Kalamaki Beach
A serene, sandy beach on Zakynthos, famous for its calm, shallow waters and as a vital nesting ground for endangered loggerhead sea turtles.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness baby turtle hatching
Kalamaki Beach
Best Time
Witness baby turtle hatching

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, sandy beach on Zakynthos, famous for its calm, shallow waters and as a vital nesting ground for endangered loggerhead sea turtles.
"Fine sand and crystal-clear, shallow waters—ideal for families and peaceful swims."
Respect Turtle Nesting Areas
Stay within marked paths and avoid disturbing any marked turtle nests. :turtle:
Early Bird for Turtles
Wake up early or stay late for a chance to see baby turtles hatch! :sunriseovermountains:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Caretta Caretta Turtle Nesting Site
Designated protected areas on the beach
Witness the protected nesting grounds of the endangered loggerhead sea turtles. A truly unique natural spectacle.

Calm, Shallow Waters
Entire beach
Enjoy the crystal-clear, warm, and shallow waters perfect for relaxed swimming and family fun.
Sandy Shoreline
Main beach area
Relax on the soft, fine sand that stretches along the coastline, ideal for sunbathing and building sandcastles.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Turtle Nesting Season Awareness
Best Time for Turtle Sightings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Respect Turtle Nesting Areas
Stay within marked paths and avoid disturbing any marked turtle nests. :turtle:
Early Bird for Turtles
Wake up early or stay late for a chance to see baby turtles hatch! :sunriseovermountains:
Sunbed Costs
Sunbeds are available but can be pricey. Consider bringing your own towel. :moneywithwings:
Beach Bar Vibes
Enjoy a drink at a beach bar like Belesis for a relaxed atmosphere. :cocktail:
Tips
from all over the internet
Respect Turtle Nesting Areas
Stay within marked paths and avoid disturbing any marked turtle nests. :turtle:
Early Bird for Turtles
Wake up early or stay late for a chance to see baby turtles hatch! :sunriseovermountains:
Sunbed Costs
Sunbeds are available but can be pricey. Consider bringing your own towel. :moneywithwings:
Beach Bar Vibes
Enjoy a drink at a beach bar like Belesis for a relaxed atmosphere. :cocktail:
Gentle Waters for Families
Perfect for kids with its shallow, calm, and clear waters. :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kalamaki Beach is praised for its fine sand, crystal-clear shallow waters ideal for families, and its role as a protected nesting site for Caretta Caretta turtles. While some find sunbeds pricey and the beach can get windy, its natural charm and peaceful atmosphere make it a beloved spot for a relaxing getaway.
"Fine sand and crystal-clear, shallow waters—ideal for families and peaceful swims. The beach can get a bit windy, and a large part of the shoreline is set aside to protect turtle nests. Sunbeds are available but a bit pricey. Still, a lovely and relaxing spot with natural charm."
Alex Niculae
"Very nice beach, with beautiful view to mountains. Calm and warm seawater."
Robert Coravu
"The sand and clean sea, the fishes, an all beauty of the nature. Amazing beach. 😍😍😍"
Alma Merkez Mustafic
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kalamaki Beach is located on the southern coast of Zakynthos, near Laganas. You can reach it by car, taxi, or local bus from Zakynthos Town. Many visitors also stay in hotels within Kalamaki itself, making the beach easily accessible.
Yes, Kalamaki Beach is situated just east of Laganas and is a short walk or drive away. Many consider it a more relaxed alternative to the busier Laganas Beach.
Parking is generally available near the beach, especially if you are staying at one of the Kalamaki Beach hotels or visiting during less busy times. Be mindful of designated parking areas to avoid disturbing turtle nesting sites.
Local buses operate on Zakynthos and connect various towns and beaches, including Kalamaki. Check the local bus schedules for routes and timings from Zakynthos Town or other nearby areas.
No, Kalamaki Beach in this context refers to the popular beach on the island of Zakynthos (Zante), Greece. There is also a Kalamaki Beach on the Athens Riviera, which is a different location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Kalamaki Beach is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. However, renting sunbeds and umbrellas may incur a cost.
Kalamaki Beach is accessible at all times. However, access to certain areas might be restricted during turtle nesting and hatching periods to protect the wildlife. It's advisable to leave by sunset to avoid disturbing nesting turtles.
No booking is required for general access to Kalamaki Beach. If you plan to rent sunbeds or visit a specific beach bar, it's best to check their availability, especially during peak season.
Yes, parts of the beach are protected nesting areas for Caretta Caretta turtles. Visitors must respect marked zones and avoid disturbing nests or hatchlings. This is a crucial conservation effort.
While the beach is technically accessible, it's strongly advised not to visit at night, especially during nesting season, to avoid disturbing the turtles. Leaving by sunset is recommended.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Kalamaki Beach offers opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the calm waters. Pedal boats are available for hire, and some beach bars provide amenities.
The main attraction is observing the natural environment and potentially spotting turtles.Absolutely! Kalamaki Beach is ideal for families due to its fine sand, crystal-clear, shallow, and warm waters, making it safe for children to play and swim.
Yes, Kalamaki Beach is a vital nesting site for the loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta Caretta). While sightings are not guaranteed, visiting during the nesting and hatching season (typically summer) increases your chances of witnessing this incredible natural event.
Kalamaki Beach is generally less crowded and more relaxed than its neighbor, Laganas Beach.
However, it can get busier during peak tourist season. Visiting during weekdays or off-peak hours can offer a more tranquil experience.Basic facilities like sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent. While public toilets and showers might be limited, some beach bars or nearby hotels may offer access to their facilities for patrons.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Kalamaki has a good selection of restaurants, tavernas, and beach bars offering local Greek cuisine and international dishes. Belesis Beach Bar is a popular spot mentioned by visitors.
You can expect fresh seafood, traditional Greek mezes, grilled meats, and other local specialties. Many establishments offer sea views, enhancing the dining experience.
While Kalamaki offers a range of dining options, you can find more affordable meals at local tavernas away from the immediate beachfront. Exploring the main road through Kalamaki can reveal local eateries.
Most Greek tavernas offer vegetarian options like Greek salad, vegetable moussaka, and various mezes. Vegan options may require specific requests, but many places are accommodating.
Yes, there are small shops and kiosks near Kalamaki Beach where you can purchase snacks, drinks, and beach essentials.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the serene beach landscape, the clear turquoise waters, and especially the protected turtle nesting areas (from a distance). Sunsets can also be beautiful here.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the natural beauty. Late afternoon also provides lovely golden hour light before sunset.
You can photograph the nesting areas from a respectful distance. If you are lucky enough to witness hatching, maintain a significant distance and avoid using flash photography, as it can disorient the hatchlings.
The beach itself offers expansive views. For a slightly elevated perspective, consider the areas near the cliffs or the viewpoints from nearby hotels or restaurants.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the beach landscape. If you're hoping for wildlife shots, a telephoto lens might be useful, but remember to maintain a safe distance from the turtles.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the water, the beach offers a relaxed atmosphere, making it easy to keep an eye on children. While sunbeds are available, consider bringing your own beach toys. The opportunity to potentially see baby turtles (from a distance, of course!) can be an educational and unforgettable experience for kids, sparking their interest in nature and conservation.
🐢 Wildlife Enthusiasts
Plan your visit during the nesting and hatching seasons (summer months) and be prepared for early morning or late evening excursions. Always adhere to conservation guidelines, maintain a respectful distance, and avoid any actions that could disturb the turtles or their nests. This is a chance to contribute to vital conservation efforts while experiencing something truly special.
🧘♀️ Peace Seekers
Spend your days soaking up the sun, enjoying leisurely swims, or simply listening to the gentle sound of the waves. The beach's natural beauty and less crowded atmosphere make it an ideal spot to de-stress and reconnect with nature. Consider visiting during weekdays or the shoulder seasons for an even more peaceful ambiance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Importance of the Caretta Caretta Turtles
Visitors play a vital role in conservation. It's imperative to respect all signage and stay away from marked nests. Avoid using bright lights or making loud noises near the beach at night, especially during the summer months when hatching is most common. Your cooperation ensures that future generations can witness this natural wonder.
Witnessing the hatching of baby turtles is a profound experience. If you are fortunate enough to be there at the right time, remember to observe from a distance and never touch or interfere with the turtles. This commitment to conservation is what makes Kalamaki Beach a truly special destination.
Comparing Kalamaki Beach to Laganas Beach
In contrast, Kalamaki Beach is favored for its more relaxed and tranquil ambiance. It boasts fine sand and calm, shallow waters, making it particularly appealing for families and those seeking a peaceful retreat. While it still has amenities like beach bars, the overall vibe is significantly more laid-back than Laganas. Many visitors choose Kalamaki for its natural beauty and quieter setting, while still being close enough to enjoy the amenities of Laganas if desired.
Planning Your Visit for Turtle Hatching
It's crucial to be prepared and responsible. Bring a red-light flashlight if you plan to be out after dark, as white lights can disorient the hatchlings. Always maintain a significant distance and avoid any actions that could disrupt their journey to the sea. Local conservation groups often provide information and guided viewing opportunities, which can be a fantastic way to learn more and ensure you're observing ethically.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit