The Best Activities in Zakynthos: From Boat Trips to Snorkeling

Zakynthos surprised us and proved that crystal-clear blue waters don’t have to be far from home. In early July, we set off with three friends to this stunning island. Since it wasn’t peak season, we enjoyed a relaxed atmosphere without mass tourism. Plus, mid-summer can be extremely hot, but we had perfect weather. For us, this was the ideal travel time. During our 8-day vacation, we aimed to explore as much of the island as possible. And we succeeded! Every day brought new surprises and breathtaking views.

Our Stay and Transport

We stayed at Daisy Apartments, a small, well-maintained accommodation with friendly staff and all amenities within reach. However, we spent little time there because the island had so much to offer.

For transportation, we rented a car from Sunny Cars. It was convenient to pick it up directly at the airport. Zakynthos is wonderful to explore by car: the roads are good, though there are more curves and hills than we’re used to in the Netherlands. Tip: Always bring enough water and be prepared for narrow, winding roads in the mountains.

Relaxing Start at St. Nicholas Bay

Our first day began at St. Nicholas Bay in Vassilikos, a beautiful sandy beach with various watersport options. We enjoyed the tranquility, swam in the calm waters, and sipped a few cocktails. This beach is ideal for families and water sports enthusiasts. In the evening, we dined at Prosilio Restaurant in Zakynthos Town, a fine dining experience with high standards and delicious wines. After dinner, we explored the town and ended the night with a drink in one of the cozy bars on the square.

Spontaneous Boat Trip to Turtle Island

On Saturday, we initially planned to visit Cameo Island, but at the harbor of Agios Sostis, a passionate Greek convinced us to take a boat trip to Turtle Island (Marathonisi). This island is home to sea turtles, and with some luck, we even spotted one! Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and increase your chances of seeing turtles.

Next, we visited the impressive Keri Caves, where we snorkeled in crystal-clear waters. Bringing a snorkel is highly recommended, as the underwater world here is spectacular. Back at the harbor, we had lunch at a Greek restaurant and, in the evening, enjoyed breathtaking views and delicious food at Keri Lighthouse. This restaurant is famous for its panoramic sunsets.

Relaxing at Porto Roxa Beach

The next day, we visited Porto Roxa Beach, a rugged rocky beach with luxurious sunbeds and a stunning sea view. This beach is less touristy and perfect for those seeking peace. After a refreshing snorkeling session, we drove to Nobelos, a bio-restaurant with a small private beach in Agios Nikolaos. We had an amazing dinner there—our absolute favorite restaurant in Zakynthos. The ingredients come from their own garden, and the service is excellent! Read our full review.

Adventure on the Water: Renting a Boat

For some adventure, we rented a boat from Blu Boat Rentals. Our first stop was Shipwreck Beach, a popular attraction with azure waters. From our boat, we enjoyed the scenery without the crowds. Tip: If you want to experience the beach peacefully, go early in the morning or late in the afternoon. We then visited the Blue Caves and ended the day at an idyllic, secluded beach accessible only by boat.

The Enchanting Cameo Island

Still buzzing from our boat adventure, we finally visited Cameo Island. A wooden bridge, straight out of a postcard, led us to an idyllic beach with flowing white fabrics. This island is perfect for a romantic stop and offers a unique atmosphere. We then drove to Limnionas Beach, located on the west coast near the village of Keri. The beach has crystal-clear waters and is surrounded by steep cliffs, giving it a peaceful and secluded feel. It’s perfect for those looking to swim and relax in a serene environment. Although the beach has limited facilities, it offers a tranquil atmosphere and stunning views. Limnionas is a great spot for snorkeling due to its clear waters and rocky underwater landscape.

We had a delicious tapas dinner at Essence, a hidden gem in Zakynthos Town.

Horseback Riding on the Beach

A new experience awaited us: a horseback riding excursion with Laganas Horse Riding. We followed a scenic trail through a charming village and arrived at a secluded rocky beach with no one else in sight. Our guide, an experienced local, knew the area like the back of his hand. Once we reached a spot where the beach was less rocky, it was time to remove the saddles and change into our swimsuits. Standing in bikinis, we prepared for a unique experience—swimming with horses. The guide led us into the water and provided clear instructions. He explained that sitting upright was too strenuous for the horses. As the water deepened, he signaled us to hold onto the horse’s neck and lie on its back. A magical moment! This activity is perfect for both semi-beginners and experienced riders. After this special experience, we returned to the ranch and ended the day with a delicious meal at Zakanthi in Kalamaki, a cozy taverna serving authentic Greek dishes.

A Relaxing End at Banana Beach

On our last day, we visited Banana Beach, a vast sandy beach located on the southwest coast near Vasilikos. Banana Beach is one of the most famous and beautiful beaches on the island. It’s a stunning sandy beach surrounded by green hills. The beach features crystal-clear waters and offers both a busier, family-friendly area with sunbeds and watersports, as well as a quieter section for more relaxation. Easily accessible, Banana Beach is an ideal place for swimming, sunbathing, enjoying watersports, or simply relaxing with a cold cocktail in hand.

For our final dinner, we reserved a table at Cave Damianos, located in the picturesque village of Keri. Cave Damianos is known for its traditional Greek dishes, including fresh seafood, grilled meats, and local specialties made with fresh ingredients. The restaurant has a warm, friendly atmosphere and is popular among both locals and tourists, making it a fantastic choice for an authentic dining experience on the island. Not only did this restaurant offer delicious food, but also a magical sunset. Highly recommended!

Tip: Book a table with a sunset view in advance for an unforgettable evening.

A perfect ending to our adventurous vacation. One thing is certain: we will definitely return to this beautiful island!