Kastri Beach is a pebbly shore on Crete’s southern coast, located 60 kilometers (37.2 miles) from Heraklion. The beach is named after the nearby village of Kastri and is known for its glistening waters and relaxed atmosphere. Kastri Beach has loungers and umbrellas in some portions of its shoreline, while much of it remains unspoiled, allowing visitors to admire Crete’s natural beauty.
Kastri Beach is easily accessible by car, taxi, or public transit. The route to the beach provides scenic coastal views as well as surrounding attractions such as Keratokambos Village, the Archaeological Site of Gortyna, and the Minoan Palace of Phaistos.
Snorkeling, fishing, and hiking along coastal trails are the activities available at Kastri Beach. Conservation efforts help to keep its natural beauty by preventing large-scale development and encouraging responsible tourism.
The best time to visit Kastri Beach is anytime from June to September when the weather is mild enough for outdoor activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and hiking. Visitors to Kastri Beach can rent a car to explore the beach and its surroundings, with fees ranging from €25 – €30 (£20–£25). A taxi from Heraklion can be less cheap, making public buses a more reasonable option.
Nearby accommodations include luxurious resorts like Ostria Resort & Spa as well as small getaways like Villa Dianthe and Nakou Village. Traditional tavernas such as Taverna Kriti and Taverna Faros serve fresh seafood and Greek cuisine.
What is Kastri Beach?
Kastri Beach is an unspoiled beach named after the surrounding village of Kastri, a small fishing community in Crete. Kastri is loved for its lucid waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Kastri beach has a peaceful ambiance compared to Crete’s more popular beaches, which makes it a great tourists destination. Kastri Beach offers both loungers and umbrellas in some areas, while much of it remains unspoiled, allowing tourists to appreciate the natural beauty of Crete’s southern coast.
Kastri Beach is located 60 kilometers (37.2 miles) southwest of Heraklion, Crete’s largest and capital city. The beach is part of Kastri village, a small community located along the Libyan Sea. It is easily accessible by the route that connects Heraklion to the southern coast, offering a scenic drive through the Cretan countryside. Kastri Beach is framed by rugged cliffs and hills, and features exquisite coastline views and the open sea. The village of Kastri provides a few small tavernas and accommodations, making the beach an ideal destination for a quiet escape.
The best time to visit Katri Beach in Crete is from June to September, with the warmest and most inviting weather suitable for swimming and aquatic adventures. The sea temperature typically hovers from 22.8°C to 26.4°C (73°F–79.5°F) during these months, with highs reaching up to 28.3°C (82.9°F) in August. Spring and autumn are also great alternatives, with October still providing a favorable climate averaging 24.1°C (75.4°F). Visiting outside these months may result in cooler water, particularly between December and May when sea weather dips below 20°C (68°F).
Kastri Beach is free to enter. It is a public beach with no admission fee, making it a welcoming attraction for all tourists. The beach contains beach bars and snack shops where food and drinks can be purchased. Certain amenities such as sun loungers, parasols, and nearby parking may incur additional fees.
Visitors do not need to book to visit Kastri Beach in advance, but securing accommodation or transportation early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Kastri Beach has a range of activities including swimming, sunbathing, hiking, and fishing. The beach’s beautiful and tranquil seas make it an excellent swimming spot, while its rocky formations make it an ideal snorkeling location. Sunbathing is common on the soft sand and pebble mix, and some spots provide sun loungers and umbrellas. Tourists who enjoy trekking can venture into the neighboring hills and coastline trails with sweeping views of the Libyan Sea. Fishing enthusiasts can also try their luck from the shore or rent a small boat to explore the nearby coves.
What does the Kastri Beach Map look like?
Find below an image describing Kastri Beach.
What are the nearby attractions in Kastri Beach?
Find below a list of attractions nearby Kastri Beach:
- Keratokambos Village. Keratokambos Village is just 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) away from Kastri Beach. It is a quiet seaside village known for its relaxed atmosphere and traditional Cretan charm. Keratokambos hosts a handful of tavernas serving fresh seafood, small local shops, and scenic coastal walks, making it a perfect spot to experience authentic island life.
- Archaeological Site of Gortyna. The Archaeological Site of Gortyna is located 58 kilometers (36 miles) from Kastri Beach. Gortyna is an ancient city with historical ruins dating back to the Minoan, Greek, and Roman periods. Visitors can explore remnants of the city’s theater, basilicas, and the famous Law Code of Gortyn, an ancient inscription detailing one of the oldest recorded legal codes.
- Koules Fortress in Heraklion. Koules Fortress is located 63 kilometers (39.1 miles) from Kastri Beach. This Venetian fortress stands at the entrance of Heraklion’s old harbor. It is a significant historical landmark that offers panoramic views of the sea and a glimpse into Crete’s past.
- Minoan Palace of Phaistos. The Minoan Palace of Phaistos is located 50 kilometers (31 miles) west of Kastri Beach. It is one of Crete’s fundamental archaeological sites. Visitors can explore the ruins of this ancient palace, which once served as a major center of Minoan civilization, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Messara Plain.
- Kapsa Monastery. Kapsa Monastery is perched on the cliffs near Makrigialos, 87 kilometers (54 miles) from Kastri Beach. This historic monastery is known for its beautiful location and religious significance. The monastery offers a peaceful retreat and an opportunity to admire impressive sea views.
What is the ways to get to Kastri Beach?
Visitors can get to Kastri Beach by car, taxi, or public transportation. Travelers can drive from Heraklion to Kastri Beach, covering 60 kilometers southeast via the Heraklion–Ano Viannos road. The journey typically takes around 45 to 55 minutes. The route is well-paved and offers scenic views of the Cretan countryside. Visitors will find accessible and free parking options near the beach, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Taxis are readily available from Heraklion for travelers preferring not to drive. The trip to Kastri Beach takes about an hour, providing a comfortable and direct route to the beach. Taxi fares are the least cheap among all transportation options, especially during high season.
Public buses operate routes from Heraklion to the village of Chondros, which is in proximity to Kastri Beach. The bus offers an affordable alternative, though service frequency may vary. Visitors can take a short taxi ride to Kastri Beach upon reaching Chondros. It’s advisable to check the latest bus schedules in advance to plan accordingly.
Can someone rent a car and drive to Kastri Beach?
Yes, tourists can rent a car and drive to Kastri Beach. Renting a car is strongly advised for tourists who want to explore other sights in Crete on their own timeline.
Car rental services are accessible in Ierapetra, at the airport, and in major cities such as Heraklion. Crete car hire rates vary according to the kind of vehicle and rental term, and prices could be more expensive during peak tourist season.An economy car will start from 25 € ($27.00, £21.50)–30 € ($32.40, £25.80) on average, while compact cars start from 30 € ($32.40, £25.80) per day. Most car rental companies offer the convenience of booking online on their website. Visitors are encouraged to check the rental policies and restrictions before making a booking.
How far is Kastri Beach from Heraklion?
Kastri Beach is located 60 kilometers (37.2 miles) south of Heraklion. Beachgoers traveling by car will drive about 1 hour and 10 minutes, following the Heraklion–Viannos route through scenic mountain roads. Kastri Beach is more remote than other beaches in Heraklion, offering a peaceful retreat for tourists willing to take the journey. Public buses run from Heraklion to the nearby town of Viannos, from where you can take a taxi or drive the remaining distance to the beach.
How far is Kastri Beach from Ierapetra?
Kastri Beach is found 51.4 kilometers (31.9 miles) west of Ierapetra. The journey takes about an hour for visitors traveling by car, following the coastal road through charming Cretan villages. The drive offers beautiful views of the Libyan Sea, making it an enjoyable trip for tourists exploring the southern coast of Crete. Kastri Beach makes a great stopover for travelers who want to explore Ierapetra. Public transportation options are available, though less frequent, with buses from Ierapetra to nearby villages, followed by a short taxi ride to the beach.
Where to stay near Kastri Beach?
Find below a list of the places to stay near Kastri Beach:
- Porto Kastri. Porto Kastri is a holiday apartment located just a 3-minute walk from Kastri Beach. This property provides well-appointed apartments with private terraces, making it a great choice for travelers looking for a quiet and comfortable stay. Guests appreciate its peaceful atmosphere, well-maintained gardens, and friendly hosts. Porto Kastri’s location enables easy access to both the beach and nearby tavernas, perfect for guests wanting to explore the area.
- Hotel Kastri. Hotel Kastri is located right on the shores of Kastri Beach. The property offers suites with private balconies where vacationers can revel in sweeping ocean views. The hotel’s dining options include a variety of Greek and international cuisine, and its all-inclusive packages make it a popular choice for tourists looking for a worry-free vacation.
- Terra Skouros. Terra Kouros is a holiday home located just a 1-minute walk from Kastri Beach. It offers self-catering apartments with beautiful sea views and a quiet hillside location. Guests love the relaxed atmosphere, spacious accommodations, and the opportunity to experience Crete’s natural beauty away from crowded tourist areas. The property is suited for travelers seeking a secluded retreat with easy access to the island’s southern coastline.
Where to eat near Kastri Beach?
Find below a list of the places to eat near Kastri Beach:
- Taverna Kriti. Taverna Kriti is a traditional taverna located 700 meters (0.4 miles) from Kastri Beach. Taverna Kriti is popular for its authentic home-cooked dishes, and serves fresh seafood, grilled meats, and classic Greek meze. Visitors highly recommend the grilled octopus, stuffed zucchini flowers, and lamb with rosemary. Taverna Kriti’s excellent service and beachfront location make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
- Taverna Faros. Taverna Faros is a family-run seafood restaurant located right along the shores of Kastri Beach. Faros specializes in fresh fish and traditional Greek cuisine, and serves a variety of dishes such as seafood pasta, grilled calamari, and shrimp saganaki. The restaurant’s warm hospitality and fresh, locally sourced ingredients make it a must-visit spot for food lovers.
- Vagia Cafe. Vagia Cafe is a cozy beachfront café located just 750 meters (0.4 miles) from Kastri Beach. It serves a selection of fresh pastries, homemade cakes, and light snacks, along with high-quality Greek coffee and refreshing drinks. Guests love its welcoming atmosphere, friendly service, and the opportunity to relax by the water while enjoying a morning coffee or a sunset drink.
Is Kastri Beach worth visiting?
Yes, Kastri Beach is certainly worth visiting, especially for tourists desiring to discover a spotless stretch of Crete’s southern coast. Its crystal-clear waters, natural surroundings, and laid-back ambiance make it an ideal place to unwind. Kastri Beach offers a quieter retreat compared to other popular beaches in Crete, with quaint seaside tavernas and spectacular coastal views adding to its appeal.
Kastri Beach is certainly safe for visitors. The waters are clean and calm, with gentle waves most of the time, making it a desirable swimming spot. As it is a more natural and less developed beach, lifeguards may not be always on duty, so visitors should exercise caution at all times. It is advisable to check the weather before visiting and be mindful of changing tides and currents.
Children and pets are allowed to visit Kastri Beach. The coastal waters are translucent and shallow in depth which makes Kastri one of the top beaches to visit in Crete, complemented by soft sands where little ones can play and build sandcastles.
Pet owners are welcome to bring their beloved companions but should adhere to local regulations, clean up after them, and make sure they do not cause a disturbance to other tourists. It is likewise recommended to inquire about the available amenities, such as restrooms, changing areas, and nearby cafes before the trip, so families can have a more comfortable visit to Kastri Beach.
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