Gerakas Beach

Gerakas lies at the end of the Vasilikos peninsula inside the National Marine Park of Zakynthos, and it is one of the most important loggerhead nesting beaches in the Mediterranean, with clay cliffs behind fine golden sand and shallow warm water. The protection is real: the beach closes to all visitors from sunset to sunrise between May and October, umbrellas and sunbeds are restricted to the rear section, digging and beach furniture are limited, and boats cannot approach. A small information centre run by conservation staff explains the nesting cycle and marks the nests with cages. Hatchlings emerge from late July into October, at night, which is why the curfew exists. Daytime swimming is unaffected.

What you'll find

• The marked nests - protected nesting sites cordoned on the sand.
• The clay cliffs - eroded pale cliffs backing the beach.
• The information centre - conservation staff explaining the nesting cycle.
• The shallow bay - warm, gently shelving water good for swimming.

When to go

May to October for the beach; nesting runs roughly late May to August and hatching from late July. The sunset closure is enforced through the season, so plan for a daytime visit only.

Before you go

Rules are strict and enforced by park staff, with a limited sunbed area and a firm evening closure that surprises visitors expecting a sunset. Parking is paid and fills up. Photographing nests or hatchlings with flash is forbidden.

Nearby

Dafni and Sekania beaches are also in the marine park; Zakynthos Town lies northwest.

Key facts