Agios Charalambos Beach: A small, white sand beach in Crete!

Agios Charalambos Beach is a small, secluded beach 60 kilometers (37.3 miles) south of Chania and 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) east of Chora Sfakion, offering a peaceful retreat with clear blue waters and a natural landscape. It features a mixed seabed of fine pebbles and sand, with sunbeds, umbrellas, and a beachside taverna providing a comfortable seaside experience.

The best time to visit Agios Charalambos Beach is between June and October, when sea temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 28°C (82.4°F), creating ideal conditions for swimming and snorkeling. Tourists looking for a quieter experience can visit in May or November, when sea temperatures range from 17.1°C (62.8°F) to 23.9°C (75°F), offering a more relaxed setting with fewer crowds.

Agios Charalambos Beach is close to several notable attractions, including Chora Sfakion, a traditional coastal village with ferry connections to Loutro and Gavdos. Filaki Beach, located 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) east, is Crete’s official naturist beach, offering a secluded and clothing-optional environment. Drakolaki Cave, located 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) north, features underground rivers and striking rock formations, attracting nature enthusiasts and hikers.

Visitors have several nearby accommodation and dining options, including Vritomartis Naturist Resort, offering a private and clothing-optional setting. Sfakian Horizon and Hotel Panorama, both in Chora Sfakion, provide modern accommodations with sea views and easy access to the beach. Taverna Delfini, Viki’s Tavern, and U Kantina offer traditional Cretan dishes, fresh seafood, and casual dining options, all within a short distance from Agios Charalambos Beach.

Find below a table with the main features of Agios Charalambos Beach.

What is Agios Charalambos Beach?

Agios Charalambos Beach is a narrow coastal strip located on the southern coast of Crete, enclosed within a small bay protected by rocky cliffs. The beach features a mixed surface of fine pebbles and sand, along with clear, shallow waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The surrounding cliffs limit wind exposure, keeping sea conditions calm throughout the summer. Agios Charalambos remains a low-traffic destination, offering limited amenities such as sunbeds, umbrellas, and a beachfront taverna. The area maintains a natural appearance and provides a quieter alternative to Crete’s more developed beaches.

Agios Charalambos Beach is located 4.2 kilometers (2.6 miles) southeast of Lentas, a coastal village on the southern side of Crete. The beach lies within a small cove along the Libyan Sea, accessible by a paved road that branches off from the main route connecting Lentas to Dyskos. Travelers reach the beach by car or motorbike, as no public transport routes operate in this area. The nearest major town is Heraklion, located 72.5 kilometers (45.1 miles) north, with a total drive time of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. A small parking area is available near the beach entrance.

The best time to visit Agios Charalambos Beach is between June and October, when sea temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 28°C (82.4°F), ensuring comfortable conditions for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is at its warmest from July to September, with sea temperatures peaking at 28°C (82.4°F) in August due to prolonged sun exposure. Agios Charalambos remains a beautiful destination in May and November, with sea temperatures ranging from 17.1°C (62.8°F) to 22.9°C (73.2°F) in May and 18.5°C (65.3°F) to 23.9°C (75°F) in November, offering a quieter seaside experience with fewer visitors.

Agios Charalambos Beach is free to enter, as it is a public beach with no admission fee. Visitors can enjoy its natural surroundings at no cost, though amenities like sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent. The beach does not require advance booking, but securing nearby accommodations early is recommended during peak season. The beach is easily accessible by car and public transportation, so checking bus schedules or arranging a rental vehicle in advance can ensure a smooth visit.

Children and pets are allowed at Agios Charalambos Beach, making it a family-friendly destination. Agios Charalambos Beach has calm waters and a sheltered coastline, ensuring a safe swimming environment for children. The beach features a seabed of fine pebbles and sand, so adult supervision is necessary due to varying water depths and uneven terrain. The beach also welcomes pets, but owners should follow local regulations, ensure proper supervision, and respect the natural environment. Visitors should check the available amenities at any beach in Crete for kids, such as restrooms and changing areas, to ensure a comfortable experience for families with children. Checking facilities in advance helps parents plan a smooth and enjoyable visit while exploring the beach’s natural setting.

What Does the Agios Charalambos Map Look Like?

Find below an image describing the area and perimeter of Agios Charalambos Beach.

What are the Activities at Agios Charalambos Beach?

Popular activities at Agios Charalambos Beach are swimming, snorkeling, and shoreline relaxation. The clear, calm waters provide a safe environment for swimmers during summer months when temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C (75°F–86°F). Snorkelers explore the rocky seabed near the bay’s edge, where underwater visibility remains high. Visitors rest on sunbeds or under umbrellas, available for rent near the beach taverna. Some tourists walk along the rocky coastline to access small coves and shaded areas formed by natural rock formations. Fishing and photography are occasional activities, especially during early morning hours when the beach remains less crowded.

How Do You Get to Agios Charalambos Beach?

Beachgoers can reach Agios Charalambos Beach by car rental, taxi, or private transfers, by driving 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) east from the village of Chora Sfakion along a paved coastal road. The route leads directly to the beach and includes roadside signs for nearby naturist resorts.

Travelers arriving from Heraklion cover a distance of 147 kilometers (91.3 miles), with a drive time of approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes via the E75 national road and local mountain roads. Public buses do not operate routes to Agios Charalambos Beach, so most travelers use rental cars or private transfers. A small parking area is available near the beach entrance, and access to the shoreline is walkable from the nearby accommodations.

Can You hire a vehicle and get to Agios Charalambos Beach?

Yes, tourists can rent a car and drive to Agios Charalambos Beach. Car rental offers flexibility, making it the most practical option for tourists exploring multiple destinations along Crete’s northern coast. Crete car hire rates differ depending on the car type, rental duration, and season.

The average daily cost for an affordable (economy class) car ranges from €25 (£20.85, $26.05) – €30 (£25.02, $31.26), while a weekly rental starts at €175 (£148.75, $187.25). Prices may increase during peak tourist months, so booking in advance is recommended.

Crete is an amazing island with several tourist spots that can be travelled using a car hire. Crete car rental costs vary depending on the number of passengers, itinerary, car type, location, and duration. The average cost of renting a vehicle in Crete is around 30 € ($32.40, £25.80) to 40 € ($43.20, £34.40) per day. A car rented for a whole week will cost an average of 250 € ($270.00, £215.00). Renting a vehicle for the weekend will cost around 78 € ($84.24, £67.08). Affordable car rentals in Crete vary depending on the car type. Car rental Crete companies offer a variety of cars depending on customers’ preferences.

Insurance coverage in Crete rentals includes Collision Damage Waiver. A credit or debit card in the driver’s name is required as a guarantee. Driver’s age must be at least 21. A valid driving licence issued at least 12 months earlier is necessary. Driver’s gender does not affect eligibility. Both men and women can legally drive in Crete from age 18. Some personal biases may still exist. Car type must match the travel needs. Larger vehicles suit groups or families. Smaller cars are recommended for Crete due to narrow roads. Documents required include a valid driving licence and a debit or credit card in the driver’s name.

What Attractions are Near Agios Charalambos Beach?

Find below a list of nearby attractions at Agios Charalambos Beach:

• Chora Sfakion. Chora Sfakion is a village located 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) west of Agios Charalambos Beach. The village reflects traditional Cretan culture and has a small harbor with ferry connections to Loutro and Gavdos. Chora Sfakion is part of the historic Sfakia region, historically associated with the island’s resilient and independent mountain communities. Local tavernas serve regional cuisine, and the village offers access to walking trails and historical landmarks.
• Filaki Beach. Filaki Beach is located 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) east of Agios Charalambos Beach. This secluded pebble beach is Crete’s only official naturist beach and lies close to the Vritomartis Naturist Resort. The beach features clear water, a private setting, and a clothing-optional policy. Its name, “Filaki,” means “prison” in Greek, possibly referencing its enclosed location or historical context.
  
• Ammoudi Beach. Ammoudi Beach is located 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) east of Agios Charalambos Beach. The beach features a blend of fine pebbles and sand, with shallow waters ideal for swimming. The name “Ammoudi” or “Sfakiano Ammoudi” comes from the Greek word for “sand.” The area offers a peaceful alternative to more developed coastal destinations and receives fewer visitors throughout the year.
  
• Glyka Nera Beach. Glyka Nera Beach is located 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) east of Agios Charalambos Beach. Known as Sweet Water Beach, it contains freshwater springs that flow through the sand from underground sources. Visitors access the beach by boat or hiking trails. The pebble shoreline and vivid blue waters of Glyka Nera beach attract travelers looking for a remote and natural setting.
  
• Drakolaki Cave. Drakolaki Cave is located 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) north of Agios Charalambos Beach. This limestone cave features underground rivers, stalactites, and stalagmites. The name “Drakolaki,” meaning “Little Dragon”, comes from local legends about a mythical creature that once inhabited the cave. Access involves a moderately challenging hike, often chosen by adventure-seeking visitors.
• Ilingas Beach. Ilingas beach is a fantastic place to visit on a holiday due to its turquoise water and crystal-clear sand. Located at the end of the Kavi Gorge, Ilingas beach can be found 1 kilometres west of Sfakia village. Ilingas is a nudist-friendly beach located near a nudist resort. The local tavern at Ilingas beach serves delicious local drinks. The beach has scattered caves that can serve as a pleasant source of shade and allow one to enjoy the cold sea breeze.
  
• Frangokastello beach. Frangokastello beach, named after a stunning seaside Venetian castle, is more than just a vacation spot. You’ll find Frangokastello beach 13 kilometres (8,08 miles) east of Chora Sfakion and 80 kilometres (49,71 miles) southeast of Chania. Frangokastello has three small beaches. One is 0,6 kilometres (0,37 miles) long on the western side, another is below the Venetian fortress. Orthi Ammos, which is about 0,7 kilometres (0,43 miles) long, is the third beach to the east. Visitors might encounter sandblasting here because the katabatic winds from the north transport sand.

Where to Stay Near Agios Charalambos Beach?

Find below a list of places to stay near Agios Charalambos Beach.

• Vritomartis Naturist Resort. Vritomartis Naturist Resort is located 0.38 kilometers (0.23 miles) from Agios Charalambos Beach, within walking distance of Chora Sfakion. The resort offers a clothing-optional setting with sea views and access to a swimming pool, sun loungers, a fitness center, and tennis courts. Vritomartis hosts organized naturist activities and includes an on-site restaurant serving Cretan and Mediterranean cuisine.
• Sfakian Horizon. Sfakian Horizon is located 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) from Agios Charalambos Beach in the village of Chora Sfakion. The property offers modern rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a swimming pool with mountain and sea views. Guests dine on-site or nearby, with menus featuring Greek and international dishes such as grilled meats, seafood, and pastries.
• Hotel Panorama. Hotel Panorama is located 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) from Agios Charalambos Beach, set on an elevated hillside in Chora Sfakion. The hotel provides rooms with private balconies, panoramic sea views, and access to free Wi-Fi. The on-site restaurant features an outdoor terrace and serves Cretan specialties prepared with local ingredients.

Where to Eat Near Agios Charalambos Beach?

Find below some of the places to eat near Agios Charalambos Beach.

• Taverna Delfini. Taverna Delfini is located 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) west of Agios Charalambos Beach in Chora Sfakion. The taverna offers seaside views and a traditional setting. The menu includes seafood, grilled meats, and vegetarian dishes, all prepared with fresh local ingredients.
• Viki’s Tavern. Viki’s Tavern is located 1.6 kilometers (1 mile) west of Agios Charalambos Beach, near the harbor in Chora Sfakion. The tavern offers both indoor and outdoor seating and serves a variety of Cretan dishes, including salads, grilled meats, and homemade desserts.
• U Kantina. U Kantina is located 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) west of Agios Charalambos Beach, close to the ferry dock in Chora Sfakion. The eatery offers a casual setting with light meals, snacks, and beverages, catering to travelers looking for a quick and convenient dining option.

Is Agios Charalambos Beach worth Visiting?

Yes, Agios Charalambos Beach is definitely worth visiting for travelers seeking a quiet coastal area with minimal development and natural scenery. The beach features clear, calm waters that are ideal for swimming and snorkeling during the summer season, when temperatures range from 24°C to 30°C (75°F–86°F). Visitors find sunbeds, umbrellas, and a small beachside taverna that provide basic comfort without overcrowding. The surrounding cliffs create a sense of privacy, while nearby walking paths and coves add to the area’s quiet appeal.

Agios Charalambos Beach is safe for swimming, sunbathing, and casual exploration during the summer months. The beach is located within a sheltered cove that protects it from strong winds and large waves. The shallow entry and clear visibility make it suitable for families with children and less experienced swimmers. No lifeguards are stationed at the beach, so adult supervision is necessary when children are in the water. The rocky seabed may require water shoes for added safety. The nearby area remains quiet, with low traffic and walkable access from accommodations, contributing to an overall safe beach experience.

Published on April 13, 2025