Laganas Beach Hotel sits in Laganas, the best-known resort on the south coast of Zakynthos and the gateway to the bay where loggerhead turtles feed and nest. The resort stretches along a wide, gently shelving sandy beach, with a main street of tavernas, bars and shops running parallel to the sea. It is a lively, practical base: boat trips to Marathonisi and the Keri caves leave from the Laganas shore and nearby harbours, the airport is a short drive away and the beaches of the marine park are close. For families and groups of friends who want an easy, social beach holiday with plenty to do, the location is hard to beat.
Laganas has two moods, and it helps to know which one you are choosing. The beach end is family friendly by day, with calm water and sunbeds, while the main strip later in the evening is known for loud bars and clubs, so ask the property where its rooms sit in relation to the noise and request a quieter floor or side if you want to sleep early. Tavernas on the seafront serve grilled fish, souvlaki and Greek salads, and quieter restaurants are a few minutes inland.
Use the resort as a hub for the island's water days. The turtle-spotting and Keri caves cruises are the obvious choices, and the nesting beach at Gerakas is a short drive. For the northwest, including Navagio and the Blue Caves, allow a long day with an early start, since the drive across the island takes over an hour, and consider a coach and boat package that collects from the resort. A rental car or a few taxi rides will widen your options, though buses and organised tours cover the main sights.
Season matters. From June to September the resort is full and lively, with the sea warm and every service open, while May and October are quieter and cooler, and many seasonal businesses close in winter. The sea can be busy with boats in the bay, so choose swimming spots in line with the marine-park rules and avoid the nesting beaches at night.
Because rooms, facilities and meal plans differ, check the property page for the current details, including air conditioning, pool access, breakfast and any resort charges, before you book. Overall, this is a convenient, sociable base for beach days and boat trips rather than a retreat for peace and quiet.
Two practical extras
Carry some cash for small beach purchases and tips, and book boat trips through a company that follows the marine-park rules, since the bay is a protected area. If you are staying a week, a split of three beach days, two boat days and two flexible days gives a good balance, with the flexible days kept for weather changes and for the quiet pleasure of a long lunch.
Why stay here
- ✓Laganas beachfront area
- ✓Near turtle-bay boat departures
- ✓Close to Zakynthos airport
- ✓Tavernas and bars nearby
- ✓Marine park beaches close
- ✓Good for beach holidays
- ✓Taxi and tour pickups nearby
- ✓Check property for facilities
Good questions
Is Laganas a good base for first-timers?+
Yes for beaches, boats and nightlife. The turtle bay cruises leave from here, though the northwest sights need a long day trip.
Is Laganas noisy at night?+
The main strip has loud bars, so ask for a quieter room and check the property's position before you book.
When is the best time to stay?+
June to September for a full-service resort, May and October for fewer crowds and milder weather.