built into and around the rocks beside the private beach of its namesake boutique hotel. The irresistible setting is the main reason to come here, along with the sunset cocktail menu, but the Italian-Greek food is reliably good, with lots of seafood pasta options and meaty stews. Telephone: 30 26950 31400 Web: Nobelos Bio Restaurant
Best Zakynthos Bars
Dilemma Bar
Ice cold draught beers, a choice of coffee and ice creams offer a perfect escape for the summer. Dilemma appeals to all age groups. Every Thursday and Saturday nights the bar tests your luck with Bingo and other games. The bar is located within a short distance from Alykanas Beach. Telephone: 30 26950 83605
DNA Bar
DNA bar in Alykanas is famous for its friendly staff, great shots and wild drinks. Nikos, the owner of the bar, is an expert in the entertainment of his guests. Telephone: 30 694 760 4784
Fever Bar
Vivid lighting and wonderful drinks are just two of the reasons why the Fever Bar is so popular. This venue is also family friendly, which means that everyone can have fun. Darts and pool enthusiasts are more than welcome.
Argo Bar
Argo is located on the main street of Laganas, one of the most famous tourist areas in Zakynthos. Argo offers an extended cocktail list, which includes about 75 different cocktail options.
Captain Morgan
Captain Morgan is a place with excellent drinks and light snacks. The bar is situated on the busy resort of Laganas. During the day, it works as a relaxing cafeteria and at nights you can have a drink listening to music. Telephone: 30 26950 52240
Top Luxury Hotels in Zakynthos
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Hey I love this website, always a pleasure to stop by and see a new post promoting extravagant locations. Those bars sound pretty sweet, I would like to know if the first one, the Dilemna bar offers any mixed drinks with ice cream. I remember making banana splits for Christmas and they were alcohol infused, pretty sweet
Shipwreck beach is definitely a place I need to check out!
I’m not sure about the drink with ice cream at the Dilemna Bar. I will have to find out for you. And yes, Shipwreck Beach is a place to visit while in Zakynthos! Thanks for your visit and for taking the time to leave me comments.
Thanks for saving me soooo much time reserching about Greek beaches! It is my dream to go there on vacations (been saving for the last 4 years to go there with my wife). We were thinking of going to Italy first, about a week and then to Greece, but after reading this article I believe we will do the whole two weeks in Greece. Thanks for the tips on restaurants and costs!!!
You are very welcome, Johnny. Glad I could help 🙂
These beaches are very beautiful. I went on a cruise before to the bahamas and I loved the clear waters. I loved the calm waters and light breeze. The sun kept things warm enough. I went in late august. So you have a point about skipping the parts of the seasons with less friendly weather.
I like the way you gave a decent number of beaches in the area that could make for equally great options if I wanted to adventure to multiple beaches during a week long vacation. I really love the amenities such as the multitude of restaurants and bars you can frequent. You have an option to lounge around or party like a rock star. This would eb a really great trime to never forget.
Thanks so much Alex. I am glad you enjoyed your visit to Beach Travel Destinations.
I can honestly say that the theme song for your website could be: The Beach Boys.
Aside from that, I would love to take a cruise on these beach waters because I love being near water, feeling the wind, seeing the wildlife around me, and indulging in stays at luxury hotels too. Beaches to me = untouched paradise for humans no matter the age.
Wishing you all the best with your online success Above Beyond the Horizon,
~Angelina Jolina
It could be the Beach Boys! Maybe I should have that playing while visitors are visiting 😀 I am glad you enjoyed your visit to beach travel destinations Angel. Thanks for taking the time to leave me comments as well.
Wow, I hadn’t even heard of Zakynthos before landing on your article but this beach destination looks outstanding! I’d love to take a cruise to explore a good bit of the area and then relax to a luxury hotel overnight. I love the options with the beautiful pools, but with beaches so beautifully inviting, I may opt to do all my swimming at the beach!
I love the beach, and I always think I want a pool too, but I always spend all of my time at the beach. And shoot, it is just so beautiful and so relaxing! Glad you enjoyed learning about Zakynthos. Thanks for visiting beach travel destinations.
Did you know that Zakynthos is mentioned in Homer’s Odyssey? I have been there twice and would like to share some interesting facts. The island is composed of fertile plains to the south and mountains to the west. It produces olive oil, grapes, and citrus fruits, such as oranges and lemons. And it has an airport, which is called Dionysos Solomos which is located to the southeast.
Thank you for sharing that Paolo! You are a lucky guy to have traveled to Zakynthos more than once. I did not know it was mentioned in Homer’s Odyssey 🙂 Thanks for the interesting facts!
Is this place better than Santorini? I have heard so many stories about Santoni and how amazing it is. If this place is better then it is somewhere I would definitely go for baecation. I will be sure to share this article with friends and family. I know a lot of people love traveling and would appreciate this
No, Zakynthos is actually an island of Greece to the West of Greece on the southern end.
Are there any shipwrecks at Shipwreck Beach? I think the cliffs and only-water-access are cool but shipwrecks would be even better! Kalamaki is the place for me as I love myself a bit of hustle and bustle but I would love to see these other beaches as well, I’d love to join up for the group tour to Navagio Shipwreck Beach Blue Caves. Thanks for posting!
Yes, if you look at the picture, you’ll see a huge ship on the shore that wrecked there many years ago. I think you would definitely enjoy the Navajo Shipwreck Beach Blue Caves. And I am glad you enjoyed my post on the top luxury hotels in Zakynthos.
Hi Leahrae! This was totally the perfect article to come across as I’m looking out my window and seeing many inches of snow! I had not heard of Zakynthos previously, but it looks absolutely beautiful, relaxing, and serene. My fiance and I love staying in luxury hotels when we travel for beach vacations, and I think you helped us plan our next one! Thank you!
Great Erica! Yes, I can see how this would look super inviting if you are looking at snow out your window! Thanks for visiting beach travel destinations.
Hi Leahrae, Love your post. This truly looks like a great holiday destination. The stunning white beaches and clear blue water is breathtaking. Thank you for the clear indication on the best time of the year to travel here. Now we can plan our next trip accordingly.
Thank you for this great informative post. Well done.
You are very welcome, Marlene. Thank you for visiting and taking the time to leave me comments.
Hi Leahrae,
Thanks a lot for your detailed list of places and things to do Zakynthos. All the beaches look stunning and the activities sound fun too. Your suggestions regarding the best time to visit are also appreciated! Looks like I need to go to Navagio no matter how packed it is as it looks amazing in the photo!
Thanks again,
Grace
You ar every welcome Grace. Please let me know if you need any additional information and thanks for visiting my Top Luxury Hotels in Zakynthos guide.
Well, I have to say that it has been a great day for reading about exotic places to be and am well glad that i actually stumbled upon your website here because it has been loaded with loads of amazing articles about all these wonderful nd exotic places to visit. Hopefully some day soon I will make it over the ocean to check these out.
Thanks
Karalyne
Yes, I hope you can visit some of the destinations as well. I very nice time, especially after the last 2 years we have all seen with covid.