Visiting the Blue Caves
In a place as idyllic as the island of Zakynthos, you have to be something special to stand out. The Blue Caves manage this with ease. Discovered in 1897, these sea caves line the northern coast of the island and have become one of its definitive landmarks. From the port of Agios Nikolaos to Cape Skinari, the experience is immediate.
Light paints the rock a surreal blue
On the northeast coast, the port of Agios Nikolaos is popular for its proximity to Navagio Beach. However, the stretch of coastline toward Cape Skinari features rugged, majestic geology. This undeveloped area is full of natural arches carved by erosion, and it is within this setting that you find the most impressive sight. Inside the caves, light reflects off the water, turning the cyan hue into something nearly surreal and tinting everything inside the rock with the same color.
Among this collection of caves, Kianon is the largest. It is accessible by boat or motor canoe and reaches a height of about 4 meters inside. It is best to choose a smaller vessel to enter the heart of the cave, otherwise you will only be able to approach the entrance. The appeal of this cavity is unique because it also features stalactites. Each cave offers a different atmosphere depending on its position relative to the sun and the composition of its walls, some of which feature orange coral that takes on violet reflections. The carved rock resembles grand monuments, contrasting with the water that shifts between green and turquoise. Photographers will find exceptional subjects here. It is best to visit the Blue Caves when the light is strongest for the best effect, so the morning is ideal. When the sun goes down, the atmosphere changes, and with the colors of the sunset, the view is memorable.
At the port of Agios Nikolaos, a staircase leads down to the sea, and if you swim out, you can find a few arches near the shore. Please note that it is forbidden to access the larger sites by swimming for obvious safety reasons.
Opening hours
*Information subject to change
If you like Etretat, you are going to love the Blue Caves in Zakynthos.
I even recommend finding a boat tour that takes you right next to these caves carved into the cliff. There are some pretty photos to take.