Kalami beaches

Atherina beach, a hidden gem, is situated approximately 70 km southeast from Agios Nikolaos and 34 km east of Ierapetra, just before reaching the coastal village of Goudouras. To get there, you must follow the narrow, deep, and dry stream that drains from the Vigla region. This stream can be found about 300 meters past the Agii Saranda church in Kalami. Following it will lead you directly to the sea, providing easier access to the beach. Alternatively, there is a rough dirt road that ends just above the beach’s eastern edge.

Atherina is an exquisite secret cove, perfect for swimming. The landscape features a small canyon formed by rocks, accompanied by a large stone platform on its side. This secluded beach has pebbles and crystal clear blue waters that make swimming a surreal experience. Shadows are easily found by the sides of the small gorge’s conglomerate walls, providing a respite from the sun.

The surrounding sea area is dotted with natural salt pans, yielding ample sea salt that can be harvested with a spoon from the rocks. In the vicinity, you can explore and discover several other remote and tiny beaches.

The Kapsas Monastery, an ancient religious site, is situated 37km southwest of Sitia and 32km east of Ierapetra, nestled between Makrigialos and Goudouras. It is perched on the cliffs close to the mouth of the majestic Pervolakia Gorge. The monastery can be accessed via the paved road connecting Makrigialos and Goudouras, with infrequent bus services also available from Ierapetra.

A secluded beach, characterized by its crystal-clear blue waters and large round pebbles, lies at the exit of the canyon. Despite its proximity to the road, the beach is isolated, offering the shade of several tamarisk trees. However, nudism is not allowed, and any attempt may invite trouble from the monks. The unique charm of this location lies in swimming amid the raw Cretan landscape, with its rugged rocks and caves.

Originating from the 13th century, the monastery was initially established by hermits, only to be ravaged by pirates in 1471. It was later reclaimed by the locals, including a certain Giovanni Capsas. Presently, it operates under the aegis of the Toplou Monastery and is devoted to the “Beheading of John the Baptist”, with celebrations held every year on August 29th. Legend has it that the holy man Iosif Georgoulakis, also known as Gerontogiannis, who was believed to perform miracles, once resided in a cave near the monastery.

Votsalaki, also known as Botzalaki, sits 71km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and 36km east of Ierapetra, at the west end of Goudouras in a region known as Aspra Chomata (translating to white grounds in Greek). It is nestled within the dry and rugged terrain of Eastern Crete, conveniently situated near the Gorge Asprolithos exit.

The beach of Votsalaki is one of the most stunning on Crete island. It boasts small pebbles and crystal clear waters. The sea’s color is enchanting, displaying shades of green, blue, and red due to the local soil. Despite its proximity to the main road, Votsalaki remains relatively secluded. The beach’s west end is a popular spot for naturists, as the surrounding cliffs provide a natural barrier from unwanted viewers.

To reach Votsalaki, drive east from Ierapetra along the main road towards Sitia, following the south coastline of Crete. After passing Makrigialos, take the road leading to Goudouras and stop 2.5km past Kapsa Monastery.

Another beach worth visiting is Thodori’s. If you travel towards Makrigialos from Votsalaki, you’ll come across a remote sandy beach scattered with pebbles, known as Thodoris Limani. The name likely comes from a former landowner named Thodoris. The beach is split into two adjacent coves. Unfortunately, there are no facilities or natural shade, so remember to bring an umbrella and water. Despite these minor inconveniences, the beach’s extraordinary sea colors, with green and pink hues, make it a must-visit spot.

Goudouras, a coastal village, is nestled 37km to the east of Ierapetra and 73km southeast of Agios Nikolaos. It is situated in a vast valley surrounded by untamed mountains and inaccessible canyons. Goudouras is essentially an amalgamation of two settlements, Asprolithos and Goudouras. Positioned near the edge of Cape Goudouras, formerly known as Cape Erythrae, the village takes its name from the cape. The name Goudouras is derived from the local plant “agoudouros” (Hypericum triquetrifolium), which is abundant in the area and was traditionally used as a base for drying fruits like figs and raisins. The region’s extremely warm climate is conducive to cultivating olives and greenhouse vegetables, although this has unfortunately impacted the area’s natural beauty.

Tourism development in the village has been mild, resulting in a serene and peaceful destination even during the peak month of August. A road runs alongside the coastal village, leading to a large pebbly beach with clean, cool water. While it’s not heavily organized, there are spots with umbrellas and nearby taverns. We recommend visiting the neighboring Votsalaki beach, located to the west. To reach Goudouras from Ierapetra, take the road to Makrigialos and then turn towards Goudouras. There are also bus services from Ierapetra to Goudouras.

Within Goudouras, you’ll find the stone-built Church of the Ascension. From here, you can journey to the charming village of Agia Triada, situated 8km north, where you can take in the enchanting beauty of the wild Cretan countryside and ancient olive groves. Afterwards, head to Ziros and Xerokambos and unwind on the seemingly endless golden beaches.