Overview
Fast answers to 'family hotels Zakynthos' searches
Q: What's the best area in Zakynthos for families?
Tsilivi, Kalamaki, and Alykes/Alykanas are popular family bases because they offer easy beaches, food options, and simple day-trip access.
Q: Which beaches are easiest with kids?
Sandy, long beaches with gentle entry are easiest-Tsilivi Beach and Kalamaki Beach are classic picks.
Q: What room type is best for families?
A suite or family room with extra space (and ideally a small living area) makes naps, early bedtimes, and packing chaos much easier.
Pick your base first
Best areas to stay in Zakynthos with kids (simple guide)
Tsilivi (best all-round family base):
- Easy beach routine at Tsilivi Beach
- Good for day trips (Town/Bochali, boat days, north beaches)
- Plenty of casual food options
Kalamaki (great for little kids + long sandy beach):
- Kalamaki Beach is long and gentle-perfect for low-stress swims
Alykes / Alykanas (laid-back north family vibe):
- Family-friendly beaches and a calmer pace
Vasilikos (best if your family is beach-obsessed):
- Close to famous beaches like Gerakas and Banana not a lot of choices around
What to book (room types)
Family room vs suite vs connecting rooms
Family room:
- Works if you're out all day and just need a clean, comfortable base.
Suite / junior suite:
- Best if you want space for naps, early bedtimes, and 'quiet time' without sitting in the dark.
Connecting rooms:
- Great if you want separation (adults can breathe, kids can sleep).
Private pool room/suite (for older kids / strong swimmers):
- Can be amazing for downtime, just prioritise safety first.
Beach checklist for families
What makes a beach 'easy' with kids
Look for:
- Sandy entry and shallow water
- Minimal rocks in the waterline
- Easy parking or walkable access
- Shade options (umbrellas, trees, or beach bars)
- Toilets / snacks nearby
Family-friendly beach rhythm: arrive earlier, water time, snack break, then decide if you're staying or moving.
Easy family day trips (without meltdowns)
Short wins that feel like 'adventures'
From a Tsilivi base, these are manageable:
- Zakynthos Town harbour walk + gelato
- Bochali viewpoint: quick sunset stop
- One boat day: choose small group tours and morning departures if possible
- A north-east cove on a calm day: Makris Gialos or Porto Vromi
Tip: keep it to one "mission" per day, not three, the sea and the sun can make kids tire very fast.
Tsilivi spotlight
Why Tsilivi is a smart family choice
Families often love Tsilivi because it's easy: beach access, food options, waterpark, activities like mini golf etc and a location that keeps drives shorter.
If you're planning a family trip based in Tsilivi, Zante Calinica Hotel & Suites is a great choice: easy access to Tsilivi Beach and island day trips, plus suite-style comfort and private pool room options when you want downtime to feel special.
FAQ
Extra family-hotel questions travellers search for
Is Zakynthos good for a family holiday?
Yes-especially if you choose an easy base and keep your itinerary simple: beach routine + a few wow days.
Do I need a car with kids in Zakynthos?
A car helps, but you can still enjoy a family trip with a good base area and a few pre-planned outings.
Where should families stay near Tsilivi?
A Tsilivi base like Zante Calinica Hotel & Suites keeps beach days simple and makes island exploring manageable