Situated 64km east of Agios Nikolaos, Sitia is the furthest city to the east on the island of Crete. In the broader region of the Sitia province, there are numerous petite beaches that offer a delightful combination of sun and sea. For those who enjoy staying near the urban area, the city’s long beach is an attractive option. Situated to the east of the city, Sitia beach stretches from the port all the way to the Petras area. The beach, largely composed of sand with some pebbles scattered here and there, has shallow waters. It is well-equipped with amenities such as umbrellas, showers, lifeguards, beach/water sports, and beach bars. However, quiet spots can be found along its extensive shoreline, particularly towards the east. The east side also accommodates campervans and is dotted with a few trees.
Beyond the Petras area to the east, you can explore the ruins of an ancient city at Trypitos Cape, alleged to be Itia, the hometown of the Wise Myson. Moreover, archaeologists have discovered remnants from various phases of the Minoan era in Petras. West of Trypitos’s archaeological site, another small beach named Karavopetra is located. This name translates to “Ship Stone”, inspired by the sea boulder where ships would traditionally anchor.
Get directions to Sitia beach
Sitia beach is located in the town of Sitia, on the eastern coast of the island of Crete, Greece.
Yes, Sitia beach is suitable for swimming. The water is clear and calm, making it safe for swimmers of all levels.
Yes, there are several water sports available at Sitia beach, including windsurfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
Yes, there is a lifeguard on duty at Sitia beach during the summer months.
No, there is no fee to access Sitia beach.
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near Sitia beach, offering a variety of food and drink options.
Yes, Sitia beach is suitable for families with children. The water is shallow and calm, and there are several playgrounds and other activities nearby.
Yes, there is parking available near Sitia beach, although it can be limited during peak season.
The water colour of the Sitia beach is blue.
The Sitia beach has sand.
The water at the Sitia beach is shallow.
The sea surface at the Sitia beach is usually calm.
The Sitia beach has normal crowds.
The Sitia beach has accommodation options, food/water nearby, umbrellas/beds, sports, lifeguard, showers, and a Blue Flag.
The Sitia beach can be accessed by bus services, paved road, and is handicap friendly.
No, there is no other information available about the Sitia beach.
Find below list of things to do near Sitia beach:
Following collection from select areas, the experience starts from Agios Nikolaos heading east. This is an excellent opportunity for you to admire the sublime Gulf of Mirabello, which is Eastern Crete’s riviera. You will then pass through many picturesque villages before reaching the 15th-century Toplou Monastery.
The compound features a small museum with notable exhibits of Christian-Orthodox art, such as sacred utensils and chalcography by the monks of Mount Athos. There is also an olive press which produces olive oil of outstanding quality, as well as wine-making facilities. Both the olive oil and the wine produced in the monastery are exported all over the world.
You may participate in a wine and spirit tasting session (optional) at the monastery’s cellar, after which you will pay a visit to one of the main attractions in eastern Crete, the protected Palm Forest of Vai. It is unique in Europe and is located next to one of the most beautiful beaches of the island. At this location there will be plenty of time for you to enjoy swimming, as you bask in the rare beauty of the landscape. On your way back, you will stop at Platanos where you can watch the sunset in an area which boasts an enchanting view.
Start your day tour discovering the beautiful east part of Crete!
Visit Toplou, a 15th-century monastery located in a dry and barren area. Toplou monastery is one of the most significant monasteries in Crete, dedicated to Panagia (Virgin Mary) and St. John the Theologian.
Continue the tour to visit the largest palm forest in Europe, Vai Palm Beach. The palm forest draws thousands of visitors each year. They come not only for its wonderful palm forest, but also for the large sandy beach spread out at its foot.
Last stop of the day the cozy town of Sitia, with a lovely beach road and Venetian castle.
Detailed Time Schedule:
Morning Pick Up
We will start collecting participants from pick-up points in the morning.
Depending on the place of your hotel/apartment the bus drive will differ.
Bus Drive to Toplou: 2 hours amd 30 minutes
1nd stop: Toplou Monastery – 40 minutes
Our participants willenjoy a visit to the historical and beautiful Monastery of Toplou.There they will spend about 40′ of guided time and free time to take photos of the unique architecture and the Cretan Natural landscape outdoors.
Bus Drive to Vai Beach: 20 minutes
2rd stop: Vai Beach – 2 hours and 30 minutes
Stop at Vai, the biggest natural palm forest in Europe. Enjoy your free time to swim, sunbathe, have lunch and take photos of this exotic landscape of Crete.
Bus Drive to Sitia: 30 minutes
3rd stop: Sitia – 1 hour and 20 minutes
Participants will enjoy some free time to explore the town on their own pace, walk by the cosmopolitan beach road, have a coffee at a traditional cafe or taste the delicious local homemade sweets.
End of the tour – Arrival at resorts:
Embarkation in the buses and drive back to the hotels where we gathered participants in the morning.
Depending on traffic and on the pick-up places of each one, the time of journey back to the hotel will differ.
Return Bus Drive to Heraklion: Around 2 – 3 hours hours
Discover the enchanting allure of East Crete with our meticulously crafted day tour.
Toplou Monastery
The journey starts as we make our way to the storied Toplou Monastery. You’ll be allotted 40 minutes to delve into its rich history, admire its distinctive architecture, and soak in the breathtaking views of the Cretan countryside that envelops this sacred site.
Vai Palm Beach
Next, we venture to the idyllic Vai Beach, celebrated for hosting Europe’s largest natural palm forest. Enjoy two hours of leisure time to swim in its azure waters, sunbathe on its golden sands, relish a tasty lunch, and take in the mesmerizing beauty of this unique landscape through your camera lens.
Sitia Town
Our exploration culminates in the picturesque town of Sitia, a gem that allows you to experience its lively beach road, enjoy a coffee at a traditional café, and indulge in exquisite local sweets over a 40-minute visit.
As the sun sets on this unforgettable day, we return to Heraklion by bus, carrying with us a treasure trove of memories from this enchanting journey through East Crete’s most cherished sights.
Explore one of Crete’s most beautiful landscapes while hiking by the small river that will lead you to the 20m waterfall of Richtis. During the hike you will see some small ponds and waterfalls, as well as many different endemic plants, flowers, trees and animals. Richtis Gorge is part of the Sitia Geopark. On the path you will pass over small wooden bridges, old water mills and amazing view points. The hike is about 7km long. Richtis gorge is a green oasis where you definately want to be during the Cretan summertime.
Embark on a day tour to the beautiful Vai Palm Beach, located on the eastern coast of Crete.
This stunning beach is known for its unique palm forest, crystal clear waters, and golden sandy shores.
Vai Palm Forest is said to have been grown from the seeds of dates that were discarded by Arab sailors in the area during the 9th century.
Your day will begin with a comfortable transfer to the beach, where you will have the opportunity to explore the area at your own pace. Take a leisurely stroll through the palm forest, relax on the beach and take a dip in the refreshing waters. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant if you wish and soak in the breathtaking views of the beach and surrounding landscape.
After a day of relaxation and exploration, you will be transferred back to your accommodation with memories of a truly unforgettable experience.
Find below the list of hotels near Sitia beach:
Located in Sitia, the beachfront Blue Horizon Villa & Suites feature a well-tended garden, an outdoor pool and a sun terrace overlooking the Cretan Sea. It offers elegantly decorated accommodation with free WiFi access and a bathroom with hydromassage shower cabin. The centre of Sitia is 500 metres away.
Fitted with carefully chosen furnishings, top-quality mattresses and linen, and eco-friendly materials, the units at Blue Horizon Villa & Suites have a fully-equipped kitchen with oven, refrigerator, toaster, microwave and coffee maker. Air conditioning and a LED TV with satellite channels are also available. Some units also include a fireplace, a washing machine and a dishwasher.
A common seating area, a shaded dining area and BBQ facilities can be found in the garden. Free sun loungers and umbrellas are also available.
Agios Nikolaos is 69 km from Blue Horizon Villa & Suites and the famous palm forest of Vai is 25 km away. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 2 km from the property. Free, on-site parking is provided.
Located in Petrás, 600 metres from Sitia Beach and less than 1 km from Karabopetra Beach, 2 Bedroom Seaside apartment in Sitia provides air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi. Guests staying at this apartment have access to a patio.
This apartment comes with 2 bedrooms, a kitchen with an oven and a fridge, a flat-screen TV, a seating area and 1 bathroom equipped with a shower. Towels and bed linen are featured in the apartment.
Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at the apartment, while cycling can be enjoyed nearby.
Vai Palm Forest is 22 km from 2 Bedroom Seaside apartment in Sitia. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 3 km from the accommodation.
Sitia Bay lies on the blue flag sandy beach, a 5-minute walk from the town centre and features a pool surrounded by a flowered garden. It offers self-catering accommodation with free Wi-Fi and balcony overlooking the Cretan Sea.
A well-equipped kitchen with electric kettle, oven and fridge is included in all the air-conditioned units at the Sitia Bay. Other facilities include a satellite TV and hairdryer.
A continental breakfast can be provided daily, which can be enjoyed at the on-site cafeteria.
The swimming pool is also equipped with hydromassage facilities.The hotel’s rooftop terrace can be used by the guests to relax and watch the sunset. Additional facilities include a small gym, sauna and playing area for children
Nikos Kazantzakis Airport is located 86 km away. The property offers free private parking.
Located in Sitia and only less than 1 km from Sitia Beach, Kreta Villa Anastasia provides accommodation with mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking. This villa offers air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony.
The villa comes with 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
The villa offers an outdoor fireplace. In addition to a year-round outdoor pool, Kreta Villa Anastasia also features a outdoor play equipment.
Karabopetra Beach is 1.7 km from the accommodation, while Vai Palm Forest is 23 km away. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 3 km from Kreta Villa Anastasia.
Almost on the water’s edge, this small family-run complex overlooks the sea and the countryside. Portobelis Apartments are situated on the edge of the town of Sitia, only 10 metres from the nearest tavernas and cafes.
All airy, air-conditioned units have a light décor, reflecting the soft colours of the Aegean. Each unit has a balcony, and some face the sea while others the garden.
The privately owned travel agency on the ground floor can assist your travel needs. All other necessary shops, restaurants, mini markets, plus nightlife facilities are a few hundred metres away.
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Located in Sitia, 100 metres from Sitia Beach and 2 km from Karabopetra Beach, K&D Central Suite provides air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi. It is set 23 km from Vai Palm Forest and offers a lift.
The apartment with a terrace and city views features 1 bedroom, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a fridge, and 1 bathroom with a bath.
The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 2 km from the apartment.
Find below list of beaches near Sitia beach:
In the expansive, uninhabited wilderness between Platani and Sitia airport, the landscape is dominated by sparse vegetation and rugged, sharp rocks. This region, known as Melissokipi or ‘Bee Gardens’, is devoid of roads. It is intersected by numerous deep streams that flow into the sea during the winter season. One such stream, the Vathys Potamos or ‘Deep River’, gives way to a small sandy beach. However, the beach is often adversely affected by frequent winds and waves that bring trash ashore. The region is also referred to as Spilia, which translates to ‘cave’, owing to the presence of one of Crete’s largest caves near the beach. This cavern is so sizable that it can comfortably accommodate a large vessel.
Platani, situated 7km to the west of Sitia and 60km east of Agios Nikolaos on Crete island, can be reached by taking the road to Faneromeni Monastery, which starts near the village of Skopi. Around 2km after Skopi, just before reaching the monastery, you’ll discover two adjacent small pebbly beaches with crystal clear waters.
The first beach, known as Agii Pantes, is nestled at the exit of the verdant Agii Pantes gorge, which can be accessed easily by a hiking trail. Limestone formations near the beach, resembling Pleurotus mushrooms, are a sight to behold. The gorge houses two freshwater springs, Koutsounari and Hosto Nero, the latter located inside a cave. During winter, Agii Pantes beach floods and transforms into a significant wetland.
The second beach, Platani, is formed at the exit of another lush canyon that runs parallel to Agii Pantes. The canyon starts from Faneromeni Monastery. The beach is named Platani, which translates to platan tree in Greek, after the platan trees that line the beach. A spring with fresh water is located next to the beach. This undeveloped area is perfect for peaceful solitude and calm swimming. To the west of Cape Trahilos lies Papadiokambos, a spot renowned for windsurfing.
While you’re in the area, it’s worth paying a visit to the Monastery of Panagia Faneromeni, located adjacent to the Platani gorge. The monastery, likely built in the 14th century and renovated in 1624, houses paintings dated to 1455. These were blackened by the destructive raids of the pirate Barbarossa in 1538 and by the Turks in 1829. The monastery’s name, Faneromeni, which means ‘Revealed’, is derived from the image of the Virgin Mary that reportedly “appeared” in a small cave next to the church. Today, the monastery is uninhabited.
The sea around Papadiokambos is frequently choppy, which makes the eastern side of the Trahili peninsula, just east of the settlement, an ideal alternative for swimming. The stubby cape shields against the waves, resulting in tranquil, azure-blue waters. Initially, it may seem as though there is only a rocky shoreline without a beach. However, there’s a hidden, modest beach, accessible by a dirt road, named Gaidaros (meaning Donkey), as seen on the map. Gaidaros is the sole natural beach in the extensive region between Kalavros and Sitia town that boasts consistently calm waters.
Situated 12km west of Sitia and 59km east of Agios Nikolaos, Papadiokambos nests near the Faneromeni Monastery in the Skopi area, just west of Cape Trahilos. Reachable via a well-maintained dirt road, Papadiokambos is home to a long beach scattered with large stones and rocks. You will find a few bays formed with pebbles where swimming is possible. The beach is secluded, so it’s likely you’ll have it all to yourself. However, it’s worth noting that amenities are scarce, so bring your own supplies. Strong winds and large waves discourage most visitors, making it an ideal spot for windsurfing enthusiasts, even in winter. Known as Faneromeni among windsurfers, Papadiokambos is renowned as one of Greece’s prime locations for wave sailing, a thrilling aspect of the sport. The area is characterized by strong currents, large waves reaching 3-4m high, and virtually no beach. Some spots can be hazardous, requiring caution and advanced level skills to avoid damaging your equipment on the rocks.
The beach also houses an excavated Minoan fisherman’s house, a small structure that has provided significant insight into Minoan dietary habits.
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