Okay, beach lovers, listen up! Ever dreamed of finding a stretch of sand that feels like it’s all yours?
Well, I’ve got a Cretan surprise for you Vourdolakos Beach!
Vourdolakos Beach, also known as Chlia, is a beach that’ll make you feel like a true explorer.
It’s tucked away behind the rock of Psaroharako, just west of the small village of Tertsa.
Picture this: you’re 91km south of Heraklion, 54km southwest of Agios Nikolaos, in a spot that most tourists haven’t even heard of.
This isn’t just one beach it’s a series of beautiful bays with coarse gray sand, separated by rocky outcrops perfect for snorkeling.
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The water here?
Crystal clear and usually as calm as a millpond.
Getting here is part of the adventure.
You’ll need to navigate some dirt tracks, but trust me, it’s worth it.
As you arrive, you’ll see nothing but olive groves and a few greenhouses growing Crete’s unique bananas.
This is isolation at its finest no beach bars, no sunbeds, just you and nature.
Vourdolakos Beach Key Information
| Location | Heraklion Prefecture, East Crete, South Crete |
| Beach Composition | Coarse gray sand, Pebbles |
| Water | Blue, Clear, Usually calm |
| Beach Features | Multiple bays, Rocky outcrops |
| Amenities | None |
| Famous For | Isolation, Natural beauty |
| Activities | Swimming, Snorkeling, Spearfishing, Nudism |
| Historical Role | Part of traditional Cretan coastline |
| Surrounding Region | Olive groves, Banana greenhouses |
| Atmosphere | Quiet, Unspoiled, Natural |
| Dining | None on-site, Bring own food |
| Accessibility | Dirt track, 4×4 recommended |
| Period to Visit | Late spring to early fall |
| Demographics | Nature lovers, Adventure seekers |
Vourdolakos Beach Profile
Vourdolakos isn’t your typical postcard beach, and that’s what makes it special.
The sand here is coarse and gray, a stark contrast to the bright blue waters.
The sea gets deep fairly quickly, making it great for confident swimmers.
With several bays to choose from, you can always find a spot that feels like your own private beach.
Amenities
Let’s be real amenities at Vourdolakos are non existent.
There are no facilities, no snack bars, no rentals.
But that’s the beauty of it.
It’s just you, the sea, and the Cretan sun.
Pack everything you need for the day, including plenty of water and snacks.
Accommodations
While you can’t stay right on Vourdolakos Beach, the nearby village of Tertsa offers some basic accommodation options.
For a wider range of choices, look into staying in Myrtos or even further afield in Ierapetra.
Check out other Lassithi Beaches for more options in the area.
History and Significance
While Vourdolakos itself doesn’t have a rich recorded history, the surrounding area is steeped in Cretan culture.
The nearby village of Tertsa has been a quiet fishing community for generations.
This coastline has remained largely unchanged for centuries, giving you a glimpse into Crete’s unspoiled past.
Activities
Vourdolakos is a paradise for those who love natural beach activities.
The clear waters and rocky areas make it perfect for snorkeling and spearfishing.
Swimming in the calm sea is a joy, and the bays are great for exploring.
For the adventurous, it’s also nudist-friendly, so you can work on that all over tan.
Don’t forget your camera the landscape here is stunning and changes with the light throughout the day.
Dining
There are no dining options directly on Vourdolakos Beach, so come prepared.
Pack a picnic with local Cretan specialties olives, cheese, and fresh bread are always a good choice.
For sit down meals, you’ll need to head back to Tertsa or nearby villages.
Check out Cretorama for some great Cretan food recommendations in the area.
Best For Travelers
Vourdolakos is perfect for:
* Nature lovers who appreciate unspoiled beaches
* Couples looking for a romantic, quiet spot
* Snorkeling and spearfishing enthusiasts
* Nudists seeking a secluded area
* Photographers chasing unique coastal landscapes
* Anyone wanting to escape the tourist crowds and experience ‘real’ Crete
Vourdolakos Beach Map – Getting There
Getting to Vourdolakos requires a bit of effort, but that’s what keeps it special.
From Heraklion, drive south towards Viannos and then on to Tertsa.
From Tertsa, follow the dirt track west past the rock of Psaroharako.
A 4×4 vehicle is recommended for the last part of the journey.
Distances from Major Cities to Vourdolakos Beach:
- Chania: Approximately 230 km (143 miles), 3 hours 45 minutes drive
- Rethymnon: About 160 km (99 miles), 2 hours 45 minutes drive
- Heraklion: Around 91 km (57 miles), 1 hour 45 minutes drive
- Hersonissos: Roughly 105 km (65 miles), 2 hours drive
- Malia: About 110 km (68 miles), 2 hours 10 minutes drive
- Agios Nikolaos: Approximately 54 km (34 miles), 1 hour 15 minutes drive
- Ierapetra: Around 30 km (19 miles), 40 minutes drive
Note: These are approximate times for driving to the nearest point by car.
The last part of the journey requires a dirt track, so allow extra time and consider using a 4×4 vehicle.
There’s no public transportation to this remote location, so a rental car is necessary.
For the latest travel info and car rental options, check the official website of the Region of Crete.
Tips
1. Bring everything you need – there are no shops or facilities nearby.
2. Wear sturdy shoes for walking over the rocky areas between bays.
3. Pack plenty of water and sun protection – the Cretan sun is strong!
4. If you’re into photography, visit during golden hour for amazing shots.
5. Respect the environment – take all trash with you when you leave.
6. Be prepared for a clothing-optional environment in some areas.
For more stunning photos of Cretan beaches like Vourdolakos, follow Cretorama on Instagram!
Before you set off, make sure to check the Greek National Tourism Organization website for any travel updates or requirements.
Discoveries Around Vourdolakos Beach
| Attraction | Distance | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Tertsa beach | 0.9 km (0.56 miles) | Main beach of Tertsa village |
| Sidonia beach | 2.4 km (1.49 miles) | Beautiful beach with clear waters |
| Panagia Keralimeniotissa Monastery | 2.9 km (1.80 miles) | Historic monastery with sea views |
| Kalikovrechtis beach | 3 km (1.86 miles) | Quiet beach with pebbles |
| Xerofarago Gorge (Kalami ΙΙ) | 3.3 km (2.05 miles) | Scenic gorge for hiking enthusiasts |
| Panagia Keralimeniotissa Gorge (Kalami I) | 3.4 km (2.11 miles) | Another beautiful gorge for exploration |
| Faflagos beach | 3.7 km (2.30 miles) | Secluded beach with crystal waters |
| Vatos beach | 3.7 km (2.30 miles) | Small, peaceful beach nearby |
| Saint Demetrius church at Ano Kornias | 3.7 km (2.30 miles) | Historic church with local significance |
| Lapathos Gorge | 4.9 km (3.04 miles) | Impressive gorge with diverse flora |
What a sweet little beach! The water looks so blue and clean, and I love how it’s not super crowded. Hey, do you know if there’s any good spot around there to grab a cold drink or get some shade during the hot afternoon?
This beach looks really nice with all the small rocky spots where you can find some peace away from other people. The water seems super clear from the photos! I’m thinking about visiting next summer – can anyone tell me what the best time of day is to go there to avoid the crowds?
Hi Rebekka! I’m glad you are considering visiting Vourdolakos Beach next summer. The small rocky spots really do offer a peaceful escape from the crowds, especially if you go early in the morning or in the late afternoon. These times tend to be less crowded compared to the peak midday hours. Enjoy your trip and the crystal-clear waters!