Laganas[2] and Kalamaki, on the south coast of Zakynthos, sit right on the edge of the National Marine Park — making this stretch of coastline a genuinely unusual combination of lively resort atmosphere and protected sea turtle nesting habitat. Here’s a guide to both areas.
Laganas: the island’s main nightlife hub
Laganas is Zakynthos’ liveliest resort area, with a long strip of bars, clubs, and restaurants that gets particularly busy through peak summer. It’s also home to one of the island’s longest beaches[3], offering plenty of space even when the resort itself is at its busiest.
Kalamaki: a calmer neighbour
Right next to Laganas, Kalamaki shares the same golden sand but with a noticeably calmer atmosphere — a good option if you want easy access to Laganas’ nightlife without staying directly in the middle of it.
Part of the National Marine Park
Both Laganas and Kalamaki beaches sit within the National Marine Park of Zakynthos, protecting one of the Mediterranean’s most important loggerhead sea turtle nesting grounds. You’ll see roped-off sections of sand here in summer, marking active nests — please stay outside these areas and avoid bright lights or noise near the beach at night during nesting season.
Turtle-watching boat trips
Laganas Bay is the main departure point for[4] boat tours specifically aimed at seeing sea turtles swimming near the surface — a responsible way to see the island’s famous loggerheads without disturbing nesting beaches. Choose an operator who keeps a respectful, quiet distance rather than one promising close-up encounters.
Cameo Island and Agios Sostis
A short trip from Laganas, Cameo Island and the nearby Agios Sostis coves offer a quieter, more photogenic alternative to the main beach — a small islet reached by a wooden walkway, with turquoise water on both sides.
Choosing between Laganas and Kalamaki
- Want to be in the middle of the nightlife? Stay in Laganas.
- Want beach access with a calmer evening atmosphere, but nightlife within reach? Kalamaki is the better fit.
A day combining beach and wildlife
A good day here might combine a morning turtle-watching boat trip with an afternoon at Kalamaki’s calmer stretch of beach, then an evening in Laganas if nightlife is part of your plan — a mix of wildlife, relaxation, and evening energy all within a short distance of each other.
Getting around Laganas and Kalamaki
Both areas are walkable within themselves, but having your own vehicle makes it easier to reach nearby spots like Cameo Island, the Vasilikos Peninsula, or further afield if you want to explore beyond the immediate resort area.
Zaimi Rentals[1] offers cars, scooters, and ATVs with free delivery to your hotel or villa in Laganas or Kalamaki, no deposit required on most rentals, and 24/7 local support.
Book your car, scooter, or ATV with Zaimi Rentals →
Laganas & Kalamaki: FAQ
Is Laganas good for nightlife?
Yes — Laganas is Zakynthos’ main nightlife hub, with the highest concentration of bars and clubs on the island.
Is Kalamaki quieter than Laganas?
Yes, Kalamaki has a noticeably calmer atmosphere while still being close enough to reach Laganas easily.
Can I see sea turtles from Laganas?
Laganas Bay is the main departure point for responsible turtle-watching boat tours, and the surrounding beaches are part of the protected National Marine Park nesting habitat.
Why are parts of Laganas beach roped off?
Roped-off sections mark active loggerhead sea turtle nests. Please stay outside these areas, even if they appear empty.
Is Laganas suitable for families?
Laganas’ main strip is generally geared toward an adult, party-focused crowd. Families are often better suited to Kalamaki or other quieter areas of the island.
