Getting ready for a sun-kissed adventure in Crete is a must, and Ierapetra is the perfect destination to start with.
This southernmost city of Greece is a beach lover’s paradise, with its fine black pebbles and calm waters.
Located in the Lassithi Prefecture, Ierapetra is a great base for exploring the eastern coast of Crete.
The city has a rich history, with a mix of Greek, Roman, and Ottoman influences.
From swimming and sunbathing to water sports and scuba diving, Ierapetra has something for every type of traveler.
Ierapetra is located 35km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and is the southernmost city of Greece.
It is built in one of the warmest areas of Crete, which makes it very popular for holidays, even until the end of autumn.
The wider area of Ierapetra is famous for its beaches, stretching along a vast beachfront.
Almost all of them are covered by the characteristic fine black pebbles, which do not stick in the leg, and the sea is usually flat.
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Adjacent to the town there are three main beaches where you can swim.
Starting from the west, the first beach is Limanakia.
It is located west of the city, next to the old mosque.
The beach has coarse sand, rocky seabed in places, shallow waters, and is usually quiet.
Of course, here you will find anything you desire since the city is nearby.
Moreover, there is a channel in the middle of the beach, that stops in a small artificial salt lake.
After walking a short distance east, you will come to the Fort of Kales, which guards the harbor of Ierapetra.
Right next to the fort, you’ll find Apovathra Beach.
This beach has sandy shores and clear, shallow waters.
It is well-organized, with plenty of amenities for water sports and scuba diving.
It is the most well-prepared beach in the area.
Ierapetra Beach Key Information
| Location | Lassithi Prefecture, East Crete, South Crete, Ierapetra area |
| Beach Composition | Sand, Fine Pebbles |
| Water | Blue, Calm |
| Beach Features | Umbrellas, Beds, Showers, Lifeguards |
| Amenities | Accommodation options, Food and water, Sports facilities |
| Famous For | Beaches, History, Culture |
| Activities | Swimming, Sunbathing, Water sports, Hiking |
| Historical Role | Greek, Roman, Ottoman influences |
| Surrounding Region | Countryside, Mountains, Beaches |
| Atmosphere | Quiet, Welcoming |
| Dining | Traditional Cretan cuisine, Fresh seafood |
| Accessibility | Bus, Car, Parking, Handicap friendly |
| Period to Visit | Summer, Autumn |
| Demographics | Families, Couples, Solo travelers |
Ierapetra Beach Profile
The beach profile of Ierapetra is characterized by its fine black pebbles and calm waters.
The beach is well-organized, with umbrellas, beds, and water sports facilities.
The sea surface is usually flat, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
The beach features include showers, lifeguards, and blue flag certification.
Amenities
Ierapetra has a range of amenities, including accommodation options, food and water, sports facilities, and entertainment.
The city is handicap friendly, with paved roads and accessible beaches.
For more information on Lassithi Beaches, visit our Lassithi Beaches page.
Accommodations
Ierapetra has a range of accommodations, including hotels, apartments, and villas.
The city is a great base for exploring the surrounding area, with its quiet atmosphere and range of amenities.
You can find budget-friendly options, as well as luxury resorts, to suit your travel style.
To plan your trip to Crete, visit our website Cretorama for more information.
History and Significance
The surrounding region of Ierapetra is steeped in history, with a mix of Greek, Roman, and Ottoman influences.
The city is home to several historical landmarks, including the Fort of Kales and the Archaeological Collection of Ierapetra.
For more information on travel requirements, visit the Greek Tourism Website.
Activities
Ierapetra is a great destination for water sports and scuba diving.
The city is also a great base for hiking and exploring the surrounding countryside.
You can find tavernas and restaurants serving traditional Cretan cuisine.
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Dining
Ierapetra has a range of dining options, including tavernas, restaurants, and cafes.
The city is famous for its traditional Cretan cuisine, with dishes such as moussaka and souvlaki.
You can find fresh seafood and local produce at the markets and supermarkets.
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Best For Travelers
Ierapetra is a great destination for families, couples, and solo travelers.
The city is safe and welcoming, with a range of amenities and activities.
For more information on public transportation in Crete, visit the Lassithi Municipality Website.
Ierapetra Beach Map – Getting There
Ierapetra is accessible by bus or car, and there are several parking spots available.
The city is located 35km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and is the southernmost city of Greece.
For more information on visas and travel papers, visit the Region of Crete Website.
Distances from Major Cretan Cities
- Chania: 140 km, 87 miles, 2.5 hours
- Rethymnon: 120 km, 75 miles, 2 hours
- Heraklion: 100 km, 62 miles, 1.5 hours
- Hersonissos: 80 km, 50 miles, 1 hour
- Malia: 70 km, 43 miles, 45 minutes
- Agios Nikolaos: 35 km, 22 miles, 30 minutes
- Ierapetra: 0 km, 0 miles, 0 hours
Tips
Ierapetra is a great destination for swimming and sunbathing.
The surrounding area is also home to several hiking trails and historical landmarks.
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Discoveries Around Ierapetra Beach
| Destination | Distance |
| Church of Saint George at Ierapetra | 0.2 km, 0.1 miles |
| Napoleon’s house at Ierapetra | 0.2 km, 0.1 miles |
| Archaeological Collection of Ierapetra | 0.3 km, 0.2 miles |
| Fort Kalés at Ierapetra | 0.3 km, 0.2 miles |
| Church of Jesus Christ our Savior at Kato Mera (Ierapetra) | 0.3 km, 0.2 miles |
| Ierapetra Mosque | 0.3 km, 0.2 miles |
| The Roman Naumachia of Ierapetra | 0.5 km, 0.3 miles |
| Tziveri Limni pillbox | 1.3 km, 0.8 miles |
| Agios Andreas beach in Ierapetra | 1.5 km, 0.9 miles |
| Monastery of Axion Esti in Ierapetra | 2.4 km, 1.5 miles |
