Stena beach

Stena, a secluded bay 75km southwest of Heraklion and just 500m west of Kali Limenes, is nestled beneath the church and cave of St. Paul. According to scripture, the Apostle Paul resided in this cave during his journey to Rome. Reachable by a 400m downhill dirt road from Kali Limenes, Stena is an undiscovered gem not found in typical Crete tourist guides.

Its unique feature, a massive rock situated in the center of the cove, separates it from regular beaches. This rock is surrounded by a narrow water strip, contributing to the name Stena, which means ‘Strait’ – a nod to the narrow passage between the rock and the coast. Along this water strip, a beautiful beach with fine pebbles forms.

Though unknown to many and completely unorganized, its small size makes it seem packed with just a handful of people. If you are visiting Kali Limenes, Stena can be a great choice, especially during less crowded times (like weekdays). With Kali Limenes in close proximity, you need not worry about food, water, or accommodation. Don’t forget your mask if you visit, the rocks are perfect for exploring!