When people hear Zakynthos, they instantly picture Navagio Beach – that dramatic cove with the rusty shipwreck and turquoise water that floods every Instagram feed. But here’s my secret: Zakynthos is so much more than a photogenic beach. It’s an island where Venetian history meets Ionian charm, where tiny mountain villages sell homemade honey, and where – if you’re lucky – you might just spot a Caretta Caretta turtle swimming in the wild.
And that’s what makes Zakynthos unforgettable: yes, it’s picture-perfect, but it also comes with a responsibility. This guide will show you the best beaches and villages to visit, plus everything you need to know about the turtles and how to protect them.
Zakynthos is spoiled with beaches – from wild and dramatic to shallow and family-friendly. Here are the ones worth putting on your list:
Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach) – Only accessible by boat and probably the most photographed beach in Greece. The view from the cliff above is unreal, but please stay safe (tourists sometimes get a little too adventurous for that perfect selfie).
Gerakas Beach – Part of the National Marine Park, this beach is a prime nesting site for the turtles. Calm, sandy, and protected.
Kalamaki Beach – Shallow waters, ideal for kids, but also part of turtle territory – so respect the rules.
Agios Nikolaos Beach – For those who want a mix of sunbeds, water sports, and cocktails.
Porto Limnionas – A natural rocky cove with crystal-clear waters, amazing for snorkeling.
Porto Roxa – Wild, dramatic, and perfect for sunset lovers.
Marathonisi (Turtle Island) – Shaped like a turtle and surrounded by turquoise water. Magical, yes. But beware: many boat tours here disturb the real turtles – more on that below.
🏡 Villages Worth Visiting
Beyond the beaches, Zakynthos has some charming villages that feel worlds away from the tourist crowds:
Bochali – Just above Zakynthos Town, famous for sunset views and Venetian castle ruins.
Keri Village – A quiet, traditional spot with views of the Keri Caves.
Volimes – Known for honey, olive oil, and handmade textiles. Perfect place to buy local souvenirs.
Anafonitria – Home to the Monastery of Agios Georgios Krimnon, surrounded by history and tradition.
Zakynthos Town (Zante Town) – The island’s capital, full of Venetian architecture, lively squares, and a beautiful harbor promenade.
🐢 The Magic of the Caretta Caretta Turtles
Here’s where Zakynthos becomes extra special: it’s one of the most important nesting sites for the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) in the entire Mediterranean. Every summer, the turtles return to lay their eggs on the sandy shores of Laganas Bay, Gerakas, and Kalamaki.
Sadly, these ancient creatures are endangered. Mass tourism, bright lights, boat traffic, and careless beachgoers threaten their survival.
This is where Archelon, the Sea Turtle Protection Society of Greece, steps in. They monitor nests, educate tourists, and run volunteer programs. If you’d like to make a difference, you can donate or even volunteer during your stay. 👉 Archelon Website for Donations
🚫 Turtle Etiquette: Do’s & Don’ts
If you’re visiting Zakynthos during turtle season (June–August), there are a few golden rules to follow. Think of them as common sense with a Greek twist:
Don’t go to nesting beaches at night. Female turtles need darkness and quiet to lay eggs.
Don’t step on marked nests. You’ll recognize them by wooden frames or wire cages.
No lights, no fireworks, no beach parties. Artificial light confuses hatchlings – they follow the moonlight to the sea.
Avoid “Turtle Chasing” boat tours. Many operators crowd the animals, stressing them.
If you see one in the water: keep your distance. Don’t touch, don’t follow – just float and enjoy the moment.
👉 Remember: the turtles don’t need a selfie with you for their Instagram feed.
🌊 Sustainable Ways to Enjoy Zakynthos
You don’t need to ride a speedboat to have fun here. Instead, choose experiences that don’t harm the greek island’s ecosystem:
Rent a kayak or paddleboard instead of joining mass boat tours.
Visit the Zakynthos National Marine Park for eco-friendly information and activities.
Support local businesses – buy honey, wine, or olive oil from family shops in Volimes instead of supermarkets.
Stay in small guesthouses or eco-hotels instead of mega-resorts.
Traveling responsibly doesn’t mean less fun – it means your kids and grandkids will still get to see turtles one day.
Blue Caves – Natural sea caves where the water turns the most surreal shades of blue.
Keri Caves – Spectacular grottos best explored by kayak or a responsible boat tour.
Byzantine Museum in Zakynthos Town – Culture, icons, and island history.
Askos Stone Park – A family-friendly nature park with native animals and plants.
❓ Zakynthos FAQ
When is the best time to visit Zakynthos?
From May to October. June–August is turtle nesting season, September is quieter but still warm.
Can you swim with turtles?
No official tours allow this, and you shouldn’t try. If you’re lucky enough to spot one while snorkeling, admire it from a distance.
Where can I see turtles in Zakynthos?
The best chance is at Gerakas, Laganas, or Kalamaki beaches – but only from the shore. Never disturb them.
How do I get to Shipwreck Beach?
Only by boat. Trips leave from Porto Vromi, Agios Nikolaos, and Zakynthos Town. Find you boat trip here
Is Zakynthos good for families?
Yes. Kalamaki and Tsilivi are especially kid-friendly with shallow water.
How many days do I need in Zakynthos?
At least 4–5 to see the highlights, a week if you want to relax.
Is Zakynthos expensive?
Cheaper than Santorini or Mykonos. You’ll eat well for less, and accommodations are budget-friendly outside peak season.
How do I get around Zakynthos?
Best option: rent a car. Public buses exist but are limited.
Is Zakynthos safe?
Yes. Just drive carefully – the mountain roads are narrow and winding.
Iakinthos Tsilivi Beach Hotel
This hotel is located on the beach. Take advantage of the beach loungers, beach umbrellas, and beach towels at the sandy beach. Unwind and sip on a chilled cocktail at the beach bar. Some on-site activities to enjoy while you're visiting include surfing and paddleboarding. Noteworthy nearby activities include windsurfing and fishing.
Zakynthos is breathtaking – not just because of its famous beaches, but because of the life it protects. When you walk the sand at Gerakas or watch the sun set over Porto Roxa, you realize this island is more than a tourist hotspot. It’s a fragile ecosystem where ancient creatures still return every summer.
If you visit, enjoy it – but also protect it. Support organizations like Archelon, skip the harmful tours, and travel with respect.
Because once you’ve watched a baby turtle crawl into the Ionian Sea under the moonlight, you’ll understand why Zakynthos is unforgettable.
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