Zakynthos, also known as Zante, is the third largest island in the Ionian Sea, located off the western coast of Greece.
While Ios and Kos are known for their party scenes, and Rhodes and Crete are popular with families, Zakynthos offers a bit of both. Most of the beaches, towns, and other attractions are found along the southern and eastern coasts, as the western and northern coasts are largely mountainous, with cliffs that drop hundreds of feet directly into the sea.
Zakynthos isn't particularly child-friendly. Most of the resorts on the island are relatively low-key, and tourist booths offer excursions to nearby islands or the Greek mainland. The island is a place where mountainside villages and hidden coves are waiting to be discovered by the discerning traveler. It's definitely worth renting a car.
Here are some activities to enjoy:
Island Circuit. Due to the island's small size, it's entirely possible to drive around the entire island in a rental car, stopping at interesting places along the way. Drive north along the coast road and visit Tsilivi. Continue past Alykes and Alykanes. The scenery becomes more impressive as you ascend towards the mountains. From there, you can traverse the north coast, passing Navagio (also known as shipwreck) and the viewing platform, and Volimes in the mountains where local arts and crafts can be purchased. On the west coast, the bay of Limnionas is incredibly beautiful and peaceful. Further south, you'll find Kampi with its breathtaking clifftop views, and finally, Keri lighthouse, which offers stunning views, especially at sunset.
Scuba Diving. Although, like the rest of Greece, the area is devoid of fish due to overfishing, the southern part of the island has a few decent diving sites such as "The Arch" and Keri Caves. Numerous dive operators are based in Laganas, Keri, and other locations.
Turtle Spotting. The endangered loggerhead turtle uses the beaches for nesting, and a marine reserve has been established in the south around Laganas Bay to protect them (although it seems to be largely ignored outside of tourist season). Many companies in Laganas, Kalamaki, and even Vassilikos offer short or full-day trips, including swim stops to look for these turtles.