Where to stay in Kalamaki, Zakynthos: The best areas and 16 accommodations

Kalamaki is a seaside resort in the south of Zakynthos, located within Laganas Bay, known for its long sandy beach and its proximity to the Zakynthos National Marine Park. It has a calmer character than neighbouring Laganas, but still offers plenty of options for dining and entertainment.

The area stretches along the beach and inland, with hotels, apartments, and studios catering to every need, from family holidays to a quieter escape for two.

In this article, you will find a detailed overview of Kalamaki’s sub-areas, their advantages and disadvantages, as well as specific accommodation suggestions to confidently plan your stay.

What to see and do in Kalamaki, Zakynthos

Kalamaki is approximately 9 km from Zakynthos Town, a journey of about 15 minutes by car, while from Dionysios Solomos Airport, the distance is just 3 km, making it one of the most easily accessible resorts on the island for those arriving by flight. Zakynthos Port is about 10 km away, an approximate 18-minute drive.

The village developed as a tourist destination from the 1980s onwards, following the growth of neighbouring Laganas, though it always maintained a milder character due to its location slightly further from Laganas' centre. Historically, the area was primarily agricultural, with vineyards and olive groves extending to the coast.

Kalamaki beach is part of the large sandy coastline of Laganas Bay, featuring fine sand and a gradual entry into the sea, making it suitable for families with children. The area lies within the boundaries of the Zakynthos National Marine Park, as it is a nesting site for the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta). This entails restrictions such as a ban on sunbeds in specific areas at night and speed limits for boats.

Regarding dining, Kalamaki has several tavernas and restaurants along its main road, with options ranging from traditional Greek cuisine to international dishes for its many foreign visitors. The nightlife is milder than that of Laganas, with bars generally operating until midnight.

Seasonality is pronounced, with the area mainly operating from April to October. In July and August, accommodation prices are at their highest and beaches are crowded, while in May, June, and September, visitor numbers are lower, with more affordable prices and warm sea temperatures.

From Kalamaki, it's easy to organise a boat trip to Marathonisi, the turtle island, as several boats depart from nearby beaches like Laganas, just 3 km away. For longer excursions, such as to Shipwreck Beach (Navagio) or the Blue Caves in the north of the island, the distance exceeds 45 km and requires a car or an organised coach tour.

Getting around Kalamaki is easy on foot, as the settlement is not very spread out. However, its proximity to the airport means you might hear aircraft noise at certain times of the day, which is worth considering if you are sensitive to noise.

The area also has small supermarkets, a pharmacy, and vehicle rental services, covering basic needs without requiring a trip to Zakynthos Town. Local buses connect Kalamaki with the town several times a day during summer.

Zakynthos Town, built around its bay, retains neoclassical buildings rebuilt after the 1953 earthquake, such as Solomos Square and the Church of Agios Dionysios, the island's patron saint. From Kalamaki, visiting the town is easy within a few minutes by car or taxi, ideal for an evening out or shopping.

Laganas Bay, where Kalamaki is situated, is an important nesting site for the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) in the Mediterranean. The Zakynthos National Marine Park has established rules, such as restricted navigation zones and a ban on lighting near the shore at night, to avoid disturbing nesting females and newly hatched young.

Neighbouring Laganas has a more vibrant nightlife with bars and clubs, while Kalamaki maintains a more relaxed character. Most visitors prefer a quiet stay here and enjoy Laganas' entertainment whenever they wish. The two resorts are connected by regular bus services and taxis in summer.

The area features diving schools and water sports equipment rental. Kalamaki's sandy beach is considered one of the cleanest in the bay, with relatively calm waters due to the bay's shape.

The best areas to stay in Kalamaki, Zakynthos

Kalamaki Beachfront

The beachfront gathers most hotels with direct access to the sand, ideal for those who want the sea just a few steps from their room.

The area is well-organised with sunbeds and water sports, although some parts of the beach are subject to restrictions due to the marine park.

Advantages:

• Direct access to the sandy beach
• Shallow waters suitable for families
• Many restaurant options nearby

Disadvantages:

• Higher prices compared to inland areas
• Restrictions on sunbeds due to turtle protection

Recommended accommodations:

1. Kalamaki Beach Hotel
A hotel right on the beach with a pool, popular with families and couples.

• Average cost: approximately 90€ per night

2. Crystal Beach Hotel
A hotel with direct sea access and comfortable rooms with balconies.

• Average cost: approximately 85€ per night

3. Klelia Beach Hotel by Zante Plaza
A hotel next to the beach with a pool and a family-friendly atmosphere.

• Average cost: approximately 95€ per night

4. Caretta Beach
Accommodation named after the sea turtle, close to the beach and main shops.

• Average cost: approximately 80€ per night

5. Cavo Doro
A small hotel with good reviews for its location, a few steps from the beach.

• Average cost: approximately 78€ per night

Central Kalamaki

Central Kalamaki gathers most restaurants, bars, and shops, with accommodations just a few minutes' walk from the beach.

A good choice for those seeking a balance between a quiet stay and easy access to services and entertainment.

Advantages:

• Close to restaurants and shops
• Good value for money in accommodations
• Easy walking access to the beach

Disadvantages:

• Some noise from the main road
• Less privacy compared to more secluded spots

Recommended accommodations:

6. Golden Sun Hotel
A hotel with a pool in the centre of Kalamaki, close to restaurants and shops.

• Average cost: approximately 88€ per night

7. Macedonia
A family hotel with a simple layout and good value for money in the area.

• Average cost: approximately 65€ per night

8. Two Brothers Studios & Apts
Studios with a kitchen, suitable for longer stays or self-catering.

• Average cost: approximately 70€ per night

9. Denny's Inn
A small accommodation with friendly service, close to the centre of the settlement.

• Average cost: approximately 60€ per night

Quiet neighbourhoods inland

Inland Kalamaki, away from the main beachfront road, offers quieter accommodations at more affordable prices, suitable for those who don't need immediate sea access.

Many feature a garden or small pool, providing a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the bustling beachfront.

Advantages:

• More economical accommodation prices
• Quiet environment away from noise
• Several accommodations with a garden or pool

Disadvantages:

• Requires walking to the beach
• Less sea view

Recommended accommodations:

10. Kalidonio Studios Zante
Studios with a kitchen in a quiet location, suitable for couples or small families.

• Average cost: approximately 62€ per night

11. Venus
A small accommodation with a simple layout and good price, a few minutes from the beach.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

12. Nikon Boutique
A boutique accommodation with tasteful decor, in a quiet location inland.

• Average cost: approximately 75€ per night

13. Anagenessis Resort
A suite complex with a spa and pool, more secluded from the beach crowds.

• Average cost: approximately 100€ per night

Southern tip towards Laganas

The southern tip of Kalamaki borders Laganas and hosts larger hotel complexes with more amenities, such as multiple pools and comprehensive services.

This is a good choice for those who want the comforts of a larger resort, while maintaining easy access to both areas.

Advantages:

• Larger accommodations with more amenities
• Close to both Laganas and Kalamaki
• Good choice for families with children

Disadvantages:

• Greater distance from Kalamaki centre
• Usually higher prices due to resort size

Recommended accommodations:

14. Bitzaro Grande
A large hotel complex with multiple pools, suitable for families.

• Average cost: approximately 140€ per night

15. Ionion Blue
A hotel with sea views and comprehensive services, popular with families.

• Average cost: approximately 150€ per night

16. Exotica Hotel & Spa by Zante Plaza
A hotel with a spa and pool, on the border of Kalamaki and Laganas.

• Average cost: approximately 125€ per night

17. White Olive Elite
A modern accommodation with contemporary design, close to Laganas.

• Average cost: approximately 110€ per night

18. Golden Sun Resort - Adults Only
An adults-only hotel with a pool, suitable for couples seeking peace and quiet.

• Average cost: approximately 115€ per night

Practical tips for your stay

• Book early for peak months. In July and August, the best accommodations near the beach fill up several months in advance, so early booking is advisable.
• Consider airport noise. Kalamaki is close to the airport, so if you are sensitive to noise, inquire about flight times before booking.
• Respect the marine park rules. In certain parts of the beach, restrictions apply due to the protection of the Caretta caretta turtle, such as no sunbeds at night.
• Choose an area according to your budget. Inland accommodations are more economical, while beachfront properties cost more.
• Consider a trip to Marathonisi. From nearby beaches like Laganas, you can easily take a day boat trip to the turtle island.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Kalamaki from Zakynthos airport?

About 3 km, a few minutes' drive by car or taxi.

Is Kalamaki suitable for families?

Yes, the beach has shallow waters and there are several family-friendly accommodations with pools.

What is the difference from neighbouring Laganas?

Kalamaki has a milder nightlife and a calmer character compared to the more bustling Laganas.

Do you need a car in Kalamaki?

Not necessarily for daily needs, but it's useful for excursions to the north of the island.

What is the best time of year to stay in Kalamaki?

From May to October, with July and August being the busiest.

Are there beach restrictions due to the Caretta caretta turtle?

Yes, in certain areas, rules of the National Marine Park apply, such as the removal of sunbeds at night.

Conclusion

Kalamaki is a good choice for those who want an organised beach and a calm atmosphere, without sacrificing dining and entertainment options. Its proximity to the airport and the large sandy coastline make it convenient for families and couples alike.

Depending on whether you prefer beachfront accommodation, a more economical inland option, or a larger resort towards Laganas, the suggestions above provide ample choices to plan your stay.

Also check out our guides on where to stay in Lixouri and where to stay in Platis Gialos, Mykonos.