Tsilivi Beaches

Overview

Tsilivi, on the Ionian Island of Zakynthos, is a popular beach destination known for its beautiful sandy shores and clear, calm waters, making it an excellent choice for families and couples alike. Visitors often wonder about the main beach and nearby alternatives. Paralia Tsilivi is the main hub, a long, Blue Flag-awarded sandy stretch perfect for swimming and watersports. It's well-catered to families, with shallow waters ideal for children. While it can get busy, the northern end tends to be quieter.

For those seeking different experiences, Tsilivi offers fantastic options. A highlight for many is a day trip to the iconic Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach), a globally recognized landmark of Zakynthos. If you're looking for a peaceful retreat closer to town, Bouka Beach provides a more tranquil atmosphere right next to the main Tsilivi strip. For a unique wellness experience, Xigia Sulfur Beach is known for its natural sulfur springs.

Tsilivi successfully balances a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, distinct from more intense party resorts on the island. While the main beach is a major draw, the area boasts other charming spots like Gaidaros (Donkey) Beach, known for its quieter setting. Our longer list of beaches in this guide provides even more options to explore during your stay in this delightful Greek destination.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Tsilivi good for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Tsilivi is widely considered a great destination for families. The main beach is long, sandy, and has shallow, calm waters, making it safe for children. The resort town offers family-friendly amenities like a waterpark, mini-golf, and playgrounds. Many restaurants and accommodations cater to families as well.

Paralia Tsilivi

What is the water like at Tsilivi beach? Can you swim there?

The water at Tsilivi beach is known for being clear, calm, and shallow, especially near the shore, making it excellent for swimming and safe for children. The beach has been awarded a Blue Flag for its cleanliness and water quality. The sea temperature is generally warm enough for swimming from May to October.

Paralia Tsilivi

How much do sunbeds cost at Tsilivi beach?

The cost of renting two sunbeds and an umbrella at Tsilivi beach can vary, but a common price mentioned is around €7-€10 per day. Some sources indicate prices could be higher, potentially up to €20 in certain areas or for premium spots. Some beachside hotels may offer free sunbeds for their guests, though often not in the front rows. There are also free areas on the beach where you can lay your own towel.

Paralia Tsilivi

Are there watersports available at Tsilivi beach?

Yes, Tsilivi beach offers a wide variety of watersports. You can find activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, water skiing, banana boat rides, and pedalos. There are also facilities for windsurfing. These activities are generally located a safe distance from the main swimming areas.

Are there any beachfront hotels in Tsilivi where sunbeds are included?

Some beachfront hotels in Tsilivi may offer sunbeds for their guests, but it's not always guaranteed that these are free, especially those in the prime front rows on the public beach. For example, Venus Resort mentions free sunbeds for guests (except the first four rows). It's best to check directly with the hotel regarding their specific policy on beach sunbed use and any associated costs.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Is Tsilivi beach very crowded? Are there quieter alternatives nearby?

Tsilivi beach can get quite busy, especially during the peak summer months of July and August. If you prefer a quieter experience, you can head to the northern part of Tsilivi beach, which tends to be less crowded. Nearby quieter alternatives include Bouka Beach, Gaidaros (Donkey) Beach, and Belussi Beach, which are smaller, more secluded, and offer a more tranquil atmosphere.

Bouka Beach

What's the best time of year to visit Tsilivi for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in Tsilivi is generally between May and September. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, with temperatures typically ranging from 25°C to 35°C, and minimal rainfall. The sea temperature is also pleasantly warm for swimming, usually between 22°C and 26°C. May and September offer warm weather with fewer crowds compared to the peak months of July and August.

Is Tsilivi a good beach destination for couples?

Yes, Tsilivi can be a good destination for couples. While it's family-friendly, it also offers a relaxed atmosphere, especially compared to more party-centric resorts like Laganas. Couples can enjoy the long sandy beach, romantic walks, a variety of restaurants and bars, and some nightlife options that are lively but not overly rowdy. Some hotels also offer amenities geared towards couples.

Laganas Beach

People Also Ask

Is seaweed a problem on Tsilivi beach?

Generally, seaweed is not a significant problem at Tsilivi beach. While some seaweed can occasionally wash up, particularly after storms, the beach is regularly cleaned and has a Blue Flag award for cleanliness. In April 2024, there was a notable occurrence of sea foam, a natural phenomenon related to phytoplankton, but this is not typical.

Paralia Tsilivi

How easy is it to get to Tsilivi beach from the main accommodation areas?

Tsilivi beach is generally easily accessible from most accommodation areas within Tsilivi, as many hotels and apartments are located close to the beach or within a short walking distance (5-10 minutes). The resort is relatively compact. For those staying further out, local buses and taxis are available.

Paralia Tsilivi

Is there much natural shade on Tsilivi beach?

Tsilivi beach itself has limited natural shade. While there might be some trees further back from the main sandy area or near some beach bars, most of the beach is open. Renting an umbrella is the most common way to get shade on the beach. Some quieter nearby beaches like Gaidaros Beach have trees offering natural shade.

Paralia Tsilivi

What is the nightlife like near Tsilivi beach?

The nightlife in Tsilivi is lively but generally relaxed and family-friendly, with a focus on bars, pubs, and restaurants rather than large, intense nightclubs. You'll find places with live music, karaoke, quiz nights, and themed evenings. The atmosphere is more laid-back compared to Zante's party capital, Laganas, which is about a 15-minute taxi ride away if you're looking for bigger clubs. Most places in Tsilivi tend to quieten down after 1:00 AM.

Paralia Tsilivi

Are there boat trips from Tsilivi to Shipwreck Beach (Navagio)?

Yes, you can take boat trips from Tsilivi or nearby ports to visit Shipwreck Beach (Navagio) and the Blue Caves. Numerous local operators offer these excursions, which are a very popular activity for tourists in Zakynthos.

Navagio Beach

Is Tsilivi beach sandy or pebbly?

Tsilivi beach is predominantly sandy, with fine golden sand. You might encounter a few scattered pebbles in some areas, but it's largely a comfortable sandy beach, ideal for walking and for children to play on.

Paralia Tsilivi

How does Tsilivi compare to Laganas for a beach holiday?

Tsilivi and Laganas offer very different beach holiday experiences. Tsilivi is known for being more family-friendly and relaxed, with a good balance of amenities and a calmer nightlife. Its beach has shallow, clear waters. Laganas is famous for its vibrant, intense nightlife and is popular with a younger party crowd. While Laganas has a very long sandy beach, the atmosphere is much more geared towards partying. Tsilivi offers a more peaceful environment.

Laganas Beach