Porto Limnionas is one of the most popular spots in Zante and definitely one of our favorites. We visited in May, which is outside peak season, but it was still quite crowded.
Despite the number of visitors, Porto Limnionas is a stunning and secluded cove surrounded by jagged cliffs. It’s one of the prettiest spots on the island, rivaled perhaps only by the famous Navagio Beach. The cove has a nice restaurant, parking, and plenty of sunbeds with amazing views of the bay. There’s no traditional sandy beach, but there’s some pebbly sand under the water where you can stand.
Many people, including us, enjoy jumping off the rocks into the crystal-clear Ionian Sea. In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about visiting Porto Limnionas Beach, including the best nearby restaurants, where to stay, how to get there, and more.
Porto Limnionas is a must-visit on most travelers’ itineraries for Zakynthos Island. The sea here is known for its stunning colors and calm, secluded waters, making it perfect for swimming. It also features the charming Porto Limnionas Tavern.
Zakynthos is a small yet popular tourist island located in the Ionian Sea, about 20 kilometers west of mainland Greece and roughly 250 kilometers from Athens. Porto Limnionas sits between towering cliffs on the west side of the island, about 7 km from Agios Leon and 30 kilometers from Zante Town, the island’s capital.
The best way to reach Porto Limnionas is by renting a car. While there are day tours, which usually cost around €30 per person, renting a car is often cheaper and gives you more freedom. Car rentals typically cost about €15-20 per day plus gas. There’s no public transport to Porto Limnionas from popular tourist areas like Zante Town, Laganas, or Insilivi, so renting a car is your best option.
Depending on the time of day and weather, the look of Porto Limnionas can change dramatically. The optimal time to visit is between 11 am and 3 pm when the sun is likely directly overhead, illuminating the bright colors of the sea and rocks. The best time of year to visit Zakynthos, including Porto Limnionas, is from March to November, with fewer crowds in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall.
During peak season (July and August), Porto Limnionas can get extremely busy. While the water is warmest and the weather sunniest during these months, the cove will be crowded with tourists.
The main activities at Porto Limnionas are swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. There was no snorkel rental when we visited, so it’s a good idea to bring your own gear. The visibility is fantastic, and there are many caves to explore. There’s also a dive shop, the Islanders Zante Diving Centre, for scuba diving enthusiasts.
Don’t forget your camera! There are short paths for hiking that offer amazing photo opportunities. The main attraction is swimming in the cove, and you can relax on sunbeds at the Porto Limnionas Tavern afterward.
The Porto Limnionas Tavern offers great facilities, including delicious meals and drinks, and rents out beach chairs with umbrellas for €5 per person per day. There’s free parking at the top of the hill.
While Porto Limnionas is often referred to as one of the best beaches, it’s technically not a beach since there’s no exposed sand, only submerged pebbly sand in the narrow part of the cove. Many people swim to the sandy area to stand and enjoy the view.
Accommodation near Porto Limnionas is limited, so it’s better to stay in more popular areas of Zakynthos and visit the cove as part of a day trip. Some great hotel options on other parts of the island include Keri Village & Spa and Revera Stone Villas in Keri Village, and Blue Lake and Villa Regina in the Keri Beach area.
Laganas Beach is another popular area with plenty of restaurants, bars, and nightlife, offering hotels like The Mediterranean Beach Resort and Agave Boutique Hotel.
For dining near Porto Limnionas, the Porto Limnionas Tavern offers great views but can be pricey. Other nearby options include Fondo Beach Bar at Porto Roxa beach and the traditional Ampelostrates Tavern in Koiliomenos.
In summary, Porto Limnionas is a beautiful cove perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The best times to visit are in the shoulder seasons to avoid the crowds. Rent a car to get around easily and enjoy the stunning scenery and local dining options.
Don’t miss out on visiting this breathtaking cove on your trip to Zakynthos!
