Kalamaki Heraklion Beaches

Overview

Kalamaki Heraklion, on the southern coast of Crete, offers a relaxed beach holiday experience within the beautiful Messara Bay. This destination is ideal for visitors seeking a quieter alternative to Crete's bustling tourist spots, with a long, sandy beach perfect for unwinding. While generally tranquil, Kalamaki provides essential amenities and is known for its fine golden sand and clear blue waters. It's also a significant nesting site for Caretta caretta sea turtles, adding a unique natural dimension to your visit.

Among the standout beaches in the area, Kalamaki Beach itself is the main attraction, easily accessible and well-organized right in town. A short distance away, you'll find the iconic Matala, famous for its historic caves and vibrant hippie past. For those seeking a more tranquil and scenic experience, Kommos Beach offers a long stretch of sand with ancient ruins nearby. Another unique option is the Red Beach, known for its distinctive crimson sand and reached by a short hike.

Kalamaki serves as an excellent base for exploring these diverse coastal gems and more, all detailed in our longer list of beaches. The area generally offers a family-friendly environment with shallow waters in some parts, though the sea can occasionally be wavy, particularly when northwesterly winds are present. It's worth noting there are two Kalamaki beaches in Crete; this guide focuses on the one in the Heraklion region, distinct from the more lively resort near Chania.

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FAQ

Is Kalamaki beach in Heraklion suitable for a family holiday?

Yes, Kalamaki beach in Heraklion is considered family-friendly. The beach has shallow waters near the shore, making it suitable for children. Amenities such as a playground and lifeguard services are also available. However, parents should be aware that the sea can sometimes be wavy.

Kalamaki Beach

What is the water like for swimming at Kalamaki beach, Heraklion?

Kalamaki beach features fine golden sand and clear blue waters. However, the seabed has some flat, slippery rocks in certain areas. The water can sometimes be wavy, especially when strong northwest winds occur, which can create challenging swimming conditions. On calm days, it's an ideal spot for swimming.

Kalamaki Beach

When is the best time to visit Kalamaki beach in Heraklion for good weather?

The best times to visit Kalamaki Beach for pleasant weather are late spring (May to early June) and early autumn (September to October). During these periods, temperatures typically range from 20°C (68°F) to 25°C (77°F). July and August are the hottest and busiest months, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), and the sea is at its warmest. The sea is generally warm enough for swimming from May through October.

Kalamaki Beach

Is Kalamaki beach (Heraklion) very windy?

Kalamaki beach can experience strong northwest winds at times. These winds can create larger waves and make swimming conditions more challenging. It's a good idea to check the local forecast, as conditions can vary.

Kalamaki Beach

How do I get to Kalamaki beach from Heraklion town or airport?

Kalamaki beach is about 65 kilometers (around 40 miles) southwest of Heraklion. The easiest way to get there is by rental car or taxi, with the drive taking approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. Public transportation is limited; buses from Heraklion stop about 1 kilometer (0.62 miles) from the beach on the main road, requiring a walk or a short taxi ride to reach the village and beach.

Kalamaki Beach

Are there sunbeds and umbrellas for rent at Kalamaki beach, and what's the cost?

Yes, Kalamaki beach is well-organized, especially near the village, and offers sunbeds and umbrellas for rent. The cost for a set of loungers and an umbrella typically ranges from €5 to €10, depending on the specific establishment and the season. Some beachfront tavernas may offer them for free if you purchase food or drinks.

Kalamaki Beach

What is the sand like at Kalamaki beach in Heraklion?

Kalamaki beach has fine, golden sand. The beach stretches for about 2.5 kilometers (1.55 miles). While the sand is generally soft, it's worth noting that there are some flat, slippery rocks on the seabed in parts of the beach.

Kalamaki Beach

Can you see sea turtles at Kalamaki beach in Heraklion?

Yes, Kalamaki beach, as part of the larger Messara Bay, is a nesting site for the protected loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta). They typically lay their eggs during the summer months. Visitors are advised to be careful, especially at night, to avoid disturbing nests or frightening the turtles.

Kalamaki Beach

People Also Ask

Is Kalamaki beach (Heraklion) a quiet beach or is it very crowded?

Kalamaki beach is generally known for its relaxed and quieter atmosphere compared to some of Crete's more bustling tourist spots. While it has amenities and can get busier during peak season (July and August), it typically offers a more tranquil experience. If you walk towards Kommos beach to the southeast, it can be even more remote.

Kalamaki Beach

Kommos Beach

What's the difference between Kalamaki beach near Heraklion and Kalamaki beach near Chania?

It's important to distinguish between the two Kalamaki beaches in Crete. Kalamaki beach near Heraklion is on the south coast, in Messara Bay, known for its quieter, relaxed atmosphere and proximity to sites like Matala and Phaistos. Kalamaki beach near Chania is on the northwest coast, closer to Chania city, and is generally a more lively tourist resort area.

Kalamaki Beach

Are there any good beachfront tavernas or restaurants at Kalamaki beach, Heraklion?

Yes, Kalamaki beach has several beachfront tavernas and restaurants. These establishments offer fresh, local Cretan cuisine, including seafood, traditional dishes, and Greek staples. Dining with a sea view is a popular experience here.

Kalamaki Beach

Is Kalamaki (Heraklion) a good base for a beach holiday focused on relaxation?

Yes, Kalamaki in the Heraklion region is often described as a good destination for those seeking a quieter, more relaxed beach holiday. It offers a long sandy beach, a laid-back atmosphere, and is less crowded than some of the larger Cretan resorts, while still providing essential amenities.

Kalamaki Beach

What are some nearby beaches or attractions to visit from Kalamaki (Heraklion)?

Near Kalamaki beach (Heraklion), you can easily visit Kommos beach (known for its natural beauty and being a nudist-friendly option further along), the famous Matala beach with its caves (about 7 km away), and the ancient Minoan ruins of Phaistos (around 7.1 km inland). The traditional village of Kamilari is also nearby.

Kommos Beach

Matala

Are there water sports available at Kalamaki beach in Heraklion?

Yes, Kalamaki beach offers various water sports facilities. Visitors can typically find options for enjoying activities in the sea, though the availability might be less extensive than in larger, more commercialized resorts. Due to the loggerhead turtle nesting, some restrictions might apply to motorized water sports in certain areas or times.

Kalamaki Beach

Are there any specific tips for visiting Kalamaki beach, Heraklion, like what to bring?

When visiting Kalamaki beach in Heraklion, consider bringing water shoes due to the slippery rocks on the seabed in some areas. Sunscreen is essential due to the strong Cretan sun. If you plan to stay late, a windbreaker can be useful as it can get windy, especially in the afternoons. If you want to explore more secluded parts of the beach, you might need your own umbrella for shade.

Kalamaki Beach