The Marine Life of Zakynthos: Discover the Island’s Vibrant Seas

From golden sunsets in Paphos and traditional flavours in Corfu to the marine life of Zakynthos and the centuries-old grape harvest traditions of Cyprus, the destinations where Louis Hotels welcomes guests offer much more than a beautiful place to stay. Each island and region has its own landscapes, flavours, traditions and stories waiting to be discovered.

At Louis Hotels, we believe that a holiday is about experiencing the destination as much as enjoying the hotel. From exploring local culture and cuisine to discovering hidden coastal spots and seasonal traditions, these experiences allow travellers to see a different side of Greece and Cyprus and create memories that go beyond the typical holiday.

Whether you are planning your next escape or simply looking for inspiration, discover some of the experiences that make these destinations so special.

Zakynthos is famous for its turquoise waters and dramatic coastline, but beneath the surface lies an equally fascinating world. The island is home to rich marine ecosystems and, most famously, the Caretta caretta loggerhead sea turtle.

For visitors, discovering this side of Zakynthos can become one of the most memorable parts of a summer holiday. It’s important to experience it with respect, giving the island’s wildlife the space and protection it needs.

While exploring the marine life of Zakynthos you can stay at King Jason Zante, a member of Elegant Collection of the Louis Hotels.

Meet Zakynthos’ Most Famous Visitor: The Caretta Caretta

The loggerhead sea turtle has become one of Zakynthos’ symbols. Every year, female turtles return to the island’s sandy shores to lay their eggs, making the southern coastline an important nesting area in the Mediterranean.

The National Marine Park of Zakynthos, established in 1999, protects important habitats around Laganas Bay, including nesting beaches and the surrounding marine environment. Its protected area also encompasses Marathonisi and other small islands.

Seeing a Caretta caretta swimming through the clear Ionian waters is a wonderful experience, but remember that you are entering its natural habitat. The turtle should always decide how close it wants to come.

Discover Marathonisi, the Famous Turtle Island

A boat trip to Marathonisi offers a beautiful introduction to Zakynthos’s marine environment. Often called Turtle Island because of its distinctive shape and importance as a nesting location, Marathonisi combines clear waters, caves and a protected sandy beach.

Visitors can swim and explore the surrounding waters, but special rules apply to protect turtle nests. Access to nesting beaches is permitted from 7:00 a.m. until sunset, and visitors should remain close to the waterline, avoid protected nests and leave natural materials such as shells and pebbles where they find them.

Take a Responsible Turtle-Spotting Boat Trip

Boat excursions around Laganas Bay offer the opportunity to see sea turtles in their natural environment. Choose operators that respect the regulations of the Marine Park rather than boats that chase or surround turtles.

Official guidance recommends keeping at least 15 metres away from a turtle, approaching neither from the front nor too closely, and never touching or feeding it. Visitors should also remain quiet and avoid sudden movements that could cause stress.

A respectful encounter from a distance is far more rewarding than disturbing an animal for a photograph.

Explore the Underwater World with a Mask and Snorkel

You don’t necessarily need a boat to appreciate the marine beauty of Zakynthos. With a mask and snorkel, the island’s transparent waters reveal rocky seabeds, fish and Mediterranean marine life.

Choose calm coves and take your time. Observe rather than touch, and never remove starfish, sea urchins or other marine species from the water. The National Marine Park specifically asks visitors to leave marine life and natural materials undisturbed.

Enjoy Zakynthos While Helping to Protect It

Experiencing Zakynthos responsibly is surprisingly simple. Keep nesting beaches clean, respect marked nests, follow park rangers’ instructions, and maintain a safe distance from wildlife.

The island’s marine environment is more than just another attraction. It is a living ecosystem that visitors have the privilege of experiencing.

By exploring with care, you can enjoy the clear waters, discover the fascinating world of the Caretta caretta, and help ensure that future generations can experience the same remarkable side of Zakynthos.