5 Best Sights in The Vasilikos Peninsula and Laganas, Zakynthos

"Turtle Island," as it's known, is one of the most important breeding areas for the Caretta caretta loggerhead turtle in Zakynthos. It lies off the shores of Keri, west of Laganas, and is made up of two small islets, with a pine-speckled hump and a thin sandy outcrop that even makes it look like a turtle. It falls within the boundaries of the National Marine Park. Trips may only be made during daylight, though the chances of spotting a turtle are high. If you do go with a local company, try to book with Nefis Travel, which is authorized by the marine park and works in tandem with sea turtle conservation organization Archelon. Boats can be boarded at Agios Sostis, 2 km east of Laganas.

This beach owes its name to the small chapel that stands to its western end. Its shores are hardly pious though. This is the sportiest of the sands lining the Vasilikos, with the thwack of volleyballs accompanying loud music, the roar of Jet Skis, and a mostly younger crowd. It's also very pretty, with a thick ring of pines fringing the white-pebble shore and twinkling sapphire waters. There's every variety of watersport here, but it's an especially good spot for diving and snorkeling. Amenities: sun beds; umbrellas; food and drink; watersports; showers. Best for: snorkeling and diving; sea kayaking; volleyball.

Not nearly as unknown as it used to be, though the same could be said for the entire peninsula, Banana Beach's golden sands are still impressive. It is the largest beach on the island, with rocky, wooded fringes and clear, shallow waters perfect for families. It has a few bars, restaurants, and services. Sun beds occupy a good chunk of the shoreline, but its size means you can always find a quieter corner. Around four bus services a day run here from Zakynthos Town, if you don't want to drive. Amenities: sun beds; showers; food and drink. Good for: families; sunworshippers; swimming.

A charming tour run by the most famous olive-oil brand on Zakynthos. Many of the island's famed dopia olive trees are thought to be more than 2,000 years old, and this deep dive into local oil production in Zakynthos follows the process from branch to bottle. If you want to see an ancient dopia in real life, head to the village of Exo Chora, on the northwest coast. At its center grows what's known locally as the "elephant tree," a truly venerable gnarled wonder.

The Caretta caretta loggerhead sea turtle is a common visitor to Zakynthos. Every summer, hundreds return to its shores to lay their eggs, and yet their survival remains in the balance. The IUCN still classify this species as vulnerable. The problems caused by encroaching development, uneducated tourists, and unscrupulous boat tours is a major threat to the welfare of a species that, when hatched, already has just a one in 1,000 chance of surviving until adulthood. This center, run by volunteers, does its part to help those that stumble along the way. It should be noted that you aren't guaranteed to see any sea turtles (there are usually a few turtles); that's the nature of a rescue center. Daily feedings (10 am, 2 pm, and 6 pm) do take place, however, when there is something to feed. The center runs on minimal staff and looks a little shabby these days, but still offers good information.