Beaches near Amygdalokefáli, in Chania region

The Livadia coves, nestled near the Livadia village, are situated 72km southwest of Chania and 31km south of Kissamos. These coves don’t usually feature on a visitor’s itinerary due to their rocky and wavy terrain, a characteristic of most beaches on the western side of Crete. However, these coves are a favorite among the locals and visitors of Livadia village and those who prefer solitude. The village offers limited tourist amenities. On calm days, the Livadia coastline is a dream destination for snorkelling enthusiasts.

The Livadia village is situated along the E4 European hiking path – a coastal trail renowned for its extraordinary natural beauty. The trail commences at the Sfinari village and passes through Livadia and Chrissoskalitisa villages before culminating at the Elafonisi beach. The trail embodies the rugged charm of Crete, with the landscape alternating between olive and locust trees and weather-beaten rocks of black and red volcanic lava.

To reach the beaches, one can stroll along the Livadia village shoreline, pass the port, and arrive at the large black rock formations, recognized as a natural monument. Behind these rocks lie clusters of small ponds filled with greenish water. The sandy and pebbly coves make for a perfect spot for a rejuvenating swim. Alternatively, one can also swim at the pebbly beach within the small harbour of Livadia.

The Keramoti beach, positioned adjacent to a village of the same name, is situated 75km southwest of Chania and 36km south of Kissamos. This medium-sized, pebbly beach is notable for its rocky areas and is well-known among the local populace. However, its rugged terrain may not be suitable for families. Despite the lack of beach amenities, its seclusion makes it an attractive getaway. Accommodation is available in the nearby villages of Keramoti and Livadia.

A stream, fed by mountain springs, runs alongside the beach, providing fresh water. The stream and underwater springs contribute to the cooling of the seawater.

Access to the beach is via a somewhat rough dirt track from Keramoti. The surrounding area is largely rocky, but the rock formations are truly spectacular.

The Xotikospilio, translating to “the cave of elves”, is situated 70km southwest of Chania, 30km south of Kissamos, and approximately 1.5 km northwest of the village Keramoti. The name is derived from a local legend that suggests that elves inhabit the small cave adjacent to it. Visitors can explore the cave and observe the petite chapel built within it. The cave of Xotikospilios was the site of a tragic massacre on Good Friday of 1824, where Turkish forces murdered women and children taking refuge there post the Elafonissi slaughter.

Nestled within a small rugged cove, this secluded beach is encapsulated by the untamed Cretan landscape. The beachfront is composed of large, round pebbles and lacks any nearby facilities. Its secluded nature makes it ideal for snorkelling and quiet moments, though the western Crete coastline’s waves can pose a challenge for swimmers. Access to Xotikospilio is possible via a dirt track, but it’s advisable to park your vehicle on the plateau before the beach instead of driving it all the way down.

Gylisma, also known as Kambos or Afratolaki, is a stony beach nestled 69km southwest of Chania city and 29km south of Kissamos, in proximity to the village of Kambos. The beach, characterized by its coarse pebbles, is not particularly suited for swimming, especially for families on windy days due to the high waves. The locals of Kambos mainly frequent it on calm days.

Afratolakki is an excellent option for those seeking solitude. Although the beach has basic amenities for accommodation and food, it lacks facilities like umbrellas and sunbeds. The rocky seabed of Afratolakki makes it an ideal spot for snorkelling.

To access the beach, one must traverse a 4.5km poorly-maintained dirt track leading from Kambos village to the beach.

Stomio, situated 74km to the south of Chania and 1km to the north of the Chrisoskalitissa monastery, forms part of the broader Elafonissi area. It’s not a favorite spot for tourists due to its rocky and often wavy appearance. The beach features large pebbles and patches of sand, making it a suitable choice for those seeking seclusion, though not ideal for families. The water here is rather cold and the sea deep.

The name ‘Stomio’ translates to ‘mouth’ and can be attributed to the river mouth from the village of Vathi that exits at this point. The river’s water is stored in the local reservoir. The beach is not equipped with any amenities, but there is a small tavern close by. The beach is conveniently accessible as it’s adjacent to the main road that links Chania with Chrisoskalitissa and Elafonissi.

Close to Stomio, one can find the old plaster factory, now deserted. There were attempts to revive the factory in 2010, but local residents objected to the financial lobbies and hindered its reestablishment. Also present is the picturesque chapel of Agii Theodori. Across the bay, a lovely pine grove stretches towards the mountain.

Platanakia beach, situated 61km southwest of Chania city, 31km south of Kissamos, 5km northwest of Kambos village, and in close proximity to Sfinari bay, is nestled at the mouth of the scenic Kambos gorge that originates from the namesake village.

Platanakia is a secluded cove, often deserted, and guarded by towering cliffs. The beach is a mix of sandy and stony patches, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking solitude, even in the height of summer. Nearby trees provide natural shade to beachgoers.

To reach the beach from Kambos village on foot, one must traverse the lush, two-hour path through the gorge, which is adorned with plane trees and has a river flowing throughout the year.

Adventurous travelers equipped with a 4×4 vehicle can opt for an offroad journey to the beach via a dirt track starting from Kambos. This route involves crossing fences installed by goat and sheep herders; please ensure they remain closed to prevent livestock from straying. The journey concludes at the picturesque, unexplored surroundings of Platanakia. Park your vehicle at the final plateau, near the visually striking cave chapel of Agia Ekaterini and Agia Marina, and descend the path directly to the beach below. Chances are, you’ll have the place to yourself!

The attractive Sfinari beach is tucked behind the northern rocky side of Platanakia beach (Cape Korakas) and is a 20-minute walk to the north of the beach.

Situated 70km southeast of Chania and just 500m northwest of the Chrysoskalitissa Monastery, you’ll find Voulolimni – a unique ‘sunken lake’. This is not your typical beach, but rather a natural rocky ‘pool’ that has become a hidden gem for the locals of the Chrysoskalitissa village.

Voulolimni is nestled within a small crater, encircled by rocks, creating a beautiful sea lake. This quaint salt lake is shielded from the strong local winds thanks to its geological formation, with only a small opening connecting it to the open sea. As such, it doubles as a natural harbor for small boats.

Its waters remain calm, boasting an enchanting greenish hue that many swimmers find irresistible. While there are no facilities directly adjacent to the lake, you can find accommodation options and taverns in the nearby Chrysoskalitissa village. This makes Voulolimni a perfect spot for those seeking tranquillity amidst Crete’s natural beauty.

Sfinari beach, nestled 60km west of Chania city and 30km south of Kissamos, is a hidden gem in front of its namesake village. This peaceful village is at the mouth of a lush, deep valley and is wrapped in the embrace of verdant mountains. Known for its tranquillity, Sfinari offers a beautiful sandy beach speckled with pebbles. With a handful of lodging and dining options, it’s an excellent choice for serene family getaways. On days when the waves are gentle, the beach becomes a haven for snorkelling. Numerous tamarisk trees provide ample natural shade, making it a perfect spot to unwind.

Sfinari is favoured primarily by those on the hunt for solitude, so don’t anticipate a bustling nightlife or booming beach bars. Despite its remote location, it’s easily accessible via bus from Chania station, so not owning a car isn’t an issue. However, having a car could enhance your Crete exploration experience.

Venturing up the mountain at the beach’s southern end, crossing the carob tree-filled rocky cape of Korakas, you’ll glimpse the secluded beach of Platanakia on the other side. With careful navigation, you can descend to this remote beach for a truly peaceful dip.

Aspri Limni, translating to ‘White Lake,’ is one of Crete’s most remarkable and yet little-known beaches. Located a mere 500 meters west of Chrysoskalitissa Monastery and 70 kilometres southwest of Chania city, it’s a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. While many flock to the nearby popular lagoon of Elafonissi, Aspri Limni remains largely unexplored, its beauty preserved in its pristine condition.

The beach, adorned with fine white sand and occasional rocks, is enveloped by jagged cliffs, creating the illusion of a tiny pale lake within the sea. Undisturbed by commercial tourism, Aspri Limni retains its pure and untouched charm, although it lacks natural shade.

To reach Aspri Limni, take a right turn in Chrysoskalitissa village and follow the signs leading to the small Phoenix Theophrasti (Cretan Date Palm) habitat located around the lake. If unsure, any local will be able to guide you to this hidden beach.

Protected under Natura 2000 due to its significance as the westernmost habitat of the endangered Phoenix Theophrasti, Aspri Limni holds environmental importance. This palm species is also found in other groves in Crete such as Vai, Preveli, Agios Nikitas, Souda, and in smaller colonies in South Turkey. Among these, Vai hosts the most extensive palm grove.

Kokkina Grema, a secluded beach known for its Red Cliffs, is located 55km west of Chania, 28km southwest of Kissamos, and 3km west of Platanos village. The beach’s name is derived from the reddish soil of the northern peninsula.

Situated at the exit of a tiny gorge from Platanos village, Kokkina Grema shapes the bay of Lygia. The beach, characterized by its ruggedness and pebbles, is an ideal spot for camping and solitude, although it may not be suitable for families with children due to the lack of facilities and shade. Visitors are advised to bring their own umbrellas.

Reaching Kokkina Grema can be challenging due to the poor condition of the dirt track leading from Platanos. However, the journey ends beautifully with the scenic chapel of Panagia situated on the beach.