Ever heard of Koutsounari?
No?
Well, buckle up because this stretch of coastline is about to become your new obsession!
Koutsounari is this amazing little seaside village just 6km east of Ierapetra and 43km southeast of Agios Nikolaos.
Picture this: a green hill dotted with olive groves and pine trees, and just a kilometer away, one of the longest beaches in Crete.
The first time I stumbled upon Koutsounari, I felt like I’d discovered a secret paradise.
This place is all about that laid-back, authentic Greek vibe you’ve been dreaming of.
Now, let’s talk about the star of the show the Long Beach of Agios Ioannis.
This beauty stretches for a whopping 5km, making it one of Crete’s longest beaches.
The sand here is this cool grayish color, typical of southern Crete, and it’s wide enough that you never feel crowded.
Scattered along the beach are these awesome tamarisk trees that provide natural shade.
If you’re looking for a bit more action, parts of the beach near the hotels are organized with all the amenities you need.
But here’s the kicker walk a bit to the east, and you’ll likely have the beach all to yourself.
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At the eastern end, there’s this cute little bay called Psaropoula.
It’s got soft sand, calm waters, and it’s perfect for snorkeling.
Just past Psaropoula, there’s another small cove with a well-organized beach called Villa Despoti.
It’s got everything from umbrellas to water sports, and these big rocks on the sides that are perfect for jumping into the sea.
But wait, there’s more! If you visit in autumn, you might catch a glimpse of rare white sand lilies.
These delicate flowers mark the end of summer and are protected, so remember to look but don’t touch!
Koutsounari is perfect for those who want a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Whether you’re a family looking for safe, shallow waters, a couple seeking a romantic sunset walk, or a solo traveler wanting to explore, this place has got you covered.
Koutsounari Beach Key Information
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Lassithi Prefecture, East Crete, South Crete, Ierapetra area |
| Beach Composition | Sand, Pebbles, Fine Pebbles |
| Water | Blue, Normal depth, Usually calm |
| Beach Features | 5km long, Tamarisk trees, White sand lilies (autumn) |
| Amenities | Umbrellas/beds, Sports, Showers, Blue Flag |
| Famous For | One of Crete’s longest beaches, Natural beauty |
| Activities | Swimming, Snorkeling, Water sports, Beach walks |
| Historical Role | Traditional agricultural area |
| Surrounding Region | Olive groves, Pine trees, Thripti Range |
| Atmosphere | Relaxed, Authentic, Family-friendly |
| Dining | Local tavernas, Beachfront restaurants |
| Accessibility | Bus services, Paved road |
| Period to Visit | Late spring to early autumn |
| Demographics | Families, Couples, Nature lovers, Beach enthusiasts |
Koutssounari Beach Profile
The Long Beach of Agios Ioannis is a 5km stretch of coastline that’ll make your jaw drop.
The sand here is this unique grayish color, coarse but comfortable to walk on.
The water is a beautiful shade of blue and usually calm, perfect for swimming.
Along the beach, you’ll find spots with tamarisk trees offering natural shade.
The eastern part of the beach, including Psaropoula and Villa Despoti, has softer sand and is great for snorkeling.
Amenities
Koutsounari’s beaches are well-equipped for a comfortable day out.
You’ll find umbrellas and sunbeds for rent in the organized sections.
There are showers available to rinse off after your swim.
For the active types, there are water sports facilities at Psaropoula and Villa Despoti.
The beach has been awarded the Blue Flag, indicating high environmental and quality standards.
Accommodations
Koutsounari offers a range of places to stay, from cozy guesthouses to larger hotels.
There are several hotels right along the beach, perfect for those who want to wake up to sea views.
For a more budget-friendly option, there’s a camping site nearby.
If you prefer a local feel, consider staying in the village itself, just a short walk from the beach.
History and Significance
While Koutsounari might not have ancient ruins, it’s steeped in the traditional Cretan way of life.
The village and surrounding area have been agricultural communities for generations.
The nearby Thripti Range has been important for local shepherds and farmers for centuries.
The beach area, with its rare sand lilies, plays a role in local biodiversity conservation efforts.
Activities
Swimming in the calm, clear waters is a must-do at Koutsounari.
Snorkeling is particularly great at Psaropoula with its rocky bottom.
For the adventurous, water sports are available at the organized beaches.
Taking long walks along the 5km stretch of beach is a great way to unwind.
Nature lovers can try spotting the rare white sand lilies in autumn (remember, no touching!).
Dining
Koutsounari and the surrounding area offer a taste of authentic Cretan cuisine.
There are several tavernas in the village serving local specialties.
Along the beach, you’ll find restaurants offering fresh seafood and Greek favorites.
Don’t miss trying local olive oil the area is known for its olive groves.
Best For Travelers
Koutsounari is perfect for several types of travelers:
Families will love the long, safe beach and shallow waters.
Couples can enjoy romantic walks and stunning sunsets.
Nature lovers will appreciate the diverse landscape and unique flora.
Beach enthusiasts get to experience one of Crete’s longest beaches.
It’s also great for those seeking a quieter, more authentic Greek beach experience.
And for comprehensive information about everything Crete has to offer, from beaches to mountains to ancient ruins, visit Cretorama.
Koutsounari Beach Map – Getting There
Reaching Koutsounari is pretty straightforward.
If you’re driving from Agios Nikolaos, it’s about a 45 minute drive south.
From Ierapetra, it’s a quick 10 minute drive east.
There are regular bus services from both Agios Nikolaos and Ierapetra to Koutsounari.
Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the surrounding area at your own pace.
Distances from Major Cretan Cities:
- Chania: Approximately 240 km (149 miles), about 3 hours 30 minutes drive
- Rethymnon: Around 190 km (118 miles), about 2 hours 45 minutes drive
- Heraklion: About 120 km (75 miles), roughly 1 hour 45 minutes drive
- Hersonissos: Approximately 105 km (65 miles), about 1 hour 30 minutes drive
- Malia: Around 95 km (59 miles), about 1 hour 20 minutes drive
- Agios Nikolaos: About 43 km (27 miles), roughly 45 minutes drive
- Ierapetra: Approximately 6 km (3.7 miles), about 10 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 Koutsounari is by car.
There are regular bus services from Agios Nikolaos and Ierapetra to Koutsounari, making it accessible by public transport.
However, buses might be less frequent than to more popular destinations, so check schedules in advance.
Taxis are available from Ierapetra and can be a good option for shorter trips.
The roads to Koutsounari are generally in good condition, but can be winding in some sections, especially as you approach the coast.
If you’re relying on public transport, consider staying in Ierapetra and making day trips to Koutsounari, as you’ll have more frequent connections to other parts of Crete from there.
Before planning your trip, make sure to check the official Crete government website for the latest travel updates and local regulations.
Tips
1. Bring water shoes if you plan to explore the rockier parts of the beach.
2. Pack a picnic to enjoy under the tamarisk trees.
3. Visit in autumn for a chance to see the rare white sand lilies.
4. Bring snorkeling gear to explore the underwater life at Psaropoula.
5. Try local olive oil – it’s some of the best in Crete.
6. Take a day trip to nearby Ierapetra or the Thripti Range for a change of scenery.
7. Respect the environment – remember the sand lilies are protected.
For more amazing beaches in this part of Crete, check out our guide to Lassithi Beaches.
For stunning photos of Koutsounari and other Cretan gems, follow us on Instagram!
Discoveries Around Koutsounari Beach
| Attraction | Distance | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Vothoni Roman Fish Tanks | 1.7 km (1.06 miles) | Ancient Roman fish farming site |
| Katharades beach | 2 km (1.24 miles) | Nearby beach option |
| Kakia Skala beach | 2 km (1.24 miles) | Another local beach |
| Panagia Paplinou Monastery at Vainia | 2.4 km (1.49 miles) | Historic monastery with views |
| Ferma beaches | 3.5 km (2.17 miles) | Series of beautiful beaches |
| Christ Savior monastery in Psathi | 3.9 km (2.42 miles) | Peaceful monastery in scenic location |
| Giorgakis beach | 4.3 km (2.67 miles) | Another beach option nearby |
| Vainia Tower | 4.5 km (2.80 miles) | Historic tower with views |
| Milonas Waterfall and Gorge | 4.7 km (2.92 miles) | Scenic waterfall and hiking area |
| Agia Fotia beach at Ierapetra | 5.1 km (3.17 miles) | Popular beach near Ierapetra |
