Zakynthos Marine Park

Zakynthos Marine Park is one of the most important protected marine areas in Greece and one of the island's top natural attractions. Stretching along the southern coast from Cape Marathia to Gerakas Beach, the park includes the beaches of Laganas, Kalamaki and Limni Keri, the famous Marathonisi (Turtle Island), as well as the remote Strofades Islands.

Established in 1999, the park was created to protect the unique ecosystems of southern Zakynthos and the endangered Caretta caretta sea turtle, for which the island is one of the Mediterranean's most important nesting sites. It also provides an important refuge for the rare Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus) and supports a rich variety of marine and coastal wildlife.

The park combines golden sandy beaches, dunes, rocky islets, pine forests and crystal-clear waters, creating one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the Ionian Islands. Besides turtles and monk seals, visitors may also spot bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), migratory birds, flamingos and many other species throughout the year.

Exploring the park by boat tour is one of the most popular things to do in Zakynthos. Cruises depart daily from Laganas, Agios Sostis and Keri, offering opportunities for turtle spotting, swimming in turquoise waters and visiting Marathonisi (Turtle Island), one of the island's most iconic landmarks. To protect this fragile ecosystem, visitors should always respect the park's conservation rules, especially during the turtle nesting season.