Welcome to our guide on the Zakynthos map with beaches. This island is full of stunning coastal views. It covers 406 km² and has a 123 km coastline. Zakynthos is famous for its sandy beaches, beautiful scenery, and marine life.
As you explore the zakynthos beach map, you’ll find beaches for everyone. From lively Laganas to peaceful Gerakas, there’s something for everyone. Our guide shows you the best spots and nearby attractions. It helps you find the perfect beach for adventure or relaxation.
Key Takeaways
- The coastline of Zakynthos measures about 123 km, offering diverse beach experiences.
- Zakynthos is home to many beaches, with the east coast featuring the highest number, primarily sandy.
- The National Marine Park is a highlight, known for its Caretta Caretta turtle population.
- Popular beaches like Banana Beach and St. Nicholas Beach are perfect for water sports activities.
- Each beach provides unique characteristics, from the rocky west coast to the vibrant tourist areas.
Overview of Zakynthos Island
Zakynthos is a beautiful Greek island in the Ionian Sea. It has stunning natural beauty, a lively culture, and lots of things to do. The island is 406 km² with a 154 km coastline. It has rocky cliffs and sandy beaches that attract many visitors.
May to October is the best time to visit Zakynthos. The weather is warm and sunny, with little wind. This makes it perfect for enjoying the beaches and attractions. The winters are mild with some rain, a nice change from the summer.
The capital city, also named Zakynthos, is the heart of the island. It has many hotels and houses for accommodation. This makes it easy to get to the beaches.
There are lots of places to eat, with six recommended restaurants. They serve local and international dishes. Renting a motorcycle, ATV, or car is the best way to see the island.
The island’s charm comes from its language and currency. Greek is the main language, but many speak English. The Euro is used, and most places accept credit cards.
Getting to Zakynthos is easy, thanks to the nearby airport. The map shows important places like Agios Leontas and Alykanas. The beaches of Agios Nikolaos and Navagio are famous for their beauty.
For those who love adventure, there’s a lot to do. Renting a boat is a great way to see the Blue Caves. You can also visit local vendors and watch stunning sunsets. Zakynthos has something for everyone, making it a magical place in Greece.
Understanding Zakynthos Geography
Zakynthos is shaped like a triangle, dividing the island into three main areas: West, East, and South Coasts. This unique shape offers a variety of experiences, from beautiful beaches to lively marine life. With an area of 410 km2, it’s the third largest Ionian island, boasting a 123 km (76 miles) coastline.
Vrachionas, at 758 m, is Zakynthos’ highest point, offering stunning views. Skopos, at 496 m, is another peak that attracts hikers. The mountains and over a million olive trees add to the island’s beauty. Many of these olive trees are over a thousand years old, showing the island’s rich farming history.
Zakynthos has a Mediterranean climate, with sunny summers and mild winters. It’s a great place to visit all year round. The island is home to endangered Caretta Caretta turtles, especially in Laganas Bay. The bay’s sandy beaches are a safe haven for these turtles. The Zakynthos National Marine Park shows the island’s dedication to protecting its environment.
About 40,000 people live on the island, with many in the lively capital. Visitors can enjoy the local culture in tavernas and shops. The east coast has rocky beaches and blue caves, while the west coast is famous for its fjords and Navagio Beach.
Zakynthos is a unique blend of geography, wildlife, and culture. It invites everyone to explore and appreciate its natural beauty.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Shape | Triangular |
| Area | 410 km2 |
| Highest Point | Vrachionas (758 m) |
| Population | About 40,000 inhabitants |
| Coastline Length | 123 km (76 mi) |
| Major Nesting Sites | Laganas Bay, Gerakas Bay, Marathonisi Beach |
| Climate | Mediterranean, sunny and dry summers |
| Tourist Attractions | Natural springs, caves, and historic sites |
Main Features of the Zakynthos Map
The Zakynthos map offers a detailed look at the island’s stunning coastline, about 123 km long. It highlights the best beaches, from hidden coves to public spots. Visitors can easily find the famous Navagio Beach, known for its shipwreck and beautiful views.
The map also shows various attractions, rated by tourists. The eastern side is full of beaches, perfect for sun lovers. The west coast, though harder to reach, has gems like Porto Roxa and Filippoi.
Zakynthos is 406 km² and is a treasure trove for culture and geography enthusiasts. The map helps tourists find places to stay, eat, and enjoy activities like boat rentals and local shopping.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Coastline | Approximately 123 km, showcasing numerous beaches and coves. |
| Island Area | 406 km², making it the third largest of the Ionian Islands. |
| Popular Beaches | Xigia Sulfur Beach, Navagio Beach, St. Nicholas Beach, and Mizithres Beach. |
| Best Time to Visit | May through October, ideally for beach activities. |
| Currency | Euro, the standard currency used on the island. |
| Languages | Greek is the primary language; many locals speak fluent English. |
| Accommodation Types | Hotels and holiday homes available at various price ranges. |
Zakynthos is a mix of natural wonders and cultural treasures. Knowing the map’s main features helps visitors enjoy this magical island fully.
Zakynthos map with beaches
The zakynthos beach map is key for exploring the island’s beautiful coastline and beaches. With a coastline of about 123 km and an area of 406 km², Zakynthos has many beach options. The island is divided into three main areas: the West Coast, East Coast, and South Coast, including the Marine Park.
The West Coast has few beaches you can reach by land. Shipwreck Beach is famous for its stunning views. Other favourites are Korakonisi and Porto Roxa. On the other hand, the East Coast has the most beaches, like Banana Beach and St. Nicholas Beach, perfect for everyone.
The South Coast is home to the National Marine Park, where endangered Loggerhead turtles live. Beaches like Dafni and Gerakas are special, thanks to WWF volunteers who protect turtle nests. This park is a big part of the island, showing its ecological importance.
The zakynthos beach map helps you find each area’s special charm. From lively Laganas to quiet spots with clear waters, every beach is memorable. You can visit famous spots like Agios Nikolaos and Banana Beach, with its snack bars and watersports.
The map shows the different beaches and what makes them special. It’s a must-have for anyone wanting to see the best beaches Zakynthos has.
West Coast Beaches of Zakynthos
The west coast of Zakynthos is known for its beautiful and secluded beaches. These beaches have rocky terrains and clear waters. They attract those who want peace away from busy places.
Getting to these beaches can be tricky. You might need a boat or a path from nearby villages. Some of the top beaches include:
- Plakaki
- Porto Roxa
- Porto Limnionas
- Porto Stenitis
- Porto Vromi
- Navagio
Porto Vromi is special because it has two bays. These bays are where you can catch a ferry to Navagio Beach and caves. Navagio Beach is famous for its stunning views and is often called the most photographed beach in Greece.
Visitors to the west coast beaches can have different experiences. Some beaches have sun loungers and umbrellas. Others are untouched, offering a simple, natural setting. Gerakas Beach is a sandy beach known for its shallow waters and as a home for endangered sea turtles.
Beaches like Alykes offer water sports for those who love the sea. The best time to visit is from May to October. The weather is warm, perfect for relaxing and having fun.
| Beach | Access Type | Facilities | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Navagio Beach | Boat only | Minimal | Famous shipwreck, stunning views |
| Porto Vromi | Road and boat | Loungers, umbrellas | Two bays, ferry access to caves |
| Gerakas Beach | Road | Minimal | Caretta-Caretta nesting site |
| Kalamaki Beach | Road | Loungers, refreshment spots | Warm shallow waters, turtle sightings |
The west coast of Zakynthos is full of beautiful spots. It’s a must-see for anyone wanting to enjoy the best beaches Zakynthos has.
East Coast Beaches of Zakynthos
The east coast beaches of Zakynthos are filled with sandy shores, perfect for sun lovers. These zakynthos greece beaches offer a mix of relaxation and adventure. You’ll find something for everyone here. Some of the top beaches include:
- Banana Beach: It’s a family favourite with its long sandy area and calm waters. It’s great for kids.
- Xigia Beach: This beach is famous for its sulphur springs. It has rocky coastlines and clear waters perfect for snorkelling.
- Alykes Beach: It has a wide gulf and a long sandy stretch. You can enjoy water sports and grab a snack here.
- Alikanas Beach: It’s known for its large coastline. You can rent deckchairs and umbrellas, and take boat tours to the Blue Caves.
- Psarou Beach: If you’re looking for peace, Psarou Beach is quiet and has a long sandy strip.
- Tsilivi Beach: Tsilivi is lively with lots of water activities. You can rent water scooters and pedalos for fun.
- Argasi Beach: This small sandy area has an ancient submerged bridge. It adds history to its beautiful setting.
- Donkey Beach: It’s known for its calm atmosphere. The small sand amphitheatre is perfect for a quiet day.
- Porto Kaminia Beach: This beach is long and narrow. It has grass areas with sunshades and deckchairs for relaxing.
- Saint Nikolas Beach: It’s great for water sports like parasailing. The sandy shoreline and nearby taverns are a bonus.
- Plaka Beach: Plaka is quiet and offers sunshade and deckchair rentals. But it doesn’t have water sports facilities.
- Porto Roma Beach: It has a sandy shoreline and allows small boat access. It’s named after a local.
The east coast beaches of Zakynthos are not just beautiful. They also offer lots of activities for families and adventure lovers. The area comes alive in July and August, making every visit exciting and fun.
South Coast Beaches and Marine Park
The southern coast of Zakynthos is known for its beautiful sandy beaches and the Zakynthos Marine Park. This area, covering 89 km², protects endangered species like the Caretta caretta sea turtle. Beaches like Gerakas and Dafni are special because of their turtle nesting activities.
Sekania beach is a key spot in the marine park. It’s 650 meters long and is home to 50% of turtle nests. It’s closed to the public for conservation. Dafni beach is 850 meters long, and Gerakas beach is 600 meters long. Marathonisi Island beach is smaller but still beautiful, with a 150-meter stretch and a limit of 200 visitors.
Kalamaki beach is the longest at 3,500 meters and is well-kept. Park volunteers clean it daily. The marine park limits boat speed to 6 nautical miles. Visitors must stay 15 meters away from turtles.
Activities like fishing and using umbrellas too close to the shore are banned. This helps protect the environment. The park is divided into zones A, B, C, and D to manage it effectively.
| Beach Name | Length (meters) | Visitor Limit | Nesting Activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sekania Beach | 650 | Not Open | 50% of Turtle Nests |
| Dafni Beach | 850 | No Limit | Active Nesting |
| Gerakas Beach | 600 | 350 | Active Nesting |
| Marathonisi Beach | 150 | 200 | Important Nesting Site |
| Kalamaki Beach | 3,500 | No Limit | Popular |
Exploring Popular Zakynthos Beaches
Zakynthos is famous for its beautiful coastline. It invites visitors to explore its beaches, each with its own charm. Shipwreck Beach, or Navagio Beach, is a top spot. It’s known worldwide for its stunning views and turquoise waters.
To get to Shipwreck Beach, you need a boat trip. The beach is surrounded by steep cliffs. Many tour companies offer affordable boat trips. But, it gets crowded, especially in peak seasons. Visiting early can make for a quieter experience.
Zakynthos has more than just Shipwreck Beach. Porto Limnionas Beach is known for its natural beauty and clear waters. Alykanas Beach is great for snorkelling, with its clear waters and marine life.
Banana Beach has fine golden sand, perfect for families. Gerakas Beach has gentle waters for swimming. Keri Beach is picturesque, and Laganas Beach is lively.
| Beach Name | Features | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Shipwreck Beach | Iconic shipwreck, crystal-clear waters | Boat trips, photography, swimming |
| Porto Limnionas | Rock formations, natural beauty | Swimming, sunbathing |
| Alykanas Beach | Clear waters, snorkelling | Snorkelling, swimming |
| Gerakas Beach | Smooth entrance, clear waters | Swimming, relaxation |
| Laganas Beach | Long stretch of sand, vibrant atmosphere | Water sports, nightlife |
Xigia Sulfur Beach has unique natural features. Psarou Beach has clear waters for swimming. Paralia Alikes is great for families, with its gentle slope. Exploring Zakynthos beaches shows the island’s beauty. Don’t forget to book accommodation nearby for easy access.
Best Sandy Beaches in Zakynthos
Zakynthos is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches. These beaches are perfect for those who love the sun, relaxation, and fun in the water. Several beaches in Zakynthos are especially popular because of their natural beauty and the facilities they offer.
Kalamaki Beach is just 6 km south of Zakynthos Town. It has a long sandy beach that’s great for families. The water is shallow, making it safe for kids. The beach has sun loungers and restaurants nearby, making it a top choice in Zakynthos.
Laganas Beach is another key spot. It’s lively and loved by young people, especially English tourists. The beach has a big sandy area with beach bars and water sports. This makes it one of the best sandy beaches in Zakynthos.
Navagio Beach, or Shipwreck Beach, is unique. You can only get there by boat. The views and the famous shipwreck are breathtaking. Although the sandy area is small, it’s surrounded by steep cliffs.
Gerakas Beach is also a highlight. It’s 18 km south of Zakynthos Town and is known for its turtle nesting grounds. It’s a special place where you can relax and learn about conservation.
Tsilivi Beach is great for families. It’s 7 km northwest of Zakynthos Town. The beach has a long sandy area and lots of water sports. It’s lively and loved by both locals and tourists.
In summary, Zakynthos has many beautiful sandy beaches. From Laganas’ lively atmosphere to Kalamaki’s calm, there’s something for everyone. Exploring these beaches is sure to give you unforgettable memories.
How to Use the Zakynthos Beach Map
Exploring Zakynthos’ beaches is fun with the right map. The island’s 123 km coastline has many beaches to discover.
It’s key to know the map’s symbols. They show different beaches, amenities, and landmarks. This helps plan your trip, whether you want quiet spots or busy ones like Porto Roma and Porto Zoro.
Make a personal beach plan with the map. Pick beaches based on what you like. For example, Xigia Beach has sulfur springs, and Gerakas Beach is great for turtle watching.
Think about how you’ll get around. Note which beaches have loungers, bars, or sports. Laganas Beach is lively, while Dafni Beach is peaceful.
Use local tips on the map to find special spots. This way, you’ll discover hidden treasures. Using the map well will make your trip to Zakynthos unforgettable.
Tips for Visiting Beaches in Zakynthos
When planning your trip to Zakynthos, consider visiting during the off-season. April, May, or September are great months. They offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists, perfect for relaxing on the stunning beaches.
June is also popular, with daily temperatures around 30 degrees Celsius. However, be prepared for larger crowds and higher accommodation prices as peak season arrives.
While exploring the beaches, remember to pack essentials. Sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water are must-haves to stay hydrated. Renting a car is a good option, with prices around $30 per day. It allows you to reach hidden gems and enjoy the local scenery.
Alternatively, tourist coach buses are available for those preferring a guided experience.
Lastly, be sure to sample the local cuisine near beach areas. Many tavernas offer delightful dishes that celebrate the island’s rich culinary heritage. Respecting nature and local customs will enhance your experience. It makes your visit to Zakynthos not just a holiday but a meaningful journey through this captivating destination.
