Smugglers Cove in Zante Greece

If there's one place you should see on the island, it's Shipwreck Beach. Zante is full of surprises, and this is one of those locations that makes this island so unique. You'll probably recognise it as soon as you get there; after all, it's the most popular postcard-style image of the island. This beauty spot's got as many names as it has grains of sand.

Often known as Shipwreck Cove and occasionally referred to as Navagio Beach, Smuggler's Cove is a picture-perfect arc of beautiful sands framed by towering limestone cliffs (some of which are over 200 metres high). All against the sparkling blue waters of the Ionian Sea. It's no wonder this place is one of the most photographed spots in Zante!

Smuggler's Cove is only accessible via boat, but it's pretty easy to get to with plenty of trips running from Porto Vromi. Just a heads up, though – you might not be able to swim ashore as the beach is sometimes closed due to the risk of rockfalls from those stunning cliffs. Still worth a visit for the views alone!

The history of Shipwreck Beach, Zante

The details concerning the wreckage are shrouded in mystery and the reason as to why it ended up on this beach may never be known for certain. However, legend has it that in 1980 an alleged smuggler's ship (said to be carrying contraband cigarettes) was seen by the authorities who then raised the alarm. The Greek navy set about chasing the smugglers for hours around the coastline.

There was a massive storm that night, and the crew realised there was little chance of them escaping. In an attempt to avoid capture, they abandoned their ship and its cargo, which subsequently washed up on Navagio Beach.

With such an exciting history, it's no wonder Smuggler's Cove has become one of the island's most popular tourist attractions. That means it can get pretty busy (especially during the summer) as people come from miles around to see this real-life Zante shipwreck.

The best time to visit

The best time to visit Shipwreck Cove is earlier during the day, which is why most boat trips leave Porto Vromi in the early morning. It's worth waking up with the lark to grab your place and cruise around Zante's stunning coastline in peace. Things get a little hectic around lunchtime, but if the thought of rising before midday is too much to bear on holiday, try to put off your visit until around three in the afternoon (or later). By then the crowds have thinned out a little.

Things to do nearby

Just slightly over a mile and a half from the cove lies the Monastery of Panagia Anafonitria. This is a Byzantine monument with architecture dating as far back as the mid-15th century. It's probably most famous for housing the icon of 'Our Virgin Anafonitria' and is definitely worth a visit if you have the time.

More things to do

Find more things to do in Zante: Cameo Island | Nightlife Tsilivi | Nightlife Zante | Olympia | Tsilivi Water Park | Zante Blue Caves | Zante Water Village