Alykes Beach may not top the list of best beaches in Greece, but it’s certainly one of the finest in Zakynthos. After spending over two weeks exploring the island, this beach became our favorite spot. The sand here is softer than most Ionian beaches, making it more enjoyable to walk and swim without needing footwear. Plus, one of Zakynthos’ best restaurants sits right on the beach.
In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about Alykes Beach in Zakynthos. Whether you’re looking to stay nearby or just planning a day trip, this post has you covered.
Alykes Beach is a beautiful stretch of golden sand that’s even received the Blue Flag for cleanliness, a prestigious award. Greece is proud to have the second highest number of Blue Flag beaches in the world. The beach is well-known for its large resort, yet it maintains a chilled-out vibe, making it one of the most relaxed spots on the island.
Located on the east northeast point of Zakynthos Island in the Ionian Sea, Alykes Beach is part of the town of Katastari. Zakynthos is about 20 kilometers west of the mainland of Greece and roughly 249 kilometers from Athens. Katastari offers plenty of restaurants, bars, and accommodations, making it a popular choice for visitors deciding where to stay in Zakynthos.
Since public transport on the island is limited, renting a car is highly recommended. We rented a car for our entire stay, and it was the perfect way to explore Zakynthos. Rental cars cost about €15-€20 per day, depending on the vehicle, insurance, and travel season. Although there are some public buses running between Zante Town and Alykes Beach, they stop in the late afternoon. Tour operators in Katastari offer trips to Zante Town, and there’s also a tourist train (Trainiki) that goes by Alykes Beach up to the nearby village of Pigadakia. Motorbikes, quads, bikes, and scooters are also available for rent from local companies.
If you’re visiting Alykes Beach for a day trip, the best time to go is midday when the sun lights up the brilliant blue Ionian Sea. Sunrise is also a wonderful time to be there, providing the opportunity to see the sun rise over the Greek mainland. Sunset is beautiful too, although you won’t see the sun dip into the sea here; for that, head to beaches on the west coast like Porto Limnionus or the cliffs of Kampi.
The best time to visit Zakynthos is between March and November when the sea is warm. We prefer the shoulder seasons from March to May or September to early November, as the island is less crowded and the tourist sights are not as busy. Summer (June to August) is also a good time to visit, with the warmest sea temperatures, but it can get quite hot and crowded.
Alykes Beach is unique for its granulated golden sand, which is more comfortable to walk on compared to the pebbly beaches common in the Ionian and Mediterranean regions. You can stroll along its stretches barefoot and lay your towel down comfortably.
When choosing where to stay in Zakynthos, Alykes Beach offers various hotels, apartments, guest houses, and the large Alykes Beach Resort. Here are some top-rated accommodations:
– Kanela Studios: Cozy and well-decorated studios surrounded by a lush garden, just 30 minutes from the beach. Prices start around $80 per night in high season.
– Villa Ana Alykes: A holiday home set 100 meters from the beach with two air-conditioned rooms, a kitchen, dining area, and washing machine. Prices start at around $78 per night.
– Alykanas Village Resort: A 4-star hotel with all the amenities, getting rave reviews. Prices range from €84 to €251 per night, depending on the season.
There are many restaurants around Alykes Beach, but our favorites are right on the sand. One standout is a little beach bar and restaurant on the jetty separating Alykes Beach from Alykanas Beach. It offers great food and service, and if you order a drink or meal, you can use the beach lounge chairs for free.
Alykes Beach is a must-visit on any Zakynthos itinerary. Even if you don’t stay in Katastari, spend at least a half day here enjoying the local restaurants and the beach. It’s a safe and relaxing place to swim and sunbathe.
