Zakynthos isn’t just about nightlife and scenic beaches – it’s a treasure trove of family-friendly attractions that promise unforgettable memories for visitors of all ages. From splashing water parks to animal encounters, here’s your guide to the island’s best family activities.
Water Park Adventures
Zante Water Village leads the way in aquatic fun, featuring slides and pools for every age group. Toddlers can splash in shallow pools while older kids tackle thrilling slides. Parents appreciate the sunbeds and café areas for relaxation between activities.
Tsilivi Waterpark, located in the popular resort area, offers a more compact but equally entertaining experience. Its family slides, lazy river, and dedicated children’s area make it perfect for families with younger children.
Animal Encounters
The Little Farm in Laganas. Photo by Veronika Maxantova
The Little Farm offers a hands-on agricultural experience where kids can feed farm animals and learn about organic farming. It’s both educational and entertaining.
Askos Stone Park provides an authentic Greek countryside experience where children can interact with local wildlife. The park houses deer, raccoons, and various bird species in a natural setting. Educational tours teach children about animal care and conservation.
Water Sports and Beach Activities
A family enjoying a thrilling sofa ride at St. Nicholas Watersports! Photo by St. Nicholas Watersports
St. Nicholas Watersports and Banana Watersports cater to families with age-appropriate activities. From gentle pedal boats for younger children to exciting banana boat rides for teenagers, these centers prioritize safety while delivering excitement.
Nature and Wildlife
The Turtle Spotting Tour is a must-do family activity. These guided boat trips offer the chance to spot loggerhead sea turtles in their natural habitat. Many tours include swimming stops and educational presentations about marine conservation.
Perfect Family Beach: Alykes
Alykes Beach stands out as the ideal family beach destination. Its gradually sloping shoreline creates naturally shallow waters perfect for young swimmers. The soft sand is ideal for castle building, while the calm waters provide peace of mind for parents. Nearby tavernas and facilities make it convenient for full-day outings.
Evening Entertainment
Fantasy Mini Golf offers a perfect evening activity for the whole family. This well-maintained course features creative obstacles and themed holes that challenge and entertain players of all ages. The facility’s ambient lighting creates a magical atmosphere as the sun sets, making it an ideal after-dinner activity. It’s a great way to engage in friendly competition while enjoying the cooler evening hours.
Practical Tips:
- Visit water parks early in the day to avoid peak crowds
- Book animal park visits in morning hours when animals are most active
- Bring water shoes for rocky beach areas
- Consider shoulder season visits for smaller crowds and cooler temperatures
- Pre-book popular activities like turtle tours during peak season
