Salamia Beach

Okay, beach lovers, I’m about to let you in on a secret that’ll make you feel like a true Cretan explorer.

Picture this: a beach so remote, so untouched, that you might just feel like the first person to ever set foot on its sands.

Welcome to Salamia Beach, a slice of paradise that’s about as far from the tourist trail as you can get.

Located 74km south of Heraklion, snuggled between Agios Ioannis and Tripiti, Salamia is the kind of place that makes you work for its beauty.

There are no roads leading directly to this beach, which means it’s one of the most isolated spots in all of Crete.

To get here, you’ve got two options: hop on a boat or lace up your hiking boots for an easy walk from Agios Ioannis, crossing the beach of Avolakias along the way.

Now, let’s talk about that name.

“Salamia” comes from the Italian word “salamentum,” which means brine.

And true to its salty roots, locals still gather salt from this area.

It’s like stepping back in time to when people lived off the land (or in this case, the sea).

One of the coolest features of Salamia is the Salamiano Gorge, one of several canyons in the Asterousia Mountains, which spills out right onto the beach.

At the gorge’s exit, you’ll find a series of beaches with coarse sand, perfect for spreading out your towel.

And if you’re into botanics, you’ll love the small grove of wild olive trees that dot the area.

Swimming and fishing here feels like you’ve discovered your own private paradise.

And if you’re into naturism, well, you’ve hit the jackpot.

It’s so quiet here that you’re unlikely to bump into another soul.

But Salamia isn’t just about beach life.

This area, along with the surrounding gorges (Flomias, Koumos, Gerakia, Goula, Eligia, to name a few), is a crucial habitat for rare birds and plants.

It’s one of the few places left in Crete that remains genuinely untouched by human presence.

For more amazing beaches in this area, check out our guide to Heraklion Beaches.

And for all things Crete, Cretorama has got you covered.
 

Salamia Beach Key Information

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Salamia Beach Profile

Salamia Bay isn’t just one beach, but a series of small beaches with coarse sand.

The water here is that classic Mediterranean blue that looks almost too good to be real.

Thanks to its isolated location, the sea is usually calm – perfect for a peaceful swim.

The beach is spacious, giving you plenty of room to spread out and claim your spot.

And let’s not forget the backdrop the exit of Salamiano Gorge and a grove of wild olive trees give the whole place a ‘lost world’ vibe.
 

Amenities

Let’s be real Salamia Bay is all about natural beauty, not fancy facilities.

There are no beach bars, loungers, or umbrellas here.

The wild olive trees provide some natural shade, which is a godsend on hot days.

This is a place to embrace your inner Robinson Crusoe pack everything you need for the day.

For the most up to date information on facilities in the area, check the Heraklion Municipality website.
 

Accommodations

Salamia Bay isn’t a resort-style beach, so don’t expect hotels on the sand.

The closest accommodations would be in nearby villages like Agios Ioannis or Kapetaniana.

For the adventurous, camping might be an option, but always check local regulations and practice Leave No Trace principles.
 

History and Significance

While Salamia Bay itself doesn’t have a long recorded history, the surrounding area is steeped in natural and cultural significance.

The name “Salamia” comes from the Italian word for brine, reflecting the area’s long history of salt gathering.

The Asterousia Mountains and their gorges have been shaping this landscape for millennia. 

The area’s isolation has made it a crucial habitat for rare species of birds and plants, giving it immense ecological importance.
 

Activities

Swimming is obviously top of the list here.

The calm, clear waters are perfect for a refreshing dip.

Fishing is popular, with the isolated location providing a peaceful environment for anglers.

Hiking is a must, whether you’re walking from Agios Ioannis or exploring the nearby gorges.

Birdwatching can be amazing, with the area being home to many rare species.

Photography enthusiasts will love capturing the untouched landscapes and unique flora.
 

Dining

Salamia Bay keeps things simple in the food department as in, there are no dining options on the beach itself.

Your best bet is to pack a picnic and enjoy it with a side of stunning views.

For proper meals, you’ll need to head back to nearby villages like Agios Ioannis or Kapetaniana.
 

Best For Travelers

Salamia Bay is perfect for:

– Nature lovers who appreciate untouched landscapes and unique ecosystems

– Adventure seekers looking to explore truly remote beaches

– Hikers who enjoy combining beach time with trail exploration

– Naturists seeking a private, judgment-free environment

– Photographers and artists inspired by raw, natural beauty

It’s less suitable for those seeking amenities or easy access.
 

Salamia Beach Map – Getting There

To reach Salamia Beach:

Option 1: Take a boat from a nearby coastal village.

Option 2: Hike from Agios Ioannis, crossing Avolakias beach.

There’s no public transport directly to the beach, so you’ll need to arrange private transportation to the starting point of your hike or boat ride.
 

Distances and driving times from major Cretan cities to Salamia Beach:

• Chania: Approximately 220 km (137 miles), 3 hours 45 minutes drive
• Rethymnon: About 160 km (99 miles), 2 hours 45 minutes drive
• Heraklion: Around 100 km (62 miles), 2 hours drive
• Hersonissos: Roughly 115 km (71 miles), 2 hours 15 minutes drive
• Malia: About 125 km (78 miles), 2 hours 30 minutes drive
• Agios Nikolaos: Approximately 155 km (96 miles), 3 hours drive
• Ierapetra: Around 135 km (84 miles), 2 hours 45 minutes drive

Note: These are approximate times for driving to the nearest village.

From there, you’ll need to hike or take a boat to reach Salamia Bay.

There’s no public transport to the immediate area, so renting a car is necessary.

A 4×4 vehicle is recommended for the final stretches of road.

For the most current road conditions, you can check the Greek National Tourism Organization website.

For the most up to date information on transportation in Crete, check the official website of the Region of Crete.
 

Tips

1. Pack everything you need: There are no facilities here, so bring plenty of water, food, and sun protection.

2. Wear good shoes: If you’re hiking in, sturdy footwear is a must.

3. Respect the environment: This is a pristine area. Take all trash with you and don’t disturb the wildlife.

4. Check the weather: In case of hiking, make sure conditions are suitable before setting out.

5. Inform someone of your plans: Given the remote location, it’s wise to let someone know where you’re going.

6. Bring a camera: The untouched beauty here is truly photo worthy.

For more beautiful photos of Cretan beaches, follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.

For more information about traveling in Greece, including entry requirements and tourist rights, visit the Greek National Tourism Organization website.
 

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