Alykes Zante

island beach report and Alykes map

Alykes beach Zante

ALYKES or ALIKES carves out a long swathe of decent sand about 18km from Zakynthos Town on the Greek island of Zante.
Alykes beach sweeps along the bay west of Alykanas, its bigger and noisier neighbour. Alykes has a reputation for being the more friendly and welcoming of the two.
There are plenty of tourist facilities Alykes - snack bars and beach tavernas as well as the usual long ranks of sun beds but, despite the increasing numbers each year, it remains a fairly quiet resort.
The beach at Alykes is fine sand that shelves gently into the sea and is shallow for quite a long way out, so it's a favourite with families. The resort does have its run down bits but there are plenty good stretches to be found.
Alykes takes its name from the desolate salt flats that pan out behind the village. Many holiday apartments have been built round the salt flats, making it a 5-10min walk to the beach.
The flats at Alykes are a breeding ground for mosquitos so the wise will cream up well before venturing out at night.
In Alykes holiday resort proper there is the usual selection of tourist shops, a handful of mini markets and plenty of bars and tavernas. Visitors recommend carrying plenty of cash as the only ATM is not always reliable.
There is not much else to do in Alykes in the evening than have a meal in taverna and a drink in a bar. Those who enjoy walking can head for the hills where there are plenty of paths.
The walk to Alykanas is popular and takes about 20min. There are regular holiday boat excursions to the Blue Caves and to Shipwreck Beach.