Playa de Alykes, on the northeast coast of Zante, is a paradise of golden sand and shallow waters, ideal for families and lovers of tranquility seeking an idyllic escape. Its crystal-clear turquoise waters invite swimming and relaxation under the Greek sun.
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About this beach
Table of contents
Introduction
If there is one place in the world that has stolen our hearts with its serenity and natural beauty, it is, without a doubt, Playa de Alykes on the captivating island of Zante, Greece. Located on the northeast coast, this jewel of the Ionian Sea is much more than a simple stretch of sand; it is a refuge where time seems to slow down, and every wave breaking on the shore whispers stories of calm and happiness. From the moment we set foot on its fine golden sand, we know we have arrived at a special destination, a place designed for rest and pure enjoyment.
Playa de Alykes is famous for its incredibly calm and shallow waters, making it a paradise for families with young children. Here, the little ones can splash and build sandcastles in complete safety, while adults relax under the warm Greek sun or refresh themselves in the sea. But Alykes is not just for families; its relaxed atmosphere and excellent services attract all kinds of travellers seeking to disconnect from the daily hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in the essence of an authentic Mediterranean holiday. It is one of those Zante beaches that one remembers fondly long after returning home.
How to get to Playa de Alykes
Getting to Playa de Alykes is relatively straightforward, which adds to its appeal. The beach is located about 18 kilometres northwest of the island's capital, Zante Town (also known as Zakynthos Town), and Zante International Airport (ZTH). We always recommend renting a car to explore the island at our own pace, as this gives us the freedom to discover hidden coves and picturesque villages as we please. The journey from the capital to Alykes usually takes about 25-30 minutes by car, along well-signposted roads that wind through olive groves and vineyards, offering panoramic views that prepare us for the beauty that awaits.
Transport options
- Rental car: As we already mentioned, it is our preferred option. There are several car rental agencies both at the airport and in Zante Town. Prices are reasonable, especially if booked in advance.
- Taxi: Taxis are available at the airport and in Zante Town. The cost of a taxi to Alykes can be around 25-35 euros, depending on the season and time of day. It is a comfortable option if we don't want to worry about driving.
- Local bus: There is a public bus service (KTEL Zakynthos) connecting Zante Town with Alykes. Schedules can be limited, especially outside the high season, but it is the most economical option. The bus stop in Alykes is conveniently located near the beach and the village centre. It is an excellent way to experience local life and how residents get around the island.
- Motorbike or quad: For the more adventurous, renting a motorbike or quad is a fun way to get to Playa de Alykes and explore the surroundings. However, we always advise taking extra precautions when driving, especially if we are not familiar with Greek roads.
The sand and the water
Playa de Alykes welcomes us with an extensive stretch of fine, golden sand, incredibly soft to the touch. It is the kind of sand that feels pleasant underfoot and invites barefoot walks for hours. The beach is quite wide at most points, which means that even on the busiest days, there is always enough space to spread out our towel and enjoy our own little piece of paradise. We won't find sharp rocks or uncomfortable pebbles; it's pure sand, perfect for sunbathing and for children to play without worries.
But if the sand is a delight, the water is simply spectacular. The waters of Alykes are famous for their transparency and their amazing turquoise colour, which contrasts wonderfully with the deep blue of the open sea. What impresses us most is how incredibly shallow they are, extending several metres out to sea before the depth increases significantly. This is a blessing for families, as children can play and swim safely in the shallows without parents having to constantly worry.
In addition to being shallow, the waters of Alykes are generally very calm, protected from strong winds by the geography of the area. This makes them the perfect place for swimming, floating and simply relaxing without the worry of currents or large waves. The water temperature, especially during the summer months, is pleasantly warm, allowing for long swims without feeling cold. It is one of those Greece beaches where we dive in and feel all our worries dissolve in the sea.
Services and facilities
One of the great advantages of Playa de Alykes is the excellent range of services and facilities it has at our disposal, ensuring a comfortable and worry-free day at the beach. From the moment we arrive, we notice the organisation and variety of options that make our visit a pleasant experience.
Essential amenities
- Sunbeds and umbrellas: Along most of the beach, we find numerous umbrellas and comfortable sunbeds available for rent. Prices are usually reasonable, and it is an investment worth making to protect ourselves from the sun and enjoy a