Crete, Greece

Afrathias Beach

Afrathias Beach is a serene and peaceful location situated along the Gulf of Mesara on the island of Crete. This pristine beach is known for its natural beauty and tranquility. The beach is pebbly with coarse sand, and the sea bottom is rocky, making it advisable for visitors to wear water shoes when walking and swimming. Despite its wild and natural scenic, the beach offers a few amenities such as umbrellas and showers.

One of the unique features of Afrathias Beach is the presence of Caretta caretta nests. The loggerhead sea turtle, protected by law, often hatches its eggs here, providing a unique spectacle for visitors. The sea at Afrathias Beach is never really calm, but there are a couple of pools in the sea, protected by rocks, where visitors can cool off.

Discover places to stay near Afrathias Beach and enjoy the serene beauty and unique experience of witnessing Caretta caretta nests.

The beach is not typically crowded, providing a carefree, noise-free, and stress-free experience for those seeking solitude. There is a taverna close by for those who wish to eat or drink. The beach is also known for its beautiful sunsets, making it a favorite spot for sunbathing and relaxation. Despite its remote location, Afrathias Beach is easily accessible from the nearby town of Kalamaki.

What to do at Afrathias Beach?

Amenities

Afrathias Beach amenities include shower.

Restaurants

You can enjoy one of the restaurants at the beach while soaking up the sun.

Visitor Reviews

Visitor reviews highlight the pristine, wild, and serene nature of the beach, with many appreciating its tranquility and natural beauty, including the sight of loggerhead sea turtles. The beach's remote location and lack of crowds are also seen as a positive, providing a peaceful and stress-free experience. However, some visitors complain about the rocky terrain, both on the beach and in the sea, recommending the use of water shoes or sandals for comfort.

Where to Stay near Afrathias Beach?

Visitors to Afrathias Beach often stay in the nearby town of Kalamaki, which offers a range of accommodations and is conveniently close to the beach. Many also choose to stay in the charming village of Matala, known for its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, making it a popular base for exploring the surrounding area and enjoying Afrathias Beach as part of their itinerary.

The following map shows available accommodations and their prices. See the full list of accommodation options here.

Where is Afrathias Beach?

Latitude: 35.0519721 / Longitude: 24.7538069

Afrathias Beach is located in Crete. The following map of Afrathias Beach shows the exact location.

Afrathias Beach: Weather Today

📅 Tuesday, June 16, 2026
Today at Afrathias Beach is shaping up to be an excellent day for soaking up the sun and enjoying the coastline. You can expect plenty of bright, clear skies with only a few wisps of clouds passing through, making it perfect for sunbathing. With a maximum air temperature of 26.7 °C and a sea temperature of 24.2 °C, the water is refreshing and pleasant for a swim. A light, manageable breeze will keep things comfortable, and the waves remain calm and gentle. Since the UV Index is 8.65, please remember to apply sunscreen generously and seek shade during the midday hours to stay protected. It is truly a wonderful day to head down to the shore and relax by the water.
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Air

Low / High18.3°C/26.7°C
Feels Like (High)31°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature24.2 °C
Wave Height0.5 m
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Rain

Rain Chance0%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:06/20:36
Sunshine Hours13.6 hrs
UV Index8.65
Cloud Cover7%
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Wind

Speed15 km/h
Gusts25.2 km/h
DirectionW

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