Agios Nicholaos and St. Nicholaos, two beaches sharing the same name, are located on Zakynthos’ northern and southern coast respectively. Many tourists are confused by the name and when they type it on Google Maps, they end up heading in the opposite direction of where they had intended to go. In fact, even some guides use the same exact name for both beaches (“Agios” means “saint” in Greek; consequently, also the abbreviation “St.” is often replaced by “Agios”) This article will explain what to see and do in these two beautiful locations

Agios Nicholaos (port and beach on the northern coast of Zakynthos)

Agios Nicholaos (also called San Nicholaos o St. Nikolaos) is a small village in the northern part of the island, about 30 km from the town of Zakynthos. Agios Nicholaos has the second largest port in Zakynthos, the departing point for both the ferries to Kefalonia and the boats for the daily excursions to the Blue Caves and Shipwreck Beach. Find additional information on the Zakynthos-Kefalonia-Zakynthos ferries on: Ferry from Zakynthos to Kefalonia and other islands.

The local pebble beach overlooks an intensely turquoise sea, whose crystal clear water is often calm since protected by an island sharing the same name, located a hundred meters away, which provides a barrier against the wind. Snorkelers can swim to the island and enjoy its uniquely beautiful seabed. This area has not been reached by mass tourism mostly due to its distance from the main locations on the island. Although it does have taverns and cafes by the beach, it still retains a picturesque charm. To get to Agios Nicholaos, you need to rent a vehicle, since there are no buses connecting this side of the island to the other locations.

St. Nicholaos (water sports and beach on the southern coast of Zakynthos)

St. Nicholaos (also called Agios Nicholaos or St. Nikolas Beach) is a beach with fine sand and crystal clear water, located about 15 km south of the town of Zakynthos. The beach is equipped with lounge chairs and umbrellas, and in addition to bars and restaurants, it offers a variety of water sports (crazy sofas, water motorbikes, parachutes, bananas, etc.), which represent the main attraction in the area, drawing hundreds of young people daily. To get there, you can take the free shuttle made available by the local beach establishments or the Ktel buses (cost is €1.80). For additional information, see the links below.

Free shuttles to San Nicholas and Banana Beach: stops and schedule.

Public transportation in Zakynthos: routes.

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