Ever wondered what it’s like to find a secret beach where the mountains meet the sea?
Well, I’ve got a story for you about Chomatistra Beach in Crete!
This hidden spot is about 24 km north of Agios Nikolaos y 9 km north of Plaka, near a little village called Vrouchas.
It’s right at the tip of Cape Agios Ioannis – Aforesmenos.
The landscape here is wild and rugged, with bare mountains and steep cliffs.
Strong winds often blow through, giving the place an eerie feel.
But here’s the cool part in the middle of all this wildness, there’s a small, calm bay.
Local fishermen use it as a safe spot when the north Cretan Sea gets too rough.
The beach itself is rocky and pebbly, which makes it great for fishing.
It’s so out of the way that you’ll probably have the whole place to yourself!
Getting there is an adventure.
✈️🌟Ofertas exclusivas de viajes a Creta✨🌍
You start on the road to the Aforesmenos lighthouse from Plaka.
You’ll pass through Vrouchas village, which has these awesome old windmills and stone houses. Then you’ll see a wind farm next to a cute white chapel called St. John (Agios Ioannis).
There’s even an old German lookout post nearby!
From there, a dirt track leads to Chomatistra cove.
It’s usually locked, so be ready for a walk.
If you’re up for more exploring, there’s a short 5 minute path from Chomatistra to an old lighthouse at Cape Aforesmenos.
This lighthouse has been standing since 1864 when the French Lighthouse Company built it.
For more amazing beaches in this area, check out our guide to Playas de Lassithi.
Chomatistra Beach Key Information
| Ubicación | Lassithi Prefecture, East Crete, North Crete, Agios Nikolaos area (Mirabelo) |
| Composición de la playa | Pebbles |
| Agua | Blue |
| Características de la playa | Deep, usually calm |
| Servicios | None |
| Famoso por | Fishing, snorkeling, spearfishing |
| Actividades | Fishing, snorkeling, spearfishing, hiking |
| Papel histórico | Aforesmenos, Caiaphas |
| Región circundante | Wild landscape, bare mountains, steep cliffs |
| Atmósfera | Tranquil, isolated |
| Comedor | Cretan cuisine |
| Accesibilidad | Dirt track, walking |
| Período de visita | Year-round |
| Demografía | Nature lovers, tranquility seekers |
Chomatistra Beach Profile
Chomatistra Beach isn’t your typical sandy paradise.
It’s a rugged mix of rocks and pebbles.
The water is usually calm in the bay, making a stark contrast to the often choppy seas beyond.
It’s deep enough for good swimming but be careful of the rocky bottom.
The sea here is a beautiful blue, typical of the clear waters around Crete.
Servicios
Let’s be real Chomatistra Beach is as basic as it gets.
There are no umbrellas, no sunbeds, no snack bars.
It’s just you and nature here.
Make sure to bring everything you need for the day, including water and snacks.
This is a place for those who love untouched beaches and don’t mind roughing it a bit.
Alojamientos
There aren’t any hotels or rooms right at Chomatistra Beach.
The closest places to stay are back in Plaka or Agios Nikolaos.
If you’re set on staying nearby, you might find some small guesthouses in Vrouchas village.
But most folks visit Chomatistra as a day trip from other parts of Crete.
Historia e importancia
The name “Aforesmenos” has an interesting story behind it.
It means “expelled from Church” in Greek.
Local legend says that after Caiaphas (the guy who helped crucify Jesus) died, his sailors tried to bury him here.
But the sea got super rough, making it hard to reach the shore.
They managed it in the end, but people say the sea’s been angry ever since.
That’s how the cape got its name it’s where the crucifier of Christ was buried.
Actividades
Chomatistra Beach is perfect for those who love quiet activities.
Fishing is a big draw here the rocky coastline makes it ideal for catching local fish.
Esnórquel is another great option.
The clear waters and rocky seabed create a cool underwater landscape to explore.
If you’re into senderismo, the path to the old lighthouse offers amazing views of the coastline.
Comedor
There aren’t any restaurants right on Chomatistra Beach.
Your best bet is to pack a picnic.
If you want a proper meal, you’ll need to head back to Vrouchas village or further to Plaka.
These places have small tavernas serving up delicious Cretan cuisine.
Try some fresh fish or local specialties like dakos or kalitsounia.
Lo mejor para los viajeros
Chomatistra Beach is perfect for:
* Nature lovers who enjoy raw, unspoiled landscapes
* Fishing enthusiasts
* Snorkelers looking for clear waters and interesting seabeds
* Hikers who want to combine beach time with coastal walks
* People seeking quiet, secluded spots away from crowds
* Photography buffs the rugged scenery is super photogenic!
Chomatistra Beach Map – Getting There
Getting to Chomatistra Beach takes a bit of effort, but that’s part of the adventure!
From Agios Nikolaos, drive north towards Plaka.
Follow the signs to Vrouchas village.
Once you pass Vrouchas, keep an eye out for the wind farm and the chapel of St. John.
The dirt track to the beach starts near here.
Remember, you might need to park and walk the last bit.
A good map or GPS is helpful, as signage can be limited.
Distances from Major Cretan Cities
- Chania: 145 km (90 miles), about 2 hours 15 minutes drive
- Rethymnon: 105 km (65 miles), about 1 hour 45 minutes drive
- Heraklion: 70 km (43 miles), about 1 hour 15 minutes drive
- Hersonissos: 55 km (34 miles), about 1 hour drive
- Malia: 45 km (28 miles), about 50 minutes drive
- Agios Nikolaos: 24 km (15 miles), about 30 minutes drive
- Ierapetra: 65 km (40 miles), about 1 hour 10 minutes drive
Public buses run regularly between major towns, but you’ll need a car to reach Chomatistra Beach itself.
The roads are generally good, but the last part is a dirt track.
If you’re coming from further west (Chania or Rethymnon), consider breaking up the journey with stops at other attractions along the way.
Consejos
1. Bring everything you need there are no shops or facilities here.
2. Wear sturdy shoes for walking on the pebbly beach and exploring the area.
3. Check the wind forecast it can get pretty breezy!
4. If you plan to snorkel, bring your own gear.
5. Respect the environment take all trash with you when you leave.
6. Let someone know where you’re going, as the beach is quite isolated.
7. Consider visiting in spring or early fall when it’s not too hot.
8. Bring a camera the scenery is stunning!
For the latest travel requirements and tourist information, check out the Greek National Tourism Organization. The Lassithi Municipality website offers valuable local insights. For a broader look at Crete, visit the Region of Crete official website.
For more amazing Cretan adventures, explore Cretorama. And don’t forget to follow their Instagram for daily doses of Cretan beauty!
Discoveries Around Chomatistra Beach
| Atracciones cercanas | Descripción | Distancia |
|---|---|---|
| Aforesmenos Lighthouse | Historic lighthouse with sea views | 0.7 km (0.4 miles) |
| Agios Dionysios beaches | Secluded beaches with clear waters | 1.7 km (1.1 miles) |
| Vrouhas Windmills | Traditional windmills in scenic village | 3.9 km (2.4 miles) |
| Kato Selles beaches | Quiet beaches with pebbled shores | 4.5 km (2.8 miles) |
| Saint Anthony Sfougaras at Selles | Small church with local significance | 4.5 km (2.8 miles) |
| Spinalonga Islet | Historic island with Venetian fortress | 5 km (3,1 millas) |
| Spinalonga Beach | Beach near famous Spinalonga island | 5.2 km (3.2 miles) |
| Plaka beach | Popular beach with amenities nearby | 5.3 km (3.3 miles) |
| Tsifliki beach | Small, quiet beach with pebbles | 6.1 km (3.8 miles) |
| Vlyhadia beaches | Series of small, secluded coves | 6.4 km (4 miles) |
