Gerakas Beach — Where Turtles Have Right of Way

Gerakas is a rare thing on Zakynthos: a genuinely beautiful beach that puts nature first. Located on the southeastern tip of the island, this golden sand stretch is one of the most important nesting sites for the endangered Caretta caretta loggerhead turtle. That means rules — and they’re the good kind.

What Awaits You

A wide sweep of fine golden sand backed by dramatic clay and sandstone cliffs that glow orange in the afternoon light. The water is shallow and warm, sloping gently — ideal for families with small children. At the eastern end, the clay cliffs crumble into formations that look almost lunar, and you can slather yourself in natural clay for an impromptu spa treatment.

The beach is part of the National Marine Park of Zakynthos, so there are no sunbeds, no umbrellas for rent, no beach bars. Just sand, sea, and silence. Bring your own shade.

Because it’s a nesting site, the beach closes at sunset (the exact time is posted daily). Roped-off areas mark active turtle nests — respect them absolutely. Between June and August, you might witness tiny hatchlings making their first sprint to the sea. It’s one of those moments that reminds you why some places need protecting.

Getting There

From Zakynthos Town, it’s a 20-minute drive southeast. The road is good and well-signposted. There’s a decent car park at the top, and a short path leads down to the sand. The descent is easy — no climbing required.

Insider Tips

The clay cliffs at the far end are genuinely therapeutic — locals swear by the natural clay for skin conditions. Smear it on, let it dry, rinse in the sea. Free spa, courtesy of geology.

Arrive early. By noon in summer, the beach fills up and shade is impossible to find. Morning hours are magic anyway — the light is soft, the water is glass-calm, and if you’re very lucky and very quiet, you might spot turtle tracks in the sand.

Bring everything you need: water, food, umbrella, towels. The nearest amenities are a small canteen at the car park. There’s nothing on the beach itself.

Best Time to Visit

For swimming: June-September, mornings are best. For turtles: Late June through August. Dawn for nesting adults, dusk for hatchlings. Avoid: August midday — hot, crowded, no shade.

Tourist vs Local Perspective

Tourists sometimes grumble about the lack of facilities and the sunset curfew. Locals see it differently — Gerakas is proof that not everything needs to be monetised. It’s the beach where Zakynthians take their kids and where environmental volunteers spend their summers counting nests. The restrictions are exactly what keep it special. Embrace them.