Marathonisi is one of the most important nesting sites for the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) in the Mediterranean.
The islet is shaped like a swimming turtle when viewed from certain vantage points on the mainland.
The beach is divided into a 'nesting zone' and a 'public zone', with the nesting area often cordoned off with wooden stakes.
The National Marine Park of Zakynthos enforces a speed limit for boats in the surrounding bay to prevent accidents with surfacing turtles.
No umbrellas or sunbeds are allowed on the beach to prevent damage to the sand nests.
The island is uninhabited and has no trees for natural shade, aside from sparse vegetation on the rocky slopes.
Human presence on the beach is forbidden from sunset to sunrise to protect nesting females and emerging hatchlings.
It is illegal to anchor private boats directly on the sand; they must be moored at a distance.
The sand temperature on the beach is monitored by conservationists as it determines the gender of the hatchlings.
Marathonisi, also known as Turtle Island, is a small islet located in the Laganas Bay of Zakynthos, Greece. It serves as a primary nesting ground for the endangered Caretta caretta sea turtle. The island consists of two distinct parts: a main rocky area and a sandy beach strip that extends into the sea. Access to the beach is strictly regulated to protect the turtle nests during the breeding season. Visitors must stay within the marked perimeter near the shoreline. There are no permanent residents or tourist infrastructure on the islet. The surrounding waters are part of the National Marine Park of Zakynthos. The beach is characterized by its fine white sand and clear, shallow turquoise waters.
The view of the coastline from the bow of an approaching boat provides the best perspective of the island's unique shape.
Bring a portable sunshade or a hat, as there is absolutely no natural shade on the beach.
Carry all trash back to your boat or the mainland, as there are no bins on the island.
Use polarized sunglasses to better spot turtles swimming in the shallow waters nearby.
Do not anchor your vessel in shallow water where turtles may be feeding, and never attempt to touch or feed the sea turtles.
The beach is effectively closed for public access outside of the summer tourist season, and parts of the sand are cordoned off for conservation during the nesting period.
Do not dig in the sand, refrain from using long umbrellas that penetrate the substrate, and keep a respectful distance from any turtle sightings.
