Heading to Greece, and looking for an amazing island and beach destination? Look no further than the Cameo Island Zakynthos! This small island is a popular attraction located in the harbor of Agios Sostis. It is a must add to your Zakynthos itinerary if you are looking for a nice place to hang out, snorkel and take beautiful pictures!
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Cameo Island Zakynthos Greece Travel Guide
Where is Cameo Island Zakynthos located?
Cameo Island is located in Zakynthos, also known as Zante in the Greek Islands. It is located within the Marine Park of Zakynthos.
Quick facts:
- Country: Greece
- Visa: Schengen
- Currency: Euro
- Nearest Airport: Zakynthos International Airport
There are about 60 airports across the globe that fly to the Zakynthos International Airport (in Dionysios Solomos) directly. Flight from Brussels will take about 3+ hours, and from New York USA will be around 14-15 hours with stops.
Getting to the Cameo Island Greece
In order to reach the spot, you have to head to the Agios Sostis area. You can easily access it on foot, or by car. On foot it will be around 8 minutes walking via the beach from Laganas. By car, it is a 3 km drive from Laganas (follow signs for Agios Sostis).
There is a pathway – a wooden bridge to get to the heart of the island area.
From this pathway, you will reach a small beach. It is usually super crowded with people sunbathing by the pavement area. You won’t be able to soak in the sun from the beach area as it is not very big, nor sandy.
This place is actually amazing for a swim, and for snorkeling. You will hear the sound of cruise ships, and water gushing when you are there.
To escape the crowds, you can either get there early or walk to the other side of the island.
You can also enjoy drinks at a bar close by, and just enjoy the beach vibes!
Entrance fees: To get inside the island area, there is an entry fee of €5 per adult. On certain days they offer free drinks or keychains as part of the entrance fee package. There are fees as it is a private island.
Kids can get in for free.
If you are not snorkeling, you can spend an hour or two exploring the island. If you are into water activities set aside half a day or a full day at Cameo Island.
Best time to visit Cameo Island: Cameo Island is busiest during the months of June, July, and August. It is warm and busy.
For a quieter experience, head there in the off-seasons like spring or late autumn months.
Best hotels close to Cameo Island: Here you will find a list of the best hotels in Zakynthos.
8 Things to do in Cameo Island
When you visit Cameo Island you will be mesmerized by its beauty and history. Agios Sostis is located at the Ionian Sea and centuries ago it was actually a part of Zakynthos.
After an earthquake that shook the area in 1633, it was cut off from the mainland and became autonomous. Now it is connected to the mainland of Zakynthos by a small bridge. The wooden bridge, trees surrounding it, the blue waters, and small white flags makes it a picturesque destination that is very popular with tourists today.
There is also a small church located here. The island actually got its name from the church and it dates back to a few centuries.
Soak in beach vibes
Cameo Island is not super huge. It is an extension of the big and famous beach of Zakynthos, Laganas, located in the Ionian Sea. Zakynthos has a lot to offer, from beaches, nightlife, food to relaxation!
The small beach on the island is pretty with crystal clear water. Try to arrive there in the morning – like really early, so that you can soak in the azure waters before it gets too crowded.
Remember that the beaches are not sandy, so you ensure you are wearing swim shoes so that you can explore/walk by the beach lines.
If you’re planning to spend a day here I recommend packing a picnic basket as you won’t find food on the island. Also, you can enjoy diving, swimming, enjoy drinks, take a lot of photos and more!
Go snorkeling at the Cameo Island
Other than beachy vibes and azure waters, Cameo Island is well known for snorkeling. Try to get in there early so that once you are done, you can relax at the beach with stunning views of Marathonisi Island.
Take photos of the stunning wooden bridge and the endless blue waters
The bridge that connects the Cameo Island to the mainland is a stunning one. Many visitors head there to just capture the bridge, the vibes and blue waters. Don’t miss this spot on your trip to the island.
Pro: Head there in the morning or around sunset to capture the golden hour at the islands with fewer crowds around.
Hang out with friends and family at a bar
Imagine hanging out with a cocktail or beer in hand, to cool off. Cameo Island is great for friends and family where you can enjoy live music, drink and soak in the sun.
Many also love visiting after dark, and the crowds slowly disperse. At night, the island is bustling with music and lights on the beach, creating an unforgettable experience.
There are two bars located – at the beach and on the clifftop. You can find both alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks at the bar.
For dinner, you can take a boat trip to Laganas for a nice meal.
Check out turtles along the way
From the bars, you can spot endangered loggerhead turtles as well. Be sure to keep an eye out for that!
Destination weddings bucket list
Many come to Cameo Island Greece because it is an amazing destination wedding venue. You can book this private island for your special day. Photos will be really amazing with endless water views and beaches.
Go on a boat trip to the Cameo Island + other trip recommendations
When visiting Cameo Island in the busy tourist months, consider embarking on a boat trip to Marathonisi or the Keri caves. These tours will allow you to see the island from the boat, and also take photos of Cameo island on the way.
There are some more trip recommendations to add to your itinerary to Cameo Island.
- You can always explore more of Agios Sostis, which is filled with picturesque resorts, oozing a lot of Greek charm
- Another option is to hop on a canoe, or boat and explore Turtle Island
Bring home a photo-keychain souvenir
Because Cameo Island is a private oasis, you have to pay for a visit. Most visitors to this beautiful island enjoy the view, and they love how they receive a nice souvenir when they head back home.
For the entry fee of 5 euros, the staff will get a photo taken of you (and your partner or your party), and then they add that to a lovely keychain to bring it with you. Don’t forget to get yours!
What to pack for your time at Cameo Island Zante
Whether you are planning an hour’s visit or a full day, depending on your activities you must pack the following items for your visit.
- Swim shoes: Swim shoes are a must. Note that the beach is not sandy but quite pebbly and having shoes will be handy to walk around, and enjoy the beach.
- Swimsuit: Cameo Island is great for a swim. Do pack your swimsuit, and change of clothes if needed!
- Sunscreen and sunglasses: You can soak in the sun at the beach (although it is usually crowded during the peak months, and time of day), but remember to carry your sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself.
- Food or picnic basket: There are no places to eat on the island unless you head to Agios Sostis or Laganas. Do bring some snacks or better yet put together a nice picnic basket (and mat) and enjoy your time at the beach. You will find drinks on the island, but bring water, if you like.
- Snorkel gear: Cameo Island is great for snorkeling, so remember to grab your gear!
- Camera gear: Don’t forget to bring your camera to take amazing pictures at the beach. Add storage cards/SD cards and a power bank to this packing list as well!
- Change: It is a good idea to carry some change (euros) with you to pay at the entry gate, and for drinks later.
So here are the wonderful things that you can do at Cameo Island Zakynthos in Greece. This island and the beach are some of the hidden gems of the Mediterranean to the outside world. Do pay a visit when you are at the Marine Park or in Zakynthos next time!
If you have any questions about the island, do contact me or let me know in the comments below.
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