Kalamaki is a relaxed seaside resort on the southern coast of Zakynthos, just 5 km from Zakynthos Town and close to the airport. It’s best known for its long, sandy beach — part of the National Marine Park — where the endangered loggerhead turtles come to nest.
The atmosphere is quieter than nearby Laganas, making it ideal for families and couples. Kalamaki offers a good mix of traditional tavernas, shops, and gentle nightlife, all set against a beautiful natural backdrop of dunes and clear blue sea.

Places of interest and activities you can enjoy when going on a villa holiday in Kalamaki:

Kalamaki Beach & Turtle Conservation Zone
Long sandy shore with shallow, calm waters making it perfect for families and peaceful swims.
This area is part of the National Marine Park, where loggerhead turtles nest. Night beach closures and no motorized water sports ensure turtles thrive here. You might even spot hatchlings or mature turtles feeding in the seagrass near the shore

Cave Bar & Mount Skopos
Located on a hill above Kalamaki, the Cave Bar is a grotto-style venue surrounded by garden seating—ideal for a cocktail at sunset. Above Argassi, the Mount Skopos trail leads to the Monastery of Panagia Skopiotissa, offering impressive panoramic views over Kalamaki Bay.

Vrontonero Beach
A quieter, pebbly cove at the eastern end of Kalamaki, known for its fresh spring water pouring into the sea.
It requires careful driving down a gravel road but rewards you with crystal-clear, cool waters—great for a secluded swim.

Activities
Turtle Spotting & Boat Tours
Glass-bottom boat trips from Kalamaki or nearby Laganas take you to Marathonisi (“Turtle Island”) and around the bay.
These tours offer a fantastic way to observe sea turtles in their natural habitat—especially during nesting and hatching season.

Horseback Riding & Outdoor Fun
Explore the coast or nearby countryside on horseback. Tour operators often offer beach rides at sunset—perfect for couples and families. For more high-energy fun, check out Caretta Fun Park with its bumper cars, water slides, and more, plus go-karting at nearby.

Restaurants which are worth a visit:

Zakanthi Restaurant & Bar
Cuisine: Creative Greek-Mediterranean
Situated in a lovely garden setting, Zakanthi offers inventive Greek dishes served in a cozy, relaxed ambiance.
Great for a laid-back evening meal.

Paolo
Cuisine: Greek-Italian, Pizza
A friendly eatery on the main road, blending Greek and Italian flavors. Known for its homemade pasta, wood-fired pizza, and excellent value. A favorite first stop for many visitors.

Escape Taverna
Cuisine: Traditional Greek
Tucked away in a quiet corner of Kalamaki, Escape specializes in authentic dishes like moussaka, stifado, and grilled feta with honey—cooked true to local taste rather than tailored for tourists.

Bullhorn Steak House
Cuisine: Grill & Steakhouse
A robust, family-friendly spot offering massive portions of steak, burgers, and grilled meat, along with complimentary saganaki and friendly service.

Olive Tree
Cuisine: Greek, Italian, Mexican
Set on the bustling main strip, this vibrant eatery serves a mix of Greek meze, pasta, and comfort food, all within a leafy, charming patio.
Kids can enjoy activity mats while you dine.

Details correct as at 24/06/2025. These restaurants are neither endorsed nor recommended by Villa Select.

The best beaches to enjoy in Kalamaki:

Kalamaki Beach
Distance: 0 km (right in the resort)
Part of the Zakynthos National Marine Park, it’s a protected nesting site for the endangered Caretta caretta sea turtle, so no motorized water sports are allowed.
A long, sandy beach with shallow waters, ideal for families and couples.
Ideal for relaxation, turtle watching, peaceful swimming

Laganas Beach
Distance: ~3 km (5–10 minutes by car or 30 min walk along the shore)
One of the liveliest beaches on the island, Laganas offers soft sand, beach bars, and more upbeat energy. Still part of the turtle protection zone, but busier than Kalamaki.
Best for young travelers, beach bars, social atmosphere

Marathonisi (Turtle Island)
Distance: ~4 km by boat (tours depart from nearby Laganas or Kalamaki)
A small, uninhabited island shaped like a turtle, with pristine beaches and crystal-clear water.
Popular for boat trips, snorkeling, and spotting turtles.

Crystal Beach (Kalamaki area)
Distance: 1 km (easily walkable)
A quieter stretch of Kalamaki Beach near Crystal Beach Hotel. Sunbeds, umbrellas, and clear water make it ideal for a relaxed beach day.
Best for couples and relaxing.