Karavostasi Beach Istron

Karavostasi Beach In Kalo Chorio

Efi Chamalidi
7 Min Read

Ever stumbled upon a beach that feels like it’s straight out of a postcard?

Well, let me tell you about Karavostasi Beach in Crete.

It’s not your typical tourist hotspot, and that’s exactly what makes it special.

I first discovered Karavostasi Beach during a road trip through eastern Crete.

It’s tucked away in the village of Kalo Chorio, about 12 kilometers southeast of Agios Nikolaos. The moment I laid eyes on its long stretch of pebbles and sand, I knew I’d found something unique.

What struck me most was the contrast between the beach and its surroundings.

Tamarisk trees line the shore, offering natural shade – a godsend on hot summer days.

The sea here isn’t your typical calm Mediterranean waters. It’s got character, with a rocky bottom in places that makes for interesting snorkeling.

Getting to Karavostasi is part of the adventure.

I drove down a well-maintained asphalt road from Istron, which ends near some old warehouses called “chionas”.

These buildings tell a story of the beach’s past as a small port, which is how it got its name – “karavostasi” means “ship dock” in Greek.

✈️🌟Exclusive Crete Travel Deals✨🌍

What I love about this beach is its laid-back vibe.

It’s not as crowded as some of the more famous beaches nearby, like Agios Panteleimonas or Voulisma.

If you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax and soak in authentic Cretan coastal atmosphere, Karavostasi is your place.

Karavostasi Beach Key Information

CategoryInformation
LocationKalo Chorio, Mirabelo, East Crete
Beach CompositionSand, pebbles, rocks in places
WaterBlue, shallow, usually calm
Beach FeaturesLong beach, tamarisk trees
AmenitiesShowers, Blue Flag, nearby food/water
Famous ForOld warehouses (chionas)
ActivitiesSwimming, sunbathing, snorkeling
Historical RoleFormer small port
Surrounding RegionAgricultural area, archaeological site nearby
AtmosphereQuiet, less crowded
DiningOptions nearby, not on beach
AccessibilityPaved road, then dirt road
Period to VisitLate spring to early autumn
DemographicsFamilies, couples, solo travelers
Karavostasi Beach Key Information

Have you been to this location? Rate it now!

Vote count: 0 Rating: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Follow us to experience more!

Karavostasi Beach Profile

Karavostasi Beach is a mix of sand and pebbles, stretching for quite a distance along the coastline.

The water is a beautiful blue, but don’t expect entirely smooth sailing – there are rocks in some areas, which actually adds to the beach’s charm and marine life diversity.

Amenities

While Karavostasi isn’t packed with facilities, you’ll find the basics.

There are showers available, and it’s even been awarded a Blue Flag for its cleanliness.

Food and water are available nearby, so you won’t go hungry or thirsty during your beach day.

Accommodations

For those wanting to stay close to the beach, there are accommodation options in the vicinity. One of the restored chionas (old warehouses) now serves as a cozy tourist accommodation, offering a unique stay with a touch of history.

History and Significance

The beach has a fascinating history tied to local agriculture.

Those chionas I mentioned?

They were once used to store agricultural products before they were loaded onto boats.

This was back when road access to major cities was limited.

Today, you can see both ruined and restored chionas, giving the beach a sense of living history.

Activities

While Karavostasi isn’t a hub for water sports, it’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.

The rocky areas in the water make for interesting underwater exploration. For those who enjoy walks, the dirt road along the beach offers a pleasant stroll with great views.

Dining

While there aren’t restaurants directly on the beach, you can find places to eat in the nearby area.

I’d recommend packing a picnic to enjoy under the shade of the tamarisk trees – it’s a quintessential Cretan beach experience.

Best For Travelers

Karavostasi is ideal for travelers seeking a quieter, more authentic beach experience.

It’s great for families, couples, and solo travelers who want to avoid crowded tourist spots. History buffs will appreciate the beach’s past as a small port.

Karavostasi Beach Map – Getting There

To reach Karavostasi, take the asphalt road from Istron.

It’s easily accessible by car, which is the most convenient way to get there.

Just follow the road until you see the old warehouses, and you’ll know you’ve arrived.

Distances and Driving Times to Karavostasi Beach:

  • Chania: Approximately 195 km (121 miles), 2 hours 45 minutes drive
  • Rethymnon: About 140 km (87 miles), 2 hours drive
  • Heraklion: Around 80 km (50 miles), 1 hour 15 minutes drive
  • Hersonissos: Approximately 65 km (40 miles), 1 hour drive
  • Malia: About 50 km (31 miles), 45 minutes drive
  • Agios Nikolaos: Around 12 km (7.5 miles), 15 minutes drive
  • Ierapetra: Approximately 22 km (14 miles), 25 minutes drive

Note: These are approximate times for driving. Public buses are available from major towns to Agios Nikolaos, from where you’d need to take a taxi or rent a car to reach Karavostasi Beach.

Tips

  • Bring water shoes if you plan to swim – the rocky areas can be a bit tough on the feet.
  • Pack a picnic and plenty of water, especially if you plan to spend the whole day.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the most peaceful experience.
  • Don’t forget your camera – the contrast between the blue sea, the beach, and the old warehouses makes for great photos.

For more information about beaches in the Lassithi region, check out Lassithi Beaches on Cretorama. If you’re planning your trip and need to know about current travel requirements, the Greek National Tourism Organization has up-to-date information.

For more stunning photos of Cretan beaches, follow Cretorama on Instagram and Pinterest.

Discoveries Around Karavostasi Beach

Nearby AttractionDescriptionDistance
Agios NikolaosCharming coastal town12 km (7.5 miles)
Voulisma BeachPopular sandy beach3 km (1.9 miles)
EloundaLuxury resort area20 km (12.4 miles)
Spinalonga IslandHistoric fortress island25 km (15.5 miles)
IerapetraSouthernmost town in Europe22 km (13.7 miles)
Priniatikos PyrgosArchaeological site2 km (1.2 miles)
Milatos CaveHistoric cave site30 km (18.6 miles)
Kritsa VillageTraditional mountain village18 km (11.2 miles)
Lato Ancient CityDorian archaeological site25 km (15.5 miles)
Lasithi PlateauScenic mountain plateau40 km (24.9 miles)
Karavostasi Beach Neaby Attractions

Karavostasi Beach Weather

Karavostasi Beach FAQ

Is Karavostasi Beach suitable for children?

Karavostasi Beach can be suitable for children, but parents should be aware of the rocky areas in the water. The shallow entry and calm waters are good for kids, but water shoes are recommended

Are there any water sports available at Karavostasi Beach?

Karavostasi Beach doesn’t offer organized water sports activities. However, it’s a great spot for swimming and snorkeling due to its clear waters and interesting underwater landscape.

Is Karavostasi Beach accessible for people with mobility issues?

Access to Karavostasi Beach might be challenging for those with mobility issues. The beach is reached by a dirt road, and there are no specially designed facilities for disabled visitors.

What’s the best time of year to visit Karavostasi Beach?

The best time to visit Karavostasi Beach is from late May to early October when the weather is warm and ideal for swimming. July and August are the hottest months but also the busiest.

Can you camp at Karavostasi Beach?

Official camping is not allowed at Karavostasi Beach. However, there are accommodation options nearby, including a renovated warehouse that now serves as a guesthouse.

Are there any interesting historical sites near Karavostasi Beach?

Yes, the archaeological site of Priniatikos Pyrgos is located near Karavostasi Beach. Additionally, the old warehouses (chionas) on the beach itself offer a glimpse into the area’s agricultural and maritime history

Listen to the Review


🏷️ Save Today with Discounts Directly to your Mail 🏷️

🎁 Exclusive Hotel Deals by Cretorama.com 🎁

Share This Article
Leave a Comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *