Kali Limenes Beach, known as Good Ports Beach or Kaloi Limenes, is a secluded coastal destination on Crete’s southern coast. Kali Limenes Beach lies 75 kilometers (46.6 miles) southwest of Heraklion, within the Asterousia Mountains, offering clear blue waters, a mix of fine sand and pebbles, and sheltered coves. The beach benefits from a natural wind barrier, ensuring calm swimming conditions for most of the year.
Kali Limenes Beach is best visited between June and October, when water temperatures range from 19.2°C (66.6°F) to 28.3°C (82.9°F), making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The beach experiences its warmest waters from July to September, peaking at 28.3°C (82.9°F) in August.
This coastal spot is surrounded by attractions that offer coastal exploration and outdoor activities. Antonios Boat Tours provides private trips to hidden coves and snorkeling spots. Agiofaraggo Beach, 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) east, features secluded swimming and hiking through Agiofaraggo Gorge. Makria Ammos Beach, 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) east, offers deep waters and a quiet setting for a more relaxed seaside experience.
Kali Limenes Beach has several dining options for visitors. Palmetis Cafe Snack Bar serves light snacks and coffee by the shore. Karampinis Cafe Taverna and Karavovrisi Taverna offer authentic Cretan cuisine and fresh seafood, allowing guests to enjoy local flavors.
What is Kali Limenes Beach?
Kali Limenes Beach is known as Good Ports Beach and Kaloi Limenes, holds historical significance as a former safe harbor for sailors navigating Crete’s southern coast. The beach features clear blue waters, a blend of fine sand and pebbles, and a rugged landscape shaped by cliffs and olive groves. The beach is located within the Asterousia Mountains, and stretches across several small coves that form a naturally sheltered coastline. This protection from strong winds creates calm swimming conditions throughout most of the year, making the beach ideal for tourists seeking a quiet and stable coastal setting.
Kali Limenes Beach is located 75 kilometers (46.6 miles) southwest of Heraklion. The beach lies within the Asterousia mountain range and is accessible by road from the village of Pompia, which connects to a winding route leading south. The drive from Heraklion takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, passing through rural villages and mountainous terrain. The beach is remote and not served by public transportation, so visitors typically arrive by rental car or private transfer. A parking area is available near the main beach entrance.
The best time to visit Kali Limenes Beach is between June and October, when the water remains warm enough for underwater activities, between 19.2°C (66.6°F) to 28.3°C (82.9°F), allowing visitors to enjoy prolonged time in the sea without discomfort. The beach is at its warmest from July to September, with temperatures peaking at 28.3°C (82.9°F) in July due to continuous sun exposure. Kali Limenes Beach is still worth visiting in May and November, with sea temperatures ranging from 16.9°C (62.4°F) to 23.3°C (73.9°F) in May and 19°C (66.2°F) to 24.5°C (76.1°F) in November, remaining slightly cooler than peak summer months but offering quieter conditions with fewer crowds for a more peaceful seaside experience.
Kali Limenes Beach is safe for swimming, walking, and beachside relaxation. The beach benefits from a sheltered coastline that protects it from strong winds and large waves, ensuring calm sea conditions during most of the year. The clear waters and gradual entry make it suitable for swimmers of all levels, though supervision is advised for children, as no lifeguards are stationed on-site. Rocky areas along the shoreline may require water shoes for comfort and safety. The surrounding area is quiet with low traffic and minimal commercial development, contributing to a secure and laid-back environment.
Kali Limenes Beach is free to enter, as it is a public beach with no admission fee. Visitors can enjoy the natural surroundings without cost, though amenities like sun beds and umbrellas are available for rent. Advance booking is not required to visit Kali Limenes Beach, but securing accommodations ahead of time is recommended during peak season.
Children and pets are allowed at Kali Limenes Beach, making it a family-friendly destination. The beach features calm waters and sheltered coves, offering a safe environment for children to swim under adult supervision. The mix of fine sand and pebbles creates some uneven terrain, so caution is advised in areas with varying water depths. Kali Limenes Beach also welcomes pets, but owners should follow local regulations, ensure proper supervision, and respect the natural environment while enjoying the coastal surroundings. Travelers are encouraged to check the available amenities at any beach in Crete for kids in advance, such as restrooms and changing areas, to ensure a comfortable experience for families with children.
What Does the Kali Limenes Map Look Like?
Find below an image describing the area and perimeter of Kali Limenes Beach.
What are the Activities at Kali Limenes Beach?
Popular activities at Kali Limenes Beach are swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing along its sheltered shoreline. The beach offers clear blue waters and calm sea conditions, which make it suitable for extended swims and relaxed floating. Snorkelers explore the rocky seabed near the coves, where underwater visibility remains high during the summer months. Visitors sunbathe on the mix of sand and pebbles or rest under the natural shade of olive trees near the shore. The surrounding area attracts tourists interested in nature walks and scenic drives through the Asterousia Mountains. There are no organized water sports or rentals on-site, so visitors typically bring their own gear or supplies.
How Do You Get to Kali Limenes Beach?
Beachgoers can get to Kali Limenes Beach by car, public transportation, or taxi, each offering different levels of convenience for travelers. Traveling by public transportation requires taking a bus from Heraklion to Mires, the closest major town to Kali Limenes Beach. Visitors must hire a taxi for the remaining 22 kilometers (13.7 miles) from Mires, as no direct bus routes serve Kali Limenes Beach.Traveling by taxi offers a more direct but costlier alternative.
Taxis from Heraklion provide door-to-door transport, with the trip covering 75 kilometers (46.6 miles) in 1 hour and 30 minutes. Traveling by car is the most convenient and flexible option. Drivers follow the main road south from Heraklion to Mires, then continue through Pigaidakia to reach the beach. The route offers scenic views through the Asterousia Mountains, with a total travel time of about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
A designated parking area is available near the beach entrance. Car rentals in Heraklion and Mires allow visitors without their own vehicle to reach Kali Limenes Beach conveniently. Many car rental agencies provide short-term and daily options, offering flexibility for those exploring the Asterousia coastline.
Can Crete visitors hire a car and drive to Kali Limenes Beach?
Yes, tourists can rent a car and drive to Kali Limenes. Car rental is the easiest and most affordable way to get to Kali Limenes beach an south Crete. Crete car hire rates differ depending on the car type, rental duration, and season.
The average daily cost for an economy 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.
The average cost of car hire cost 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, like Rental Center Crete, vary depending on the car type. Car rental companies offer a variety of cars depending on customers’ preferences.
What are the attractions near Kali Limenes Beach?
Find below the nearby attractions at Kali Limenes Beach.
- Antonios Boat Tours. Antonios Boat Tours operates directly from Kali Limenes Beach, offering guided boat trips along the southern coast of Crete. The company, named after its owner, specializes in small-group excursions to hidden beaches, sea caves, and remote coves. Tours include stops for swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, providing a scenic perspective of Crete’s rugged coastline. The departure point on the beach ensures easy access for visitors staying in the area.
- Agiofaraggo Beach. Agiofaraggo Beach is located 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) east of Kali Limenes Beach, accessible by boat or on foot through the Agiofaraggo Gorge. The name “Agiofaraggo” means “Gorge of Saints,” referencing the monks who once inhabited the area’s caves. The area is surrounded by steep cliffs, featuring turquoise waters and a rocky shoreline. Visitors can swim, snorkel, or explore the gorge and nearby caves that hold historical and religious significance.
- Makria Ammos Beach. Makria Ammos Beach is located 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) east of Kali Limenes Beach and is reachable by a short drive or walk along the coast. The name comes from the Greek words “Makria” (long) and “Ammos” (sand), describing its extended stretch of fine pebbles and sandy sections. The beach is known for its quiet environment, clear water, and popularity among naturists in the eastern portion. Visitors enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and peaceful seaside views away from busy tourist areas.
Where to Stay Near Kali Limenes Beach?
Find below a list of the places to stay near Kali Limenes Beach.
- Sfinias Hotel. Sfinias Hotel is located 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) east of Kali Limenes Beach, overlooking the Libyan Sea along Crete’s southern coast. The property provides basic rooms, a swimming pool, free parking, and sea-view balconies for a relaxing stay. It has an on-site restaurant that serves traditional Cretan dishes and fresh seafood at its on-site restaurant. Sfinias Hotel received praise for the sea views and quiet location.
- Villa Koutsakis. Villa Koutsakis is located 3.4 kilometers (2.1 miles) east of Kali Limenes Beach and offers a peaceful stay with panoramic sea views. The villa includes spacious rooms, private terraces, air conditioning, and fully equipped kitchens. There is no on-site restaurant, but guests can cook their own meals or dine at local tavernas. Reviews highlight the clean facilities, tranquil setting, and impressive views.
- Shades of Blue. Shades of Blue is located 2.9 kilometers (1.8 miles) east of Kali Limenes Beach and provides self-catering apartments with modern amenities. Each unit includes a kitchen, private balcony, and free Wi-Fi. There is no restaurant on the property, but guests can prepare their own meals or explore dining options nearby. Visitors frequently mention the well-equipped apartments, quiet atmosphere, and sea views as key strengths.
Where to Eat Near Kali Limenes Beach?
Find below a list of the places to eat near Kali Limenes Beach.
- Palmetis Cafe Snack Bar. Palmetis Cafe Snack Bar is located just 0.3 kilometers (0.2 miles) away from Kali Limenes Beach, offering a casual dining experience by the shore. It provides a laid-back beachfront atmosphere, ideal for quick bites and refreshments. Palmetis Cafe Snack Bar serves light snacks, sandwiches, coffee, and cold drinks, catering to casual beachgoers. The cafe is known for its pastries and coffee.
- Karampinis Cafe Taverna. Karampinis Cafe Taverna is located 0.5 kilometers (0.3 miles) from the beach and offers a traditional dining experience in a family-friendly environment. The taverna features indoor and outdoor seating and serves authentic Cretan cuisine, including fresh seafood and homemade dishes. Popular menu items include fried fish, hand-cut potatoes, and Greek salad.
- Karavovrisi Taverna. Karavovrisi Taverna is located 0.5 kilometers (0.3 miles) from Kali Limenes Beach and provides a rustic, welcoming setting with outdoor seating and scenic views. The taverna specializes in traditional Cretan food, grilled meats, and locally sourced seafood. Visitors often recommend the grilled fish, steak, and lamb for their quality and flavor.
Is Kali Limenes Beach Worth Visiting?
Yes, Kali Limenes Beach is worth visiting for travelers seeking a remote, peaceful coastal experience on Crete’s southern coast. The beach offers clear waters, sheltered coves, and calm swimming conditions throughout most of the year. Its location within the Asterousia Mountains provides a rugged natural backdrop, while the beach’s historical role as a safe harbor adds cultural interest. Visitors enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and exploring nearby coves without the crowds common at larger tourist beaches. Kali Limenes beach is listed among the top Heraklion beaches to visit.
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