Zakynthos has long been one of Greece’s most relaxed and easygoing islands, but in the last few years it has also become a serious contender for hassle-free, all-inclusive escapes. From family resorts with lazy rivers and splash parks to quiet adults only retreats near the sea, the island now offers a broad range of properties where you can lock in your budget upfront and spend your days drifting between pool, beach and taverna.
Knowing which resort suits your style is crucial though, because the atmosphere in Laganas is very different from tranquil Tsilivi or more rural Vasilikos.
Why Choose an All-Inclusive Holiday on Zakynthos
Zakynthos is relatively compact compared with other Greek islands, which means most all-inclusive resorts sit within easy reach of beaches, small towns and day-trip departure points. That makes it a particularly convenient choice if you want to minimize planning while still having the flexibility to explore. For many visitors, the appeal of an all-inclusive holiday here lies in combining classic Ionian scenery and laidback Greek pace with the predictability of set costs and on-site facilities.
Compared with larger Mediterranean destinations, Zakynthos’ all-inclusive scene is still mid-sized. You will not find the megascale developments of parts of Turkey or Spain, and many properties retain a low-rise, village-style layout rather than tower blocks. That tends to translate into resorts that feel manageable to navigate, with pools, restaurants and the beach all within a few minutes’ walk. For families with children or older travelers who value ease, that compactness is a major plus point.
Budget planning is another reason to lean toward an all-inclusive stay on Zakynthos. Package deals from the UK and other European hubs often bundle charter flights with transfers and accommodation at a competitive price, particularly in May, early June and late September. Once you arrive, buffet meals, snacks and drinks are already covered, which removes much of the day-to-day decision-making and keeps holiday spending predictable. You can still dip into local tavernas or hire a car for a couple of days without worrying about the basics.
Key Resort Areas: Where All-Inclusive Hotels Cluster
Most of Zakynthos’ all-inclusive hotels are concentrated in a handful of resort areas on the east and south coasts: Tsilivi, Laganas and nearby Agios Sostis, Kalamaki, and the stretch around Tragaki and Amboula. Each has its own character, and matching that to your travel style is more important than the specific hotel brand you choose.
Tsilivi, on the northeast coast, is one of the island’s best all-round bases. It has a long, shallow, sandy beach with clear water that suits younger children, plus a busy main strip of bars, casual restaurants and mini-golf and waterpark attractions nearby. All-inclusive hotels here tend to appeal to families and couples who want a lively atmosphere but not a full-on party scene. The resort also works well for travelers who like to walk out of the hotel grounds and find independent tavernas and shops within minutes.
Laganas, on the south coast, is the island’s best-known party resort, with clubs and bars lining its main street, but it has also developed a cluster of more upmarket properties on the quieter fringes close to protected turtle nesting beaches. Couples and younger groups who want nightlife within easy reach often gravitate here, especially around the beachfront and Agios Sostis. By contrast, Kalamaki, just east of Laganas, feels more relaxed, with a broad sandy beach and a family-friendly town center, making it a good compromise for those who prefer a calmer base a short taxi ride from the action.
Further along the east coast, the low-key areas of Tragaki and Amboula host a handful of modern resorts with more space and greenery. These are good options for travelers who prioritize sea views, spa facilities and a quieter setting over being right in the middle of a traditional village. They are within a short drive of Tsilivi and Zakynthos Town, yet feel more secluded, which suits honeymooners, older couples and anyone looking for a calmer environment while still having access to day trips and car rentals.
Best All-Inclusive Resorts for Families
For families, the quality of kids’ facilities can make or break an all-inclusive holiday. On Zakynthos, several resorts stand out for combining child-friendly pools and entertainment with direct or easy access to safe, sandy beaches. These properties typically operate children’s clubs in summer, run low-key evening shows, and design their buffets so even picky eaters find familiar options.
In Tsilivi, large beachfront complexes are particularly popular with families. These hotels usually offer multiple pools, including shallow kids’ sections and small slides, and they often sit within a comfortable stroll of the resort’s shops and cafes. Parents appreciate the ability to move from beach to pool to town without relying on buses or taxis, while older children enjoy a degree of independence within the resort grounds. Some properties coordinate with nearby waterparks, giving guests easy access to bigger slides and lazy rivers for a change of scene.
Further south, near Amboula Beach and Tragaki, several family-oriented all-inclusive resorts occupy spacious seaside plots. These places tend to have extensive grounds with playgrounds, tennis courts and multi-purpose sports pitches alongside lagoon-style pools. The atmosphere is more self-contained than in Tsilivi, which suits families who are happy to spend most days on-site. Many of these hotels also offer interconnecting family rooms and suites with sliding doors, giving parents and children separate sleeping areas while staying within the all-inclusive setup.
Practical details matter for family stays. Before you book, check whether the resort offers free cots, high chairs and bottle-warming facilities, and whether the kids’ club accepts your children’s age group. Some only run full programs in high season, typically mid-June through early September, while others keep scaled-down activities going in May and October. Also look at beach conditions: resorts on gently shelving sandy stretches are more suitable for toddlers than those with pebbles or sudden depth changes, and Zakynthos’ family-focused hotels generally market this clearly in their descriptions.
Top Adults Only & Couples-Focused All-Inclusive Options
Although Zakynthos has a strong family market, it also appeals to couples looking for a calm base to explore the island’s coves, vineyards and coast by car or boat. Several all-inclusive hotels specify adults only policies, usually 16 or 18 and over, which keeps pool decks, restaurants and bars quieter. These properties are particularly attractive outside school holidays, when flight prices drop and the island slips back into a slower rhythm.
In the south, near Laganas Bay, adults only properties tend to be compact, with a focus on good food, tasteful design and attentive service instead of large-scale waterparks or activities. Many feature swim-up rooms, small private pools or whirlpools, and a mix of buffet and à la carte dining. Couples who want to dip into Laganas nightlife yet retreat to a peaceful room afterwards often base themselves in these hotels a short walk or taxi ride away from the busiest streets.
On the quieter stretches of coastline near Agios Sostis, Keri and parts of Vasilikos, a handful of all-inclusive and semi-inclusive hotels emphasize nature and wellness. Settings can be especially attractive here, with green hills, olive groves and long views across the water. These resorts are well suited to honeymooners and repeat visitors who prioritize sunset views, spa treatments and relaxed cocktail bars over entertainment teams and discos. They also tend to organize day trips, wine tastings and boat excursions directly, which simplifies planning if you prefer not to hire a car.
When weighing adults only resorts on Zakynthos, consider the balance between seclusion and convenience. Some high-end properties occupy isolated headlands or rural plots with wonderful views but limited facilities nearby. That can be perfect for couples who intend to spend their days reading by the pool and enjoying long dinners, yet it may feel restrictive for travelers who like to walk out each evening and browse different tavernas. Study resort maps to see how far you are from the nearest village or bus stop before committing.
What “All-Inclusive” Really Covers on Zakynthos
All-inclusive packages on Zakynthos are not fully standardized, and the scope of what is covered can vary significantly from resort to resort. At most properties, the baseline is buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner; a choice of house wines, beers and spirits by the glass; soft drinks, tea and coffee; and snack periods between main meals. Entertainment programs, pools, loungers and basic fitness facilities are normally included as well.
Where differences appear is in the details. Some higher-end hotels include à la carte restaurant visits within the all-inclusive plan, though usually with a requirement to book ahead and a set number of visits per week. Others limit guests to buffets unless they pay surcharges. Premium branded drinks, fresh juices and cocktails may or may not be covered, especially late at night. Certain sports, such as motorized water activities, scuba diving or elaborate spa rituals, are almost always chargeable extras, even if initial introductory sessions are offered.
It is worth reading the fine print around beach services too. On some parts of the island, loungers and umbrellas are directly maintained by the resorts and included in the overall price. In other cases, especially where beaches are shared or protected, you might pay a small daily fee for front-row sunbeds or for drinks service at the water’s edge. Shuttle services to nearby villages or into Zakynthos Town can also range from complimentary to fee-based, depending on the hotel’s policy.
If you prefer to keep incidental spending as low as possible, look for resorts that clearly label themselves as “ultra all-inclusive” or similar, then verify exactly what that means in practice. Reviews and recent photos are particularly helpful for assessing whether buffets are varied, whether vegetarian or special-diet options are well handled, and whether evening entertainment tends more toward family quizzes and live singers or low-key piano bars and DJs. On Zakynthos, where many guests are repeat visitors, hotels that maintain consistent quality year after year tend to be quickly recognized in traveler feedback.
Matching Resorts to Your Travel Style
Because Zakynthos is small, choosing the right all-inclusive resort is less about raw geography and more about aligning atmosphere and facilities with your expectations. Families with young children typically do best in Tsilivi, Amboula and Kalamaki, where beaches are shallow and resorts are set up for pushchairs, while couples may prefer adults only properties tucked away along the quieter stretches of Laganas Bay or the more rural south and east coasts.
If nightlife is a priority, look to the outskirts of Laganas or to busier parts of Tsilivi. Here, you can enjoy all-inclusive convenience during the day then step out to independent bars, karaoke spots and late-opening cafes in the evening. Travelers who prefer a more traditional Greek feel, with family-run tavernas and quieter lanes, often gravitate toward the Alykes and Alykanas area to the north, though fully all-inclusive properties are less concentrated there. In these villages you are more likely to find small hotels or self-catering apartments, so part-board or simple bed-and-breakfast stays may be a better fit.
Active travelers who plan to hire a car and explore will find that many all-inclusive resorts can serve as practical bases. From most east-coast hotels, it is straightforward to drive to the viewpoints above Navagio (Shipwreck Beach), the Blue Caves, inland villages and olive-mill tours. When considering such a trip style, evaluate parking facilities at your chosen resort and check whether hiring directly through the hotel costs significantly more than booking with local companies in town. Some guests prefer the simplicity of hotel-arranged rentals, while others enjoy comparing options.
Budget and travel dates also shape the experience. During the peak school-holiday weeks of late July and August, family-focused resorts are at their liveliest and pool decks busiest, with animation teams in full swing. Couples or solo travelers seeking quieter surroundings may find late May, early June or late September more appealing, when seas are warm enough to swim yet crowds have thinned. Pricing often softens during these shoulder periods too, and upgrades to sea-view rooms or suites can be more attainable.
Planning Tips: When to Go and How Long to Stay
Zakynthos’ main season for all-inclusive holidays runs from late April to late October, with most large resorts opening around Greek Orthodox Easter and closing as charter flights wind down. Sea temperatures usually become comfortable for swimming from late May, peak in August and remain pleasant into early October. For visitors prioritizing pool time and sunbathing, June through mid-September offers the most reliable hot weather, though humidity can rise in high summer.
A week is the classic length for an all-inclusive stay on Zakynthos, giving you time to settle into the resort routine while fitting in a couple of excursions. Many guests, especially families, opt for 10 or 14 nights, alternating lazy days at the pool with boat trips, beach-hopping and visits to Zakynthos Town. Because the island is not large, you can see its main highlights comfortably within that timeframe without spending long hours in transit. Organized tours and boat operators usually pick up from major resorts, which keeps logistics simple.
When considering dates, factor in school calendars in your home country and in key source markets such as the UK and central Europe. Prices spike when multiple national school holidays overlap, and availability at the most sought-after resorts can tighten months in advance. Booking early for July and August is advisable for families needing specific room types or interconnecting units. Couples who are more flexible can often find good-value offers in late spring or early autumn, when airlines and tour operators run promotions to fill remaining seats.
However long you stay, leaving some space in your schedule is wise. It can be tempting to pre-book multiple excursions, but a major part of Zakynthos’ charm lies in unstructured days: lingering over breakfasts on the terrace, watching children make friends around the pool, or wandering down to a nearby taverna for a change of scene. A balanced plan that mixes one or two anchor experiences, such as a boat trip to the Blue Caves, with plenty of unscheduled time tends to yield the most satisfying all-inclusive holidays.
The Takeaway
All-inclusive holidays on Zakynthos offer a straightforward way to enjoy one of Greece’s greenest, most approachable islands without worrying about day-to-day spending or logistics. Whether you choose a busy beachfront resort in Tsilivi, a family-friendly complex near Amboula, or an adults only hideaway along Laganas Bay, the island’s scale and infrastructure make it easy to blend resort comfort with exploration. Matching the right property and resort area to your travel style is more important than chasing headline names, and paying close attention to what each “all-inclusive” package covers will help avoid surprises.
For families, the combination of shallow sandy beaches, kids’ clubs and short transfer times makes Zakynthos a particularly user-friendly choice. Couples and honeymooners, meanwhile, can find surprisingly tranquil pockets for sunset cocktails, boat trips and lazy days by quiet pools, especially outside the highest summer weeks. With thoughtful planning and realistic expectations about atmosphere in each resort area, an all-inclusive stay here can deliver both value and the kind of relaxed, sun-drenched days that define a classic Greek island holiday.
FAQ
Q1. Is Zakynthos a good destination for all-inclusive family holidays?
Yes, Zakynthos works very well for families choosing all-inclusive stays. Many resorts offer shallow pools, kids’ clubs, playgrounds and easy access to sandy beaches, and transfer times from the airport are generally short, which is helpful with younger children.
Q2. Which areas of Zakynthos are best for all-inclusive resorts?
The main hubs for all-inclusive resorts are Tsilivi on the northeast coast, the Laganas and Kalamaki area in the south, and the quieter stretch around Tragaki and Amboula. Each has a different feel, from lively and family-oriented to more secluded and upscale.
Q3. Are there adults only all-inclusive resorts on Zakynthos?
Yes, several properties classify themselves as adults only and focus on couples, honeymooners and groups of friends seeking a calmer atmosphere. These hotels typically feature smaller, stylish pools, spa facilities and a stronger emphasis on dining and service rather than children’s activities.
Q4. What is usually included in an all-inclusive package on Zakynthos?
Most packages include buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner, local alcoholic and soft drinks, snacks between meals, use of pools and loungers, and some daytime and evening entertainment. Premium branded drinks, à la carte restaurants, motorized water sports and spa treatments are often charged separately.
Q5. When is the best time of year for an all-inclusive holiday on Zakynthos?
For guaranteed beach weather, June through early September is ideal, although it is busiest and most expensive. May, late June and September offer a good balance of warm temperatures, lower prices and fewer crowds, which many couples and families with flexible schedules prefer.
Q6. Do I need to rent a car if I stay at an all-inclusive resort?
You do not have to, as many resorts offer excursion bookings and transfers, but renting a car for a day or two is often worthwhile if you want to explore beyond your immediate area. Zakynthos is compact, and driving allows you to reach viewpoints, smaller villages and quieter beaches at your own pace.
Q7. Are the beaches near the all-inclusive resorts suitable for children?
In most family-focused areas such as Tsilivi, Kalamaki and parts of Amboula, beaches are sandy with gentle, shallow entry into the sea, which is suitable for children. Parents should still supervise carefully, but conditions are generally favorable for family swimming and paddling.
Q8. How long should I stay on Zakynthos for an all-inclusive trip?
A seven-night stay is usually enough to relax into the resort rhythm and fit in a couple of excursions. Many travelers opt for 10 to 14 nights to balance lazy days by the pool with boat trips, town visits and scenic drives without feeling rushed.
Q9. Are all-inclusive holidays on Zakynthos good value compared with self-catering?
Value depends on your travel style. If you enjoy three meals a day, drinks by the pool and on-site entertainment, all-inclusive can be cost-effective, particularly in peak season when restaurant prices rise. Travelers who prefer light lunches, self-catering and exploring many different tavernas may find part-board or independent stays better value.
Q10. Is it easy to find vegetarian or special-diet options at all-inclusive resorts?
Most larger resorts offer a range of salads, grilled vegetables, pasta and other vegetarian dishes at buffets, and many can accommodate common dietary requirements if advised in advance. However, the depth and variety of options vary, so travelers with specific needs should check recent reviews and contact the hotel before booking.