Xerokampos Beaches, Sitia, Crete
Xerokampos Beaches, Sitia, Crete
Xerokampos is one of the most beautiful and unspoilt coastal areas in southeastern Crete. Located in the far eastern part of the island, in the municipality of Sitia, it is not a single beach but a stretch of coastline with numerous sandy bays, small coves, rocky shores and striking turquoise waters.
The area extends for approximately 6 kilometres along the Libyan Sea, beneath a rugged landscape of mountains, hills and dry Mediterranean countryside. Its beaches are known for their pale sand, shallow waters and peaceful atmosphere, making Xerokampos an excellent destination for visitors who want to experience a quieter side of Crete.
Unlike the more developed seaside resorts, Xerokampos has limited tourism infrastructure. A small settlement with traditional tavernas, accommodation and a few local services lies close to the coast, while many of the beaches retain a natural and secluded character.
Landscape and Natural Beauty
The coastline of Xerokampos is particularly varied. Wide sandy beaches alternate with small pebble coves, white rocky formations and low coastal cliffs. The clear water changes colour from pale turquoise in the shallow bays to deeper blue further offshore.
One of the area's most recognisable natural features is its pale, almost white sand, especially along the larger beaches. In some places, the landscape is shaped by coastal dunes and Mediterranean vegetation, while other sections are characterised by unusual geological formations and white clay.
The coastline is divided by the rocky headland of Akrotiri Trachila, which separates the beaches into northeastern and southwestern sections. Offshore, the small uninhabited Kavali Islands add another distinctive element to the scenery.
Xerokampos also has an interesting seasonal landscape. Near Alatsolimni, a coastal salt lake becomes dry during summer, while in winter it can fill with brackish water and form a shallow lagoon. This changing wetland environment adds ecological interest to the area and attracts birdlife.
The Main Beaches of Xerokampos
Rather than treating Xerokampos as one beach, it is worth exploring its different bays. Each has its own character, from long sandy stretches to small secluded coves.
1. Mazida Ammos β The Long Sandy Beach
Also known as Megali Paralia, Mazida Ammos is the largest and best-known beach in Xerokampos. Its long shoreline of pale sand and exceptionally clear turquoise water makes it one of the area's most attractive swimming spots. The seabed remains shallow for a considerable distance from the shore, making it particularly suitable for families and visitors who enjoy wading in calm, clear water.
The beach is relatively easy to reach by road and is one of the more accessible options in the area. There may be seasonal umbrella and sunbed services, but facilities should not be assumed to operate throughout the year. Natural shade is limited, so bringing sun protection is recommended.
2. Argilos Beach β The Natural Clay Beach
Argilos is a small and unusual beach famous for the white clay formations found along its shore. The name comes from the Greek word argilos, meaning clay. Visitors are often attracted by the possibility of applying the natural clay to their skin, creating an informal seaside mud-mask experience.
The beach itself is narrow, with a strip of sand beneath the pale clay formations. The contrast between the white landscape and the blue-green water makes it one of the most distinctive coastal spots in Xerokampos.
Enjoy the landscape without damaging the formations or removing clay from the area.
3. Gerontolakos Beach β Agios Nikolaos Bay
Gerontolakos is a small sandy bay near the little church of Agios Nikolaos, which stands on the hillside above the coast. The beach is sometimes referred to as Agios Nikolaos because of the church overlooking it.
Its sandy shore and shallow blue waters create a pleasant setting for swimming. The surrounding landscape is quiet and rural, with rocky hills forming a natural backdrop. A few accommodation options and traditional tavernas can be found in the wider area.
The nearby archaeological remains associated with the ancient settlement of Ambelos add historical interest to this part of the coastline.
4. Vourlia Beach β A Quiet Sandy Bay
Vourlia is a peaceful sandy beach with clear, shallow water, ideal for visitors who prefer a quieter swimming spot. The bay is surrounded by the dry, rugged landscape characteristic of southeastern Crete and has a more natural atmosphere than the larger beach areas.
Facilities directly on the beach are limited, although tavernas can be found in the wider Xerokampos area. It is a good option for a relaxed swim away from the more visited sections of the coast.
5. Alatsolimni Beach β The Coastal Lagoon
Alatsolimni is a distinctive part of the Xerokampos coastline, combining a sandy beach with a seasonal coastal wetland. Its name is associated with the salt lake behind the shore. During summer, the shallow lake generally dries out, while in winter it can fill with brackish water and form a lagoon.
The beach has a broad sandy section, although low rocks occur along parts of the shoreline. The wetland is an important natural feature and can attract birds, including migratory species. Visitors interested in nature and photography may find this area particularly rewarding.
Take care to respect the wetland habitat and avoid disturbing wildlife or vegetation.
6. Ambelos Beach β A Small Coastal Retreat
Ambelos is a small bay with a mainly sandy shoreline, clear water and a peaceful atmosphere. It is one of the smaller beaches in the Xerokampos area and offers a more intimate alternative to Mazida Ammos.
The beach has some natural shade from tamarisk trees, and seasonal facilities may be available. Its setting is particularly attractive for visitors who want to explore different bays rather than spend the entire day at one large beach.
7. Karavopetra β A Rocky and Sandy Coastline
Karavopetra is not a conventional single sandy beach but a stretch of coastline where small sandy coves alternate with rocky sections. This variety gives the area a more rugged appearance and creates different places to swim and explore.
Access to the sea is relatively comfortable along much of the shoreline, although the conditions vary between the individual coves. Natural shade is limited, and the beach is exposed to the elements. It is worth exploring carefully, particularly where rocks and uneven surfaces meet the water.
8. Katsounaki Beach β Dunes and Untouched Nature
Katsounaki is one of the most distinctive natural areas along the Xerokampos coast. Its landscape includes sand dunes shaped by the wind and covered in places by low Mediterranean coastal vegetation.
Rather than a conventional organised beach, it is a natural coastal environment with a more rugged shoreline. Access to the sea can be difficult because of the rocky sections, so it is better suited to visitors interested in walking, photography and exploring the landscape than those looking for an easy swimming beach.
The dunes and coastal vegetation are fragile natural features. Avoid walking over plants or disturbing the sand formations.
9. Krinakia Beach β A Small Sandy Cove
Also known as Alona, Krinakia is a small sandy beach set among impressive rocky formations. Its pale sand and blue-green shallow water create a beautiful contrast with the surrounding landscape. The beach is relatively secluded and has a natural character, with little or no infrastructure directly on the shore.
The area is also known for its coastal dunes and the presence of sand lilies, which bloom towards the end of summer. These plants are part of the fragile dune ecosystem, so visitors should avoid stepping on them or disturbing the vegetation.
Krinakia can be reached by following a dirt-road section and then continuing on foot along a short path.
10. Roussospasma β A Secluded Rocky Cove
Roussospasma is a very small and isolated cove northeast of the main Xerokampos beaches. Its shoreline consists mainly of pebbles, while the surrounding reddish rocks and clear water give it a distinctive appearance.
The cove is particularly interesting for snorkelling, but access is more difficult than at the main beaches. The final approach involves a longer walk over uneven terrain and rocky sections. There are no organised facilities, and visitors should take care because of the possibility of falling rocks in the surrounding area.
This is a spot best suited to experienced visitors who are comfortable exploring remote coastal locations.
Facilities and Activities
Xerokampos is primarily a destination for visitors who appreciate nature, tranquillity and less-developed beaches. Facilities are limited compared with larger resorts, but the small settlement nearby provides some useful services.
Swimming: The main sandy bays, particularly Mazida Ammos, offer shallow water and comfortable access to the sea.
Snorkelling: Rocky coves and clear water make several sections of the coastline interesting for underwater exploration.
Traditional tavernas: Local tavernas serve fresh fish and traditional Cretan dishes.
Accommodation: Rooms and apartments are available in the settlement and surrounding area.
Nature and photography: The dunes, seasonal lagoon, unusual rock formations and coastal views provide plenty of opportunities to explore.
Quiet beaches: Several smaller coves offer a more secluded experience, particularly outside the busiest summer weeks.
Not all beaches have sunbeds, showers, toilets or food services. Facilities vary considerably between locations, and some coves are completely unorganised.
What Makes Xerokampos Special
What makes Xerokampos particularly special is the variety of landscapes found within a relatively short stretch of coastline. Visitors can spend the morning on a long sandy beach, explore a small cove with unusual white clay formations, and finish the day among coastal dunes or beside the seasonal lagoon.
The area also has an interesting historical background. The wider Xerokampos landscape contains archaeological remains from different periods, including traces of ancient settlements around Ambelos and other nearby locations. The coastline and its sheltered bays have long formed part of the human landscape of this remote corner of Crete.
Another attraction is the sense of remoteness. There are no large hotel complexes or extensive tourist developments dominating the coastline. Instead, the landscape remains defined by open countryside, olive groves, rocky hills and the Libyan Sea.
How to Get There
Xerokampos is located in southeastern Crete and can be reached by car from Sitia, Zakros or the Palekastro area.
There are two main approaches:
From Zakros: Follow the paved road south towards Xerokampos. This is a convenient approach for visitors already exploring the Zakros area.
From Sitia: Drive towards Ziros and then continue through the mountainous countryside towards Xerokampos. This route takes you through a more remote part of eastern Crete.
Approximate distances:
Zakros: 10β12 km
Palekastro: 28 km
Sitia: 48 km
Agios Nikolaos: Approximately 105β110 km
A car is strongly recommended, as public transport options are limited and the individual beaches are spread along the coastline. Some smaller coves require driving on dirt roads and walking the final section. Road conditions can vary, so drive carefully and check your rental-car agreement before using unpaved roads.
Visitor Tips
Explore more than one beach: The coastline has many different bays, so allow enough time to discover several of them.
Bring supplies: Carry drinking water, snacks, sunscreen and an umbrella, especially when visiting the more remote coves.
Choose your beach according to conditions: Mazida Ammos is a good option for an easy sandy beach experience, while the smaller rocky coves are better suited to exploration and snorkelling.
Respect the natural environment: Avoid disturbing the dunes, sand lilies, wetland vegetation and wildlife.
Drive carefully: Some access roads are unpaved, and certain coves require walking over uneven ground.
Stay for sunset or sunrise: The open southern coastline offers beautiful views across the Libyan Sea.
Consider staying overnight: Xerokampos is a long journey from many of Crete's larger towns. Staying locally allows you to explore the beaches without rushing.