Home of the Most Famous Beach in Greece
Zakynthos — also known as Zante — is an Ionian island with a split personality. The north and west coasts are wild and largely unspoilt, with limestone cliffs dropping to pristine coves accessible only by boat. The east and south coasts are more developed, catering to the summer party crowd. For photographers and nature lovers, the northern half of the island is where the magic lives.
Top Spots
- Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach): The icon. An abandoned smuggler's ship rusts on a white pebble beach completely enclosed by vertical white limestone cliffs, accessible only by boat. The clifftop viewpoint above is the most dramatic vantage point — arrive very early or at dusk to avoid the crowds.
- Blue Caves: Sea caves at Cape Skinari where sunlight refracts through the water to bathe the cave walls in electric blue. Only reachable by small boat; early morning gives the best light.
- Laganas Bay — Loggerhead Turtles: Zakynthos is one of the Mediterranean's most important nesting sites for Caretta caretta loggerhead turtles. Guided night walks during nesting season (June–August) are a remarkable experience.
- Keri Cliffs: The southern equivalent of Navagio — sheer cliffs with sea arches and caves, best seen on a sunset boat trip.
- Zakynthos Town: Rebuilt after the 1953 earthquake in a Venetian-influenced style; the hilltop Bochali castle offers panoramic views over the bay.
Photography Tips
The Navagio clifftop shot requires a very early start — the viewpoint can be reached by road and the light is golden at sunrise. For the in-beach shot, hire a boat from Porto Vromi (15-minute crossing). The Blue Caves are best at 9–11 am before the sun moves. Bring a waterproof housing or dry bag for any boat-based shooting.
Practical Tips
- Based yourself in Tsilivi or Alykes for a good balance of amenities and proximity to northern sights.
- Avoid Laganas area if you want a quieter, more nature-focused experience.
- Hire a car or quad bike — the island's best spots are spread out.
- Ferry connections to Kefalonia and the Peloponnese mainland (Kyllini) are frequent.