Okay, I’m about to let you in on a little secret.
There’s this beach in Crete that’s so chill, you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled into your own private paradise.
Welcome to East Tsigounas, also known as Petrakis Beach.
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Located just 1 km east of Lendas and 76 km south of Heraklion, this quiet stretch of coastline sits at the foot of the rugged Asterousia Mountains.
It’s like nature decided to throw a party and invited the sea, mountains, and sky!
Getting here is part of the adventure.
From Lendas, you’ll drive east on a road that leads to the local port.
Keep your eyes peeled for the turnoff it’s not exactly Times Square out here!
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Once you arrive, you’ll find a small hamlet with 2-3 taverns, a few houses, and a long beach covered in beautiful round pebbles.
It’s the kind of place where you can hear the waves and your own thoughts.
One part of the beach is called Ostria, named after a local small hotel.
It’s like the beach has its own neighborhoods!
For more information about beaches in this area, check out our guide to Heraklion Beaches.
And if you’re planning a trip to Crete, Cretorama has all the info you need.
Petrakis Beach Key Information
| Location | Heraklion Prefecture, Central Crete, South Crete |
| Beach Composition | Round pebbles |
| Water | Blue, usually calm |
| Beach Features | Long stretch, tamarisk trees |
| Amenities | Taverns, umbrellas, accommodation nearby |
| Famous For | Quiet atmosphere, natural beauty |
| Activities | Swimming, snorkeling, spearfishing, relaxing |
| Historical Role | Near ancient Levena |
| Surrounding Region | Asterousia Mountains, Lendas |
| Atmosphere | Peaceful, authentic |
| Dining | Local taverns serving Greek cuisine |
| Accessibility | Paved road, car recommended |
| Period to Visit | Late spring to early autumn |
| Demographics | Nature lovers, couples, budget travelers |
Petrakis Beach Profile
Petrakis Beach is a long stretch of pebble beach that’s perfect for those who prefer a more natural setting.
The pebbles are smooth and round, making them comfortable to walk on and great for a bit of stone skipping!
The water here is a beautiful blue color and usually calm, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
The sea gets deep fairly quickly, so it’s perfect for those who like to dive right in.
One of the best features of this beach is the line of tamarisk trees along the shore.
These provide natural shade and are perfect spots for setting up camp or just relaxing out of the sun.
Amenities
While Petrakis Beach isn’t a fancy resort beach, it’s got what you need for a comfortable day by the sea.
The local taverns offer some umbrellas, so you can snag a bit of shade if you’re not into the whole tree thing.
There are food and drink options available at the taverns, so you won’t go hungry or thirsty.
Just remember to bring cash this isn’t exactly a credit card hotspot!
For those who like to rough it a bit, the beach is camping-friendly.
Just remember to respect the environment and leave no trace.
Accommodations
If you’re looking to stay overnight, you’ve got a few options. Some of the taverns offer rooms for rent, giving you a chance to wake up to the sound of the waves.
There’s also a small hotel called Ostria nearby.
It’s not the Ritz, but it’s clean, comfortable, and has that authentic Greek island vibe.
For those who prefer to sleep under the stars, camping on the beach is allowed.
Just make sure to set up near the tamarisk trees for some natural shelter.
History and Significance
While Petrakis Beach itself doesn’t have a long recorded history, the surrounding area is steeped in ancient tales.
The nearby town of Lendas was once the site of an important Asklepieion a healing temple dedicated to Asclepius, the Greek god of medicine.
The Asterousia Mountains looming over the beach have been home to hermits and monks for centuries, adding a touch of spiritual significance to the landscape.
Today, Petrakis Beach represents a slice of old Crete a place where time seems to slow down and the simple pleasures of sun, sea, and good food take center stage.
Activities
Swimming is obviously a top activity here.
The clear, blue waters are perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
Snorkeling and spearfishing are popular thanks to the rich marine life.
Bring your own gear though this isn’t a resort with rental shops.
For the more active, the surrounding area offers great opportunities for hiking.
The trails in the Asterousia Mountains provide stunning views of the coastline.
And let’s not forget the ultimate beach activity relaxing.
Whether it’s reading a book under a tamarisk tree or working on your tan, East Tsigounas is perfect for unwinding.
Dining
The taverns at Petrakis Beach are the heart of the local dining scene.
Don’t expect fancy menus or dress codes this is laid back, authentic Greek cuisine at its best.
Fresh seafood is a specialty here.
The catch of the day is often grilled to perfection and served with a squeeze of lemon and a drizzle of local olive oil.
Don’t miss out on trying some local specialties.
Dakos (a Cretan rusk topped with tomato and cheese) and kalitsounia (small cheese pies) are perfect for a light lunch.
Wash it all down with a glass of raki, the local spirit. Just be careful it’s stronger than it tastes!
Best For Travelers
East Tsigounas is perfect for travelers who want to experience a more authentic, low key side of Crete. It’s ideal for:
– Nature lovers who appreciate unspoiled beaches and rugged landscapes
– Peace seekers looking to escape the crowds of more touristy areas
– Adventure enthusiasts interested in hiking, snorkeling, or spearfishing
– Couples seeking a romantic, quiet getaway
– Budget travelers who don’t need luxury amenities
It’s less suitable for families with young children who need lots of facilities, or for those seeking a lively nightlife scene.
Petrakis Beach Map – Getting There
To reach Petrakis Beach, you’ll need to make your way to Lendas first. From there:
Take the road heading east out of Lendas towards the local port.
After about 1 km, you’ll see the turnoff for East Tsigounas/Petrakis Beach.
Follow this road to reach the beach.
There’s no public transport directly to the beach, so you’ll need to rent a car or take a taxi from a larger town.
The roads can be winding, so drive carefully!
Distances and driving times from major Cretan cities to Petrakis Beach:
- Chania: Approximately 190 km (118 miles), 3 hours 30 minutes drive
- Rethymnon: About 140 km (87 miles), 2 hours 45 minutes drive
- Heraklion: Around 76 km (47 miles), 1 hour 45 minutes drive
- Hersonissos: Roughly 90 km (56 miles), 2 hours drive
- Malia: About 95 km (59 miles), 2 hours 10 minutes drive
- Agios Nikolaos: Approximately 130 km (81 miles), 2 hours 30 minutes drive
- Ierapetra: Around 100 km (62 miles), 2 hours drive
Note: These are approximate times for driving.
The last part of the journey involves winding mountain roads, which may increase travel time.
There’s no direct public transport to the beach, so renting a car is advisable.
For the most current road conditions, you can check the Heraklion Municipality website.
For the most up to date information on public transportation in Crete, you can check the official website of the Region of Crete.
Tips
1. Bring supplies: While there are taverns, it’s a good idea to bring water, snacks, and any beach gear you might need.
2. Wear water shoes: The pebbles can be tough on bare feet, especially when hot.
3. Respect the environment: This is a natural beach. Take all trash with you and don’t disturb the local flora and fauna.
4. Bring cash: The local businesses might not accept cards.
5. Sun protection: The Cretan sun is strong. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and use the natural shade of the tamarisk trees.
6. Learn a few Greek words: The locals appreciate it when visitors make an effort. Start with “Kalimera” (good morning) and “Efharisto” (thank you).
For more beautiful photos of Cretan beaches, follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
For more information about traveling in Greece, including entry requirements and tourist rights, visit the Greek National Tourism Organization website.
Discoveries Around Petrakis Beach
| Nearby Attraction | Description | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Loutra beach | Beautiful coastal area | 1.2 km (0.75 miles) |
| Ancient Levena | Historical archaeological site | 1.3 km (0.81 miles) |
| Early Christian basilica of Lendas | Ancient religious site | 1.3 km (0.81 miles) |
| Lendas beach | Popular local beach | 1.3 km (0.81 miles) |
| Panagia Vithanos church at Krotos | Traditional Greek church | 1.5 km (0.93 miles) |
| Trafoulas beach | Quiet, secluded beach | 2.2 km (1.37 miles) |
| Trafoulas Gorge | Scenic hiking area | 2.2 km (1.37 miles) |
| Dyskos beach | Another beautiful local beach | 2.4 km (1.49 miles) |
| Gerokambos Domed Tomb | Ancient burial site | 3.4 km (2.11 miles) |
| Gerokambos Roman Villa | Roman-era archaeological site | 3.6 km (2.24 miles) |
Petrakis Beach Weather
Petrakis Beach FAQ
Is Petrakis Beach suitable for families with children?
What’s the best time of year to visit Petrakis Beach?
Are there any interesting hiking trails near Petrakis Beach?
Are there any water sports available at Petrakis Beach?
Is naturism allowed at Petrakis Beach?
While not officially designated as a naturist beach,Petrakis Beach is known to be nudism-friendly, especially in the more secluded areas. As always, be respectful of others and local customs.
Oh wow, Petrakis Beach was such a dreamy escape when I visited last summer! 🌊 The clear blue waters were absolutely mesmerizing and so refreshing—perfect for cooling off on a hot day! However, the pebbles were a bit of a pain (literally 👣) to walk on without proper shoes… my poor feet! 😅 Do you think it’s worth bringing water shoes next time? 🤔
Petrakis Beach 🌊✨ I visited this stunning spot last summer, and oh my, the clear blue waters were absolutely mesmerizing—like swimming in a dream! The peaceful vibe was perfect for unwinding. But ugh, those pebbles? Not so kind to my delicate feet 😔 Is there any way to rent cute water shoes nearby?