Lavrakas beach is situated around 2km west of Agios Ioannis beach, close to Gavdos island’s northern tip. The beach can be reached by a 20-30 minute walk from Agiannis, or by bus from Karave. Lavrakas boasts soft golden sand with scattered rocks and is completely unorganized. It is one of Gavdos’ most secluded beaches since it can only be accessed on foot.
The name Lavrakas is believed by many to be derived from the Greek term for a bass fish, “lavraki”. However, it is more likely that the name originated from the Minoan term “lavrys”, representing the symbol of their civilization, the double axe. This belief is bolstered by the discovery of 20 looted Minoan graves-caves in the northern area of the juniper wood, south of Lavrakas. These caves have been connected to the mythological cave of Calypso, with many asserting that Gavdos is the island where Ulysses was stranded and resided for seven years as per Homer’s Odyssey. Further south of Lavrakas, near Saint Nicholas’ church and within the dried Kedres torrent, remnants of ancient structures have been discovered.
Moving eastwards from Lavrakas, between Lavrakas and Pirgos, lies the small, stony beach of Stavrolimni. It can be accessed from either direction, featuring sand and a few rocks, and is formed at the exit of a stream that originates from the Agios Nikolaos chapel, carrying clay. In April and May, when the clay is still damp, the beach is perfect for a natural spa. It is bordered by a grove of pine and cedar trees.
Beach details
Sand
Blue
Shallow
Usually wavy
Tranquil
Hiking
Family friendly
Nudism friendly
Seaturtle nesting point
Tree Shade
Location
Lavrakas beach is located at Lavrakas beach, in the Chania region of Crete. The map below shows the exact spot; Google Maps and Waze give turn-by-turn directions.
Get directions:Google Maps·Waze
Frequently asked questions
What is the location of Lavrakas beach?Lavrakas beach is located in the village of Lavrakas, on the island of Evia, Greece.Is Lavrakas beach suitable for families with children?Yes, Lavrakas beach is suitable for families with children as the water is shallow and calm.Are there any water sports activities available at Lavrakas beach?No, there are no water sports activities available at Lavrakas beach.Is there a restaurant or cafe near Lavrakas beach?Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near Lavrakas beach.Is there a parking area near Lavrakas beach?Yes, there is a parking area near Lavrakas beach.Is Lavrakas beach accessible for people with disabilities?No, Lavrakas beach is not accessible for people with disabilities as there are stairs to access the Lavrakas beach.Is there a lifeguard on duty at Lavrakas beach?No, there is no lifeguard on duty at Lavrakas beach.What is the water colour of the Lavrakas beach?The water colour of the Lavrakas beach is blue.What type of sand is found on the Lavrakas beach?The Lavrakas beach has sand as its sand type.How deep is the water at the Lavrakas beach?The water at the Lavrakas beach is shallow.What is the surface of the sea like at the Lavrakas beach?The sea surface at the Lavrakas beach is usually wavy.What is the crowd like at the Lavrakas beach?The Lavrakas beach is usually quiet.What facilities are available at the Lavrakas beach?There are no facilities available at the Lavrakas beach.How can the Lavrakas beach be accessed?The Lavrakas beach can be accessed by walking.Is the Lavrakas beach nudism friendly?Yes, the Lavrakas beach is nudism friendly.Is there tree shade available at the Lavrakas beach?Yes, there is tree shade available at the Lavrakas beach.Is the Lavrakas beach a seaturtle nesting point?Yes, the Lavrakas beach is a seaturtle nesting point.
User reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience.