The top 5 beaches in zakynthos

The Greek island of Zakynthos is known for its wild natural beauty, most notably its stunning beaches. Here’s the island’s five best beaches.

1.Shipwreck Beach

Accessible only by boat, the Shipwreck Beach (or Navagio in Greek) provides the perfect setting for those seeking clear, turquoise waters and white sand, all set between majestic cliffs. The beach owes its name to the MV Panagiotis ship, which washed up on its shore in 1980, and today still proves a major draw for visitors. Hop on a tourist boat and prepare to fight your way through the crowds during the summer, or opt for an off-season visit to better enjoy the scenery.

2.Makris Gialos

Equal parts sandy and pebbled, the beach of Makris Gialos combines the wilderness of a rocky landscape with the serenity of calm waters. The water here is impressively transparent and pretty deep, making Makris Gialos particularly popular among scuba divers. The beach is semi-organised with just a few sets of umbrellas and sunbeds, so you might consider bringing your own beach gear. You can, however, grab a bite at the little seaside fish tavernas, so there’s no risk of going hungry.

3.Porto Limnionas

With waters so calm and clear they resemble those of a swimming pool, Porto Limnionas is paradise on earth. Though not technically a beach, this sheltered spot offers exceptional swimming and diving, thanks to the green-blue crystalline sea and surrounding caves. The fjord-like cove is lined with flat rocks – lay your towel down here and soak up the sun, before scouring the seabed for marine life.

4.Gerakas

If you’re aiming for a quieter option without beach bars or water sports, then Gerakas could be your go-to beach. Part of the protected National Marine Park of Zakynthos, this long swathe of golden sand is home to the island’s Caretta Caretta (loggerhead sea turtles), who breed here. There’s even a chance you’ll witness an egg hatching, so be careful not to disturb the turtles during your visit. To ensure their safety, the beach is off limits half an hour before sunset and before sunrise.

5.Porto Zoro

Porto Zoro is one of Zakynthos’ prettiest beaches. It’s a narrow arc of shingle flanked by distinct rock formations. For all of its beauty, this beach remains quiet even at peak times of the year, with Porto Zoro attracting a more family-oriented crowd.Located 17 km from Zante town, this is by no means a remote beach and extremely well stocked with facilities including restaurants, bars, changing rooms and more. As with many beaches in Zakynthos, Porto Zoro benefits from transparent waters renowned for their shallowness, making swimming safe for the whole family.