Is Kissamos a good base for a beach holiday in Crete?
Yes, Kissamos is considered an excellent base for a beach holiday in Crete, especially for exploring the famous beaches of West Crete like Balos, Falassarna, and Elafonissi. The town itself has its own beaches and provides good access to many others by car or boat trips departing from Kissamos port.
What are the beaches in Kissamos town like?
Kissamos town has a few beaches. Mavros Molos is the main town beach; it's sandy with shallow waters, making it ideal for families. It's organized with sunbeds, umbrellas, and nearby tavernas. Telonio beach is another option, located near the town's pedestrian road; it's a mix of pebbles and sand and is generally less organized but close to amenities. There's also a longer stretch of pebbly beach east of the town.
Can you swim at Kissamos town beaches?
Yes, you can swim at the beaches in Kissamos town, such as Mavros Molos and Telonio. Mavros Molos is particularly popular for swimming due to its sandy bottom and shallow waters. The water is generally calm, but it can get wavy if there are strong north winds.
How do you get to Balos Lagoon from Kissamos?
The most popular way to get to Balos Lagoon from Kissamos is by a daily boat trip from the port of Kissamos. These boat trips often include a stop at Gramvousa Island. Alternatively, you can drive a car, preferably a 4x4, via a dirt track road from the village of Kaliviani, followed by a 20-30 minute hike down to the beach.
Are there hotels directly on the beach in Kissamos?
Yes, there are several hotels and apartments located directly on or very close to the beaches in Kissamos, particularly along Mavros Molos beach and the coastline extending eastward. Options range from family-run guesthouses to larger hotels with beach access and sea views.
Are the beaches near Kissamos sandy or pebbly?
The beaches in and around Kissamos offer a variety. Mavros Molos, the main town beach, is sandy. Falassarna and Elafonissi, popular nearby beaches, are famous for their beautiful sand (Elafonissi has pinkish sand). Balos Lagoon also features white and pinkish sand. However, some other beaches in the Kissamos area, like parts of Telonio or smaller coves, can be pebbly or a mix of sand and pebbles.
Which beaches near Kissamos are best for families with children?
Mavros Molos beach in Kissamos town is ideal for families due to its fine sand and shallow waters. Falassarna beach is also family-friendly with its vast sandy expanse and organized sections. Elafonissi, with its shallow, warm lagoons and pink sand, is another excellent choice for families, though it's a bit further by car.
Are there organized beaches with sunbeds and umbrellas in Kissamos?
Yes, many beaches in and near Kissamos are organized. Mavros Molos, the main beach in Kissamos town, offers sunbeds, umbrellas, and nearby cafes. Falassarna beach is also well-organized with similar facilities. Even the more remote Balos Lagoon has some sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, though facilities are more limited.
What's the best time of year for a beach holiday in Kissamos?
The best time for a beach holiday in Kissamos is generally from late spring (May) to early autumn (October). June to September offer the warmest sea temperatures and sunniest weather, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. May and October can also be pleasant with fewer crowds, though the sea might be cooler.
Are Kissamos beaches usually windy?
Kissamos beaches can be affected by winds, particularly north winds, which can create waves. Mavros Molos beach is somewhat sheltered from west winds. Falassarna can sometimes be windy, making it popular for windsurfing. It's always a good idea to check the local wind forecast, as conditions can vary.
Are there quiet, less crowded beaches near Kissamos?
Yes, while Kissamos is a gateway to popular beaches, you can find quieter spots. East of Kissamos town, the long stretch of beach towards Nopigia (including Livadia and Korfalonas) can be less crowded. Sfinari Beach and Drapanias Beach are also known as more tranquil options. Exploring smaller coves like Damialis can also lead to more secluded experiences.
Is it better to stay in Kissamos or Chania for beaches?
Both Kissamos and Chania are good bases for accessing beaches, but they offer different experiences. Kissamos is a smaller, quieter town and provides more direct access to the famous western beaches like Balos, Falassarna, and Elafonissi. Chania is a larger, more vibrant city with its own nearby beaches and a charming Old Town, but reaching the westernmost beaches requires a longer drive. If your priority is easy access to Crete's most iconic western beaches, Kissamos might be more convenient. If you prefer a livelier city atmosphere with good beach options, Chania is a great choice.
What is the water like at the beaches near Kissamos?
The water at the famous beaches near Kissamos, like Balos, Elafonissi, and Falassarna, is renowned for being crystal clear and having beautiful turquoise hues. The main town beach, Mavros Molos, also has clear and shallow waters, making it suitable for families. Water quality is generally very good.
Do I need a car to visit the beaches around Kissamos?
While Kissamos town beaches are accessible on foot if you're staying locally, a car is highly recommended for exploring the wider array of beaches in the region, such as Falassarna and Elafonissi. For Balos Lagoon, you can take a boat trip from Kissamos port or drive part of the way (preferably with a 4x4) and then hike. Public transport options exist but offer less flexibility for reaching more remote beaches.
Are there any local quirks or things to know about Kissamos beaches?
One local tip for visiting beaches like Falassarna is to be mindful of windy days, as the fine sand can be blown around. For Balos, accessing it by car involves a rough dirt road and a hike, so be prepared. Some smaller, less organized beaches might not have facilities, so it's wise to bring your own water and snacks. Also, the main beach in Kissamos, Mavros Molos, is built on the site of the ancient port of Kissamos, adding a historical touch to your swim.
