Domata beach

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The picturesque Domata beach, positioned 7km east of Sougia and 58km south of Chania city, resides at Tseses. This beach marks the end of the Klados gorge, a wild and rugged landscape. Its unique natural beauty is a result of the erosive power of water. The name Domata, translating to “roofs”, is derived from the layered structure of the surrounding conglomerate rocks, reminiscent of enormous walls. The beach owes its creation to the large amounts of pebbles and dirt deposited by the gorge, and the continuous oscillation of the sea and air.

The beach is striking, with its fine pebbles and transparent blue waters. By digging in the sand, you can discover fresh water from subterranean springs. As anticipated, the area is devoid of roads and infrastructure. However, the abundant pine trees near the beach provide natural shade and ideal camping spots. The southernmost section of the beach, separated from the main beach of Domata by rocks, is known as Kolotrividis, named after the adjacent cape.

You can reach Domata via the E4 European trail, which heads east and guides you to Agia Roumeli (a 3 -4 hour walk). Be cautious though, as the trail ascends to an altitude of 700m, with some sections being steep and potentially hazardous.

Domata beach Map

Get directions to Domata beach 

Most frequent asked questions

What is the location of Domata beach?

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Is there any accommodation available near Domata beach?

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Is Domata beach safe for children?

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What is the parking situation at Domata beach?

Where can I park my car at Domata beach?

What is the water colour of the Domata beach?

The water colour of the Domata beach is deep blue.

What type of sand is found on the Domata beach?

The Domata beach has pebbles and fine pebbles.

How deep is the water at the Domata beach?

The water at the Domata beach is deep.

What is the surface of the sea like at the Domata beach?

The surface of the sea at the Domata beach is usually calm.

What is the crowd like at the Domata beach?

The Domata beach is usually quiet.

What facilities are available at the Domata beach?

There are no facilities available at the Domata beach.

What are the modes of access to the Domata beach?

The Domata beach can be accessed by boat or walking.

Is the Domata beach nudism friendly?

Yes, the Domata beach is nudism friendly.

Is the Domata beach ideal for snorkeling or spearfishing?

Yes, the Domata beach is ideal for snorkeling and spearfishing.

Things to do near Domata beach

Find below list of things to do near Domata beach:

  • Tripiti Beach, Crete

Through this route we will discover the wild side of southern Crete and end up at one of the best beaches of Crete with crystal clear waters
Our first stop is the Minoan Farm where we will have the opportunity to learn how Cretan honey and Cretan olive oil are produced as well as to get to know Cretan herbs up close. Our stop really fills us with Crete.
Then we arrive at traditional village of Archanes where we will have about 40 minutes of free time to be enchanted by the architecture of the houses, the narrow streets of the village and to relax under the plane trees
Then through a beautiful route we reach the foot of the constellations and climb to an altitude of 850 meters
This is where the wild side of Southern Crete begins to appear and the landscapes are truly beautiful and dreamlike
Crossing the beautiful gorge we find ourselves at one of the best beaches of Crete with crystal clear waters
Here we enjoy a wonderful meal and take a bath
On our way back through a beautiful route we end up at the Monastery of Epanosifi with the Byzantine churches and we will get to know the life of the Cretan priests
With what better images we end up at the hotel
This route will imprint deep in your mind the best memories from Wild Unknown Crete !!!!

  • Agia Roumeli

An experience not to be missed! Hike along the rugged terrain of the Samaria Gorge cutting through a limestone plateau and at a length of 18 kilometres it is Europe’s longest gorge.

You will visit and will surely be enchanted by the beautiful landscapes of Crete. At one point of the gorge the walls are only 3 metres apart from each other, and are known as the ’iron curtains’ with sides rising sheer up to 100 feet.

The hike is followed by the opportunity for lunch break late in the afternoon at a local traditional taverna or coffee or swimming at Agia Roumeli at the end of Gorge.

After break we do a short cruise around the southern coastline to the pretty costal village of Chora Sfakion, where our journey ends and take our way back to your hotels.

Type of excursion: Adventure – educational – Full day

  • Agia Roumeli

Enjoy an unforgettable journey commencing at the Omalos Plateau, where we’ll gather any final supplies and prepare for the upcoming trek!

Samaria Gorge for 4.5 to 6 hours.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Europe’s longest gorge, the Samaria Gorge, for an extraordinary trek. Spanning 16 kilometers, this adventure unveils the majestic White Mountains, a serene river, and glimpses of the elusive kri-kri (animal). Led by our experienced guide, prepare for a journey filled with awe-inspiring moments.
The duration to traverse Samaria Gorge in Crete fluctuates based on individual pace, fitness level, and the frequency of breaks taken during the journe

Agia Roumeli Village
Upon emerging from the gorge, discover the tranquil haven of Agia Roumeli, where a stunning beach awaits, nestled between the towering cliffs and the Libyan Sea. Indulge in leisurely swims, unwind on the shore, and relish local delicacies at a nearby taverna.

Boat Trip back
Continue your adventure with a scenic boat ride from Agia Roumeli to Chora Sfakion, marking the beginning of our return journey. While the duration may vary slightly depending on sea conditions, rest assured that our boats are equipped with seating areas, toilets, and snack bars offering refreshments for your enjoyment.

Chora Sfakion
Conclude our excursion as we transition back to buses, ready to transport you to your drop-off points in the Heraklion Region. Get ready to reminisce about the unforgettable experiences of the day!

  • Agia Roumeli

From its jaw-dropping villages to its healthy Mediterranean cuisine, Crete is a feast for the senses. The stunning beauty of Samariá Gorge National Park is an important part of the island’s attraction.

On this full-day excursion you’ll be picked up in Chania and travel by comfortable bus to the park. Get ready to be wowed by the gorge, as high limestone cliffs and quaint village create the background for a great hike.

The walking tour from one end of Samaria gorge to the other is a challenging 18 kilometers. The terrain in the gorge is rough, rocky, and uneven and the hike is not suitable for anyone who has heart problems or is unfit, or for pregnant women.

There are a number of stopping points along the route, where you’ll find toilets and drinking water. At some points the gorge is only 3 meters wide and you may have to climb over boulders. You’ll reach the end of the gorge at Agia Roumeli, and stop for a break and a bite to eat (the price of the food is not included).

You’ll return by boat to Sougia where you’ll be picked up by the coach.

  • Agia Roumeli

Take a hike through Samaria Gorge with pickup in Malia and Heraklion. Trek through this impressive gorge, known for being the longest in Europe. Make a stop at the Plateau of Omalos, admire the mountains of the gorge, and take an unforgettable journey through Cretan nature.
Get picked up in the morning from your designated pickup point and head towards Omalos. Once there, make sure you have all the equipment and take the chance to buy some supplies before entering into the gorge.
Begin the trek, and feel the impressiveness of the longest gorge in Europe. Take in the surrounding views of the White Mountains, admire the small river that runs through it, and catch sight of the Cretan wild goats, commonly known as Kri-Kri.
At the exit, find yourself by the Libyan Sea in the village of Agia Roumeli. Explore this beautiful and isolated village, nestled between huge rocks and the expansive sea. Enjoy a relaxing and refreshing swim at the beach, and have some lunch in a small local tavern.
Later, embark on a boat that takes you back to Chora Sfakion. There, catch the bus that returns back to the resort.

  • Agia Roumeli

The Samaria Gorge is the jewel of the White Mountains; hidden in the southern part of the prefecture of Chania, it is the largest gorge in Europe, with a length of 18 kilometres, and the most visited trail in Greece.
The gorge trail starts at Ksyloskalo (Omalos plateau, 1,227 metres above sea level) and, after following the river bed, ends at the coastal village of Agia Roumeli.
It is a very pleasant walk, not strenuous, with many changes of scenery and a varied environment, and it is excellently equipped with signals and signposts that eliminate the risk of getting lost. It is important to remember, however, that although the whole route is not difficult, there are certain sections that require more attention.

Your day starts after we pick you up from a designated pick up point (which can be outside your hotel or as close as possible). We then drive to the Omalos plateau and stop for breakfast (optional).
After breakfast we drive to the entrance of the Samaria gorge called Xyloskalo and start the walk.
The walk usually takes 4 – 6 hours and you will be able to admire extraordinary rock formations, many endemic plants, flowers and animals, the most famous of which is the Cretan wild goat called “Kri – Kri” (or Aegagros as it is called in the local dialect). Everyone will walk at their own pace without the need to keep up with a group, if you need anything feel free to ask your guide – mountain escort who will also enter the gorge with you.
At the end of the walk you will find yourself in the remote village of Ag. Roumeli, where you can cool off and enjoy the beach. You will also be able to sample the local cuisine by having lunch in one of the local taverns.
The tour ends after taking the ferry from Ag. Roumeli to Sougia and board our busses back to your hotel (or the designated pick up point you had in the morning).

Stays near Domata beach

Find below the list of hotels near Domata beach:

  • 9 / 10
  • Agia Roumeli, Sfakia

Located 60 metres from the beach of Agia Roumeli, the quietly located Artemis Studios offers split-level, self-catering accommodation with side sea view towards west, garden or mountain views from its balcony. It features a family-run restaurant.

The air-conditioned studios of Artemis have an open-plan kitchenette with seating and dining area. Each is equipped with a fridge and cooking hobs. The private bathroom comes with shower and free toiletries. Free WiFi is offered.

Guests can start their day with a continental breakfast served daily at the Artemis Restaurant, where traditional Cretan dishes can also be enjoyed at discounted prices for lunch or dinner.

Mini markets can be found within a short walk from the property. The village of Agia Roumeli is accessible either by crossing the Samaria Gorge or by ferry from Sfakia, Sougia or Paleochora. Guests have the chance to participate in a 4-day activity programme at Samaria Gorge.

from

€56

/night

    • 4.4 km
    • 9.5 / 10
    • Agia Roumeli Sfakion

    Calypso Hotel is located just 20 metres from the beach, in Agia Roumeli village. It features rooms with air conditioning and a furnished balcony with Libyan Sea views. The on-site café-restaurant serves breakfast.

    Calypso rooms are fitted with tiled floors and wooden ceilings and include a refrigerator. Free Wi-Fi access is offered in all public areas.

    Sun beds and umbrellas are available on the beach at an extra charge. Staff can provide information on organized excursions, such as a hike of the Samaria Gorge.

    Calypso Hotel is 75 km from Chania. Nearby Sfakia and Loutro are accessible by boat. Free public and private parking are available.

    from

    €65

    /night

      • 4.5 km
      • 9.2 / 10
      • Sougia

      Situated just 200 metres from the beach of Sougia, 3-star Syia Hotel offers self-catering rooms with private balcony. Free Wi-Fi access is available throughout the hotel.

      Syia open-plan studios and two-room apartments are bright and very spacious. They include a well-equipped kitchenette with coffee maker, toaster and fridge. Climate control, a satellite TV and a hairdryer are included.

      Guests can start their day with the breakfast served at the property’s dining area. They can also enjoy a drink from the bar either at the lounge area or at the furnished terrace overlooking the Libyan Sea.

      Syia serves as a convenient starting point for exploring the beaches of South Crete, such as Palaiochora located a 30-minute drive away. Free on-site parking is possible.

      from

      €97

      /night

        • 9.4 km
        • 9 / 10
        • Sougia

        Located within 300 metres from Sougia Beach, Galini offers accommodation with furnished balconies overlooking the Lefka Ori mountain range. Rooms are equipped with fridge and a TV.

        Studios and Apartments Galini feature air-conditioned units with coffee-making facilities. Most accommodation types include kitchenettes. Room cleaning is provided daily.

        Family-run Galini Studios & Apartments offer free Wi-Fi access in all studios and apartments. There are barbecue facilities in the garden as well as a common kitchen. Free private parking is possible on site.

        The scenic Sougia village is located by the Libyan sea, about 70 km from the city of Chania. There are many tavernas and shops for everyday necessities. Samaria Gorge and Agia Irini Gorge are easily accessible by boat.

          • 9.4 km

          Beaches near Domata beach

          Find below list of beaches near Domata beach:

          • 2.3 km
          Fournoti beach is located 2.3 km away.

          Fournoti is a stunning beach situated 57km to the south of Chania city, 10km to the east of Sougia, and 1.5km to the west of Agia Roumeli. It’s an attractive spot with deep azure waters, fine pebbles, and is flanked by pine trees. Nestled within one of Greece’s most picturesque locations, the rugged Mountains of Sfakia, this beach is secluded and can only be accessed by boat. It’s devoid of any organization, adding to its charm. Although some brave swimmers opt to navigate the waters from or to Agia Roumeli (a 1-2 hour journey), it’s generally not recommended. Fournoti is an ideal spot for those seeking solitude, even during peak season. A cave located on the beach serves as a perfect camping spot and provides shade.

          Interestingly, Fournoti is the sole habitat of the plant Hypericum aciferum, which has piqued the interest of biologists. Yellow signs dot the rocky cliffs surrounding the beach, marking the spots where this plant grows. Therefore, visitors are urged to respect and avoid disturbing this native species.

          • Fournoti beach
          • Pebbles
          • Deep
          • Blue
          • 2.7 km
          Kalogeros beach is located 2.7 km away.

          Kalogeros is a pristine beach adorned with deep blue waters and fine pebbles, situated 57km to the south of Chania city, 11km to the east of Sougia, and 1km to the west of Agia Roumeli. Its proximity to the western edge of Agia Roumeli is worth mentioning.

          The beach is a haven of tranquility, making it a favorite spot for nudists due to its seclusion. It is surrounded by pine trees and features a small cave providing shade and a place to camp. However, there are no amenities nearby, and the only way to reach this place is either by boat or by swimming from Agia Roumeli, which takes around an hour.

          The beach’s name, Kalogeros, is derived from the Greek term καλόγερος (transliterated as Kaloyeros), meaning monk. This name was inspired by a massive vertical rock in the sea that resembles a monk.

          Kalogeros is an ideal choice for those seeking solitude, which is a common trait among all the surrounding beaches. Between Kalogeros and Agia Roumeli, the coastline is dotted with small beaches nestled among gigantic cliffs. These are known as Spilies to Marmaro, translating to “Caves in Marble.”

          • Kalogeros beach
          • Pebbles
          • Deep
          • Deep blue
          • 3.5 km
          Tripiti beach – Sfakia is located 3.5 km away.

          The rocky beach of Tripiti is located 5km east of Sougia and 68km south of Chania city, at the ending point of the wild gorge of Trypiti. It is absolutely secluded, like all the beaches of the wider Sfakia area. Access to Tripiti is possible either by boat or by walking on a difficult path from Sougia (three hours). The vertical cliffs near the beach provide natural shade. If you walk 500m east to the beach, you’ll meet the much nicer pebbly beach of Sendoni, used by beekeepers.

          Tripiti is believed to be the site of the ancient town Pikilasos with the protected natural harbour. The port has been converted to a reef with incredible formations after some geological changes during the 4th AD century. Inscriptions have been discovered in the area, revealing the existence of a temple dedicated to Serapis (Greco-Egyptian god of antiquity). Moreover, archaeologists have discovered several tombs, carved in the rocks.

          On the beach, there is a cistern with water, a goat pen and the picturesque church of Agios Nikolaos. If you are in the area on July 19, you can take part in the celebration of the Prophet Elijah, which celebrates on July 20. The pilgrims arrive by boat in the afternoon on the beach of Trypiti and then walk on the path leading to the chapel of Prophet Elijah, 400 meters above sea level. They spend the night there with food and traditional Cretan songs and leave the next day. On the peak of the same hill, there are the ruins of Fort Voukelasi.

          • Tripiti beach - Sfakia
          • Fine Pebbles, Rocks in places
          • Deep
          • Blue
          • 3.8 km
          Mashali beach is located 3.8 km away.

          Agia Roumeli, a quaint isolated village, lies 56km to the south of Chania city, situated in a broad bay at the mouth of the Samaria Gorge. It’s a popular spot for tourists who descend the gorge daily, basking in the sun on the main beach, Gialos, which stretches before the taverns. More adventurous travellers can explore the serene and picturesque beaches in the vicinity, with Mashali, the western part of Agia Roumeli bay, being one of them.

          A secondary boat dock, associated with a solitary tavern that offers rooms, is present. Two stunning beaches with fine pebbles are adjacent to this dock. The tavern provides complimentary sunbeds, umbrellas, and canoes. Large rocks on these beaches offer shade and privacy, making it a haven for nudists. Care must be taken while traversing the main road from the tavern to the dock, due to occasional stonefalls caused by mountain goats. While these stonefalls are not highly dangerous, it’s safer to walk on the left side, away from the mountain walls.

          Venturing further from Mashali by swimming or kayaking beyond the beach’s western edge, leads to three caves. These caves are fronted by small pebbled beaches, referred to as Spilies to Marmaro, or ‘Caves in Marble’.

          • Mashali beach
          • Fine Pebbles, Pebbles
          • Deep
          • Deep blue

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