Alykes Beach

Alykes beach is a long, gently curving strip of fine sand on the north coast of Zakynthos, backed by the abandoned salt lakes that give the resort its name. The sea is notably shallow — waist-deep for a considerable distance from the shore — which makes it exceptionally safe for children and comfortable for nervous swimmers. The water stays calm even on moderate wind days, protected by the curve of the coastline.

Sunbeds and parasols are available for hire along most of the beach. Watersports concessions operate from the beach including jet ski hire, pedalo hire, waterskiing, and inflatable rides. The beach is Blue Flag rated. The best swimming is at the northern end, nearest the salt lakes, where the water is clearest.

things to do sight
A story
The salt lakes that give Alykes its name ("salt pans" in Greek) operated commercially until 1985. In their heyday they produced salt that was exported across the Ionian region. The old stone bridge crossing the River Skourtis, still visible near the northern end of the beach, was part of the infrastructure that connected the salt works to the road. When the salt works closed, the lakes reverted to their current state as shallow, reedy pools popular with wading birds.