Is Alikanas beach good for families with children?
Yes, Alikanas beach is considered excellent for families with children. It features soft golden sand and shallow, calm, crystal-clear waters, making it a safe environment for kids to play and swim. The beach has received a Blue Flag award, indicating high standards of cleanliness and safety. Many accommodations in the area cater specifically to families, offering amenities like kids' clubs and children's pools.
Can you swim at Alikanas beach and what is the water like?
Yes, you can swim at Alikanas beach. The water is known for being crystal-clear, calm, and shallow, especially near the shore, making it ideal for swimming for all levels, including children. The seabed is primarily sandy and gently shelves into the sea.
What's the difference between Alikanas beach and Alykes beach?
Alikanas beach and Alykes beach are essentially a continuation of each other, forming one long sandy stretch of about 3 kilometers. Alykes is to the north, and Alikanas is the southern part of this bay, ending with a small fishing port. While both share similar characteristics like fine sand and shallow waters, some sources suggest Alikanas can be a bit more intimate or less crowded in certain parts compared to the main Alykes resort area. Alykes is often described as a small, friendly resort, while Alikanas is noted for being surrounded by olive groves. Both offer good amenities and are popular with families and couples.
How crowded does Alikanas beach get?
Alikanas beach can get busy, especially during the peak summer months (July and August). However, because it's a long and spacious beach, it's often possible to find less crowded spots, particularly if you move away from the main resort center. Some describe it as potentially more intimate or solitary compared to the adjacent Alykes beach, though it is a popular and well-organized shore.
Is Alikanas a good base for exploring other beaches in Zakynthos?
Yes, Alikanas can be a good base for exploring other beaches in Zakynthos, particularly those on the north-eastern and northern parts of the island. It offers easy access to nearby beaches like Alykes, Xechoriatis, and Amoudi. Boat trips to famous spots like Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach and the Blue Caves are readily available from Alikanas or nearby ports. Renting a car is advisable for exploring beaches further afield, such as those in the Vasilikos area or the Marine Park.
Are there sunbeds and umbrellas for rent at Alikanas beach, and what's the approximate cost?
Yes, Alikanas beach is well-organized with sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent. The cost is typically around €7 to €10 for a set of two sunbeds and an umbrella for the day, though prices can vary slightly. Some beachfront establishments may offer free use of their sunbeds if you purchase food or drinks from them.
What kind of watersports are available at Alikanas beach?
Alikanas beach offers a variety of watersports. Options include paddleboarding, pedaloes, ringos, paragliding, banana boat rides, and jet skiing. Boat trips to see the Blue Caves and Shipwreck Beach also depart from or near Alikanas.
What is the sea temperature like in Alikanas during the main holiday season (e.g., May to October)?
The sea in Alikanas is generally warm and pleasant for swimming from May through October. The water warms up through the spring and remains warm into the autumn, often staying comfortable even in October due to the island's mild climate and the shallow nature of the bay.
Is Alikanas beach sandy or pebbly?
Alikanas beach is predominantly a sandy beach, known for its soft, fine golden sand. This makes it comfortable for sunbathing and for children to play.
Are there bars and tavernas directly on or very close to Alikanas beach?
Yes, there are several beach bars and traditional Greek tavernas located directly on or very close to Alikanas beach. These establishments offer refreshments, snacks, and full meals, often with views of the sea. Some also provide sunbeds for their patrons.
Is Alikanas more for a party holiday or a relaxing family/couples holiday?
Alikanas is primarily known as a destination for relaxing family holidays and couples' getaways. It has a serene and peaceful atmosphere, especially compared to livelier resorts on Zakynthos like Laganas. While there are bars and restaurants, the nightlife is generally low-key and focused on relaxed dining and drinks rather than clubbing. For a livelier evening, the neighboring resort of Alykes is a short walk away and offers a bit more entertainment.
How far is it to walk from Alikanas to Alykes, and is it an easy walk?
It is a short and easy walk between Alikanas and Alykes, as they are adjoining resorts connected by the long stretch of beach. Many tourists enjoy strolling between the two, allowing them to access the facilities and atmosphere of both areas. The distance is approximately 1 km.
Are there any quieter, more secluded beaches near Alikanas?
Yes, if you're looking for quieter alternatives to the main Alikanas beach, you can explore nearby options. Xechoriatis beach, located in Old Alikanas, is a more secluded, narrow strip of sand and rock, often very quiet. Rasa Beach is another nearby pebbly beach known for its tranquility. Amoudi and Psarou beaches, a bit further along the coast, are also described as smaller and less subject to massive tourism.
How do I get to Alikanas beach from my hotel or the airport?
If your hotel is in Alikanas, the beach is likely within walking distance, as many accommodations are located close to or directly on the beach. From Zakynthos Airport (ZTH), the distance to Alikanas is about 17-20 km. You can take a taxi (approx. 18-minute drive) or use the bus service, which involves going to Zakynthos Town bus station and then taking a bus to Alikanas (total journey around 2 hours). Some hotels also offer airport transfer services.
Is Alikanas better than Tsilivi for a beach holiday?
Both Alikanas and Tsilivi are popular beach resorts in Zakynthos, each with its own appeal. Alikanas is known for its very shallow, calm waters and long sandy beach, making it particularly ideal for families with young children and those seeking a more relaxed, quieter atmosphere. Tsilivi also has a beautiful sandy beach, good tourist facilities, and a bit more of a lively atmosphere with more entertainment options like a waterpark, bowling, and minigolf. Tsilivi might appeal to those wanting a bit more activity, while Alikanas is often preferred for its tranquility and connection to the neighboring Alykes. The choice depends on your priorities for a beach holiday.
