Myrtos Beach

Okay, beach lovers, I’m about to blow your mind with a Cretan gem that’s so good, it might just ruin all other beaches for you.

Myrtos is this amazing little seaside village just 13km west of Ierapetra.

Picture this: a wide valley full of greenhouses and citrus groves, with the Kryos River running through it.

And at the end of it all? A beach that’ll make you want to cancel your flight home.

The first time I stumbled upon Myrtos, I thought I’d found a movie set for a Greek island romance.

It’s got that perfect blend of traditional charm and modern comforts.

The village has grown a bit in recent years, but don’t worry it hasn’t lost its soul.

Myrtos beach is something special.

It’s got this cool, coarse gray sand that doesn’t stick to you like glue.

Trust me, it’s a game changer for beach days.

And the best part?

The beach goes on for ages.

It’s perfect for those long, lazy walks by the water.

But here’s the kicker Myrtos is known as the place where wind never blasts.

Yep, you heard that right.

The beach is all set up for a perfect day out.

You’ve got lifeguards, umbrellas, showers the works.

And if you’re feeling active, there’s beach volleyball and water sports.

But if you’re more of a chill-and-do-nothing type (no judgment here), just head west along the beach.

It gets quieter and more spread out perfect for some peace and quiet.

Now, Myrtos isn’t just about the beach.

The village itself is a little slice of Greek heaven.

Take a stroll through the narrow streets, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard.

The houses look like they’re straight out of the Aegean islands, and the gardens are bursting with color.

And if you’re a history buff, you’re in for a treat.

There are two Minoan settlements nearby Fournou Korifi and Pirgos.

Plus, there’s this super cool Archaeological and Folk Art Museum right in the village.

But Myrtos isn’t all sunshine and beaches.

There’s a somber side too.

In the village, you’ll find a monument to 18 locals who were executed by the Nazis in 1943.

It’s a powerful reminder of the area’s history.

So, whether you’re a beach bum, a history nerd, or just someone looking for a perfect Greek getaway, Myrtos has got you covered.

It’s the kind of place that makes you want to extend your vacation… indefinitely.

Myrtos Beach Key Information

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Myrtos Beach Profile

Myrtos Beach is a long stretch of coarse gray sand mixed with fine pebbles.

The sand here is unique – it doesn’t stick to your skin, making post-swim cleanup a breeze.

The water is a beautiful blue and usually calm, perfect for swimming.

The beach slopes gently into the sea, with a normal depth progression.

What’s really special about Myrtos is its location in a sheltered bay, making it one of the least windy spots in southern Crete.

Amenities

Myrtos Beach is well-equipped to make your beach day comfortable and fun.

It’s fully organized with lifeguards on duty, ensuring safe swimming for all.

You’ll find plenty of umbrellas and sunbeds for rent.

There are showers and changing rooms available, making it easy to freshen up after a swim.

For the active types, there are water sports facilities and a beach volleyball court.

The beach proudly flies a Blue Flag, a testament to its cleanliness and water quality.

Accommodations

Myrtos village offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences.

You’ll find several small hotels in the village, many with sea views.

For those who prefer a more homey feel, there are apartments and guesthouses available.

Many accommodations are within walking distance of the beach, making it easy to maximize your beach time.

While Myrtos has grown in recent years, it has maintained its traditional charm, so don’t expect large resort-style hotels here.

History and Significance

Myrtos has a rich history dating back to Minoan times.

Near the village, you can visit two Minoan settlements: Fournou Korifi and Pirgos.

These sites offer a glimpse into Crete’s ancient past.

The village is home to the Archaeological and Folk Art Museum, located next to the old church of St. Anthony.

This museum showcases artifacts from the area’s long history.

Myrtos also has a somber connection to World War II.

In the village, you’ll find a monument commemorating 18 locals who were executed by Nazi forces in 1943.

Activities

Myrtos offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

Swimming and sunbathing are obvious choices on the beautiful beach.

For more active visitors, there’s beach volleyball and various water sports.

Take a stroll through the village’s narrow streets, admiring the traditional houses and lush gardens.

Nature lovers can explore the nearby Sarakina Gorge, a stunning natural formation.

History buffs should visit the local museum and nearby Minoan sites.

And don’t miss a walk along the local harbor for beautiful sea views.

Dining

Myrtos offers a variety of dining options to satisfy all tastes.

You’ll find traditional Greek tavernas serving fresh seafood and local specialties.

There are also cafes and bars along the beachfront, perfect for a quick snack or sunset drink.

For self-catering, there are supermarkets in the village where you can stock up on supplies.

Don’t miss trying some local Cretan dishes the olive oil and cheese from this region are particularly good!

Best For Travelers

Myrtos is ideal for a wide range of travelers.

Families will love the calm waters and well-organized beach.

Couples can enjoy romantic walks along the long stretch of beach.

History enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby Minoan sites and local museum.

Nature lovers can explore the surrounding gorges and valleys.

It’s perfect 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.

Myrtos Beach Map – Getting There

Myrtos is easily accessible by car or bus.

From Heraklion airport, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive south.

If you’re coming from Ierapetra, it’s a quick 15-minute drive west.

Regular buses run from Ierapetra to Myrtos, making it easy to visit even if you don’t have a car.

Once in Myrtos, everything is within walking distance.

Distances from Major Cretan Cities:

• Chania: Approximately 220 km (137 miles), about 3 hours 30 minutes drive
• Rethymnon: Around 170 km (106 miles), about 2 hours 45 minutes drive
• Heraklion: About 120 km (75 miles), roughly 2 hours drive
• Hersonissos: Approximately 105 km (65 miles), about 1 hour 45 minutes drive
• Malia: Around 95 km (59 miles), about 1 hour 30 minutes drive
• Agios Nikolaos: About 55 km (34 miles), roughly 1 hour drive
• Ierapetra: Approximately 13 km (8 miles), about 15 minutes drive

Note: These are approximate distances and times.

Actual travel times may vary depending on road conditions and traffic.

The most convenient way to reach Myrtos is by car.

Regular bus services run from Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos to Ierapetra, from where you can catch a local bus to Myrtos.

If you’re staying in Ierapetra, you can easily take a taxi to Myrtos for a day trip.

The roads to Myrtos are generally in good condition, but they can be winding in places, especially as you get closer to the coast.

If you plan to explore the surrounding areas and gorges, renting a car is recommended.

Before planning your trip, make sure to check the official Crete government website for the latest travel updates and local regulations.

Tips

1. Visit early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the beach at its quietest.

2. Bring water shoes if you’re not used to pebbly beaches.

3. Explore the western part of the beach for more secluded spots.

4. Try the local citrus fruits – the area is known for its groves.

5. Visit the Archaeological Museum early in your trip to get context for the area’s history.

6. Bring cash – not all small businesses in Myrtos accept cards.

7. Pack a hat and sunscreen – remember, it’s rarely windy here!

For more amazing beaches in this part of Crete, check out our guide to Lassithi Beaches.

For stunning photos of Myrtos and other Cretan gems, follow us on Instagram!

Discoveries Around Myrtos Beach

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