15 Amazing Things to Do in Zante: Your Ultimate Guide to Zakynthos Adventures

Discover the best activities, beaches, and attractions on the stunning Greek island of Zakynthos (Zante) with our comprehensive guide to unforgettable experiences.

Zante, officially known as Zakynthos, is one of Greece's most spectacular Ionian islands, offering visitors an incredible blend of pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and thrilling adventures. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping water sports, peaceful turtle watching, or family-friendly activities, this ultimate guide covers the top things to do in Zante that will make your Greek island vacation unforgettable.

1. Experience the Thrill of Speedboat Adventures

One of the most exhilarating ways to explore Zante's stunning coastline is by speedboat. These high-powered vessels offer access to hidden coves, secluded beaches, and the island's most famous attractions from a unique perspective. Speedboat tours typically include visits to the iconic Shipwreck Beach (Navagio), the mesmerizing Blue Caves, and various swimming stops in crystal-clear waters.

For the best speedboat experiences in Zante, consider booking through Zante Bible's comprehensive speedboat guide, which features detailed information about operators, routes, and what to expect from your maritime adventure.

2. Turtle Spotting Trips: Meet Zante's Famous Loggerheads

Zante is home to one of the most important nesting sites for the endangered Caretta Caretta loggerhead sea turtles in the Mediterranean. Turtle spotting trips offer visitors the magical opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat while supporting conservation efforts.

The best turtle watching tours depart from Laganas Bay, where the calm, shallow waters provide ideal conditions for spotting these gentle giants. Most tours operate during early morning or late afternoon when turtle activity is highest. Responsible tour operators maintain safe distances from the turtles and follow strict guidelines to protect these vulnerable animals.

Best times for turtle spotting:

• May to October (nesting season)

• Early morning (7-9 AM) or late afternoon (5-7 PM)

• Calm weather conditions

3. Discover Zante's Most Beautiful Beaches

Zante boasts some of Greece's most stunning beaches, each offering unique characteristics and experiences:

Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach)

The island's most famous beach features a dramatic shipwreck set against towering limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. Accessible only by boat, this iconic location is perfect for photography and swimming in crystal-clear waters.

Gerakas Beach

A protected nesting site for loggerhead turtles, Gerakas offers golden sand, clear waters, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. The beach is part of the National Marine Park of Zakynthos.

Porto Limnionas Beach

This small, secluded cove features dramatic rock formations, crystal-clear waters, and excellent snorkeling. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and accessible via a short hike.

Laganas Beach

A long stretch of golden sand perfect for families, Laganas offers shallow waters, beachside tavernas, and various water sports activities. It's also part of the turtle nesting area.

Dafni Beach

Another important turtle nesting site, Dafni Beach combines natural beauty with conservation importance. The quiet beach offers peaceful relaxation and potential turtle sightings.

Banana Beach

Known for its curved shape resembling a banana, this beach offers water sports, beach bars, and vibrant atmosphere. It's popular among younger visitors and water sports enthusiasts.

4. Horse Riding in the Sea: A Unique Zante Experience

One of Zante's most magical activities is horse riding along the beach and into the shallow waters of the Ionian Sea. This unique experience combines the beauty of horseback riding with the refreshing sensation of riding through gentle waves.

Several stables around the island offer beach horse riding experiences, with rides typically lasting 1-2 hours. The most popular locations include the quieter northern beaches where horses can safely enter the water. These guided tours are suitable for riders of all experience levels and provide unforgettable photo opportunities.

5. Watersports Paradise: Where to Find the Best Activities

Zante's crystal-clear waters and favorable wind conditions make it an ideal destination for various water sports:

Laganas Bay

• Jet skiing: Multiple rental centers along the beach

• Parasailing: Take off from the main beach area

• Banana boat rides: Family-friendly group activity

• Sea kayaking: Explore hidden coves and coastline

Tsilivi Beach

• Windsurfing: Excellent conditions for beginners and experts

• Water skiing: Professional instruction available

• Stand-up paddleboarding: Calm waters perfect for SUP

• Pedal boats: Family-friendly exploration

Alikes Beach

• Kitesurfing: Strong winds ideal for experienced kiters

• Sailing: Charter boats available for half-day or full-day trips

• Scuba diving: Several dive centers offering PADI courses

6. Mini Golf in Tsilivi: Family Fun for All Ages

Tsilivi, one of Zante's most popular resort areas, features excellent mini golf facilities that provide entertainment for the whole family. The courses are typically open-air, creatively designed with obstacles, water features, and themed holes that reflect Greek culture and island life.

Most mini golf venues in Tsilivi operate during evening hours when temperatures are cooler, making it a perfect activity after a day at the beach. Many facilities also include snack bars and refreshments, creating a social atmosphere for families and couples alike.

7. Go-Kart Racing in Laganas: High-Speed Thrills

For adrenaline seekers, Laganas offers exciting go-kart tracks that provide high-speed fun in a safe environment. The main go-kart facility features professionally maintained tracks suitable for different skill levels, from beginners to experienced racers.

The go-kart track in Laganas typically offers:

• Multiple track configurations

• Safety equipment and briefings

• Timed races and competitions

• Group packages for families and friends

• Evening lighting for night racing

8. Cave Exploration: Discover Zante's Hidden Wonders

Zante's limestone geology has created numerous spectacular caves and grottoes that offer unique exploration opportunities:

Blue Caves (Keri Caves)

Located near Cape Skinari, these magnificent sea caves feature brilliant blue illumination created by sunlight reflecting off the white limestone sea floor. Boat tours allow visitors to swim inside these natural cathedrals.

Mizithres Rocks and Caves

These dramatic limestone formations near Keri village include small caves and arches that can be explored by swimming or small boat excursions.

Marathonisi Island Caves

The small island known as "Turtle Island" features several caves accessible by kayak or swimming, offering secluded spots for exploration and turtle observation.

Planning Your Zante Adventure

Best Time to Visit

• Peak season: July-August (busiest but warmest)

• Ideal months: May-June and September-October (perfect weather, fewer crowds)

• Turtle season: May-October for the best wildlife experiences

Getting Around

• Car rental: Most flexible option for exploring beaches and attractions

• ATV/Quad bikes: Popular for reaching secluded spots

• Boat tours: Essential for accessing certain beaches and caves

• Public transport: Limited but connects major towns and beaches

What to Pack

• High SPF sunscreen and sun hat

• Water shoes for rocky beaches

• Waterproof camera for underwater adventures

• Light layers for evening activities

• Snorkeling gear (or rent locally)

Conclusion - Finding the best things to do in Zante

Zante offers an incredible diversity of activities that cater to every type of traveler, from adrenaline junkies seeking speedboat thrills to nature lovers hoping to spot endangered sea turtles. The island's stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique attractions like horse riding in the sea make it a truly special destination in the Greek islands.

Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, family vacation, or adventure-filled trip with friends, Zante's combination of natural beauty, exciting activities, and warm Greek hospitality ensures an unforgettable experience. From the famous Shipwreck Beach to hidden caves waiting to be explored, every day in Zante offers new discoveries and magical moments.

Start planning your Zante adventure today and prepare for the Greek island experience of a lifetime!