Okay, beach lovers, I’m about to drop a truth bomb that might just change your entire Greek island game.
Itanos Beach is this incredible spot tucked away 96km east of Agios Nikolaos and 26km east of Sitia.
It’s right next to the famous palm forest of Vai, which is already a big deal in Crete.
The first time I stumbled upon Itanos, I felt like I’d discovered a secret portal to ancient Greece.
This place gets its name from an old city that used to be here, and let me tell you, it’s everywhere you look.
Imagine swimming over actual underwater ruins it’s like being in a real-life Atlantis!
Now, let’s talk about the star attractions the three bays of Erimoupolis.
These beaches are the stuff of dreams, each with its own personality.
To get here, you drive to the archaeological site and park up.
From there, it’s like a treasure hunt with short trails leading to each beach.
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The first beach is south of this cute little fort on a tiny peninsula.
It’s super chill, with whitish sand and calm waters that are perfect for a relaxing swim.
And get thisthere are scattered palm trees around for shade. It’s like your own private tropical paradise!
Beach number two is right in front of the parking lot.
It’s a mix of sand and rocks, making it ideal for snorkeling.
But the real showstopper?
It’s the third beach, hidden behind a hill north of the parking area.
This one’s the longest, with turquoise waters that’ll make your Instagram followers green with envy.
The sand here is super fine, and while it’s not decked out with fancy facilities, it’s become quite the hotspot for those in the know.
What makes Itanos really special is how it blends history and natural beauty.
You can literally go from exploring ancient ruins to diving into crystal-clear waters in minutes.
It’s perfect for history buffs, beach lovers, and anyone who wants to experience a slice of unspoiled Crete.
So whether you’re into archaeology, snorkeling, or just want to laze on a beautiful beach, Itanos has got you covered.
It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve discovered something truly special.
Itanos Beach Key Information
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Lassithi Prefecture, East Crete, South Crete |
| Beach Composition | Sand, some areas with rocks |
| Water | Turquoise, Blue, Normal depth, Usually calm |
| Beach Features | Three bays, Scattered palm trees, Underwater ruins |
| Amenities | Limited, Parking at archaeological site |
| Famous For | Archaeological site, Underwater ruins, Palm trees |
| Activities | Swimming, Snorkeling, Archaeological exploration |
| Historical Role | Site of ancient city Itanos |
| Surrounding Region | Near Vai palm forest, Archaeological sites |
| Atmosphere | Quiet, Natural, Historical |
| Dining | Limited nearby, Options in Vai and Palekastro |
| Accessibility | Paved road to site, Short trails to beaches |
| Period to Visit | Late spring to early autumn |
| Demographics | History enthusiasts, Nature lovers, Snorkeling fans |
Itanos Beach Profile
Itanos isn’t just one beach it’s a trio of sandy shores, each with its own charm.
The water here ranges from turquoise to deep blue, clear as crystal.
The sand varies from whitish to fine golden, perfect for beach walks.
The sea is usually calm, making it great for swimming and snorkeling.
One of the coolest features?
Palm trees dotting the landscape, offering natural shade.
Amenities
Itanos beaches are all about embracing nature in its raw form.
They’re not organized beaches, so don’t expect rows of sunbeds and umbrellas.
However, the natural beauty more than makes up for it.
There’s parking available near the archaeological site.
Remember to bring your own beach essentials like towels, water, and snacks.
Accommodations
While Itanos itself doesn’t have hotels right on the beach, there are options nearby.
The closest accommodations are in the Vai and Palekastro areas.
You’ll find a mix of small hotels, guesthouses, and vacation rentals.
For more choices, consider staying in Sitia, which is about a 30-minute drive away.
History and Significance
Itanos is a history lover’s dream come true.
The area was once home to the ancient city of Itanos, a significant port in Minoan and Roman times.
Parts of the ancient city can still be seen underwater, making for an incredible snorkeling experience.
The nearby archaeological site offers a glimpse into the area’s rich past.
It’s a unique blend of sun, sea, and ancient history that you won’t find in many places.
Activities
Swimming in the crystal-clear waters is a must-do at Itanos.
Snorkeling is particularly amazing here, especially over the underwater ruins.
Exploring the archaeological site on land offers a fascinating journey through time.
Beach hopping between the three bays is a fun way to spend the day.
For nature lovers, a visit to the nearby Vai palm forest is a great add-on to your beach day.
Dining
While there aren’t restaurants directly on the beaches, you’re not far from good eats.
The nearby areas of Vai and Palekastro offer tavernas serving up delicious Cretan cuisine.
Fresh seafood is a specialty in this coastal region.
For a wider variety of dining options, a trip to Sitia might be worth it.
Best For Travelers
Itanos is perfect for certain types of travelers:
History enthusiasts will love the blend of beach and ancient ruins.
Nature lovers will appreciate the unspoiled beauty and unique palm tree setting.
Snorkeling fans get the unique experience of exploring underwater ruins.
Photographers will find endless inspiration in the turquoise waters and historical sites.
It’s also great for those seeking a quieter, less touristy beach experience in Crete.
And for comprehensive information about everything Crete has to offer, from beaches to mountains to ancient ruins, visit Cretorama.
Itanos Beach Map – Getting There
Reaching Itanos requires a bit of effort, but it’s totally worth it.
The easiest way is to rent a car and drive.
From Agios Nikolaos, it’s about a 2-hour drive east.
If you’re coming from Sitia, it’s a much quicker 30-minute drive.
Follow the signs to the archaeological site of Itanos, where you can park.
From there, short walking trails lead to each of the three beaches.
Distances from Major Cretan Cities:
- Chania: Approximately 280 km (174 miles), about 4 hours 15 minutes drive
- Rethymnon: Around 230 km (143 miles), about 3 hours 30 minutes drive
- Heraklion: About 180 km (112 miles), roughly 2 hours 45 minutes drive
- Hersonissos: Approximately 165 km (103 miles), about 2 hours 30 minutes drive
- Malia: Around 155 km (96 miles), about 2 hours 20 minutes drive
- Agios Nikolaos: About 96 km (60 miles), roughly 1 hour 30 minutes drive
- Ierapetra: Approximately 110 km (68 miles), about 1 hour 45 minutes drive
Note: These are approximate distances and times.
Actual travel times may vary depending on traffic and road conditions.
The most convenient way to reach Itanos is by car.
Public transportation options are limited in this remote area, so renting a car is highly recommended.
The roads to Itanos are generally in good condition, but they can be winding as you get closer to the coast.
If you’re staying in Sitia, you might be able to arrange a taxi, but be sure to agree on the fare beforehand and arrange a pick up time.
For those relying on public transport, you might need to take a bus to Sitia and then arrange local transportation from there, which can be challenging.
Planning ahead is crucial when visiting this remote but rewarding destination.
Before planning your trip, make sure to check the official Crete government website for the latest travel updates and local regulations.
Tips
1. Bring snorkeling gear to explore the underwater ruins.
2. Pack a picnic as there are no food vendors on the beaches.
3. Wear comfortable shoes for walking between beaches and exploring the archaeological site.
4. Bring sun protection – while there are some palm trees, shade can be limited.
5. Visit early to have the beaches mostly to yourself, especially in peak season.
6. Combine your visit with a trip to the Vai palm forest for a full day out.
7. Respect the environment and historical sites – take only photos, leave only footprints.
For more amazing beaches in this part of Crete, check out our guide to Lassithi Beaches.
For stunning photos of Itanos and other Cretan gems, follow us on Instagram!
Discoveries Around Itanos Beach
| Attraction | Distance | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient Itanos | 0.2 km (0.12 miles) | Archaeological site with underwater ruins |
| Voulismata beach | 0.6 km (0.37 miles) | Nearby beach option |
| Mavros Kavos beach | 1.1 km (0.68 miles) | Another local beach |
| Vai palmgrove | 1.2 km (0.75 miles) | Famous palm forest |
| Psili Ammos beach at Vai | 1.6 km (0.99 miles) | Popular beach near palm forest |
| Church of Saint John at Vai | 1.6 km (0.99 miles) | Historic church |
| Kedromouri beach | 3.1 km (1.93 miles) | Another beach option |
| Tenda bays | 3.7 km (2.3 miles) | Series of small bays |
| Kokinos Kavos beach | 4 km (2.49 miles) | Red-colored beach |
| Gineka Spring | 4.8 km (2.98 miles) | Natural spring |
