Koutsouras beaches

The beaches of Maheridia by Koutsouras village are a series of three different beaches with high cliffs. These beaches are all beautiful with crystal clear water and are only accessible by boat. The only one that can be accessed from the coast is the last beach to the east, accessed through two different trails hidden in the dense piney wood. The beach is only a few meters east of the well-known woods Apiganias at Koutsouras, in an area with many pine trees.

From the main road, a very short dirt road descends to the parking area where we meet a cluster of high pine trees. From here we have beautiful panoramic views of the eastern bay of Maheridia. Maheridia is a favourite destination for locals and you will very rarely see tourists. The picturesque bays are sandy and pebbly with some scattered rocks in places. The east bay at Maheridi is calm and windless almost all the time, being ideal for families with children.

The area is full of water springs, especially in winter and spring water gushes from everywhere and after a short distance reaches the sea. At some point the water is gathered, so one can see running water even in the dry summer months.

Situated on the western side of the Makrigialos settlement, Kalamokanias is 57km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and 22km east of Ierapetra. It rests on the western flank of Katovigli hill, which towers over the harbour area. The area is named Kalamokanias after the migratory stilt bird (Himantopus himantopus) – a red-legged creature resembling a miniature stork that frequents local streams.

The beach at Kalamokanias is tranquil, featuring coarse black sand that doesn’t cling to the skin. While not extensively developed, it offers some amenities including tamarisk trees for shade and a few taverns and rental rooms. Mainly frequented by locals, it provides a respite from the more tourist-heavy beach of Makrigialos.

To reach Kalamokanias from Ierapetra, make a right turn toward the sea just 100m before entering Makrigialos. Additionally, a coastal road links the beach with the local harbour.

The beach known as Mavros Kolimbos or Agios Panteleimon is situated 51km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and 16km to the east of Ierapetra. This quaint coastal settlement has experienced gentle growth over recent years. The area boasts several rental accommodations and small eateries. The beach itself is a charming spot with dark grey pebbles and typically tranquil waters. Some parts of the seabed are rocky, making it perfect for snorkelling. Although the beach is not organized, there are tamarisk trees nearby that provide natural shade.

To reach Mavros Kolimbos from Ierapetra, take the main road east towards Makrigialos, which runs along Crete’s southern shoreline. Public bus services are also available to Makrigialos and can stop in the area. If you’re driving, consider stopping by the mountainous Orino village in the Thrypti Range and the Gorge of Red Butterflies. Within the settlement, pay a visit to the Agios Panteleimonas church, from which the beach derives its alternative name.

Lagoufa, situated just beyond the easternmost point of Makrigialos main beach, is located about 59km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and 24km east of Ierapetra. It is composed of two neighboring coves close to the upscale hotels of Makrigialos. The first cove boasts fine golden sand and shallow, azure waters, and is well-equipped with amenities such as umbrellas, bars, showers, and water sports facilities, courtesy of the nearby hotel. Despite its seemingly private nature, the beach is accessible to all as there are no privately owned beaches in Greece.

Entry to the Lagoufa beaches can be gained either via the hotels or by traversing the rocky eastern edge of Makrigialos beach, a journey that requires a brief walk through shallow waters. From the first cove, a wooden walkway leads to the beach furthest east. Below this walkway, tiny beaches have formed in the rocky limestone, and in certain areas, fresh water can be seen seeping from the rocks or sand.