Diagram by Greece Trips. Free to reuse with credit - CC BY 4.0.
The beach
Long, sandy and shallow, running for kilometres around the bay, with organised sections, watersports and a wide choice of accommodation immediately behind.
The shallow water and the amount of sand are the practical appeal. The strip behind it is the reason people either book here or specifically avoid it.
The rules that come with a nesting beach
This is where Laganas differs from every other resort beach in Greece, and where visitors most often get it wrong:
- Nesting season restrictions apply, including limits on being on the sand at night during the season.
- Umbrellas and loungers are limited to designated zones and set back from the nesting areas.
- Boat speed limits and approach rules operate inside the bay.
- Do not dig, drive stakes, or use lights on the beach at night during the season.
The rules are set by the marine park and change as conditions require, so take the current position locally. Operators working legally will know them; one offering an exception is a reason to walk away.
Turtle trips
Boat trips from the bay advertise turtle sightings. Turtles are wild animals in open water and no operator can promise you one. Choose boats that describe the marine park rules rather than the guarantees, and read our Marathonisi page for the islet at the mouth of the bay.
Who it suits
Good for: groups who want nightlife within walking distance, and a long shallow beach by day.
Less good for: light sleepers, families wanting quiet, and anyone who would rather not holiday inside a protected nesting site. Tsilivi is the calmer family option, and where to stay in Zakynthos sets out the rest.
Last checked August 2026. Marine park rules change by season and are set by the park, not by us - see our editorial policy.
Common questions
Is Laganas a party resort?
Yes. It has the island’s main nightlife strip behind a long sandy beach, which is why it draws groups and repels people looking for quiet.
Why are there rules on Laganas beach?
The bay is part of the National Marine Park of Zakynthos and a major loggerhead nesting site, so access, lighting, digging and boat movement are regulated in the nesting season.
Can you see turtles at Laganas?
Sometimes, on boat trips in the bay, but sightings are never guaranteed and no operator can promise one.
Is Laganas good for families?
The beach is shallow and sandy and works well by day, but the strip behind it is loud at night. Tsilivi is the usual family alternative.
Can you be on Laganas beach at night?
Access at night is restricted during the nesting season. Take the current rules from the marine park or locally.
Next
Read best beaches in Zakynthos, Marathonisi, or where to stay in Zakynthos.