Beaches near Xerókampos, in Lassithi region

Here is list of closest beaches to Xerókampos

  • 1.8 km
  • Papadiokambos beach
  • Pebbles, Rocks in places
  • Deep
  • Blue

Situated 12km west of Sitia and 59km east of Agios Nikolaos, Papadiokambos nests near the Faneromeni Monastery in the Skopi area, just west of Cape Trahilos. Reachable via a well-maintained dirt road, Papadiokambos is home to a long beach scattered with large stones and rocks. You will find a few bays formed with pebbles where swimming is possible. The beach is secluded, so it’s likely you’ll have it all to yourself. However, it’s worth noting that amenities are scarce, so bring your own supplies. Strong winds and large waves discourage most visitors, making it an ideal spot for windsurfing enthusiasts, even in winter. Known as Faneromeni among windsurfers, Papadiokambos is renowned as one of Greece’s prime locations for wave sailing, a thrilling aspect of the sport. The area is characterized by strong currents, large waves reaching 3-4m high, and virtually no beach. Some spots can be hazardous, requiring caution and advanced level skills to avoid damaging your equipment on the rocks.

The beach also houses an excavated Minoan fisherman’s house, a small structure that has provided significant insight into Minoan dietary habits.

  • 2.1 km
  • Charkomatas beach
  • Pebbles
  • Deep
  • Deep blue

It’s definitely worth your while to venture west from the Papadiokambos settlement, particularly on those seldom windless days. You might consider parking your car roadside, bypassing the wire fence, and taking a brief 2-minute stroll to the mouth of the gorge that stretches from the Liopetro region to the stunning Charkomatas beach, located near Roussa Limni. The breathtaking formations of the Charkomatas gorge, carved from layers of limestone, are sure to leave a lasting impression.

  • 2.8 km
  • Trahili bay
  • Pebbles, Rocks in places
  • Deep
  • Deep blue

The sea around Papadiokambos is frequently choppy, which makes the eastern side of the Trahili peninsula, just east of the settlement, an ideal alternative for swimming. The stubby cape shields against the waves, resulting in tranquil, azure-blue waters. Initially, it may seem as though there is only a rocky shoreline without a beach. However, there’s a hidden, modest beach, accessible by a dirt road, named Gaidaros (meaning Donkey), as seen on the map. Gaidaros is the sole natural beach in the extensive region between Kalavros and Sitia town that boasts consistently calm waters.

  • 3.1 km
  • Platani beach
  • Pebbles
  • Deep
  • Blue

Platani, situated 7km to the west of Sitia and 60km east of Agios Nikolaos on Crete island, can be reached by taking the road to Faneromeni Monastery, which starts near the village of Skopi. Around 2km after Skopi, just before reaching the monastery, you’ll discover two adjacent small pebbly beaches with crystal clear waters.

The first beach, known as Agii Pantes, is nestled at the exit of the verdant Agii Pantes gorge, which can be accessed easily by a hiking trail. Limestone formations near the beach, resembling Pleurotus mushrooms, are a sight to behold. The gorge houses two freshwater springs, Koutsounari and Hosto Nero, the latter located inside a cave. During winter, Agii Pantes beach floods and transforms into a significant wetland.

The second beach, Platani, is formed at the exit of another lush canyon that runs parallel to Agii Pantes. The canyon starts from Faneromeni Monastery. The beach is named Platani, which translates to platan tree in Greek, after the platan trees that line the beach. A spring with fresh water is located next to the beach. This undeveloped area is perfect for peaceful solitude and calm swimming. To the west of Cape Trahilos lies Papadiokambos, a spot renowned for windsurfing.

While you’re in the area, it’s worth paying a visit to the Monastery of Panagia Faneromeni, located adjacent to the Platani gorge. The monastery, likely built in the 14th century and renovated in 1624, houses paintings dated to 1455. These were blackened by the destructive raids of the pirate Barbarossa in 1538 and by the Turks in 1829. The monastery’s name, Faneromeni, which means ‘Revealed’, is derived from the image of the Virgin Mary that reportedly “appeared” in a small cave next to the church. Today, the monastery is uninhabited.

  • 4.4 km
  • Vathis Potamos beach
  • Pebbles, Sand
  • Deep
  • Blue

In the expansive, uninhabited wilderness between Platani and Sitia airport, the landscape is dominated by sparse vegetation and rugged, sharp rocks. This region, known as Melissokipi or ‘Bee Gardens’, is devoid of roads. It is intersected by numerous deep streams that flow into the sea during the winter season. One such stream, the Vathys Potamos or ‘Deep River’, gives way to a small sandy beach. However, the beach is often adversely affected by frequent winds and waves that bring trash ashore. The region is also referred to as Spilia, which translates to ‘cave’, owing to the presence of one of Crete’s largest caves near the beach. This cavern is so sizable that it can comfortably accommodate a large vessel.

  • 5.0 km
  • Richtis beach
  • Pebbles, Sand
  • Deep
  • Deep blue

Richtis beach, nestled approximately 20km west of Sitia and 45km east of Agios Nikolaos, is accessible through the eponymous Richtis Gorge which originates from the village of Exo Mouliana. You can get to the beach via the paved road that starts from Exo Mouliana or opt for a scenic hike through the verdant gorge.

This petite, pebble-strewn cove boasts pristine waters, though its northern orientation often results in waves. The beach, with its round pebbles, may not be ideal for swimming, especially on windy days, but it promises absolute tranquility. Given the lack of nearby amenities, it’s advisable to bring your own food. The beach is dotted with tamarisk trees, encircled by stone seats and tables. You’ll also find a stone water fountain providing drinkable fresh water year-round.

A trip to Richtis beach often includes a trek through the stunning Richtis Gorge, named ‘Richti’ (the Cretan term for Waterfall) because of the 20m high waterfall within the gorge that creates an oasis in East Crete. The gorge is especially worth visiting in the spring.

  • 6.0 km
  • Gela beach
  • Pebbles, Sand
  • Deep
  • Deep blue

Gela (also known as Tigania) is nestled on the stony and shingle coast of northern Crete, largely shielded from westerly winds. It is situated approximately 58km east of Agios Nikolaos and 26km west of Sitia, nearby the village of Kalavros. To reach Gela from Agios Nikolaos, take the road to Sitia and follow the exit to Kalavros village. From there, follow the 5km dirt track that leads to the sea until you arrive at Gela’s shoreline. The location is incredibly secluded and features several tiny bays with pebble beaches and green-tinted waters, perfect for swimming on calm days. The bays are nestled near the steep, rocky coasts, and the sea here is deep.

The area is perfect for activities like fishing and snorkelling, as well as for those seeking solitude. You’re unlikely to encounter many others in this remote spot.

  • 7.2 km
  • Sitia beach
  • Sand
  • Shallow
  • Blue

Situated 64km east of Agios Nikolaos, Sitia is the furthest city to the east on the island of Crete. In the broader region of the Sitia province, there are numerous petite beaches that offer a delightful combination of sun and sea. For those who enjoy staying near the urban area, the city’s long beach is an attractive option. Situated to the east of the city, Sitia beach stretches from the port all the way to the Petras area. The beach, largely composed of sand with some pebbles scattered here and there, has shallow waters. It is well-equipped with amenities such as umbrellas, showers, lifeguards, beach/water sports, and beach bars. However, quiet spots can be found along its extensive shoreline, particularly towards the east. The east side also accommodates campervans and is dotted with a few trees.

Beyond the Petras area to the east, you can explore the ruins of an ancient city at Trypitos Cape, alleged to be Itia, the hometown of the Wise Myson. Moreover, archaeologists have discovered remnants from various phases of the Minoan era in Petras. West of Trypitos’s archaeological site, another small beach named Karavopetra is located. This name translates to “Ship Stone”, inspired by the sea boulder where ships would traditionally anchor.

  • 11.2 km
  • Loutres beaches
  • Pebbles, Rocks in places, Sand
  • Deep
  • Blue

Situated 48km east of Agios Nikolaos and 35km west of Sitia is the quaint village of Mochlos. A short 300m journey eastward, near the Agios Andreas settlement, reveals several secluded bays filled with rounded pebbles. Known by the locals as Kolimbakia or Loutres coves, these spots are perfect for snorkelling and fishing, thanks to the rocky seafloor that houses a multitude of fish. Beyond the coves, you’ll find the well-equipped Stomio beach, fronting a local hotel. It provides amenities such as umbrellas, showers, beach-volley courts, canoes, as well as sailing, windsurfing and diving facilities. Further east of Mochlos, the Mavro Selli beach awaits, characterized by a small stream and large pebbles.

  • 12.4 km
  • Mochlos beaches
  • Rocks in places, Sand
  • Normal
  • Blue

Mochlos is a quaint village situated 48km to the east of Agios Nikolaos and 35km to the west of Sitia. It lies 150m across from the islet of St. Nicholas, home to a chapel of the same name and an important archaeological site. The village of Mochlos maintains its traditional Cretan charm, making it an ideal destination for a peaceful getaway. The friendly locals, primarily from the village of Sfaka, will make you feel at home from day one. You may even get the chance to participate in local events such as fishing competitions.

The village’s coastal road is dotted with a handful of taverns and cafes where you can savour fresh seafood and refreshing drinks. These establishments have even gained popularity among notable Greeks. An old tax office previously stood next to these taverns but was unfortunately torn down several years ago. The small sandy beach of Mochlos, with its rocky seabed, lies in front of the village. It offers basic facilities but is not officially organized. A second, smaller and rockier bay can be found to the east of the village.

For those seeking solitude, the sandy beach of Limenaria lies 400m west of Mochlos. This beach and the local harbour are well shielded from the waves. In 1986, archaeologists discovered a post-Minoan cemetery with several intact carved tombs in Limenaria. Over 60 decorated vases and a Minoan seal featuring a deer were found at this site.

When visiting Mochlos, it’s worth exploring the neighbouring villages of Sfaka, Lastros, Tourloti, and Myrsini. These villages have preserved their traditional character and house some very old chapels. Furthermore, south of Mochlos, atop a hill, you can visit the scenic chapel of Holy Spirit (Agio Pnevma in Greek), which offers panoramic views of the Mirabello Gulf. Lastly, near the village of Myrsini, you will find the Venetian Tower of Kornaros and the chapel of St. Anthony.

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