Laganas is one of the longest and busiest beaches on Zakynthos. The beach is wide in some places and narrow in others, but it is 9 km long. The beautiful sandy beach of Laganas is located in the large bay of the same name. The coastline is bordered by the waters of the Ionian Sea, which remains clean and clear despite the large number of people. The entrance to the sea in this area is gradual, the sand is golden and the water is pleasantly warm, making it ideal for families with children.

Laganas beach forms part of the eponymous tourist resort of Laganas, which is one of the most popular tourist resorts on Zakynthos, has excellent tourist facilities and is also one of the busiest places on the island. Laganas beach itself is in the same vein. The beach is organised, sunbeds and umbrellas can be rented and there are also toilet, shower and changing facilities available to visitors. There are many beach bars, tavernas with sea views and restaurants along the beach. Visitors have the opportunity to try adrenaline water sports, and there is also a diving club.

Although Laganas Beach is several kilometres long and there is a place for everyone, it is still very busy. Especially the central part of the beach is always crowded. Visitors looking for a bit of peace and privacy can head to the outer parts of the beach, where the sand and pebbles are more mixed and the sea is more prone to rocks and sea urchins.

On the other hand, Laganas Beach is also one of the protected beaches of Zakynthos, as it serves as a nesting site for the endangered Caretta-Caretta turtle and is part of the Zakynthos National Marine Park. The turtles come to the beach especially at night and lay their eggs in the sand, which hatch into baby turtles in about 50 days. The turtles hatch especially in the early morning or mid-morning and head out to sea. If you see a turtle trying to get out of the nest and into the water, shade it and direct it to get to the sea as quickly and safely as possible. But never pick it up and carry it out to sea yourself. You may also see the protected Mediterranean monk seal Monachus monachus in the sea.

Special measures to protect the turtles are thus declared at certain beaches between June and September. So-called tripods mark turtle nests that tourists should not approach. It is forbidden to walk on the beach at night or to stick umbrellas in the sand. Sometimes motorised water sports may also be restricted.

To the east, another beautiful sandy and organised beach, Kalamaki, connects to Laganas beach, while to the west you will reach the small sandy beach of Agios Sostis. In the bay of Laganas there are three small islands Marathonisi, Pelouzo and Cameo (Sostis), which are clearly visible from the beach. The island of Marathonisi is also known as "turtle island" and sightseeing cruises to see the Caretta turtles pass by it. Some beaches on Marathonisi are completely closed to the public, but some are open to tourists. Here you can sunbathe, swim in the sea and, if you're lucky, watch the protected turtles. However, the islet of Pelouzo is completely closed to tourists as it has become a sanctuary for the protected Monachus monachus. The island of Cameo (Agios Sostis) is a small pine island that can be reached by a wooden bridge from the beach of Agios Sostis. However, it is a nature reserve and there is a fee to enter the island.

More touristic destinations of Zakynthos

Close beaches: Agios Sostis Beach, Cameo Beach, Kalamaki Beach

Most favourite beaches of Zakynthos: Agios Nikolaos Beach (Vassilikos), Banana Beach, Gerakas Beach, Laganas Beach, Limnionas Beach (Porto Limnionas), Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach), Porto Zoro Beach, Tsilivi Beach

Resorts, beaches, sights or trips - clearly listed on the map of Zakynthos.