Crete, Greece

Xerokampos Beaches

Overview

Tucked away on the far southeastern coast of Crete, Xerokampos is a paradise for those seeking a quiet and peaceful escape from the crowds. This remote area is celebrated for its raw, unspoiled natural beauty, characterized by dramatic mountains that sweep down to the sea. Visitors will discover a remarkable variety of beaches, from long stretches of fine sand to small, secluded coves, all meeting the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean.

The coastline offers a collection of unique beach experiences. For a classic day of sun and sand, the stunning Mazida Ammos Beach boasts white sands and shallow turquoise waters. A truly distinctive offering is Argilos Beach, famous for its natural clay cliffs where visitors can enjoy a natural spa treatment. Nearby, Alatsolimni Beach presents a rare landscape, fronting a salt lagoon that becomes a refuge for flamingos. For the more adventurous, the secluded Karoumes Beach is the ultimate reward after a scenic hike through a gorge.

While these highlights are captivating, the true magic of Xerokampos lies in its serene atmosphere and the simple pleasure of discovering your own private spot along its shores. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers and anyone looking to unwind in a tranquil setting. The area's peaceful environment makes it a wonderful choice for a simple, natural beach holiday. For a complete look at all the stunning locations, be sure to explore our longer list of the area's beaches.

FAQ

Is Xerokampos a good choice for a quiet beach holiday?

Yes, Xerokampos is an excellent choice for a quiet and peaceful beach holiday. It is a remote settlement on the far southeastern coast of Crete, known for its tranquility and isolation from mass tourism. The area has a number of pristine beaches with crystal-clear water, dramatic mountain backdrops, and a very relaxed atmosphere. You won't find bustling nightlife or large resorts here, making it ideal for visitors seeking to unwind and escape the crowds.

How do you get to Xerokampos?

The best way to reach Xerokampos is by car. It is located in a remote part of eastern Crete, and public transport is very limited. The drive from Heraklion Airport takes approximately three hours, while the journey from Sitia is about one hour. The roads leading to Xerokampos, particularly from Ziros and Zakros, are paved but winding, offering spectacular scenic views of the mountains and coastline. A rental car provides the necessary freedom to explore the various beaches and the surrounding region.

What are the beaches in Xerokampos like? Are they sandy?

Xerokampos boasts a variety of stunning beaches. The main beach, often called Mazida Ammos, is a long stretch of fine, golden sand with shallow, turquoise waters, making it great for relaxation and swimming. In addition to this main beach, you'll find a collection of smaller coves and beaches, some with white sand, some with small pebbles, and even one famous for its natural clay deposits (Argilos beach), where people enjoy natural spa treatments. The water is consistently described as crystal-clear and ideal for snorkeling.
Mazida Ammos Beach
Mazida Ammos Beach
Argilos Beach
Argilos Beach

Is Xerokampos suitable for families with children?

Yes, Xerokampos is generally very suitable for families with children. The main sandy beaches have shallow, calm waters with no strong currents, creating a safe environment for kids to play. The overall atmosphere is peaceful and relaxed. However, it's important to note that there are limited amenities and no organized water sports, so it's best for families looking for a simple, natural beach experience.

How windy does it get in Xerokampos?

Like many parts of Crete, especially on the south coast, Xerokampos can get windy. It is advisable to check the wind forecast before your visit, as strong winds can make a beach day less pleasant by whipping up the sand. However, on calm days, the beauty of the beaches is truly exceptional. The area's geography, with its various coves, may offer some shelter depending on the wind's direction.

What is the best time of year to visit Xerokampos?

The best time to visit Xerokampos is during the shoulder seasons, from May to June and from September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm, the sea is comfortable for swimming, and the area is less crowded than in the peak summer months of July and August. This allows for a more serene experience of the beaches and natural landscape.

Are there restaurants and shops in Xerokampos?

Xerokampos has a few traditional tavernas, some located right by the sea, offering authentic Cretan cuisine and fresh fish. There is also a small mini-market for basic necessities like bread, water, and snacks. However, for more extensive shopping, a pharmacy, a butcher, or an ATM, you will need to drive to the nearby village of Zakros, which is about a 15-20 minute drive away.

Is Xerokampos or Kato Zakros better for a beach holiday?

Both Xerokampos and Kato Zakros offer beautiful, remote beach experiences, but with slight differences. Xerokampos is more spread out and offers a greater variety of beaches, including long sandy stretches and secluded coves. Kato Zakros is a more compact settlement with a single, pleasant beach right in front of a line of tavernas, adjacent to a significant Minoan archaeological site. Xerokampos is often described as more of a pure beach paradise, while Kato Zakros combines the beach with history and the dramatic backdrop of the 'Gorge of the Dead'. The choice depends on whether your priority is a wider selection of beaches (Xerokampos) or the unique combination of beach, archaeology, and a charming seafront (Kato Zakros).

People Also Ask

Can you walk to the beaches from the accommodation in Xerokampos?

Yes, in many cases you can. Xerokampos is a small, spread-out settlement, and many of the available apartments, villas, and rooms for rent are located within a short walking distance of one of the area's beaches. Some accommodations offer stunning sea views and are just a few meters from the sand. However, as there are several distinct beaches, having a car is still recommended to explore all of them easily.

What is the 'clay beach' in Xerokampos?

The 'clay beach', officially named Argilos, is one of the unique beaches in Xerokampos. It is known for the natural clay found in the cliffsides bordering the beach. Visitors often mix this clay with seawater to create a mud-like paste and apply it to their skin, enjoying a natural, open-air spa treatment before rinsing off in the sea. It's a well-known local quirk and a memorable experience.
Argilos Beach
Argilos Beach

Are there any nudist beaches in Xerokampos?

Yes, Xerokampos is known to be nudism-friendly. While not officially designated, some of the more secluded coves and the western part of the main beach are commonly used by naturists. Argilos beach is also a popular spot for nude sunbathing. The area's remote and uncrowded nature provides a comfortable environment for those who prefer to sunbathe nude.
Argilos Beach
Argilos Beach

What is there to do in Xerokampos besides going to the beach?

While Xerokampos is primarily a beach destination, its dramatic landscape offers opportunities for other activities. The area is excellent for hiking, with nearby gorges like the Xerokampos Gorge (Lamnoni) and the famous 'Gorge of the Dead' in Kato Zakros. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling. The region's remote, winding roads also offer stunning drives for those who enjoy exploring by car. It is a destination for nature lovers and those seeking peace, rather than extensive tourist activities.

Beaches for Every Taste

Dog Friendly Beaches in Xerokampos

Sand Beaches in Xerokampos

Nudist Beaches in Xerokampos

Local gems for everyone

Explore More Local Beaches

📍 20.8km - Xerokampos
Sitia Beach

Sitia Beach

Sitia Beach is a sandy beach located in the port town of Sitia, i...

📍 19.6km - Xerokampos
Dragon's Beach (Ammoudi)

Dragon's Beach (Ammoudi)

Dragon's Beach (Ammoudi) is a stunning beach located in the south...

📍 21.2km - Xerokampos
Diaskari Beach

Diaskari Beach

Diaskari Beach is a picturesque location known for its easy acces...

📍 22.7km - Xerokampos
Makry Gialos Beach

Makry Gialos Beach

Makry Gialos Beach is a long beach located in Crete. It is known ...

📍 23.4km - Xerokampos
Kalamokanias

Kalamokanias

Kalamokanias is a beach located next to Makrygialos beach. It is ...

📍 21.7km - Xerokampos
Lagoufa Beach

Lagoufa Beach

Lagoufa Beach is situated within the Analipsi Municipal Unit. Thi...

📍 23.1km - Xerokampos
Limanaki Beach

Limanaki Beach

Limanaki Beach is a picturesque sandy beach located in a serene s...

📍 24.4km - Xerokampos
Koutsoureli Beach

Koutsoureli Beach

Koutsoureli Beach, located in the Analipsis region of Makri Gialo...

The fastest way to find the best Xerokampos Beaches

Xerokampos Beaches Map

Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Xerokampos: Weather Today

📅 Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Today is a beautiful day for a visit to the beach, perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying the coastal scenery. With a maximum air temperature of 24.4 °C and mostly clear skies, you will find it very pleasant to relax on the sand. The UV Index is 8.25, so be sure to use plenty of protection while outdoors. While the air is warm, the sea temperature is 19.6 °C, which is quite refreshing and not yet suitable for comfortable swimming. You can expect calm conditions with only gentle breezes, making it an ideal time for a peaceful walk along the shore. The water remains relatively steady, ensuring a tranquil atmosphere for anyone looking to unwind by the water.
🌬️

Air

Low / High19.6°C/24.4°C
Feels Like (High)27.5°C
🌊

Sea

Sea Temperature19.6 °C
Wave Height0.9 m
🌧️

Rain

Rain Chance0%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
🌞

Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:13/20:09
Sunshine Hours13.2 hrs
UV Index8.25
Cloud Cover12%
💨

Wind

Speed9.7 km/h
Gusts25.2 km/h
DirectionS

Find your perfect beach with our expertly crafted lists

Lists

Top 10 Gay Beaches in Greece
Top 10 Gay Beaches in Greece

More Beaches Nearby

Explore More

Greece
Greece Beaches
Crete
Crete Beaches