Marathonisi
The official resident of the island ‘Marathonisi’ is the loggerhead turtle 'caretta caretta', and the island along with the Bay of Laganas is protected by the National Marine Park of Zakynthos. The island is actually the shape of a turtle and you can reach it either by renting a small boat from Keri or Laganas or by going on an organized trip. On the organized trip you will also make a stop at the Keri caves for a quick swim, but it will be quick as time is limited, with the trip usually lasting about two hours. If you do rent your own boat you are free to explore the caves, small beaches, the rock formations which emerge from the sea, the flora which is all around you, the well known rocks Myzithres and anything else that may come your way and you are free to do so at your own pace as you can rent the boat for as many hours as you wish. Upon arriving at Marathonisi take a moment to admire the environment surrounding you, you will see trees, plants and flowers that grow in the most amazing of places. Marathonisi has two beaches, the first of which is a sandy beach for those that love to sunbathe, however umbrellas are not permitted here as you may unwittingly destroy a turtles nest. On the second beach, that of which has small pebbles and not sand you may use an umbrella however it may not help you so much as the sun reflects of the rocks and pebbles, although there is a small oasis in which you can cool off. Here you should lie back and look up at the rock that appears to hover above you. You should also pay a visit to the cave that you will see at the edge of the beach and you will be amazed! Upon entering the cave you come to a very small beach which has the most transparent blue water that you have ever seen. Marathonisi is uninhibited and therefore you wont find any shops, bars or restaurants and so it is advisable to take with you anything that you may need such as food and water, don't be surprised however if you suddenly find in front of you a makeshift canteen that of which will astonish you with the merchandise available.
Marathonisi is one place that you must visit, and if you are lucky enough to go when it's not so busy and there are light winds it is paradise on earth!