Ferma Crete: A Peaceful Coastal Beach in Southern Crete

Ferma Beach is a small, unorganized beach located on Crete’s southern coast, just 11.9 kilometers (7.4 miles) east of Ierapetra. The beach is cherished for its peaceful setting, natural shade from shoreline reeds, and consistently calm, warm waters, ideal for travelers desiring a quiet alternative to busier resorts. Ferma has a sandy shoreline, surrounded by scattered rocks and caves, making it a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and light exploration. The translucent waters, gradual depth, and lack of crowds make it especially suitable for families and casual swimmers.

Ferma is easily accessible by car and sits near the small village of the same name, where visitors can find accommodations, tavernas, and shops within walking distance. The best time to visit is between June and September, when sea temperatures hover around 23.2°C to 28.3°C (73.8°F to 82.9°F). Nearby attractions in Ferma include Livadi Beach, Achlia Beach, and Mylonas Waterfall, offering visitors a chance to explore Crete’s natural beauty beyond the shore. Several local restaurants like Taverna Katerina and Pelagos Sea Side Restaurant provide authentic Cretan meals close by. Ferma Beach is a peaceful retreat without an entrance fee, ample parking, and a welcoming atmosphere for both children and pets, making it suitable for tourists of all kinds.

What is Ferma Beach?

Ferma Beach is a quiet, unorganized coastal attraction on Crete’s southern coast, favored for its translucent ocean, natural shade, and relaxed atmosphere. The beach is framed by rocks, creating a sheltered environment with no strong winds but a constant breeze that keeps conditions comfortable. Its sandy shoreline and clear, calm seas make it a favorite swimming and snorkeling spot. The beach’s left side features small caves and underwater rock formations, where swimmers often spot fish and marine life. Reeds along the shore provide natural shade, and the absence of large crowds makes it an excellent spot to relax, read a book, or simply disconnect from the hustle of daily life.

Ferma Beach is located 11.9 kilometers (7.4 miles) east of Ierapetra and 66.4 kilometers (41.3 miles) southwest of Malia, on Crete’s southern coastline. The beach sits just off the main road connecting Ierapetra to Makry Gialos, making it reachable via car rental from various towns along the southern route. This coastal spot lies near the small village of Ferma, where vacationers can find accommodations, local tavernas, and basic shops within walking distance. The drive from Ierapetra lasts about 15 minutes, while the route from Malia takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes via the national road and a turn-off through Ierapetra.

The best time to visit Ferma Beach spans from June until September, when sea temperatures hover around 23.2°C and 26.5°C (73.8°F to 79.7°F), offering pleasant conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and long hours by the sea. July and August are the hottest months, with peak water temperatures reaching up to 28.3°C (82.9°F), making them especially comfortable for families and casual swimmers. September is slightly cooler but still enjoyable, with fewer visitors and pleasantly warm water averaging 25.9°C (78.6°F). May and October are also good options, with temperatures ranging from 19.8°C to 26.4°C (67.6°F to 79.5°F), providing milder conditions and more privacy. Sea temperatures stay below 22°C (71.6°F) between November and April, which may be too cool for swimming but still pleasant for beach walks or coastal sightseeing.

Ferma Beach is free to enter and open to the public throughout the year. There are no entrance fees, and visitors can access the beach without any restrictions. The beach is unorganized so guests are welcome to bring their own towels, umbrellas, or beach gear for a comfortable stay. Free roadside parking is available nearby, and the beach is easily reachable on foot from local accommodations. The lack of commercial development adds to its charm and makes it a cost-free destination for anyone seeking a peaceful coastal retreat.

What does the Ferma Beach Map look like?

Find below an image describing Ferma Beach.

What are the activities in Ferma Beach?

Ferma Beach offers several activities including swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, cave exploration, and nature watching. The calm, translucent ocean is warm throughout the summer and has a gradual depth, making swimming comfortable for all ages. Snorkeling is especially rewarding along the rocky left side of the beach, where small caves and underwater formations attract a variety of marine life that visitors can observe even with basic gear.

Ferma’s powdery sands and peaceful atmosphere beckon tourists to stretch out and sunbathe, while natural shade from reeds and a gentle sea breeze help keep conditions comfortable even on the hottest days. Travelers looking for quiet walks can explore the rocky edges or stroll along the shore. Ferma has no organized facilities, so many visitors bring their own umbrellas, mats, or picnic supplies. There are also a few crowds and no loud activity, making Ferma Beach a must-visit spot for tourists who want to swim, relax, or simply enjoy the scenery without interruption.

What are the attractions near Ferma Beach?

Find below a list of attractions near Ferma Beach:

• Livadi Beach. Livadi Beach is located only 240 meters (0.15 miles) from Ferma Beach and offers a similarly calm and uncrowded experience. It features coarse sands, rocky edges, and gentle waters perfect for a quick swim or snorkeling session. The surrounding cliffs provide natural shade during certain times of day, while the shallow entry makes it suitable for a relaxed dip. Livadi is best for travelers who want to explore multiple quiet spots in a single visit. The beach is easily walkable from Ferma and makes a great secondary stop for sunbathing or unwinding in peace.
• Achlia Beach. Achlia Beach is located 4.4 kilometers (2.7 miles) east of Ferma Beach and is a small but organized beach with crystal-clear waters and fine pebbles. The beach is framed by cliffs, providing a cozy bay atmosphere and calm sea conditions. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent, and a nearby taverna offers food and drinks throughout the day. Visitors often choose Achlia for its easy access, beautiful color gradient in the water, and relaxed vibe. It’s a convenient stop for travelers driving along the southern coast between Ierapetra and Makry Gialos.
• Mavros Kalimpos Beach. Mavros Kalimpos Beach is 6.6 kilometers (4.1 miles) east of Ferma and is ideal for tourists seeking a remote, untouched setting. The beach is made up of dark pebbles and rougher terrain, with no facilities or organized services, so visitors should bring everything they need. The clear but deep waters are made for experienced swimmers and tourists wanting to enjoy solitude. Mavros Kalimpos is rarely crowded, even in peak season, and the surrounding landscape includes dry cliffs and native vegetation.
• Maheridi Beach. Maheridi Beach is located 8.1 kilometers (5 miles) east of Ferma Beach and offers an unspoiled stretch of coast favored by tourists looking to escape touristy beach setups. Maheridi features mixed sand and pebbles, with a calm sea that remains swimmable even during windier days. The beach is cherished for its quiet setting, immaculate beauty, and translucent waters. There are no facilities directly on the beach, but small tavernas and stores can be found in nearby villages.
• Koutsounari Long Beach. Koutsounari Long Beach is 19.8 kilometers (12.3 miles) west of Ferma Beach and stretches for several kilometers along the coast. Koutsounari’s size allows for both organized sections with sunbeds and untouched areas where beachgoers can lay a blanket and relax in peace. Koutsounari beach is covered with coarse sand and small pebbles, and the water is typically calm with a gradual slope. Beach bars and local restaurants are scattered nearby, making it a convenient option for a full day.
• Mylonas Waterfall. Mylonas Waterfall is located 8.2 kilometers (5.1 miles) from Ferma Beach, near Koutsounari. This natural attraction can be reached by a moderate 30-minute hike through a marked trail that winds through olive trees and rocky paths. The waterfall flows into a small basin, especially active during spring and early summer. Mylonas isn’t a huge waterfall, but the setting is absolutely beautiful and provides a refreshing contrast to the coastal scenery, where hikers often stop here for a break and a cool dip. It’s recommended to wear proper footwear and carry water when visiting Mylonas, especially during the summer season.
• Butterfly Gorge. Butterfly Gorge is 13.7 kilometers (8.5 miles) north of Ferma Beach and offers a beautiful hiking experience through narrow rock passages and lush vegetation. The gorge was named after the butterflies often spotted during spring and early summer, and is well-suited for nature lovers and moderate hikers. The route includes shaded paths, rocky inclines, and small stream beds, depending on the season. The trail ends near Orino village, making it a good half-day adventure for travelers with a car. Butterfly Gorge is best visited in cooler weather, as the route can get warm during midday hours.
• Pefki Gorge. Pefki Gorge is located 20.8 kilometers (12.9 miles) east of Ferma Beach and is one of the more accessible and scenic gorges in southeastern Crete. The trail leads from the village of Pefki down to the area of Aspros Potamos, offering views of cliffs, pine trees, and the sea in the distance. The hike takes 1.5 to 2 hours depending on pace and is marked throughout. Pefki is a popular choice for travelers staying in Makry Gialos or the surrounding region, combining light physical activity with natural beauty that can be climbed even by casual hikers.
• Agia Fotia Beach: Agia Fotia Beach is located a short drive to the west of Ferma Beach and is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning natural beauty. The beach has a blue flag rating, denoting its high environmental and quality standards.
• Koutsouras Beach: Koutsouras Beach is a beautiful sandy beach with clear blue waters. It offers a less crowded alternative to Ferma Beach and is known for its calm waves. It is surrounded by taverns and cafes where visitors can enjoy local cuisine and refreshments.
• Kaki Skala Beach: Kaki Skala is approximately 15 kilometres (9.3 miles) east of Ferma and features a mix of sand and pebbles, with its crystal clear waters that make it ideal for swimming and snorkelling. The beach offers a relaxing atmosphere backed by cliffs, providing a natural, enjoyable setting.
• Voulismeni lake in Agios Nikolaos: Since Lake Voulismeni isn’t too far from Ferma and it’s definitely worth a visit. This natural saltwater lake is one of the most important wetlands in Crete. It is located right at the center of Agios Nikolaos and many taverns, cafes, and restaurants surround it. The perfect place to enjoy the sunset with a view of the lake.
  
• Ierapetra. Ierapetra is a town located on the southeast coast of Crete. It is situated along Ierapetra Bay’s beach and has a charming village-like feel with its medieval street design, modest dwellings, cul-de-sacs, and narrow lanes. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, including the well-kept beach in Makrigialos. Ierapetra is on of the largest town in the Lassithi region and offers a range of amenities such as restaurants, tavernas, shops, and historical sites. It is a popular tourist destination and a great place to explore the southeastern part of Crete. Ierapetra is the nearest big city to Ferma Beach.
  
• Makrigialos. Makrigialos is a popular tourist destination located in the southeast area of Crete. It was once a small harbor without any roads, but it has since expanded and become a main attraction in the region. Makrigialos offers a variety of amenities such as hotels, taverns, restaurants, bars, cafés, supermarkets, bakeries, ATMs, doctors’ offices, and pharmacies. The beach in Makrigialos stretches for a kilometer and is known for its lovely golden sand. It is a well-kept beach with facilities like showers, water sports, umbrellas, and tamarisk trees. The beach is ideal for families with young children

How do you get to Ferma Beach?

Visitors can get to Ferma Beach by car rental, taxi, or local bus. The beach is located 11.9 kilometres (7,39 miles) east of Ierapetra and is accessible via the main coastal road heading toward Makry Gialos. The drive from Ierapetra takes approximately 15 minutes and follows a paved, well-signposted route. Travelers departing from Heraklion or Agios Nikolaos can take the northern highway (E75) before turning south toward Ierapetra, with the total drive from Heraklion covering 102 kilometres (63,38 miles). Limited bus service connects Ferma to Ierapetra and Makry Gialos, but service may be infrequent outside of peak season. Driving remains the most practical option for convenience and flexibility, as free parking is available near the beach.

Can someone rent a car in Crete and visit Ferma Beach?

Yes, tourists can rent a car in Crete and visit Ferma Beach with ease. Renting a car is the most convenient way to reach this quiet southern coastal area, especially since public transport is limited and routes are less frequent. The drive from Ierapetra to Ferma takes about 15 minutes, while tourists coming from Heraklion can expect a 2-hour journey covering 102 kilometers (63.4 miles).

The roads are well-paved and in good condition, with clear signs leading to the village of Ferma. Crete car hire rates vary by season and vehicle type, with small cars averaging between €27.1 and €65.0 (£23–£56) per day, and SUVs ranging from €67.8 to €120.8 (£59–£104). Free roadside parking is available near the beach, and the route allows travelers to explore nearby beaches, gorges, and villages at their own pace.

Listed below are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete.

• Insurance: Car rental insurance is important, as it protects a passenger against the cost of damage when renting a car. Crete car rental includes insurance for collision damage waiver and a driver’s credit or debit card is required as a guarantee.
• Driver’s age: The legal age requirement when driving in Crete is 18. The driver must have a valid driving licence and essential documents like an ID or passport.
• Driver’s gender: Both women and men can drive in Crete. As long as the driver is of the legal age of 18, driving is permitted in Crete, regardless of gender.
• Car type: Travelling with groups or family members requires a much bigger car. Car rental companies in Crete offer a variety of vehicles to choose from. Selecting a smaller car is best when driving in Crete. The reason for that is that some Greek roads are narrow. The car type is one important factor in how to choose the right car to rent in Crete.
• Documents needed for renting a car: One important document required for renting a vehicle is a valid driving licence. However, a credit or debit card may also be presented, including a passport or an ID card.

Where to stay near Ferma Beach?

Find below a list of places to stay near Ferma Beach.

• Porto Belissario. Porto Belissario is a beachfront hotel located just a few minutes’ walk from Ferma Beach, offering direct access to a small, quiet bay. The property features spacious rooms with sea views, a private beach area, and a swimming pool surrounded by clean, well-kept common areas. Guests praise the daily breakfast buffet, which includes both sweet and savory options, as well as the staff’s attentive service. Beach towels and umbrellas are provided and replaced every three days. Porto Belissario’s peaceful location and high cleanliness standards make it a favorite for vacationers seeking comfort and quiet relaxation on Crete’s southern coast.
• Elena’s Beach Garden. Elena’s Beach Garden is located just steps from the shore and offers fully equipped apartments with a peaceful, homey atmosphere. The property is known for its exceptional cleanliness, traditional Greek decor, and thoughtful amenities such as a coffee maker, stove, iron, washing line, and kitchen utensils. Guests enjoy the lush garden, relaxed vibe, and friendly service provided by the owner and her family. Fresh towels and cleaning are provided every other day, making this property an excellent choice for travelers seeking a home-away-from-home accommodation.
• Paradise Apartments. Paradise Apartments is located just a 4-minute walk from Ferma Beach and offers spacious, well-furnished units with private terraces. Each apartment includes a separate bedroom and living area, along with a fully equipped kitchen stocked with essentials for longer stays. The surrounding garden is filled with olive trees, flowers, and lounge chairs, providing a peaceful outdoor space for guests to unwind. The area is quiet, with a few local taverns and a small shop nearby. Reviewers highlight the welcoming atmosphere and practicality of the setup, making it a reliable option for both short and extended visits.

Where to eat near Ferma Beach?

Find below a list of the places to eat near Ferma Beach:

• Taverna Katerina. Taverna Katerina is located 600 meters (0.4 miles) from Ferma Beach and is a family-run restaurant offering traditional Greek dishes in a warm and rustic garden setting. Diners often sit beneath olive and fig trees while enjoying meals made from local ingredients, many of which are sourced from the owners’ own garden. Signature dishes include moussaka, cheese balls, octopus, and gyros, all served with house wine or raki. Guests praise the freshness of the food, the affordable prices, and the friendly, welcoming service that makes it feel like dining with close friends.
• Agia Fotia Cretan Restaurant. Agia Fotia Cretan Restaurant is located 3.1 kilometers (1.9 miles) from Ferma Beach and offers a simple yet authentic seaside dining experience. The menu includes fresh sardines, gavros, octopus, pork gyros, and homemade starters like French fries and traditional dips. Staff are admired for their honesty in recommending the day’s freshest fish and for their attentive, friendly service. The restaurant’s beachfront location makes it a great choice for a relaxed meal with a sea view.
• Pelagos Sea Side Restaurant. Pelagos Sea Side Restaurant is 2.5 kilometers (1.6 miles) away from Ferma Beach on foot and 17.9 kilometers (11.1 miles) by car. The restaurant is located directly on the beach and is frequented for its elevated dining experience, with creative Cretan and international dishes beautifully presented. Guests enjoy selections such as shrimp pasta, beef cheeks in onion stew, lamb kleftiko, and Cretan pasta, along with an extensive wine list featuring Greek and international labels. The attentive staff, beachside ambiance, and high-quality food make this a top recommendation for visitors seeking a refined yet relaxed meal by the sea.

Is Ferma Beach worth visiting?

Yes, Ferma Beach is definitely worth visiting for its soothing atmosphere, natural shade, and lucid, pleasant waters excellent for swimming and snorkeling. Ferma promises a more relaxed and unspoiled environment than organized coastal destinations, ideal for travelers desiring to steer away from the crowds. Its rocky surroundings and nearby caves create opportunities for light exploration, while the sandy seabed and mild waves make it comfortable for all ages. Ferma’s minimal infrastructure and quiet atmosphere make it an excellent choice for a slow-paced beach day, with nearby tavernas and easy access to other coves adding to its appeal.

Ferma Beach is safe for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing by the water. The bay is partially enclosed by rock formations, which help shield it from strong winds and waves, creating calm conditions throughout most of the year. The sea has a gentle entry and a sandy bottom, making it ideal for children and less experienced swimmers. There are no lifeguards on duty at Ferma Beach, but the clear waters and open visibility reduce risks. Visitors should be cautious when exploring rocky areas near the caves, especially if wearing sandals or walking barefoot.

Children and pets are allowed to visit Ferma Beach. The calm waters, gentle slope, and sandy seabed make it a beach in Crete suitable for kids, especially when supervised by adults. Natural shade from surrounding reeds helps keep the area comfortable during hotter hours. Pets are also welcome, as long as they are leashed and their owners clean up after them. The beach’s peaceful atmosphere and spacious shoreline make it a comfortable environment for families and pet owners who want to spend time at the beach together.

Ferma Beach is well-preserved and remains in a largely natural state. The beach’s isolation has contributed to keeping human impact minimal. No facilities or commercial developments have helped keep the beach and surrounding environment clean and pristine. The local authorities also ensure regular clean-ups to maintain the beach’s natural beauty. Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment, take their litter away and preserve the beach’s untouched nature.

Published on May 31, 2025