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.

Top Beaches

Xerokampos Main Beach

This is the most convenient beach, located right in the heart of the settlement with easy access to tavernas and shade. As the central hub, it offers a long, welcoming stretch of golden sand and exceptionally calm, clear waters that are perfect for a relaxing swim. The beach embodies the peaceful, unhurried atmosphere of Xerokampos itself, set against a dramatic backdrop of bare, rocky mountains. Its fine sand and shallow entry make it particularly inviting, offering a sense of gentle and accessible beauty. While other nearby beaches offer wilder experiences, this is where the tranquil spirit of the village truly meets the sea. It provides a classic and serene Cretan beach day, capturing the quiet charm that defines this remote corner of the island.

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

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

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

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.