Barts Best of: the most beautiful beaches of Zakynthos, Greece
'Beach' and 'Zakynthos'? Zakynthos is an island after allThose two do go together. We almost dare to put our finger on the fact that the brochure image of Navigation, either Shipwreck beach, or the fluttering linen cloths above the beach club island Cameo Island lured you to the island. Fortunately, you know Zakynthos more, much more, than just those beaches. From the steeper North, to the (pebble) bays along the West Coast and on to the wider sandy beaches in the North East: the -in our opinion- nicest beaches or Zante (Zakynthos) island.
Navagio Beach, or even more exciting 'Shipwreck Beach' is the island's tourist attraction. A visit to the island goes hand in hand with a trip to this beach. Just like visiting Paris for the first time, without a visit to the Eiffel Tower: that is not possible. Fortunately, Navagio is not tourist trap and it is really worth your visit. The beach can only be reached by boat, where you moor to enjoy the bright blue water for a day. And that wreckage? It's really there, but you can also see it with a quick glance ;). Tip: you can rent boats everywhere around Zakynthos. If the weather is good and the sea is calm, you can also sail to this beach with your own boat. If sailing is a hassle, you can always admire the beach from above.
Agios Sostis (Cameo Island): a bit further south you will find the coastal town of Agios Sostis. The beach here is narrow (snorkeling is highly recommended) and at first impression it is disappointing. Then continue walking to the entrance Cameo Island, which you reach via a footbridge (wet feet excluded). Here you can sit on the private beach of this beach bar.
Laganas Beach/kalamaki beach: If Cameo Island is full (or closed, this often happens unannounced), luckily Laganas Beach is still around the corner. Here you can relax on a wide beach and there is a good chance that you will spot turtles.
Xigia Beach – don't be fooled by the sulfur smell that meets you on the way to this beautiful beach. Xiga Beach is a natural spa because of the spring water that flows from the rocks into the water here. At the top of the mountain you park the car at the cantina and then walk down the path with all your beach gear. A small, but beautiful bay awaits you there. Hungry even though you've just laid down a towel? The food is hoisted down with a basket via the higher cantina. Sweet.
Dafni Beach – this beach can be found on the Vassilikos peninsula and is a typical child-friendly sandy beach. Low seabed, clear, but also: very beautiful. And also the home base for the Carretta Carretta turtles that lay their eggs there during the breeding months.
Banana beach – for the Greek beach bars is Bananas Beach the place to be. Banana Baya en Beach House are located on this stretch of the island's longest beach as you can imagine it is very busy during the summer period.
Makris Gialos – unlike the previously mentioned beaches, Makris Gialos is located in the north of the island. This part of Zakynthos is not known for its beautiful beaches, so Markis Gialos quickly becomes an exception to the rule. Because of the pebble beach (that is), the sea is incredibly clear and cooling during the warm hours of the day.
Port Limnionas – the west of Zakynthos is steep and almost this entire flank of the island consists of gigantic rock formations. Between these rocks, and with a little effort to reach the beach, you will suddenly come across Porto Limnionas. We cannot speak of a beach - except for a very small strip of pebble beach - but as clever as they are, a plateau has been created between the rocks with beds (be there early) or you can put your towel down at the rocks.
Porta Roxa – This beach is located almost next to Porto Limnionas (there is even a good road that connects both beaches) and can be reached via the same village. Four restaurants and beach bars are ready to provide you with tasty treats throughout the day. Especially during a hot summer day, you can quickly cool off in the deep blue sea water, the locals also understand that. And then swim between the rock walls.
Porto Azzuro – Looking for palm leaf parasols and beach beds? Go Porto Azzuro. In addition to the larger beach bars, you will have a great time here anyway. Take your snorkels in your bag and return late in the evening. Azzuro is wonderfully accessible and above all no hassle. Also nice and a good contrast with the bays which are a bit more difficult to reach.
