64 Beaches with Deep blue Waters on Crete Island

Find a beach with Deep blue waters near you

    Katholiko Bay Beach is located  km away.

    Katholiko Bay, nestled in northwest Crete, is just a 30-minute drive from Chania. This captivating destination promises an adventurous hike that showcases numerous caves, a historic abandoned monastery, a stunning Avlaki gorge, and finally culminates at the picturesque Katholiko Bay. This beach once served as a port for the Katholiko Monastery, where monks used to dock and mend their boats. Its strategic location also made it a prime target for pirate invasions, leading to the monastery’s abandonment in the 16th century.

    To embark on this adventure, start at the Gouverneto Monastery. A 30-minute trek will lead you to the deserted Katholiko Monastery. Venture below the bridge, traverse the Avlaki gorge, and in another 20 minutes, the mesmerizing beach awaits. While it’s a rocky haven devoid of sand, the crystalline waters more than compensate. With towering cliffs enclosing the beach, it’s an ideal spot for cliff-diving enthusiasts. Note that the area lacks shade, but there’s a quaint cave on the mountainside for some respite.

    • Katholiko Bay, Akrotiri
    • Rocks in places
    • Normal
    • Deep blue, Turquoise
      Kimzu Sea Lounge Beach, Agios Nikolaos: A Local Beach-Bar Guide is located  km away.

      Kimzu Sea Lounge Beach is a small sand-and-pebble beach in Agios Nikolaos, Crete, 1 km from Lake Voulismeni, with shallow crystal-clear water, sunbeds, and an all-day beach bar. The beach pairs a shimmering shore of white pebbles and sand with a relaxed sea lounge, so you can swim in the morning and stay for coffee, food, and cocktails into the evening. It is calm, family-friendly, and easy to reach by paved road or bus from the centre of town.

      What Kimzu Sea Lounge Beach is like?

      Kimzu Sea Lounge Beach is a compact beach fronting the Kimzu sea lounge on the southern side of Agios Nikolaos. The shore mixes shimmering white pebbles with sand, and a distinctive touch sets it apart: instead of hot sand, part of the lounging area is laid out on cool, lush grass.

      Despite its small size, the beach rarely feels crowded and keeps enough space for everyone. The water is shallow and inviting, which makes it popular with families and young children. You get both beach surfaces in one spot, which you can read more about on the guides to Crete’s fine-pebble beaches and its sandy beaches.

      Where Kimzu beach is and how to get there?

      Kimzu Sea Lounge Beach sits at Anapafseos 44 in Agios Nikolaos, in the Lassithi region of eastern Crete, 1 km from the town’s famous Lake Voulismeni. Kimzu beach is one of the closest organised swims to the centre, so it works as an easy half-day escape.

      Getting there is straightforward. A paved road leads down to the beach, and bus services reach the area, which helps if you are staying in town without a car.

      Facilities and the beach bar

      Kimzu Sea Lounge Beach offers full beach amenities alongside an all-day bar and kitchen. The beach has a generous supply of sunbeds and umbrellas, plus the grassy lounging area in place of hot sand.

      The practical facilities on and around the beach are:

      • Sunbeds and umbrellas: an ample supply on the beach
      • Grass lounging area: cool grass to recline on instead of hot sand
      • Beach bar and kitchen: Greek coffee and brunch in the morning, lunch and dinner through the day, and cocktails in the evening
      • Sea views: tables and loungers face the water, with sunset views into the evening
      • Adjacent park: a children’s playground and a basketball court beside the bar

      As the sun goes down, the Kimzu sea lounge shifts from a daytime beach bar into an evening venue, with resident DJs and live music on some nights. The food leans Mediterranean, so the spot suits a full day by the water rather than a quick swim. If you would rather base yourself close by, browse the places to stay around Agios Nikolaos.

      Swimming and the water

      Kimzu Sea Lounge Beach is well suited to swimming, with shallow, crystal-clear water. The sea stays calm because anti-wave blocks about 120 m offshore hold back the larger waves, which keeps the bay gentle.

      The shallow entry makes the water easy for young children and less confident swimmers. The clear, calm conditions also make Kimzu beach a good spot for snorkeling close to shore.

      Who Kimzu beach suits

      Kimzu Sea Lounge Beach rewards visitors who want a calm swim paired with a proper beach bar. The setting fits a specific set of visitors best:

      1. Families with young children, because the water is shallow, calm, and protected by the offshore wave blocks
      2. All-day visitors, who move from morning coffee to lunch, swimming, and evening cocktails in one spot
      3. People staying in Agios Nikolaos, since the beach is a short trip from town by road or bus
      4. Snorkelers and casual swimmers, who get clear, gentle water close to shore

      It suits you less if you are after a large, wild stretch of sand or a quiet beach with no bar, neither of which Kimzu offers.

      Tips for visiting Kimzu beach

      A few simple pointers make the visit smoother:

      • Arrive earlier in the day for the calmest water and an easier pick of sunbeds
      • Bring water shoes if you prefer them, since the shore mixes pebbles with sand
      • Plan a full day to make the most of the beach and the all-day bar
      • Bring the kids’ beach gear, as the adjacent park has a playground and a basketball court

      To turn the swim into a fuller outing, there are guided tours and food walks based in the town. You can line these up alongside the beach through the local things to do in and around Agios Nikolaos.

      Frequently asked questions

      Where is Kimzu Sea Lounge Beach? Kimzu Sea Lounge Beach is at Anapafseos 44 in Agios Nikolaos, in the Lassithi region of Crete, 1 km from Lake Voulismeni.

      What kind of beach is it? Kimzu is a small beach with a shore of shimmering white pebbles and sand, backed by a grassy lounging area and crystal-clear water.

      Is Kimzu beach good for swimming? Yes, the water is shallow, clear, and calm. Anti-wave blocks about 120 m offshore keep the bay free of larger waves.

      Is Kimzu beach suitable for children? Yes, the shallow, calm water makes it popular with families, and an adjacent park adds a playground and a basketball court.

      What facilities does the beach offer? Kimzu offers sunbeds and umbrellas, a grass lounging area, and an all-day beach bar serving coffee, food, and cocktails.

      Does the beach get crowded? Despite its small size, Kimzu beach usually does not feel crowded and keeps enough space for its visitors.

      Is the water good for snorkeling? Yes, the clear, calm, shallow water makes Kimzu a comfortable spot for snorkeling close to the shore.

      How do I get to Kimzu beach? A paved road leads down to the beach, and bus services reach the area, so you can arrive with or without a car.

      Is there anything to do besides the beach? Yes, the Kimzu sea lounge runs as an all-day bar with sea views, and some evenings bring resident DJs and live music. You can compare more swims nearby on the wider Crete beaches guide.

      Getting there and renting a car

      Kimzu Sea Lounge Beach sits just outside the centre of Agios Nikolaos, so a short drive links it with Lake Voulismeni, the nearby beaches, and the wider Lassithi coast in a single day. Having your own wheels makes it far easier to string these stops together at your own pace, which is worth sorting out with car rental in Crete.

      • Kimzou Sea Lounge Beach
      • Fine Pebbles, White Sand
      • Normal
      • Blue, Deep blue
        Aspes (Mavri) beach is located  km away.

        The stunning Aspes beach, with its dark sand, is nestled approximately 58km south of Heraklion, in one of the most remote and hard-to-reach areas of the Asteroussia Mountains. This beach lies 4km to the east of the Tris Ekklisies settlement. Aspes is known for its almost vertical cliffs surrounding it, adorned with spectacular caves that appear as if carved by hand due to their orthogonal sides. The vibrant turquoise hues of the sea make it one of the most picturesque beaches in Crete, and perhaps the most beautiful in the Heraklion region. The beach offers fantastic opportunities for swimming and fishing.

        Reaching the beach by foot is not possible, so it’s only accessible by boat. The closest harbours are in Treis Ekklisies or Tsoutsouras. The beach, due to its secluded location, provides a tranquil atmosphere, waiting to greet the fortunate boat owners. Boats are typically moored high on the beach’s rocks, their ropes creating an interesting grid-like pattern. If you visit Aspes, it’s recommended to bring a spoon to collect salt from the natural salt pans formed on the rocks at the beach’s edge. Additionally, don’t miss the towering rocks at the beach’s western end, reminiscent of scattered Obelix’s menhirs!

        • Aspes beach
        • Pebbles
        • Deep
        • Deep blue
          Seitan Limania Beach: Guide, Location, Photos & Amenities is located  km away.

          Seitan Limania beach is a dramatic, fjord-like cove on the eastern side of the Akrotiri peninsula, 22 km northeast of Chania, reached on foot down a steep path. Seitan Limania beach fills a narrow inlet between sheer cliffs with deep-blue water, has no facilities of any kind, and rewards the climb with clear water for swimming and snorkelling inside a sheltered cove.

          Why it is called Seitan Limania, the Devil’s Harbours

          Seitan Limania means “Devil’s Harbours” in Turkish, a name that dates to the Ottoman period on Crete, where “Seitan” means devil and “limani” means harbour. The name comes from the strong sea currents and the wild, cliff-walled landscape that once made these coves dangerous for boats. Three narrow, parallel coves cut into the eastern Akrotiri coast here, all well sheltered from the wind, and the northern cove holds Stefanou beach, the one most visitors mean by Seitan Limania.

          How to get to Seitan Limania beach

          To reach Seitan Limania beach, drive across the Akrotiri peninsula from Chania and finish on foot, a trip of about 30 to 40 minutes by car plus a short walk down. The road is steep and curvy but recently paved, so it suits anyone who has driven mountain roads before. Three steps get you to the sand:

          1. Drive toward the village of Chordaki and follow the asphalt road as it descends abruptly to a small parking area near the beach.
          2. Park high by the church of Agios Spyridon, set the handbrake, and wedge stones under the tyres, because the slope is steep enough to roll a car.
          3. Walk the 10 to 15 minute footpath down to the cove in trainers, since the path is steep and slippery and flip-flops give no grip.

          A boat trip from Chania reaches the cove from the sea and skips the hike, which suits visitors who would rather not tackle the path.

          The beach, the water and swimming

          Seitan Limania beach is a small strip of fine pebbles and sand where the water turns deep blue just a few steps from shore. Fine pebbles and sand line the cove, carried down through the Diplochachalo canyon from a nearby quarry. The water inside the cove is clear and usually calm and good for swimming and snorkelling, because the marble cliffs on either side block the wind and waves. The open sea beyond the inlet carries the strong currents the beach is named for, so it is safest to swim inside the sheltered cove and not strike out past the rocks. Cliff jumping happens from the rocks around the cove, though no one supervises it, so check the water depth before any jump. Friendly goats wander the sand and the path down, and often come looking for food.

          What to bring to Seitan Limania beach

          Seitan Limania beach has no sunbeds, umbrellas, toilets, cafe, or lifeguard, so pack everything you need for the day and carry all your litter back out. Bring these essentials:

          • Water, at least 1 litre per person for the shadeless shore
          • Sunscreen and a sun hat against the open Mediterranean sun
          • Food and drinks for the whole visit
          • Towel for sitting on the pebbles
          • Trainers or sturdy shoes for the steep path

          When to visit Seitan Limania beach

          Seitan Limania beach is quietest in late spring and mid-autumn, when the water is warm enough to swim and the crowds thin out. The beach has drawn steady crowds since about 2010, when a new asphalt road made the descent far easier to reach. August is the busiest month, so arrive early in the morning to find a space in the small parking area and a spot on the narrow shore.

          Nearby beaches and monasteries on Akrotiri

          Seitan Limania beach sits within a short drive of several other Akrotiri beaches and monasteries worth pairing with your visit. The nearest beaches are listed below by distance:

          • Marathi beach (5.6 km): two sheltered sandy coves with shallow, calm water and full facilities, good for families.
          • Katholiko Bay (6.0 km): a remote, rocky swimming spot reached on a hike past the abandoned Katholiko Monastery.
          • Loutraki beach (6.5 km): a calm, tree-shaded sandy beach with tavernas and a large parking area.
          • Kalathas beach (9.7 km): an organised sandy bay with umbrellas, water sports, and a small island to swim to.

          The medieval monasteries of Agia Triada Tsangarolon, Gouverneto, and Katholiko sit on the same peninsula, so many visitors pair the beach with a monastery stop.

          Getting to Seitan Limania beach by car

          Seitan Limania beach lies at the end of a steep peninsula road with no beach bus, so your own car is the simplest way to reach it and to link it with the monasteries and quieter beaches across Akrotiri. A rental car also lets you arrive early, before the small parking area fills in peak season, then move on to Marathi or Loutraki on your own schedule. You can compare rates and book on our car rental in Crete page.

          Frequently asked questions

          Where is Seitan Limania beach?

          Seitan Limania beach is on the eastern side of the Akrotiri peninsula, 22 km northeast of Chania and 2 km east of the village of Chordaki.

          How do you get to Seitan Limania beach?

          Drive across Akrotiri toward Chordaki, park high by the church of Agios Spyridon, and walk the steep 10 to 15 minute footpath down to the cove. A boat trip from Chania reaches the beach from the sea and skips the hike.

          Is Seitan Limania beach good for swimming?

          Yes, the water inside the cove is clear and usually calm and good for swimming and snorkelling. The open sea beyond the inlet carries strong currents, so stay inside the sheltered cove.

          Does Seitan Limania beach have any facilities?

          No, Seitan Limania beach is unorganised and has no sunbeds, umbrellas, toilets, cafe, or lifeguard, so bring your own water, food, and shade.

          Is Seitan Limania beach suitable for children?

          Seitan Limania beach is hard to reach down a steep, slippery path and has no facilities, so it does not suit young children or anyone with limited mobility.

          • Stefanou beach
          • Fine Pebbles
          • Deep
          • Deep blue
            Glika Nera beach is located  km away.

            Glyka Nera, translated as “sweet water” ranks as one of Crete’s most picturesque beaches, adorned with captivating deep blue waters and charming pebbles. In 2003, it earned a place amongst the top 20 European beaches by the London Times. Positioned 43km west of Chora Sfakion and 75km south of Chania, its unique name stems from the freshwater springs that bubble up amongst its pebbles.

            Typically, Glyka Nera is most readily accessible via boat. However, for thrill-seekers, two hiking paths offer an alternate route: a 30-minute journey from the closest parking spot near Iligas beach, and an hour-long trek from Loutro. Despite the trails bordering steep edges, safety is ensured by regular maintenance from local authorities, given the paths are part of the renowned E4 European footpath.

            A quaint tavern perched on a rock offers food, refreshing drinks, and loungers. You need not carry water as the spring water is drinkable. Interestingly, even in the peak of summer, the sea remains refreshingly cool due to these springs. Tamarisk trees generously provide shade along the beach. If given the chance, a visit to Glyka Nera is a must.

            • Glika Nera beach
            • Pebbles
            • Deep
            • Deep blue
              Agiofarago Beach, Crete: Gorge Hike, Chapel, and the Sea Arch is located  km away.

              Agiofarago is a remote pebble beach at the mouth of the Agiofarago Gorge on the south coast of Crete, roughly 80km south of Heraklion, reached only by a walk through the gorge or by boat. The beach has deep blue water, fine pebbles, towering cliffs, and no facilities of any kind. Agiofarago rewards the effort with a quiet cove, the small chapel of Agios Antonios, a natural sea rock-arch, and some of the best rock climbing on the island.

              Plan for a car journey followed by a walk on foot, and carry everything you need for the day.

              What Agiofarago Beach is like

              Agiofarago is a small, undeveloped cove framed by steep cliffs where the gorge meets the Libyan Sea. The shoreline is made of fine pebbles, and the water reads as a clear deep blue that deepens quickly a short way out. High rock walls give patches of shade at certain hours, so the light and the shadows shift across the beach through the day.

              The cove sits opposite a rocky islet called Papadoplaka, which frames the view out to sea. West of the beach, a unique rock formation creates a sheltered spot that many visitors single out for swimming. The scale of the cliffs and the absence of buildings give Agiofarago a wild, end-of-the-road feel that sets it apart from the developed beaches of the same coast.

              The gorge hike to reach the beach

              To reach Agiofarago on foot, walk down through the Agiofarago Gorge, a scenic trek of about 25 to 50 minutes depending on your pace. The path follows the gorge floor between tall vertical walls until it opens onto the beach at the sea. The route is not technical, yet it crosses uneven, rocky ground, so proper shoes and water matter more than they would on a roadside beach.

              The gorge itself is the reason many people come, since it ranks among the most striking short walks on the south coast. Its sheer limestone walls draw climbers as well as walkers, and the shade between them offers relief on hot days. Anyone comparing routes across the island can browse the wider collection of Crete’s gorges before choosing a day out.

              The chapel of Agios Antonios and the sea arch

              The chapel of Agios Antonios sits inside the gorge near the beach, with a small well of brackish water beside it. The little church gives the gorge much of its character and its religious significance, and it is one reason naturism is discouraged here out of respect for the site. Walkers pass the chapel on the final stretch down to the shore.

              The other landmark is a natural sea rock-arch carved into the cliffs, a feature that photographers and swimmers seek out. Beyond the arch lies Vourvoulitis, a hidden saltwater lake ringed by steep cliffs and linked to the open sea through an underwater passage. The chapel, the arch, and the lake together make the short walk feel like a series of small discoveries rather than a single destination.

              No facilities: what to bring

              Agiofarago has no facilities at all, so bring your own food, water, and shade. There are no restaurants or shops at the beach, no sunbeds or umbrellas for hire, and no lifeguard on duty. The nearest supplies are back in the villages inland, well before the dirt road and the gorge walk.

              Pack for a self-sufficient day using this short list:

              • Water, enough for the walk in both directions plus time on the beach
              • Food and snacks, since nothing is sold on site
              • Sun protection, including a hat and a beach umbrella for shade
              • Sturdy shoes suitable for the rocky gorge path

              Camping is not allowed at Agiofarago, and swimmers should note there is no lifeguard cover, so judge the sea conditions yourself before entering the water.

              Getting there and parking

              Reach Agiofarago by driving toward Sivas and the Odigitria Monastery, then following the dirt road for about 4km to the parking area above the gorge. From the monastery the track leads past the area of St. Anthony’s church, and a sign for Agiofarago marks the turn down to a small plateau where cars stop. From that plateau you continue on foot through the gorge to the beach.

              When you park, avoid leaving your car directly under trees, because goats climb on them and can damage the bodywork. The drive from Heraklion covers roughly 80km to the south, so a hire car makes the trip far simpler than public transport; you can compare vehicles and pick-up points when you rent a car in Crete.

              Boats reach the cove as an alternative to the walk, setting out from Matala, Agia Galini, Kokkinos Pirgos, or Kali Limenes. A relaxed way to arrive by water is a south Crete sailing trip along this stretch of coast.

              Things to do at Agiofarago

              Agiofarago suits swimming, snorkeling, rock climbing, and quiet exploring rather than beach-resort comforts. The clear, deep water and the rock formation to the west make it a fine place to cool off after the walk. Divers with certification can also base a day around this coastline through a scuba diving trip from Heraklion.

              Try these activities once you reach the cove:

              1. Rock climbing on the gorge’s limestone walls, which are a well-known draw for climbers
              2. Snorkeling in the clear water around the rocks and the arch, an activity the beach is rated for snorkeling and spearfishing
              3. Swimming in the sheltered spot created by the western rock formation
              4. Exploring the chapel, the sea arch, and the Vourvoulitis lake on foot

              If you want the effort handled for you, a guided Matala and Agiofarago Gorge day tour packages the visit with transport.

              Nearby beaches and trips

              Agiofarago pairs well with other remote coves on the same southern stretch of Heraklion. The beaches here share the same off-grid character, with hard access and no services in return for quiet water. Just along the coast lies Martsalo beach, another cove reached on foot and often visited on the same trip.

              For anyone planning a route, Agiofarago belongs to the group of Cretan beaches you reach by hiking rather than by car, which shapes how much time to set aside.

              FAQ

              How long is the walk to Agiofarago Beach?

              The walk through the Agiofarago Gorge takes about 25 to 50 minutes each way, depending on your pace and how often you stop. The path is rocky but not technical, so wear sturdy shoes and carry water.

              Are there any facilities at Agiofarago Beach?

              No, Agiofarago has no facilities. There are no restaurants, shops, sunbeds, or lifeguards, and camping is not allowed, so bring your own food, water, and shade.

              How do you get to Agiofarago Beach by car?

              Drive toward Sivas and the Odigitria Monastery, then follow the dirt road about 4km to the parking plateau above the gorge. From there you walk down through the gorge to the beach, and you should avoid parking under trees because goats can damage cars.

              Can you reach Agiofarago Beach by boat?

              Yes, boats reach Agiofarago from Matala, Agia Galini, Kokkinos Pirgos, and Kali Limenes. Arriving by sea avoids the gorge walk and suits anyone who prefers not to hike.

              Is Agiofarago Beach good for rock climbing?

              Yes, the tall limestone walls of the Agiofarago Gorge are a well-known rock-climbing site. The same cliffs that shade the beach provide the routes that draw climbers to the area.

              • Agiofarago beach
              • Fine Pebbles
              • Deep
              • Deep blue
                Agia Fotia beach is located  km away.

                The beach of Agia Fotia is situated 45km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and 12km east from Ierapetra. It’s a small bay nestling at the outlet of a stream flowing down from the Thripti mountain. The name of the settlement is derived from the local Church of Agia Fotini, also known as Agia Fotia. The stream is cloaked by enormous plane trees, while the bay is encircled by conglomerate cliffs, adding to the enchanting landscape.

                This beach is well-known and a favourite among the inhabitants of the city of Ierapetra. Its shores are covered in coarse greyish sand, while the water is crystal clear and tranquil. The beach is well-equipped with amenities including beach bars, taverns, and hotels. There are tamarisk trees on the beach where one can find shade. Additionally, beach volleyball tournaments are hosted annually at the local court, a recent tradition that has added to its popularity.

                • Agia Fotia beach
                • Fine Pebbles
                • Normal
                • Deep blue
                  Domata beach is located  km away.

                  The picturesque Domata beach, positioned 7km east of Sougia and 58km south of Chania city, resides at Tseses. This beach marks the end of the Klados gorge, a wild and rugged landscape. Its unique natural beauty is a result of the erosive power of water. The name Domata, translating to “roofs”, is derived from the layered structure of the surrounding conglomerate rocks, reminiscent of enormous walls. The beach owes its creation to the large amounts of pebbles and dirt deposited by the gorge, and the continuous oscillation of the sea and air.

                  The beach is striking, with its fine pebbles and transparent blue waters. By digging in the sand, you can discover fresh water from subterranean springs. As anticipated, the area is devoid of roads and infrastructure. However, the abundant pine trees near the beach provide natural shade and ideal camping spots. The southernmost section of the beach, separated from the main beach of Domata by rocks, is known as Kolotrividis, named after the adjacent cape.

                  You can reach Domata via the E4 European trail, which heads east and guides you to Agia Roumeli (a 3 -4 hour walk). Be cautious though, as the trail ascends to an altitude of 700m, with some sections being steep and potentially hazardous.

                  • Domata beach
                  • Fine Pebbles, Pebbles
                  • Deep
                  • Deep blue
                    Menies beach is located  km away.

                    Menies, also known as Diktynna, is situated 45 kilometers northwest of Chania, on the northeastern coast of the Rodopos Peninsula and at the mouth of the Foundas Gorge. This secluded beach is characterized by its pebbles and the deep, crystal blue of its waters. Protected from the prevalent winds in the region, Menies offers a haven of solitude, far from the hustle and bustle of city life. With no signs of modern civilization for miles, visitors are advised to come prepared with all necessities. The journey to Menies beach can be challenging, as it involves a 23-kilometer ride on a dirt track, beginning from the village of Rodopos. This road, though unpaved, leads to the beach but isn’t suitable for low-slung vehicles. An alternative route to Menies is via small boats that depart from Platanias harbor.

                    Menies sits on the historical site of ancient Diktynna, which was the primary temple of the goddess Vritomartis, the Cretan counterpart of Artemis. This sanctuary used to draw worshippers from all over the island, who would travel via a road that linked the sanctuary to the town of Polirinia. Some sections of this paved road are still intact across the Rodopos peninsula. Vritomartis was worshipped here during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Today, a few remnants of the ancient Roman temple can still be seen, although no traces of the Hellenistic temple have been discovered.

                    Roughly one kilometer southwest of the beach, visitors can explore the ancient monastery of St. George, constructed in the 9th century. The monastery was later abandoned during the pirate invasions, but the 16th-century lookout tower used to spot incoming pirate ships can still be seen in the monastery’s courtyard.

                    Several small bays can be found between Menies and Afrata, formed at the mouths of small streams and accessible either on foot or by boat. The most picturesque of these is Xeronissia, situated beneath the Saint George monastery.

                    • Menies beach
                    • Fine Pebbles, Pebbles, Rocks in places
                    • Normal
                    • Blue, Deep blue
                      Loutro is located  km away.

                      Located roughly 71 km south of Chania city on Crete Island, Loutro is a quaint seaside village at the edge of Cape Mouri. This charming village is steeped in history, once being the site of the ancient city of Phoenix and the port of ancient Anopolis. It later served as a winter port for Chora Sfakion, its naturally formed harbour providing safe anchorage for ships even amidst harsh weather conditions.

                      Loutro makes for an excellent base for exploring the neighbouring beaches, accessible by taxi boat, canoe, or on foot. A small ferry can whisk you away to the stunning Glyka Nera beach to the village’s east. Alternatively, you can opt for a canoe ride or a hike along the E4 trail to the secluded pebbly beaches of Timios Stavros and Pervolaki, with your journey continuing to Glyka Nera. If you prefer to stay within Loutro, the village’s own beach and the extended Keramos beach to the east offer a serene retreat, especially during strong southern winds. These well-maintained pebbly beaches boast calm, crystal-clear waters in shades of deep blue and green. Nearby beaches of Likos, Finikas, and Marmara are also within easy reach by boat or on foot.

                      Loutro is a haven for those seeking a unique experience away from the bustle of mass tourism. This picturesque fishing village in southwest Crete is devoid of large hotels and swimming pools, crowded streets, restaurants, and beaches, and even cars! The only means of access is by boat or a 1.5-2 hour trek from Chora Sfakion. Daily ferry services operate to and from Chora Sfakion, Sougia, Gavdos island, Paleochora, and Agia Roumeli.

                      Things to do in Loutro

                      While in Loutro, you can revel in nature’s beauty by exploring the scenic mountain landscape, valleys, and gorges. Start with a visit to the Koules fort situated above Loutro, then head to the small port of Finikas. The village brims with historic sites, including the Old School, which served as the Chancellor of Sfakia’s seat in 1821, and the ancient Church of Panagia nestled next to it. Marvel at the tall Cretan date palm trees and the ruins of the Castella fort, part of the ancient town Phoenix, and the temple of Apollo just south of the village.

                      For the more adventurous, a climb to the idyllic village and plateau of Anopolis awaits. This entails a two-hour ascent on a 2000-year-old mule track, culminating in a selection of inviting taverns at the top. You can also explore the Aradena gorge or snorkel in the local waters, home to frequent sea turtle visitors.

                      Loutro, which translates to “bath” in Greek, was named after the baths discovered in the area, their waters once directed towards nearby Anopolis.

                      Beaches in and around Loutro

                      7 beaches lie within 5 km of Loutro, and none of them has a road to it. Reach them by taxi boat from the village harbour, by canoe, or on foot along the E4 coastal path. Lykos and Finikas sit west of the village, while the coves east of it follow the shoreline towards Chora Sfakion.

                      • Lykos beach — 1 km west, a coastal hamlet with a small port on the edge of the near-uninhabited village of Livaniana. The shore is rocky and open to southern gusts, a small dock takes boat arrivals, and traditional taverns behind it rent a few rooms. Snorkellers come for the marine life rather than the sand.
                      • Finikas beach — 1.2 km west, a pebble beach inside a small harbour, with umbrellas and canoes for hire. A large rock separates it from Lykos, the E4 trail between Marmara beach and Loutro passes through it, and the ancient town of Phoenix that gave Finikas its name stood near here.
                      • Perivolakia and Timios Stavros beaches — 1.8 km east, three coves in a row: Small Perivolaki, Large Perivolaki and Timios Stavros. They are made of pebbles and large rock formations, they carry no amenities and little natural shade, and their seclusion draws naturists and snorkellers.
                      • Marmara beach — a 75-minute walk west, at the mouth of the Aradena Gorge, where hikers rest before carrying on to Loutro. Marmara means “marbles”, after the soft coloured rocks and the sea caves that define the bay, and a small tavern stands near the pebbles.
                      • Glika Nera beach — 2.6 km east, the beach the village ferry runs to, also reached by canoe or on the E4.
                      • Iligas beach — 4.2 km east, where the Kavis gorge, also called Iligas, comes out at the sea about 2.5 km west of Chora Sfakion.
                      • Chora Sfakia beaches — 5 km east, at the harbour town the daily ferries serve and the start of the 1.5 to 2 hour coastal walk back to Loutro.
                      • Loutro
                      • Fine Pebbles, Pebbles
                      • Deep
                      • Deep blue, Green

                      © All rights reserved. Crete Locals