Gerakas Beach might not be on many top beach lists for Greece, but when it comes to Zakynthos, it’s a hidden gem you can’t ignore. If you’re heading to Zakynthos, you definitely should check out this beautiful stretch of golden sand located on the island’s southern tip.
While it may not be as renowned as the famous Navagio Beach, Gerakas Beach offers a quieter and equally stunning alternative. When you first arrive and park, you might wonder what the fuss is about. However, as you walk down the long wooden ramps leading to the beach, you’ll quickly understand why this spot is beloved by beachgoers.
Gerakas Beach is part of the protected National Marine Park of Zakynthos, making it a prime nesting and breeding ground for Loggerhead Turtles. It’s also known for its medicinal mud clay, which was once a hit with tourists. Unfortunately, due to deterioration, this area is now off-limits.
Located on Zakynthos Island’s southeastern point, Gerakas Beach faces west, making it a prime spot for sunset views. However, the beach closes at 8:00 pm to protect the Loggerhead Turtles that come ashore to lay their eggs.
Encountering Loggerhead Turtles is a highlight for visitors to Zakynthos, and Gerakas Beach offers a good chance of seeing these magnificent creatures up close, especially while swimming.
Gerakas Beach is about a 10-minute walk south of Vasilikos, with 4-6 buses daily connecting Vasilikos and Zante Town, depending on the season. The best way to get there is by renting a car, which is both affordable and convenient. Using Google Maps offline for directions is highly recommended.
Alternatively, guided tours are available and can take you around the island, including a stop at Gerakas Beach. The beach is open from 7 am to 8 pm every day. The best time to visit is around midday when the sun best illuminates the beautiful Ionian Sea. For fewer crowds, aim to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
The best time to visit Zakynthos is between March and early November, with peak season being July and August. Even then, Gerakas Beach tends to be less crowded than other popular beaches like Navagio and Laganas. Shoulder seasons (March-May and September-November) offer warm seas, good weather, and fewer crowds.
Gerakas Beach features soft sand and a gradual incline into the water, making it ideal for families. You’ll find the water shallow until about 100 meters offshore. The golden sand and clear Ionian waters create a stunning blue and turquoise hue under the sun.
Along the way to the beach, don’t miss the Zakynthos Sea Turtle Rescue & Information Center, where you can see baby and recovering turtles. Because it’s part of the National Marine Park, the beach lacks facilities like toilets, changing rooms, or beach bars. Also, you cannot bring personal umbrellas to avoid disturbing turtle nests. However, you can rent chairs and umbrellas for €8 a day.
For accommodations near Gerakas Beach, Vasilikos offers a range of options from luxury hotels to beach bungalows. Some notable places include Villa Lavente, Villagio Studios & Apartments, and Athena Studios. Alternatively, Zante Town provides more hotel options and is connected by bus to Gerakas Beach. Laganas Beach is another popular choice with more nightlife and amenities.
Though there are no restaurants directly on Gerakas Beach, Vasilikos has several dining options close by. Taverna Nikos is a popular spot right on the road to the beach. For good prices and a family-friendly atmosphere, look for a place set on a farm just a 10-minute walk away. For pasta and pizza, check out another highly-rated restaurant in Vasilikos, though it gets busy during high season.
Gerakas Beach is undeniably one of Zakynthos’ best. Whether you’re staying in Vasilikos for a few nights or just dropping by for a swim, it’s worth the visit. The beach is shallow, calm, and usually less crowded, offering a peaceful retreat to soak up the sun and possibly spot a Loggerhead Turtle or two.
