Gerakas beach
Gerakas - one of the popular "turtle" beaches of Zakynthos. This is one of the nesting sites of a rare species of turtles, which is why the coast is strictly protected. That is why the true connoisseurs of wildlife who want to escape from the noisy crowds and enjoy a share of privacy in one of the most picturesque corners of the island prefer to have a rest here only.
Photos
Beach description
The long and wide Gerakas Beach is located near Cape Geraki on the Vasilikos peninsula, in the very south of the island and is considered to be a reserved location. Loggerhead sea turtles swim here for reproduction.
This happens every year so you have to act responsibly here so as to not disturb the environment for the animals. The main "tourist" here is the turtle, not the humans. But Gerakas is still considered to be one of the better places for calm vacation on Zakynthos.
Here are some of its unique features:
- This is one of the few completely sandy beaches on the island (both the beach and the sea bottom are covered in grainy golden sand), which makes it perfect for children and adults alike.
- The depths aren't extreme near the shore, the descent is very smooth, and the emerald-colored water is warm.
- The mountains that surround the area add to the atmosphere of solitude and protect from high waves.
- It's always crowded, but the beach is kept clean. Seaweed can only occasionally appear after storms.
- The southern part of the beach has a rocky sea bottom; this part is wild and usually nudists stay here.
- There are no water attractions here, and watchmen are deployed during the turtle nesting period.
The small picturesque Peluso island can be seen from the shore.
When is the best time to go?
Greece - a country with a long length from north to south, so the recommendations will vary depending on the place where you are going. The holiday season begins in May and reaches a peak in July-August: there are too many tourists, and the temperature on the southern islands reaches 40 degrees, which may still not play a role on the beach, but certainly not suitable for sightseeing. So the best time to relax in Greece is the end of spring-beginning of summer or September-October.
Video: Beach Gerakas
Infrastructure
The beach has neither cafes, nor attractions, nor changing cabins, washing rooms, and water closets. But the visitors are offered convenient deck chairs and sun umbrellas, and the rescuers' tower fucntions on the beach during the season. Any water games, as well as access of motor vessels to the beach, are strictly prohibited. It is a place not intended for noisy parties and night clubs.
Taverns are located in the upper part, before the entrance to the beach territory. there are also several fish restaurants outsidethe beach. You should better take your own food and water because otherwise, you'll have to walk several kilometers to the closest small store. Here, you can feel real unity with nature, that's why the place is so attractive for many people.
The closest village is Vasilikos situated 5 kilometers away from gerakas Beach. This is where you can find a well-developed infrastructure, places of entertainment and comfortable hotels the number of which is around twenty.
- In Gerakas area, one of hotels situated the closest to the sea is Belvedere Gerakas Lux Suites (only 20 m away from the beach) with splendid luxury rooms with balconies overlooking the sea.
- Liuba Houses – 500 m away from the beach, consisting of seven separate villas.
- Villa Clelia – a cozy mini hotel 700 m away from the beach.. It's only 300 meter from it to Porto Roma. Vasilikos village is only 1 km away from it. It is especially popular among the visitors due to its convenient location. That is why rooms should be booked in advance.
- Zante Royal Resort – is situated close to several beaches. 1.2 km from Gerakas, and the closest is Porto Roma.
There are dwelling options for any budget in the village, so it will be easy to find one.
Weather in Gerakas
Best hotels of Gerakas
All hotels of GerakasUseful information
- Gerakas is located 18 kilometers from the capital. You can get here by regular bus, get off at a stop near the Museum of Turtles, or take a taxi.
- Car rental will allow you not to become attached to a location on a secluded beach and visit other interesting places on the island.
- Near the beach you can visit the Caretta-Caretta Turtle Center, where you can find out more interesting information about these marine animals and their places nesting on the island.
- An hour after dawn and an hour before sunset, the beach is closed to tourists, so that they do not interfere with turtles reproduce.