9 Amazing Zakynthos nature finds

Exploring Greece on wheels, especially on an island like Zakynthos, is one of the best ways to experience its stunning views, breathtaking beaches, and awe-inspiring caves. Bringing your vehicle can be a hassle, so renting a car or scooter gives you the freedom to move at your own pace, discover off-the-beaten-path spots, and avoid the inconvenience of bringing your own vehicle.

Before you hop on and ride into the sunset, it’s essential to create a solid plan, determine what is worth visiting, and follow a few practical tips. This will keep your journey both safe and enjoyable while exploring the beautiful nature of Zakynthos.

1. Planning your route in Zakynthos

Where do you start? How much time do you actually need to explore the island? What is worth visiting and what is not? There are many questions you should ask yourself when planning your route, so let’s take it step by step.

Best starting point: Zakynthos airport or town

These are the most common starting points for trips in Zakynthos. You should consider this when you rent a car, so you can choose a pick-up spot that suits you.

Zakynthos airport

Here you’ll find plenty of car rentals, shops, and fuel stations. It’s also more convenient if you’re staying nearby. Many people choose this as their go-to as they can secure the rental car and easily take a problem off their minds. At TopRentals, you can choose to drop the rental off at a spot different from the pick-up place, so you don’t need to worry about this. The airport is close to the town, about 4 km (2.5 miles) away, so you won’t be wasting much time on the road.

If you are not tired after the flight, here is a 2-3 hour route to start visiting as soon as you land:

Zakynthos airport → Cameo Island → Bochali Hill → Zakynthos Town

Cameo Island is famous for its picture-perfect views, turquoise water, and beach bar vibe. The entry fee is a few euros, but it’s worth it for the photos and atmosphere. At Bochali, you can stop for a coffee and enjoy the stunning panoramic view overlooking Zakynthos Town. If you want to stretch your legs, you can visit the remains of the Venetian Castle nearby. From Bochali, it’s a quick downhill drive into Zakynthos Town. If you take your time and enjoy every location, you need only about 3 hours for this route before you take a break at your hotel.

Zakynthos town

If you take the ferry from a nearby island like Kyllini, you will arrive right in town. If you prefer the way of the seas, you can choose the port as your starting point or even your hotel, and we will make sure your car or scooter is there waiting for you.

2. Fun things to do and see in Zakynthos

Marathonisi: Turtle Island

Marathonisi, also known as turtle island, gets its name from the turtle shape. It’s one of the last remaining breeding spots for loggerhead turtles in the Mediterranean. Here you can book a boat tour with a glass bottom so you can watch the turtles as you surf over them. While parts of the beach are off-limits, there are areas where you can swim and sunbathe. The southern side has sea caves perfect for snorkeling, including Keri Caves.

If you’re planning a visit, you should know that May to August is prime turtle nesting season, and female turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. This makes September the perfect time to watch the baby turtles hatch.

Beware of your footing. Avoid disturbing the nests and follow the posted guidelines.

Navagio Beach: Shipwreck Beach

Navagio Beach is one of the most iconic and photographed spots in all of Greece, and for good reason. Located on the northwest coast of Zakynthos, the beach is accessible only by boat, typically from Porto Vromi or Agios Nikolaos.

The beach gets its name from the MV Panagiotis, a smuggling ship that ran aground in 1980 during stormy weather. When it was abandoned by its crew, it was allegedly carrying contraband cigarettes. The rusted hull now sits dramatically on the white pebbled shore, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. The beach is one of the island’s main attractions for both history enthusiasts and sun lovers.

Although you can swim near the wreck, access to the actual beach is currently restricted due to landslide risks. Visitors can swim nearby but cannot land on the beach until at least October 31st, 2025.

Zakynthos Caves

There are many caves worth exploring, whether you want to snorkel or walk underground. Just a quick tip: there is not one place called „Blue Caves”. In Zakynthos, there are many caves called the blue caves.

Northern Blue Caves

You can visit these caves up north between Agios Nikolaos and Cape Skinari, famous for the intense blue glow created by sunlight reflecting off the limestone seabed. These are accessible only by boat. Some tours allow swimming, others are viewing-only. We advise you to read all the information before making a choice.

Western blue caves in Zakynthos

Unlike the northern caves, here you can swim and snorkel freely. The photos here are stunning due to the glowing turquoise water, so come prepared.

Keri Caves

Located near Keri Village on the southern coast, Keri Caves are known for the hidden chambers, towering arches, and clear water. You can find different tours that also include Turtle Island.

Yotomu Horse Riding

Although they technically aren’t seahorses, you can call them that. Yanni’s Horses is a farm located in Kato Gerakari, a peaceful village in the northern part of Zakynthos, about 10 km from Zakynthos Town. Here you can ride or swim in the Ionian Sea, go for a carriage ride, take riding lessons for both beginners and experienced riders, or enjoy nature trail rides through olive groves and pine forests.

Mount Skopos

Located near Argassi, Mount Skopos is one of the highest points on the island. It offers panoramic views over Zakynthos Town and the southeastern coast. The drive up winds through pine forests and olive groves, and at the top, you’ll find the Monastery of Panagia Skopiotissa. Getting to the summit is a 1–2 hour hike, but if you want to do it the easier way, you can actually drive part of the way up.

Porto Limnionas

If you agree with Anakin Skywalker when it comes to sand, then we have the perfect place for you. In Porto Limnionas, there are no sandy beaches, but rocks and terraces, and ladders are carved into the rocks for easy access. You can sunbathe and enjoy the crystal-clear water right after having a meal at the tavern overlooking the bay. If you want a place that feels more private, Porto Limnionas is your go-to.

Xigia Sulfur Beach

When you hear sulfur, you might think it’s like bathing in burning lava, but the experience feels quite the opposite. This small cove on the northeast coast is unique because the water is rich in natural sulfur and collagen from underwater springs. The mineral-rich water is believed to have therapeutic properties for the skin and joints. The smell can be sharp at first and surely takes some getting used to, but your skin will thank you later.

Although the beach is safe for most people, you should consider the following:

• The smell can be uncomfortable and intense. It’s harmless in small doses but may be unpleasant or irritating to some. If you have asthma or respiratory conditions, you should limit your exposure and check in with your doctor before swimming to make sure you are safe.
• The water can cause mild irritation if you have sensitive skin. If you notice redness or itching, cleanse with fresh water, and again, check in with your doctor before trying anything.
• Like in any place where water is present, the rocks can be slippery. This goes for the path down, where the steps are steep, and also the underwater rocks. Good footwear can prevent injuries, and remember, you can’t drive a scooter with a broken leg, so a misstep can make getting home, swimming, or driving quite difficult.

3. Safety measures for your trip in Zakynthos

Here are some general tips to enjoy your time at any beach, cave or activity, while staying safe:

• Respect the sea and don’t be fooled. The Ionian waters can be deceptively calm. Always check local conditions and avoid swimming alone, especially at remote beaches.
• Headwear and footwear matter. When driving a scooter, both rider and passenger must wear helmets. Also, make sure they are E-marked with the European standard ECE 22.05 or the new 22.06 and securely fastened. Police officers often check if the helmet is E-marked, and the fines are about €350 + licence points. Consider wearing protective gear when driving a scooter, and avoid driving with sandals. At TopRentals, you get E-marked helmets for every driver and passenger if you rent a scooter. You can learn more about licence rules and driving tips in one of our latest articles. [insert_link]

On the other hand, wear water shoes when walking on the beaches. Many of them are pebbly or rocky (like Porto Limionas), so water shoes can save your feet.

• Respect the posted guidelines. The rules are different from one place to another. There are beaches where you can swim freely, while others are off-limits. If there are turtle nests, you should mind your footing.
• If you visit different caves like Keri Caves, go with licensed guides who know the terrain and safety protocols.
• A life jacket can save your life at the cost of a little discomfort. Wear it if necessary.

Stay hydrated, dress smart, watch the roads, and don’t forget your camera. Your time in Zakynthos should be a good time, and you can enjoy your visit while staying safe. Plan and make the best of your visit. And remember that part of the plan is having a reliable vehicle to drive around the island. Check the fleet at TopRentals for available cars, scooters, or ATVs and choose the one that best suits you.