While most visitors head straight for Laganas[3] or Tsilivi, the Vasilikos Peninsula in the southeast of Zakynthos offers some of the calmest, clearest water on the island — a quieter alternative for anyone who wants a beach day without the busier resort atmosphere. Here’s a guide to the area.
What makes Vasilikos different
The Vasilikos Peninsula is less built-up than the island’s main resort strips, with a series of smaller coves and beaches[2] strung along the coastline rather than one long, continuous stretch of sand. The water here tends to be noticeably calmer and clearer than at busier beaches further west, making it a favourite for swimming and snorkelling.
Best beaches on the Vasilikos Peninsula
The peninsula includes several distinct coves, each with a slightly different character — some more sheltered, some with a bit more space to spread out. Exploring a few different spots along the coast rather than settling at just one is a good way to get a feel for the area on your first visit.
Gerakas Beach
At the very tip of the peninsula, Gerakas is one of the best swims on the island and part of the protected National Marine Park — a loggerhead sea turtle nesting site. You’ll see roped-off sections of sand here in summer, marking active nests; please stay outside them.
A quieter alternative to the main resorts
If you’re staying in Laganas or Kalamaki and want a change of pace without a long drive, Vasilikos is close enough for an easy half-day trip, offering a noticeably calmer atmosphere than the busier resort beaches nearby.
Good for couples and quieter family days
The calmer water and quieter coves make Vasilikos a solid choice for couples looking for a relaxed beach day, as well as families who want calm swimming conditions without the crowds of the main resort beaches.
What to bring
Some of the smaller coves along the peninsula have limited or no facilities, so it’s worth bringing your own water, sun protection, and snorkelling gear if you plan to explore beyond the more developed spots.
Combining Vasilikos with the rest of the southeast
Vasilikos pairs naturally with a wider southeast day — combine a morning at one of the peninsula’s quieter coves with an afternoon at Gerakas, then head into Zakynthos Town or Argassi for dinner in the evening.
Getting around the peninsula
The Vasilikos Peninsula’s coves are spread along a stretch of coastline rather than concentrated in one resort centre, so having your own vehicle makes it much easier to explore a few different spots in a day rather than sticking to whichever beach is closest to your accommodation.
Zaimi Rentals[1] offers cars, scooters, and ATVs with free delivery to your hotel, villa, or the airport anywhere on Zakynthos, no deposit required on most rentals, and 24/7 local support if you’d like route suggestions for exploring the peninsula.
Book your car, scooter, or ATV with Zaimi Rentals →
Vasilikos Peninsula: FAQ
Where is the Vasilikos Peninsula?
In the southeast of Zakynthos, extending out past Laganas and Kalamaki toward Gerakas Beach at its tip.
Is Vasilikos quieter than Laganas?
Yes, generally — the peninsula is less built-up, with a series of smaller coves rather than one busy, continuous beach strip.
Is Gerakas Beach part of Vasilikos?
Yes, Gerakas sits at the tip of the peninsula and is one of the best-known beaches in the area, as well as part of the protected National Marine Park.
Is Vasilikos good for snorkelling?
Yes — the calmer, clearer water along this stretch of coast tends to offer better visibility than the busier resort beaches further west.
Do I need a car to explore Vasilikos properly?
It helps significantly, since the peninsula’s coves are spread along the coastline rather than concentrated in one central resort area.
