Sarandaris coves
Beach description
The tranquil beaches of Hersonissos Coves, also known as Limanakia, are located 27km east of Heraklion, extending from Cape Sarandaris to Hersonissos harbour. The beaches are protected from the strong northwest winds by Cape Sarandaris (Sarantari), providing calm waters for visitors. These coves are easily reachable and are situated near the vibrant town of Hersonissos with plenty of bars and cafes.
The western edge of the coves features a concrete dock ideal for diving, nestled on the rocky western side of Cape Sarandaris (Sarantari) near the quaint St. George Sarandaris chapel. A staircase leads to a sunbathing spot with hotel umbrellas and a rocky seabed perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Further down, at Cape Sarandaris’s base, you’ll discover the breathtaking Sarantari Cape beach, arguably the most picturesque and sheltered beach in Hersonissos. Its sandy beaches, shallow crystal-clear waters, and an intriguing sea cave make it a tranquil alternative to other beaches, despite the challenging descent through steep limestone cliffs.
Contrary to popular belief, Hersonissos also has a stony naturist beach located next to Sarandaris Cape, hidden discreetly by tall cliffs. This sandy, rocky cove provides a peaceful spot for swimming and solitude.
The well-known Sarandari beach comes next, popular among children due to its shallow waters and soft sands. The beach offers umbrellas, sunbeds, and a small canteen for convenience.
Next to Sarandari is Giofyri beach, situated under the main road and supported by a massive concrete wall. With its unique white coarse sand, deeper waters, and rocky seabed, it’s a popular choice among visitors, complete with umbrella and sunbed facilities.
Heading east from Giofyri along the coastal road, a series of small, slim beaches framed by white rocks awaits, their light-blue waters offering a truly mesmerizing sight. This captivating landscape stretches until you reach the large beach in front of the Creta Maris hotel, which extends up to Hersonissos port. This beach is well-equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, water sports facilities, and a beach volleyball court, becoming busier and more exposed to winds nearer the harbor.
Regardless of whether you decide to swim, a casual walk from the port to Cape Sarandaris offers stunning views of Hersonissos Bay and St. George’s chapel in Sarandaris. At Hersonissos port, consider visiting the lighthouse and the Agia Paraskevi church, partially built into the rock. On Kastri Hill, the remnants of the early Christian Hersonissos basilica and its preserved mosaics are a must-see.
Beach details
Most frequent asked questions
Where are the Hersonissos Coves located?
The Hersonissos Coves, also known as Limanakia, are situated 27km east of Heraklion, stretching from Cape Sarandaris to the Hersonissos harbour.
What kind of facilities are available at the Hersonissos Coves?
The area is well developed, with numerous bars, cafes, umbrellas, sunbeds, and water sports facilities available across various beaches.
Are there any naturist-friendly beaches in the Hersonissos Coves?
Yes, there is a stony naturist beach next to the Sarandaris Cape beach. It’s well protected by high cliffs, providing privacy for visitors.
How do I access the naturist beach in Hersonissos
To get to the naturist beach, you need to follow the main road running along the coves towards Anissaras. When the road turns away from the shore, continue straight along the coast, and after about 50 meters, you’ll find the Sarandaris coves below on your right.
Are there any historical or cultural sites near the Hersonissos Coves?
Yes, the port of Hersonissos houses a lighthouse and the Agia Paraskevi church, partially built into the rock. On Kastri Hill, there are remnants of the early Christian Hersonissos basilica with preserved mosaics.
Is Sarandaris coves suitable for families with children?
Sarandaris coves are generally safe for children to swim and play, but parents should keep a close eye on their kids as there are no lifeguards on duty. The coves are also quite secluded and may not be suitable for families with very young children or strollers.
What is the water colour of the Hersonissos Coves beach?
The water colour of the Sarandaris coves is blue and green.
What types of sand can be found on the Hersonissos Coves beach?
The Sarandaris coves has sand, fine pebbles, and rocks in places.
What is the water depth like at the Hersonissos Coves beach?
The water depth at the Sarandaris coves is normal.
What is the surface of the sea like at the Hersonissos Coves beach?
The surface of the sea at the Sarandaris coves is usually calm.
Is the Hersonissos Coves beach usually crowded?
Yes, the Sarandaris coves is a crowded place.
What facilities are available at the Sarandaris coves?
The Sarandaris coves has accommodation options, food/water nearby, umbrellas/beds, sports, and a Blue Flag.
How can the Hersonissos Coves beach be accessed?
The Sarandaris coves can be accessed via a paved road.
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User reviews
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Things to do near Sarandaris coves
Stays near Sarandaris coves
- 9.3 / 10
- Solomou 20
Located within a 3-minute walk of the blue-flag Sarantari Beach in Hersonissos, View Villas offers a swimming pool and poolside snack bar. It features fully equipped villas with free Wi-Fi and balcony overlooking the Cretan Sea and the mountains.
A kitchenette with cooking facilities and fridge is included in all apartments at the View. Each has a seating area with flat-screen TV. Air conditioning is provided upon extra charge.
Younger guests can enjoy the children’s pool and playground in the garden. A small basketball court and billiards facilities are also provided.
A supermarket is 300 metres away while the centre of Hersonissos with taverns, bars and shops is within 800 metres. Staff can arrange car rental to explore the ancient site of Knossos at a distance of 28 km. Heraklion Airport is 23 km away. Free private parking is offered on site.
from
€77
/night
- 330 m
- 9.1 / 10
- Ανισσαράς
Villa Ma-Re has pool views, free WiFi and free private parking, situated in Anissaras, 700 metres from Anissaras Main Beach.
The villa provides guests with a terrace, sea views, a seating area, satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and a private bathroom with bidet and a hair dryer. A toaster, a fridge and stovetop are also offered, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
Villa Ma-Re offers a picnic area.
Guests can enjoy the infinity pool and garden at the accommodation.
FKK Naturist Beach is 800 metres from Villa Ma-Re, while Sarandaris Cape Beach is 1.3 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 20 km from the villa.
from
€122
/night
- 390 m
- 9.6 / 10
- solomou 19 flat
Set in Hersonissos, 500 metres from Sarandaris Cape Beach and 1.1 km from the centre, Resort Village offers air-conditioned accommodation with free WiFi, and a garden.
The apartment provides guests with a terrace, garden views, a seating area, a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and a private bathroom with shower and a hair dryer. A toaster, a fridge and stovetop are also offered, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
If you would like to discover the area, fishing and hiking are possible in the surroundings.
Popular points of interest near Resort Village include FKK Naturist Beach, Anissaras Main Beach and Aquaworld Aquarium. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 21 km from the accommodation.
from
€75
/night
- 400 m
- 8.7 / 10
- Solomou 4
Set in Hersonissos, 500 metres from Sarandaris Cape Beach and 1.1 km from the centre, Villa Saradari offers air-conditioned accommodation with free WiFi, and a garden.
There is a fully equipped private bathroom with shower and a hair dryer.
The apartment offers a sun terrace.
A car rental service is available at Villa Saradari.
Popular points of interest near the accommodation include FKK Naturist Beach, Anissaras Main Beach and Analipsi Beach. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 21 km from Villa Saradari.
from
€43
/night
- 410 m
- 8.1 / 10
- Anissaras
Located in Hersonissos, Annabelle Beach Resort offers elegant rooms with balcony. It has 4 pools, 2 tennis courts and spa facilities. It also features a children’s day care centre with daily activities.
The rooms of Annabelle Beach Resort are bright and airy and enjoy beautiful garden or pool views. They are equipped with air conditioning, satellite TV and refrigerator, and feature marbled bathrooms.
Annabelle guests can relax in one of the 2 outdoor pools. The beach in front of the hotel offers sun beds and umbrellas, as well as many water-sport options. Guests can also benefit from the spa facilities including a hot tub and a sauna.
Ambrosia restaurant serves buffet meals overlooking the sea, while Athena tavern offers Greek and International dishes by the pool. 3 bars, at the lobby, the pool and the beach serve fresh juices and cocktails.
Free private on-site parking is possible in Annabelle Village. Free WiFi is also available at the lobby and reception area. Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport is 22 km away.
from
€122
/night
- 410 m
- 9.2 / 10
- 19 Solomou street Ground floor
Located in Hersonissos, 500 metres from Sarandaris Cape Beach and 1.1 km from the centre, Blue Coast Garden Apartments provides air-conditioned accommodation with free WiFi, and a garden.
The apartment provides guests with a terrace, garden views, a seating area, a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and a toaster, and a private bathroom with walk-in shower and a hair dryer. A fridge, a stovetop and kitchenware are also provided, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
Blue Coast Garden Apartments offers a picnic area.
Barbecue facilities are available.
Popular points of interest near the accommodation include FKK Naturist Beach, Anissaras Main Beach and Analipsi Beach. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 21 km from Blue Coast Garden Apartments.
- 420 m
