A guide to the best beaches in Zante
Despite the famous nightlife and mouth-watering cuisine, the biggest draw for cheap holidays to Zante is probably its profusion of golden beaches. Almost all of the main resort towns – Laganas, Kalamaki, Argassi and Tsilivi – have their own splendid stretches of sand served by a clutch of beach bars and kiosks offering rental of all manner of beach gear. Watersports enthusiasts can head to Agios Nikolaos on the northern coast, where there is also ample opportunity for scuba diving and snorkelling. Here are a handful of the more highly recommended places to soak up some of the sun on your Zante holidays.
Navagio - Shipwreck Beach
Only accessible by boat, this scenic bay has become probably the most renowned of all beaches in Zante due to the shipwreck that gives it its name and the imposing cliffs that loom over it. The water is a little cooler here, meaning you probably won’t want to stay submerged for too long, but the views are incredible and the sand particularly soft. When it comes to Greek island holidays, it doesn’t get much better than this.
Laganas
Perched in front of the main nightlife hub of the island, Laganas is predictably popular with British tourists and thrives during the summer. Though watersports are severely restricted, beach games are certainly not and you’ll more than likely end up chasing a ball around the sand if you opt to visit here.
Kalamaki
Though not as boisterous as neighbouring Laganas, Kalamaki is still a hugely popular destination, particularly so with families and couples. The ample stretch of sand allows for plenty of room for sunbathers, and as with Laganas, watersports are restricted due to its location in the marine park. The flight path of aeroplanes overhead makes for an exhilarating if ear-splitting spectacle.
Argassi
Along with Kalamaki and Laganas, Argassi is probably the closest beach to the airport, meaning it sees its fair share of tourism too. The beach is a mix of sand and shingle and is well set up to cater for the influx of holidaymakers that hit the kilometre-long shores every summer.
Tsilivi
Another popular resort, Tsilivi is located well away from the marine park and as such is one of the principal spots on the island to partake in all manner of watersports. Its proximity to Zakynthos Town is another reason it’s so well liked by travellers of all ages and types.
Agios Nikolaos
Located at Vasilikos, Agios Nikolaos is the other watersports hotspot on Zante and draws a huge crowd looking to get wet and wild. The crystalline waters and varied flora and fauna beneath the surface of the waves mean it’s also popular with snorkellers and scuba divers.
Dafni
Due to its size and quality of sand, you’d expect Dafni to be just as busy with tourists as other beaches on the island. However, it’s hidden slightly off the beaten track, with those wishing to visit having to follow a dirt track for three kilometres or so out of Vasilikos. As such, it’s far more secluded and private than the resort options.
Though there’s not much by way of amenities at Porto Vromi – a few beach bars, kiosks or other facilities – this remoteness is perhaps the bay’s biggest attraction. It’s sandwiched between two verdant hills, offering scenic views up and down the bay. Boats depart from here for Navagio Beach on a daily basis.
Though there’s not much by way of amenities at Porto Vromi – a few beach bars, kiosks or other facilities – this remoteness is perhaps the bay’s biggest attraction. It’s sandwiched between two verdant hills, offering scenic views up and down the bay. Boats depart from here for Navagio Beach on a daily basis.