Where to stay in Alykes, Zakynthos: The best areas and 18 accommodations

Alykes is located on the north-eastern coast of Zakynthos and is one of the island's most popular family destinations, thanks to its sandy beach with shallow and calm waters. The area's name comes from the old salt flats that operated there, a feature still discernible in the landscape around the bay.

The area is not a single settlement but extends across a large bay that includes Alykes, the neighbouring Alykanas to the north, and the side towards Tragaki and Tsilivi to the south. Each section has a different character, from quieter to more organised with significant tourist activity.

Below, you will find a detailed breakdown of the three areas, their advantages and disadvantages, as well as specific accommodation suggestions to help you plan your stay.

What to see and do in Alykes, Zakynthos

Alykes is approximately 16 km from Zakynthos town, a journey that takes around 20 to 25 minutes by car along a provincial road with few bends. From Dionysios Solomos Airport, south of the town, the distance is greater, about 25 km, roughly 35 to 40 minutes driving, as the route passes through Zakynthos town heading north. Access to the island is mainly by air, with direct flights from Athens and several European destinations in the summer, or by ferry from Kyllini in the Peloponnese, a journey of about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

The area's name comes from the salt flats that formerly operated here for salt production, utilising the shallow, salty waters of the bay. Today, some traces of the land's old use can still be seen in the fields behind the beach, while the area has now transformed into one of the island's most organised tourist destinations, with hotels, rented rooms, and large resorts stretching along the coast.

The main beach of Alykes is large, sandy, with shallow waters that gradually deepen, making it ideal for families with young children. The sea here is usually calmer compared to other beaches on the island, as the bay is largely protected from winds. Nearby is Alykanas beach, equally sandy, with similar characteristics and continuous pedestrian access from Alykes.

A few kilometres north, in the Xyngia area, are the sulphur springs, a small beach where sulphurous water bubbles up through rocks, known for its therapeutic properties for the skin. Further north, at Cape Skinari, boats depart to transport visitors to the Blue Caves and Shipwreck, two of Zakynthos' most photographed spots. The boat trip from Skinari takes about 30 to 40 minutes to the Shipwreck, while many caiques also depart directly from Alykes during the summer months.

Dining in the area covers a wide range, from tavernas serving traditional Zakynthian cuisine, such as 'sartsaltsa' (savoury pie) and fried fish, to more tourist-oriented restaurants and beach bars around the beach. In Alykanas, the evening atmosphere is livelier, with more bars and shops, while towards Tragaki, the atmosphere is quieter and more family-friendly.

Seasonality is pronounced, peaking in July and August when the beach and shops are crowded. May, June, and September offer a calmer experience with warm seas and lower prices, while many accommodations and restaurants operate seasonally, from April to October.

The distance between Alykes and Alykanas is less than 2 km, with a promenade along the beach allowing for easy walking. The side towards Tragaki and Tsilivi is further south, about 5 to 6 km from the core of Alykes, with Tsilivi having its own, equally popular sandy beach.

For those who enjoy excursions, a visit to Zakynthos town with Solomos Square and the castle is worthwhile, as is the islet of Agios Nikolaos in Volimes. A boat trip to the Shipwreck and the Blue Caves remains the most popular activity from Alykes, as the area is on the natural route to the island's northern attractions.

The best areas to stay in Alykes, Zakynthos

Alykes

The core of Alykes gathers the largest tourist infrastructure in the area, with its big sandy beach, dozens of tavernas and shops just a few metres from the sea. It's an ideal base for families thanks to its shallow waters.

Accommodation options here are plentiful, from simple rented rooms to larger hotels with swimming pools, covering a wide range of budgets.

Advantages:

• Large sandy beach with shallow waters, ideal for children
• Plenty of tavernas and shops within walking distance
• Good base for boat trips to the Shipwreck and Blue Caves

Disadvantages:

• Very busy in July and August
• Intensive tourist development, less authentic atmosphere

Recommended accommodations:

1. Sea View Hotel
A hotel near Alykes beach, with comfortable rooms and easy access to tavernas and shops.

• Average cost: approx. 90€ per night

2. Pothos Hotel Alykes
A family-friendly hotel with a pool, a few minutes from the beach, highly rated for service.

• Average cost: approx. 85€ per night

3. Alykes Mastora Seaside Studios
Studios right by the sea with equipped kitchens, suitable for small families.

• Average cost: approx. 80€ per night

4. Paradise Elegant Apartments
Apartments with excellent ratings, near the beach, with a quiet atmosphere.

• Average cost: approx. 95€ per night

5. Aphrodite Studios & Suites
Studios and suites with a pool, suitable for couples and families who want space.

• Average cost: approx. 100€ per night

6. Sea Sight
Apartments with sea views, a few minutes from the centre of Alykes.

• Average cost: approx. 90€ per night

7. Alykes View Apartments
Apartments with a terrace and bay views, near the beach.

• Average cost: approx. 85€ per night

Alykanas

Alykanas is located a few minutes north of Alykes, with its own sandy beach and continuous pedestrian access to Alykes beach. The atmosphere in the evening is livelier, with more bars and shops.

The area has undergone significant tourist development, with several hotels and villas near the sea, as well as easy access to the sulphur springs of Xyngia.

Advantages:

• Its own sandy beach, equally calm waters
• Livelier nightlife compared to Alykes
• Close to the Xyngia sulphur springs

Disadvantages:

• More noise in the evenings during the summer months
• A car is needed for longer excursions

Recommended accommodations:

8. Beach House I&II
Apartments right by Alykanas beach, with an excellent location rating.

• Average cost: approx. 100€ per night

9. Alykanas Village Resort
A resort with a pool and garden, suitable for families seeking more amenities.

• Average cost: approx. 130€ per night

10. Valais Hotel
A well-rated hotel, a few minutes from Alykanas beach.

• Average cost: approx. 95€ per night

11. Barbara Ann Apartments
Family apartments with a kitchen, a quiet location near Alykanas centre.

• Average cost: approx. 75€ per night

12. Elpida Hotel
A small hotel with good value for money, near the beach.

• Average cost: approx. 70€ per night

13. Hotel Plessas Palace
A hotel with a pool and comfortable rooms, popular for family holidays.

• Average cost: approx. 110€ per night

Tragaki and Tsilivi side

The side towards Tragaki and Tsilivi is located further south of the core of Alykes, in a quieter and greener landscape with olive groves. Tsilivi has its own popular sandy beach, while Tragaki is a smaller village.

The area offers more villas and larger accommodations with privacy, ideal for those who want to distance themselves a little from the hustle and bustle of Alykes without losing easy access to the beach.

Advantages:

• Quieter and greener area
• Its own beach in Tsilivi
• More villas with private pools

Disadvantages:

• Greater distance from the centre of Alykes
• A car is almost always needed

Recommended accommodations:

14. Akea Villas
Villas with private pools and gardens, suitable for families seeking space and tranquillity.

• Average cost: approx. 180€ per night

15. Villa Dora
A villa with excellent ratings, in a quiet location near Tragaki.

• Average cost: approx. 150€ per night

16. Caretta Paradise Resort & WaterPark
A large resort with a waterpark, ideal for families with children who want lots of activities.

• Average cost: approx. 140€ per night

17. Mirage Bleu Hotel
A hotel with a pool and good ratings, near Tsilivi beach.

• Average cost: approx. 100€ per night

18. Magique Bleu Suites
Suites with a modern aesthetic, suitable for couples seeking comfort.

• Average cost: approx. 120€ per night

19. Elegance Luxury Executive Suites
Luxurious suites with excellent ratings, ideal for couples.

• Average cost: approx. 160€ per night

20. Atlantica Eleon Grand Resort
A large resort with multiple amenities, suitable for families who want an all-inclusive experience.

• Average cost: approx. 200€ per night

Practical tips for your stay

• Book early for July and August. Alykes is a popular family destination and good accommodations sell out quickly in summer.
• Consider if you need a car. If you stay in Alykes or Alykanas, you can get around on foot, but for excursions to Shipwreck or Xyngia, you'll need a vehicle or an organised tour.
• Try a boat trip to the Shipwreck and Blue Caves. Many caiques depart directly from Alykes during the summer months, so there's no need to travel to Skinari.
• Choose a shallow beach if you have small children. Alykes and Alykanas beaches have calm, shallow waters that gradually deepen, making them a safer option than other beaches on the island.
• Visit Xyngia early in the morning. The sulphur springs get crowded around midday, so a morning visit is calmer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Alykes from Zakynthos town?

Approximately 16 km, a drive of about 20 to 25 minutes by car.

How far is Alykes from the airport?

Approximately 25 km, about 35 to 40 minutes driving, as the route passes through the town.

Is Alykes suitable for families with small children?

Yes, the sandy beach with shallow, calm waters is one of the safest options on the island for children.

How can I get to the Shipwreck from Alykes?

By organised boats that depart either directly from Alykes or from Cape Skinari, with a journey time of approximately 30 to 40 minutes.

Which is the best area for nightlife?

Alykanas has a livelier evening atmosphere, with more bars, compared to the quieter Alykes and Tragaki.

When is the best time to visit?

May, June, and September offer warm seas with fewer crowds, while July and August are the busiest months.

Conclusion

Alykes, Zakynthos offers a balanced choice for holidays, with a sandy beach and shallow waters suitable for all ages, good tourist infrastructure and easy access to the island's northern attractions, such as the Shipwreck and the Blue Caves.

The choice between the main settlement, Alykanas, and the side towards Tragaki and Tsilivi primarily depends on whether you prefer activity and vibrancy or greater tranquillity, while in all cases, the distance from the beach remains short.

Also see our guides on where to stay in Fragokastello and where to stay in Gerolimenas.