Zakynthos

Zakynthos (Zante) – Cliffs, Caves & Caretta Caretta

Overview

Zakynthos is theatre in limestone: sheer cliffs, electric‑blue water and sea caves sliced into the coast. Families find easy sands in the south‑east, while younger crowds gravitate to the nightlife of Laganas. Boat trips to the Blue Caves and around the Shipwreck (Navagio) headland are a rite of passage, and the turtle‑nesting beaches of the National Marine Park add a note of natural significance. Choose base and timing carefully to match your mood—this is an island of contrasts.

Highlights

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Shipwreck (Navagio) viewpoint and boat circuit
Blue Caves near Agios Nikolaos
Marathonisi (Turtle Island) and Laganas Bay
Keri Caves and lighthouse viewpoint
Porto Limnionas and Porto Roxa for cliff swims
Vasilikos peninsula’s beaches
Cameo Island footbridge and cove

Pros and Cons

Pros

Dramatic coastal scenery
Mix of quiet coves and lively resorts
Family‑friendly options
Good availability of boat excursions
Value outside the party strip

Cons

Laganas can feel tacky/overcrowded
Navagio often busy and occasionally closed in rough seas
Narrow roads in parts
Peak‑season traffic
Some rocky water entries

Where to Stay

Laganas — Party hub on a long sandy bay
Kalamaki — Family base near the airport and turtle zone
Tsilivi — Balanced resort with dining
Argassi — Handy for Zakynthos Town
Alykes/Alykanas — Quieter northeast
Vasilikos — Low‑key peninsula with fine beaches

Food & Nightlife

Ionian cooking favours slow‑cooked meats (stifado), local cheeses and honey. Family tavernas are widespread; cocktails and clubs cluster in Laganas and, to a lesser extent, Tsilivi. Elsewhere evenings are low‑key—think grilled fish by a quiet cove.

Getting There

Direct summer flights are common; ferries from Kyllini on the Peloponnese run year‑round. A rental car makes reaching viewpoints and coves easy; boat trips depart from Porto Vromi, Agios Nikolaos and Laganas. Start early for Navagio to beat both wind and queues.

Best Time to Go

Hidden Gems

Korakonissi’s natural arch
Porto Stenitis’ quiet water
the ancient olive tree at Exo Chora
mountain‑village tavernas with balcony views.

Best For

Scenery; Boat trips; Nightlife; Families; Beaches

Our Ratings

Beaches

Culture

Food

Nightlife

Scenery

Value