Alykanas lies on the north-east coast of Zakynthos, a long, sandy beach with a calmer, more family-oriented character than the south-coast resorts. Alykanas Beach Hotel by Zante Plaza places you on this stretch, which suits travellers who prefer quieter evenings and wide beaches over nightlife. The area has a handful of tavernas, small shops and a relaxed pace, and neighbouring Alykes, with its old salt pans and a lively seafront, is a short distance away. It is also much closer to the northern sights than the south, which changes how a trip is planned.
The north-east base has real advantages for boat days. Trips to Navagio and the Blue Caves leave from harbours on the north and west coast, such as Agios Nikolaos and Porto Vromi, and the drive from Alykanas is far shorter than from Laganas. A morning departure is realistic, and the return gives time for a swim and a taverna dinner. Some operators also run boats from Alykes, which makes this stretch of coast one of the easiest places to book the island's headline sea trip.
The trade-off is distance from the south. Laganas, Keri and the marine-park beaches are an hour or more away, so a visit to the turtle bay takes a day of planning, either by rental car, taxi or an organised trip with pickup. Zakynthos Town is about half an hour by car, and the capital makes a good evening outing. Because public transport is limited, a rental car is useful here, though many visitors manage with a few taxis and tours.
What to expect from the beach
Soft sand, shallow water, sunbeds in season and a quiet, family atmosphere. Evenings are calm, with live music in some tavernas and a gentle promenade. The best months are June and September, when the sea is warm and the area is relaxed, and July and August are busy but never as hectic as the south coast.
Check the property page for facilities, room types and meal plans, since details vary and change by season. For couples and families who want beach time, easy north-coast boats and a quieter night, this is one of the more appealing parts of the island to stay.
Combine the stay with the local salt pans and the lighthouse area at Alykes, and look out for the old windmill and small chapels along the coast road. A late afternoon swim and a seafront dinner make a good routine after a morning boat trip, and the early evening light along this coast is some of the most flattering on the island.
Why stay here
- ✓North-east coast location
- ✓Long sandy beach
- ✓Near Navagio and Blue Caves boat harbours
- ✓Quieter evenings
- ✓Near Alykes salt pans and seafront
- ✓Good for families
- ✓Taverna dinners nearby
- ✓Check property for facilities
Good questions
Is Alykanas good for boat trips to Navagio?+
Yes. It is much closer to the north-coast departure harbours than the southern resorts.
Is it quiet?+
Quieter and more family oriented than Laganas, though July and August are busy.
Do I need a car?+
A car helps, especially to reach the south and the interior, but taxis and tours are available.