Ammoudi beaches

Venture from Makrigialos towards Goudouras, and post Lagada, take a right onto a dirt path that guides you to the greenhouses located on the petite peninsula at the eastern extremity of the bay. Continue along this path, past the greenhouses, to discover the secluded pebbly beach of Spilia, home to a small cave. This spot is typically deserted, though unfortunately, streams often carry litter here. Proceeding westward along the road, you’ll soon reach the remote sandy beach of Psalidia, named after the Greek word for scissors, a reference to the bay’s shape. The surrounding landscape is arid, dotted with low sand dunes and shrubs. However, come September, it transforms into a haven of white sand daffodils. Furthermore, a coastal walk from Psalidia to Lagada rewards you with spectacular rock formations, perfect for photography.

Lagada, positioned 29km to the east of Ierapetra, 62km southeast of Agios Nikolaos, and 6km east of Makrigialos, nestles within a verdant valley rich with olive groves and flanked by the towering Thripti mountains. In recent years, the area has seen the development of a few hotels and rental properties, yet the beach has managed to maintain its secluded charm.

To reach Lagada from Makrigialos, travel along the Sitia road and look out for the signs for Moni Kapsa. Within 500-800m, you’ll spot numerous greenhouses with the expansive Lagada beach to your right. Several roads starting near the greenhouses will lead you straight to the beach.

Lagada’s beach is characterized by its small pebbles and crystalline water. It’s entirely unpopulated and devoid of any facilities, making it a perfect getaway for naturists and campers. There are a handful of spots with tamarisk trees for shade. Towards the west, the Andromilos torrent cools the water. The beach, which is exposed to the southern winds, is recognized as an excellent spot for windsurfing in Crete, despite the rocky seabed posing some risks.

Kalo Nero, a small village nestled in one of eastern Crete’s most rugged terrains, is situated near Kapsa Monastery, 68 km south of Agios Nikolaos and 33 km east of Ierapetra. This village is positioned at the exit point of a rocky canyon. You’ll find the Panagia church (1881) here, built by the Pervolakia village residents for their winter stay when they brought their livestock for grazing. This church was built over an older chapel from 1461, which belonged to Kapsa Monastery.

The village is home to numerous freshwater springs, hence its name Kalo Nero, meaning Good Water; quite unusual for such a dry region. This place offers three secluded beaches perfect for a quiet swim. The first beach, Koutsounari (not to be confused with the Koutsounari near Agios Ioannis), is accessible by a short trail. This isolated beach has pebbles and clear water, with large rocks scattered on the seabed in certain areas.

Staousa, the main beach, is separated from Koutsounari by a few rocks. It’s a beautiful spot with fine pebbles and turquoise waters, its highlight being a large cave on the east side that’s on the verge of collapse. Fresh water drips from the cave walls, and access to this beach is simplified by a concrete path with stairs built by locals.

The third beach, Angelou, primarily serves as a local boat harbour, safeguarded from southwesterly winds. It’s a serene spot with small pebbles and rocks on the seabed. The rugged mountainous backdrop perfectly complements the picturesque boats and the blue sea’s hues.

Just 150m west of Kalo Nero lies the small Lygidi settlement at the cape of the same name, surrounded by small olive groves. A narrow bay with a western orientation is formed at the exit of a small stream. This bay hosts the lesser-known rocky beach, Mikro Limanaki (Little Harbour), which is easily accessible but hidden from the main road’s view.

You can reach Kalo Nero from Makrigialos via the road leading to Goudouras. Alternatively, there is a bus service from Ierapetra to Goudouras; however, do check the bus timings.

Diaskari, situated 27km to the east of Ierapetra and 62km southeast of Agios Nikolaos, is in close proximity to Makrigialos, about 4km away. This extensive beach features rough light sand and crystal-clear water. However, caution is advised when entering the water due to the presence of slick rocks in certain areas.

Diaskari is a tranquil beach that offers a secluded atmosphere. The western end is home to a small cluster of tamarisk trees, a tavern, and a few umbrellas. This section is the most populated area of Diaskari, marking the end of the road that begins at the eastern exit of Makrigialos. For those seeking solitude, the eastern side of the beach is the ideal spot.

Following Diaskari, the expansive beach of Lagada is even more secluded. In 1972, archaeologists discovered a late Minoan settlement with significant architectural structures on a hill to the north of Diaskari.

The beach’s name, Diaskari, originates from the sanctuary of the Dioscuri, which was constructed on the hill that separates it from Lagada beach to the south.