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, July 21, 2026
Today is an ideal day for the beach, offering perfect conditions for those looking to enjoy the sun and sea. With clear skies and bright sunshine throughout the day, you will find it excellent for sunbathing, though do take care as the UV Index is 8.6. The air temperature will reach a warm 36.3 °C, making the water a refreshing escape at 27.3 °C. The sea is calm with very gentle movement, creating a pleasant environment for swimming and relaxing in the water. Light breezes will provide a comfortable feel without causing any disruption to your shade or towels. It is a fantastic day to head to the shore, but remember to stay hydrated and protected from the intense sun during the peak midday hours.
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Air

Low / High24.4°C/36.3°C
Feels Like (High)42.2°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature27.3 °C
Wave Height0.5 m
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Rain

Rain Chance0%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:22/20:32
Sunshine Hours13.0 hrs
UV Index8.6
Cloud Cover0%
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Wind

Speed11 km/h
Gusts17.3 km/h
DirectionS

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