Kalamaki, Zakynthos: Where to Stay, Beaches, Food & Getting Around
by: Dionisis Vitsos
September 2026
We're the family behind Denny's Inn. We've welcomed guests to Kalamaki, Zante since 1991, and this is what we tell people who ask what the area is really like.
👉 Looking for a Local Guide to Zakynthos? Check out our Local Travel Guide: Zakynthos Greece
Why stay in Kalamaki?
Kalamaki is a small beach resort on the south coast of Zakynthos, at the western end of Laganas Bay and close to the airport. It suits guests who want a sandy beach, restaurants within walking distance and short transfers, without the crowds and late-night noise of the island's biggest resort.
The area sits within the National Marine Park of Zakynthos, so the coastline is protected and there's a strong emphasis on wildlife. It's also a good base for the south of the island: Laganas, Gerakas and Zakynthos Town are all a short drive away. Staying here does mean you're near the airport, so you may hear aircraft at times.
Is Kalamaki good for families?
Yes, Kalamaki works well for families, mainly because of its sandy beach, short distances and relaxed pace. Children can enjoy the sand without long walks or transfers, and tavernas along the main road are used to families.
Two things to plan for. The beach is a turtle nesting area, so there are rules about sunbeds, lights and access at night, which children usually enjoy learning about. And in July and August the beach and main street are at their busiest, so go early for a quiet spot. Families staying with us often book our triple rooms, which have space for three.
Is Kalamaki good for couples?
Kalamaki suits couples who want a beach holiday with relaxed evenings. There's a stretch of bars and restaurants, but it's calmer than Laganas, so you can eat outdoors without loud music if you choose the right place. Sunset walks along the beach are one of the simplest pleasures here.
If you want a wild nightlife scene every night, you'll find it in Laganas, a short taxi ride away. If you want a quiet romantic village with no visitors, Kalamaki is busier than that. Most couples we host find the balance right.
What is Kalamaki Beach like?
Kalamaki Beach is a long sandy beach, part of the National Marine Park of Zakynthos and one of the nesting sites of loggerhead (caretta caretta) sea turtles. The turtles nest mainly from May to August, and hatchlings emerge into the autumn.
This shapes how the beach works. Rules protect the nests, including limits on where sunbeds can go and restrictions on being on the beach and using lights at night, so please follow the signs and check the Management Unit of Zakynthos and Ainos National Parks for the current rules before you go. Don't dig in the sand or leave holes and litter behind.
Denny's Inn is a 5–7 minute walk from the beach: close, but not right on the sand.
How far is Kalamaki from Zakynthos Airport?
Kalamaki is only a few minutes by car from Zakynthos International Airport (about 7-10 minutes from Denny's Inn, depending on traffic and the time of day), which makes it one of the easiest places on the island to reach after a flight.
Most guests arrive by pre-booked transfer or taxi, and some collect a hire car at the airport. Taxis wait outside arrivals, so ask for the fare before you set off, or message us before you travel and we'll help arrange a transfer at an agreed price. If you'd like us to help arrange your transfer, message us when you book.
Kalamaki vs Laganas
Kalamaki is smaller and calmer than Laganas, and Laganas is the island's busiest party resort. Laganas has the big nightlife strip, more bars and clubs, and a livelier atmosphere late into the night. Kalamaki has a quieter feel, a compact main street and an easier pace.
Both share Laganas Bay and the turtle-nesting coastline, and it's a short taxi ride between them. Many guests stay in Kalamaki and visit Laganas for an evening, which gives you the choice without sleeping in the noise. If clubs and late nights are the main reason for your holiday, Laganas may suit you better. If you want beaches, dinners and sleep, Kalamaki usually wins.
Kalamaki vs Zakynthos Town
Zakynthos Town is the island's capital and harbour town, while Kalamaki is a beach resort. The town has a waterfront promenade, shops, museums, Solomos Square and a more local, year-round feel. It's about 10 minutes by car from Kalamaki.
Stay in Kalamaki if the beach is your priority. Stay in town if you want to walk to cafés and sights in the evening and don't mind a bus or taxi to reach a good beach. Many of our guests do both, spending beach days in Kalamaki and one evening in town.
Getting around from Kalamaki
You can walk to the beach, restaurants and shops from most of Kalamaki, and taxis and hire cars cover the rest of the island. Local buses run between Zakynthos Town and the southern resorts, but timetables change through the year, so check the current schedule on the KTEL Zakynthos website or ask us at reception. Kalamaki also has its own stop, and our bus stop guide has timetables and prices.
A hire car is worth considering if you want to see more than the south, since places like Navagio (Shipwreck Bay) and the Blue Caves are on the north side of the island and make a long day trip. Boat trips to the marine park, including Marathonisi (Turtle Island), run from the southern resorts. If you're not renting a car, ask us about local taxis and excursions when you arrive.
Our tip: if you're staying in the south, you can manage without a car. Kalamaki has its own bus stop on the main road, and buses and taxis cover Laganas and Zakynthos Town. Hire a car for a day or two only if you want to reach Navagio and the Blue Caves in the north.
Restaurants, bars and the main strip
Kalamaki's main road has tavernas, cafés and bars that stay open into the evening. The mix runs from Greek grills and seafood to pizza, breakfast places and beach bars. You can eat well without leaving the resort.
We run Summer Breeze, our own restaurant at Denny's Inn, and it's open to non-residents. Along the main road you'll find Greek grills, fresh seafood, pizza and breakfast cafés. Our advice is to walk the strip before you choose, look for busy tables with a mix of locals and visitors, and ask us for a recommendation on the day, because our favourites change through the season.
Where to stay in Kalamaki
Kalamaki has small hotels, apartments and studios, so the best choice depends on what you want. Hotels usually give you daily cleaning and on-site facilities. Apartments give you more space and a kitchen. Being close to the beach and the main street saves a lot of walking, so check distances on the map before you book, and read recent reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, if you want a sandy beach, restaurants and a relaxed atmosphere close to the airport. It's calmer than Laganas and more beach-focused than Zakynthos Town.
It's a 5–7 minute walk from the hotel.
Yes, it's a few minutes by car, about 7 minutes from Denny's Inn.
Kalamaki is a popular alternative: it shares the same bay and beaches but is quieter at night.
Loggerhead turtles nest on the beach from about May to August. The beach is protected, so follow the marine park's rules and don't approach nests or turtles.
A week gives you time for the beach plus a boat trip and a day exploring the island. Ten days lets you add the north as well.
Staying at Denny's Inn
Denny's Inn is a family-run hotel that has welcomed guests since 1991, a 5–7 minute walk from Kalamaki Beach. We offer double and triple rooms and our own restaurant, Summer Breeze. [Add the facilities you're sure about and want to highlight, such as air conditioning, parking, pool or breakfast.]
Booking direct with us gives you a clear line to the people who run the hotel. See our rooms or check availability and book direct.
Read More: Best Snorkeling Spots in Zante (2026)
If you plan to spend time in the water while you're here, our guide to the Best Snorkeling Spots in Zante – 2026 covers where to go and what to know before you get in. [Add one specific detail from that post, such as your favourite spot and how far it is from Kalamaki.]
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Written By Dionisis Vitsos
Denny is a member of the Dennys Inn Hotel family located in Kalamaki, Zante. After completing his studies in Tourism and Business Management at the University of West Attica, he created this website, along with its blog and numerous other activities. His aim is to foster a connection between his guests and the Greek family spirit that his family takes great pride in. The hotel has been in operation since 1991, and Denny is one of the newest members of the team. At the hotel, you will experience a traditional Greek family business, with multiple Vitsos family members on board, who give their utmost dedication to ensure the satisfaction of their returning guests.
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