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Komos beach

About Komos beach

Kommos (or Komos) is located 66km southwest of Heraklion, just 2km north of Matala and close to the village Pitsidia. It is actually the southernmost and the most isolated part of the long beachfront of Messara Bay. Kommos was once the port of Phaestus; you can still see the ruins of the old port of Kommos on the beach. You can access Kommos by driving on the road heading to Matala, till you see a sign to Kommos near Pitsidia.
The entire beachfront of Messara is exposed to westerly winds, which mostly blow in the area. Thus, caution is needed because the seabed in some places is rocky. The protected loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) lay their eggs in the sand of the beach, from May to September.
The northern part of Kommos, Potamos or Potamoserma, is a favourite destination for naturists, since the times when hundreds of hippies flooded the area. There are only a few tamarisk trees around, not buildings, because Kommos is a protected archaeological area and building is restricted. Next to the archaeological site, in the south, there is an organized beach with umbrellas, sun beds, a toilet, showers, a canteen and a lifeguard. All around there are sand dunes where you can admire the white lilies of sand, which signifies the end of the summer. If you want to find a place to stay overnight or to eat, you can walk to the nearby Kalamaki, or drive to Pitsidia and Matala.
The views of Paximadia islets are stunning, especially during sunset. Just opposite the archaeological site, 300m in the sea, you will see a beautiful big rock, which the locals call Volakas. Volakas could not be absent from the Greek myths. Locals say that the stone is the top of the boulder that the blinded Cyclope Polyphemus threw against the ship of Odysseus in order not to escape. This was after Odysseus, with his companions, escaped from Polyphemus’ cave.

Ancient Kommos
Kommos was the port of Phaestus and was established in about 200BC. It was destroyed by an earthquake several centuries later and was rebuilt in the same location. The archaeological site of Komos, which is closed to visitors, includes a Minoan harbour, public buildings, warehouses, oil presses, shipyards and a large courtyard. Archaeologists have also found remains of a small temple, built on the ruins of an older one.

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FAQ

What is the location of Komos beach?

Komos beach is located on the southern coast of Crete, Greece.

Is Komos beach suitable for swimming?

Yes, Komos beach is suitable for swimming. However, it is important to be cautious of the water conditions and follow any warnings or advisories.

Are there any water sports available at Komos beach?

No, there are no water sports available at Komos beach.

Is there a designated area for nudists at Komos beach?

Yes, there is a designated area for nudists at the western end of Komos beach.

Is there a nearby town or village to Komos beach?

Yes, the village of Pitsidia is located just a few kilometers from Komos beach.

Are there any hiking trails near Komos beach?

Yes, there are hiking trails in the nearby hills and mountains that offer stunning views of the coastline and surrounding landscape.

Is there a parking area at Komos beach?

Yes, there is a parking area near the beach. However, it can get crowded during peak season.

What is the water colour of the beach?

The water colour of the beach is blue.

What type of sand is found on the beach?

The beach has sand as its sand type.

What is the water depth of the beach?

The beach has a normal water depth.

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

The beach usually has wavy sea surface.

What is the crowd like at the beach?

The beach is usually quiet.

What facilities are available at the beach?

The beach has nearby food and water facilities, umbrellas and beds, sports facilities, a lifeguard, and showers.

What is the access to the beach like?

The beach can be accessed through a paved road.

Is there any tree shade available at the beach?

Yes, there is tree shade available at the beach.

Beach facilities

  • Food / water nearby
  • Umbrellas / beds
  • Sports
  • Lifeguard
  • Showers

Crowds

  • Quiet

Water depths

  • Normal

Beach sand type

  • Sand

Sea surface

  • Usually wavy

Water colour

  • Blue

Accessibility

  • Paved road

Other information

  • Tree Shade

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