Visiting Shipwreck Beach
( Navagio Beach )
in Zakynthos

by: Dionisis Vitsos

February 2023

Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Cove, is a must-visit destination in Zakynthos, Greece. It’s not only considered one of the best beaches in Zakynthos, but also in Greece and one of the most picturesque stretches of sand in the world.

Featuring crystal-clear, impossibly blue Ionian water and blindingly white pebbly sand. The eerie-looking shipwreck in the center of the sand is one of the most photographed places in Greece, and it’s no surprise that it was once the featured image on Trip Advisor’s home page for a long time.

Whether you choose to take a boat trip or peer down on it from the towering cliffs above, a visit to Navagio Beach will likely take your breath away. With its stunning scenery and intriguing history, it’s no wonder that Navagio Beach is one of the most popular attractions in Zakynthos.

Navagio Beach was also included in our Local Guide list of the best beaches in Zakynthos.

And, as your humble local Zakynthian Guide, we will take a thorough look at Navagio Beach in Zakynthos

DONT FORGET: If you are looking for the best place to stay, we already have the perfect spot for you. Our family-made hotel. from 1991, is right next to Kalamaki Beach, Us! Dennys Inn Hote,

Table of Contents

Looking for the Best Things To Do? Check out our Local guide for the Best Things To Do in Zakynthos

Where is Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Cove)

If you’re planning a trip to Navagio Beach in Zakynthos, Greece, there are two ways to get there. You can fly directly from Athens to Zakynthos, or take a ferry from Kyllini to Zakynthos. The ferry operates daily and costs around €15 per person each way, depending on the season.

Make sure to plan your travel accordingly, as the journey to Navagio Beach can be a bit of an adventure, but it’s worth it once you see the crystal-clear waters and the iconic shipwreck in the center of the beach.

Best Time of Day To See Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Cove)

If you want to visit Navagio Beach in Zakynthos by boat, it’s recommended to visit by boat either early in the morning or late in the afternoon to beat the crowds.

However, if you’re visiting during the shoulder season, it’s better to go a little later so that the sun can illuminate the sand for your photos.

The best time to visit Shipwreck Cove at the viewing platform on the cliffs above either is during the golden hour when the sun sets, and you see the beautiful view as shown above.

Keep in mind that the peak season can be very busy, so plan accordingly.

How To Get To Shipwreck Beach

When on Zante Island, there are plenty of options for experiencing Navagio Beach Zakynthos. The majority of visitors choose to book a tour, which can be reserved from any tour agency on the island or through reputable booking sites, keep in mind that asking for tour details at your hotel reception is usually the best way to go since most of the hotels in Zakynthos work with agencies and get special prices, that will take you to the most popular and photographed places on the beach.

There are two ways to witness the stunning views of Navagio Beach; one is to take a boat (as the beach is solely accessible by sea), and the other is to marvel at the beauty of the beach from the incredible 200-meter-high cliffs that surround the secluded co

Cliff Top Viewpoints

To capture the perfect postcard photo of Navagio Beach, head to the top of the 200-meter limestone cliffs near Elatia at the northwest corner of Zakynthos Island. There’s a viewing platform here that offers breathtaking views of Shipwreck Cove.

If you’re looking to get to Navagio Beach, keep in mind that it’s located on the opposite side of the island from Zakynthos town. Your best options are to rent a car or find a tour company that provides van transportation. Hiring a taxi from the capital is also possible, but it can be quite expensive, around 100Є!

The drive from Zakynthos town to Navagio Beach takes approximately 45 minutes, and parking is free once you arrive. Renting a car is highly recommended, as it offers a scenic and easy drive. You can rent a car for as little as 20Є per day in Zakynthos, depending on the season you are visiting, and it can be booked through trusted travel sites like Expedia.

🏝️ Click Here For Directions To The Exact Location 🏝️

The Cliff Walk

If you’re looking to get the best photos of Navagio Beach Zakynthos, there’s a little hike involved.

To the right of the viewing platform, you’ll find a fenced-off area with a single entrance and plenty of warning signs. Follow the rough path away from the parking lot and tourist shops.

Keep in mind that the path is not well-maintained, and may not be safe for older individuals or young children. It’s a long walk over jagged rocks, in the hot sun, with no benches or shade nearby.

The ideal time to take photos of the beach is around noon, when the sun is directly overhead and the cliffs aren’t casting a shadow.

Sunset is also a great time to visit. If you’re planning to hike to the best photo spot, wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water.

The limestone cliffs near Elatia are a great place for photos and offer breathtaking views of Shipwreck Cove in Zakynthos.

Visiting The Beach By Boat

The best way to set foot on the stunning and secluded Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Cove) in Zakynthos is by booking a boat tour from one of the multiple tour companies that offer affordable trips to this popular tourist attraction.

Some boats leave from the nearby town of Agios Nikolaos, while others start directly in Zakynthos Town. During the boat trip, you’ll also have the opportunity to visit other beautiful places along the Zakynthos coast, such as the Blue Caves and Xygia Sulfur Beach.

Keep in mind that Navagio Beach is the most famous beach in Greece, so it can get quite crowded. Tourists are shuttled in and out of the beach throughout the day, and you won’t have too much time to spend on the beach (approximately 20 minutes).

To enjoy the beach with fewer people or for a longer duration, it’s best to take the earliest tour or rent a private boat.

You can rent boats starting from around €80 + gas in Alykes. If you decide to rent a boat, make sure that you have experience driving a boat and be mindful of the weather conditions.

If there are any signs of bad weather, it’s best to turn back right away. Additionally, if you arrive at a popular time and there are no other boats there, it’s likely that a storm is on the way, so head to a sheltered cove instead.

Remember, asking for tour details at your hotel reception is usually the best way to go since most of the hotels in Zakynthos work with agencies and get special prices. Don’t miss out on a swim in the azure waters and touch your feet to the sand on Navagio Beach in Zakynthos!

Renting a boat is a fantastic way to explore the island and discover many hidden coves.

USEFUL TIP: When planning your visit to Navagio Beach in Zante, it’s important to note that boat trips may be canceled or delayed due to strong waves or inclement weather.

History Of The Shipwreck

Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Cove, gets its name from the MV Panagiotis, a 157-foot shipping vessel that ran aground on October 2nd, 1980.

The ship was reportedly smuggling cigarettes from Turkey for the Italian mafia when it was chased by the Greek Navy in bad weather.

The crew abandoned the boat in Navagio Cove in an attempt to escape. The rusting hulk of the ship has been slowly falling apart ever since, adding an element of mystery and intrigue to the beach.

That’s why the beach is sometimes referred to as “Smuggler’s Cove”. If you visit the beach, don’t miss the chance to see the iconic shipwreck and take some amazing photos.

This story of the abandoned shipwreck on Navagio Beach is like right out of some kind of pirate tale!

Safe On The Cliffs

In recent years, there have been tragic incidents of tourist deaths caused by falls from the 200-meter-tall limestone cliffs above Navagio Beach. Unfortunately, like all popular tourist destinations, some people will always test the limits of safety or make reckless choices.

While there is a memorial bench at the end of the trail, it’s important to note that it is not a memorial for someone who died from falling off the cliffs. It was built by the family of Dennis Arvanitakis, an Australian of Greek descent who passed away in Spain, in his memory because it was his favorite location.

The cliffs around Zakynthos can be hazardous if visitors get too close to the edge. Natural erosion and geology can cause sections of rock to crumble into the ocean below. Additionally, sudden gusts of wind or people losing their balance can also lead to accidents.

If you plan to hike to the best viewpoint, it’s crucial to stay a safe distance from the cliff’s edge. This will allow you to enjoy the stunning views and take plenty of incredible photos without putting yourself in danger.

The Blue Caves

Most day trips and tours to Navagio Beach Zakynthos, one of the top attractions in Zakynthos, Greece, also include a stop at the beautiful Blue Caves. These geological formations are natural archways that have been carved out of the cliffs by years of erosion.

The Blue Caves in Zante, are most famous for the striking color of the water inside of them, which is where they get their name. You can take a dip in the clear blue water and explore the caves.

Some boat trips are on small enough boats that you can actually drive the boat right into the caves themselves, which would make for an interesting and exciting experience and yet another reason to book trips on smaller boats. Don’t miss this must-see attraction when you visit Navagio Beach in Zakynthos!

Restaurants On Navagio Beach

If you’re planning a trip to Navagio Beach Zakynthos, it’s important to note that there are no restaurants or bars located on the beach itself. That’s why most people visit as part of a tour, which typically includes lunch and drinks.

When booking a day trip to Shipwreck Cove Zante, be sure to confirm with the tour operator that food and drinks will be provided, since there are no restaurants at the beach. This can help ensure that you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable visit.

Where To Stay Near Navagio Beach Zante

If you’re looking for the best places to stay in Zakynthos and explore Navagio Beach in Zante, there is really one best option here.

Kalamaki Zante, one the most popular family/couple areas in Zakynthos, is only 7 minutes away from Zante Town, the capital, and 5 minutes away from the airport! In Kalamaki you will find the remarkable family hotel Dennys Inn Hotel, being 5 minutes from Kalamaki Beach in Zante, next to Laganas, serving guests since 1991! and close to the golden beaches, which are part of the southern part of Zakynthos island, it is really the best option!

When planning your Zakynthos trip, make sure to rent a car to easily visit Shipwreck Cove in Zante and other nearby attractions.

With a car, you can explore everything the island has to offer, from its stunning beaches to its charming villages. There are many things to do in Zakynthos, so having a car will allow you to make the most of your vacation.

Local Tips For Shipwreck Cove

Discovering Navagio Beach in Zakynthos is an experience to cherish, but choosing the right tour and mode of transportation is essential to maximize your visit.

With two options available, by land or by sea, it’s important to know the basics. Here are some essential tips to help you plan your visit to Navagio Beach in Zante and optimize your time in Zakynthos.

By Car

If you’re planning a trip to Navagio Beach, make sure to use Google Maps to find your way and stay safe by following these tips. Download the Google Maps app on your Android or Apple device and download the map of Zakynthos for offline use. Click here to view and save the location of the viewing platform and get directions using the app.

Be cautious when visiting Navagio Beach as there have been tragic incidents of tourists falling from the 200-meter-high cliffs above the beach. To stay safe, make sure to stay behind the gated area and keep a safe distance from the edge. Not everything is well-signed in the area, so be extra careful. By following these tips, you can enjoy the beauty of Navagio Beach without putting yourself in danger.”

By Boat

Choose a Small Boat Tour: Your best option, and follow-up question to all the promotional banners you will see everywhere, is “How many people does the boat fit?”. Believe me you need a small boat in order to enjoy the ride, the waves, the sun, and the journey towards Navagio Beach in Zakynthos, one of the best beaches in the World!

Early In The Morning: Wondering when to visit the famous Navagio Beach? Early in the morning is your answer. Beat the crowds and select tours that start the earliest at 07:00. Yes, 07:00.

Bring Supplies: When planning your trip to Navagio Beach Zante, it’s important to remember that most tour companies do not provide sunscreen, hats, or enough water for your visit. It’s crucial to pack all the necessary supplies for a day at the beach, including sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.

NO Facilities: It’s essential to remember that there are no restrooms or other facilities on Navagio Beach in Zante. Suppose you’re planning a boat tour to Navagio Beach which doesn’t have a toilet. In that case, it’s advisable to take care of any bathroom necessities before boarding the boat and embarking on the journey to the beach to enjoy its beauty. This preparation will ensure a comfortable experience during your visit to Navagio Beach in Zakynthos.

The Water Gets Deep Quick: If you’re traveling with children, be aware that the water gets deep quite quickly.

You Only Have 1 Hour: Navagio Beach is a must-visit destination in Zakynthos, and most boat tours allow only about an hour to enjoy the stunning scenery. It’s recommended to take advantage of the short time provided by taking some photos, going for a swim, sunbathing, and making the most out of your experience on this famous Shipwreck Beach in Zante.

Bring Shoes or Flip Flops.

Enjoy Navagio Beach in Zakynthos (Shipwreck Cove)!

Navagio Beach in Zante, also known as Shipwreck Beach in Zakynthos, is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Zakynthos, Greece. With crystal clear blue waters and white sandy shores, it’s no wonder that Navagio Beach is consistently one of the most searched for and popular locations in the area.

If you’re planning a visit to Navagio Beach, it’s important to make the most of your trip. Whether you choose to approach the beach by boat or admire it from the stunning cliffs above, be sure to take advantage of every moment. Of course, taking lots of photos with your camera or smartphone is a must, but don’t forget to take some time to put the device down and fully appreciate the breathtaking view.

One common mistake that many people make is relying too heavily on their devices to capture the beauty of Navagio Beach. While photos are a great way to remember your trip, make sure to also enjoy the scenery with your own eyes. So, make sure to soak it all in and be careful as you explore this incredible destination. By following these tips, you can be sure to have an unforgettable experience at Navagio Beach in Zakynthos.