Navagio beach
Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Beach, stands as one of the most stunning and renowned beaches not only in Zakynthos but throughout Greece. The idyllic bay, adorned with a rusted shipwreck on its shore, has become the quintessential image featured in travel guides for this paradisiacal Greek island. The beach derives its name from this very attraction. Originally named after St. George, it was later dubbed "Shipwreck," while the coast itself is frequently referred to as Smugglers Cove.
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Beach description
Navagio Beach, located on the northwest shore of Zakynthos, is a destination of unparalleled beauty. Surrounded by hills of varying heights that shield the bay from high winds, its uniqueness is undeniable. The beach itself boasts soft, clean, cream-colored sand, providing a perfect canvas for the rusty remains of a contraband ship that rests in the background, adding an epic touch to the idyllic landscape.
The waters of Navagio are a mesmerizing azure, a result of the active underwater springs that enrich the sea with minerals and limestone. The seabed is adorned with grainy white pebbles, and while the descent into the water is gentle and the depth increases smoothly, visitors often note the water's cooler temperature compared to other beaches on the island.
It is the breathtaking landscapes, intriguing history, and seclusion from the hustle and bustle of civilization that make Navagio one of the most captivating spots on the island. Tourists flock here not only to unwind but also to behold the natural splendor and capture its vibrant hues in countless photographs.
Due to the unfortunate rock collapse in September 2018, the beach is currently inaccessible. However, you can still embark on a tour to admire the bay from a distance. To immerse yourself fully in the wonders of Zakynthos, consider booking a one-day sea tour that includes a visit to the mesmerizing Blue Caves.
When is the best time to go?
The best time to visit Zakynthos for a beach vacation is typically during the late spring to early autumn months, when the weather is warm and sunny.
- Late Spring (May to June): This is an ideal time for those looking to enjoy the island's natural beauty without the peak season crowds. The weather is pleasantly warm, and the sea has started to heat up, making it comfortable for swimming.
- Summer (July to August): These are the hottest months, perfect for beachgoers who want to bask in the sun and enjoy the vibrant nightlife. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect crowded beaches and higher prices.
- Early Autumn (September to October): The temperatures remain warm, but the crowds have thinned out, making it a great time for a more relaxed vacation. The sea is still warm enough for swimming, and the accommodation prices are more reasonable.
Regardless of the time you choose, Zakynthos offers stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and picturesque views. However, for the optimal balance of good weather and fewer crowds, late spring and early autumn are the most recommended periods for a beach vacation on this beautiful Greek island.
Video: Beach Navagio
Infrastructure
Navagio Beach is a secluded haven of pristine nature, surrounded by majestic cliffs and untouched by civilization. Access to this stunning location is weather-dependent, as turbulent conditions can render it unreachable.
- With no infrastructure in place, visitors should not expect amenities such as umbrellas or lounge chairs.
- The only respite from the sun is the shade provided by a rusting shipwreck on the sand.
- It is essential to bring all necessities with you for a day at Navagio.
- Occasionally, local vendors arrive by boat to offer wine and orange honey to tourists.
- Adjacent to the scenic viewpoint, there is a car park, a handful of eateries, and souvenir shops. Be aware that prices here are significantly higher than in other parts of the island that are more connected to civilization.
The beach's immense popularity means that tours are readily available from nearly every corner of the island, making your choice of accommodation flexible. You can select any lodging option in Zakynthos and still enjoy a sea tour to this iconic spot.
In the summer months, Navagio becomes a hotspot for base jumpers seeking thrills from the cliff tops. This sport is highly extreme and not without its risks, necessitating thorough preparation and caution.
Weather in Navagio
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You can get to this beach only by sea, on a sightseeing or pleasure boat or yacht. This is the most popular excursion on the island, so there are plenty of offers. The cost will depend on the place of departure. The main dispatch points include:
- Agios Nikolaos (about 4 kilometers from the beach) – is in the north of the island;
- Porto Vromi is in the West
Tours are usually offered, providing 1.5 hours of stay on the coast of the bay. The ideal time to visit is from 15 to 17.00. It’s hot at this time, but there are fewer tourists, the water warms up well and has a particularly colorful turquoise hue.
By car, you can reach the village of Anafonitria (about 30 kilometers from the island's capital). In it you can visit the monastery of the same name with a miraculous icon. It will not work to get to the beach itself, but you can climb a rock and enjoy the panorama of the bay.
- The view is impressive, but you have to overcome about 200 meters up to reach this place.
- From the observation deck, only part of the bay and the beach is accessible for viewing. From the sea there is a more complete, all-encompassing view.
- It’s not worth coming to the cliff – the rocks here are not very strong, although it creates such a deceptive impression.
- Comfortable indoor shoes for visiting the observation deck is required!