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!
Beach details
Fine Pebbles
Rocks in places
Blue
Normal
Usually calm
Vibrant
Accommodation
Food and water
Dirt track
Ideal for snorkeling
Location
Stena beach is located at Stena beach, in the Heraklion 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 activities can I do at Stena beach?There are various activities you can do at Stena beach such as swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, beach soccer, and beach tennis.Is Stena beach suitable for families with children?Yes, Stena beach is suitable for families with children as the water is calm and shallow, and there are lifeguards on duty during the day.Are there any restaurants or cafes near Stena beach?Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near Stena beach where you can enjoy a meal or a drink while enjoying the view of the sea.Can I rent beach equipment at Stena beach?Yes, you can rent beach equipment such as umbrellas, sun loungers, and beach towels at Stena beach.Is there a designated area for water sports at Stena beach?Yes, there is a designated area for water sports at Stena beach where you can rent equipment and participate in activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.Are there any hiking trails near Stena beach?Yes, there are several hiking trails near Stena beach where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and explore the surrounding area.Is there a parking area near Stena beach?Yes, there is a parking area near Stena beach where you can park your car for a fee.What is the water colour of the Stena beach?The water colour of the Stena beach is blue.What type of sand can be found on the Stena beach?The Stena beach has fine pebbles and rocks in some places.What is the water depth of the Stena beach?The water depth of the Stena beach is normal.What is the surface of the sea like at the Stena beach?The surface of the sea at the Stena beach is usually calm.What is the crowd level like at the Stena beach?The Stena beach usually has a normal crowd level.What facilities are available at the Stena beach?The Stena beach has accommodation options and food/water nearby.What is the access to the Stena beach like?The Stena beach can be accessed via a dirt track.What other information should I know about the Stena beach?The Stena beach is ideal for snorkeling and spearfishing.
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