Kaminaki Beach: All You Need to Know by Locals

Kaminaki Beach is a small, secluded pebbled beach in southern Crete, located 58 kilometers (36 miles) south of Heraklion, in the southeastern slopes of the Asterousia Mountains. The beach remains naturally sheltered by steep cliffs and rugged terrain, protecting it from strong winds while preserving its untouched landscape.

Kaminaki Beach is best visited between June and October, when sea temperatures range from 19.2°C (66.6°F) to 28.3°C (82.9°F), ensuring warm and comfortable swimming conditions. Kaminaki Beach reaches its highest temperatures in July, with the water peaking at 28.3°C (82.9°F) due to extended sun exposure.

Kaminaki Beach offers swimming, snorkeling, and hiking. The beach has calm waters which create a safe swimming environment, while the rocky seabed attracts marine life, making snorkeling a rewarding activity. Hiking the cliffs surrounding Kaminaki Beach, through Pervoliano Gorge, provides an opportunity for scenic coastal exploration.

Tourists can rent a car to drive to Kaminaki Beach. Car rental Crete offers flexibility and is the most practical transportation option for visiting Crete’s south coast. Car rental in Crete includes collision damage waiver insurance that protects the passenger against the cost of damage, and the driver’s credit or debit card acts as a guarantee. Rental Center Crete requires drivers to present valid documents like a driving licence, a passport or ID card, and a credit or debit card to complete the car rental picking up process.

Kaminaki Beach has several nearby accommodations, including Crete Southside Villas, Mediterranean Dolphin Guest House, and House of View, each offering different amenities and access to the beach. Visitors staying in Tris Ekklisies, 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) west, can find rental villas with sea views, private pools, and self-catering options.

Find below a table with the main features of Kaminaki Beach.

What is Kaminaki Beach?

Kaminaki Beach is a small, secluded pebbled beach in southern Crete, located at the southeastern edge of the Asterousia Mountains. The beach is naturally sheltered by steep cliffs and rugged terrain, offering protection from strong winds while preserving its untouched landscape.

Kaminaki Beach features clear, calm waters and rocky seabed, making it an excellent spot for swimming and snorkeling.

Kaminaki Beach remains undeveloped, with no sunbeds, umbrellas, or commercial facilities, ensuring a quiet and unspoiled coastal experience. Beachgoers must bring their own supplies, as the remote location limits access to amenities.

Kaminaki Beach is located 58 kilometers (36 miles) south of Heraklion, along the remote southeastern slopes of the Asterousia Mountains. The beach lies at the exit of Pervoliano Gorge, where steep cliffs and rugged terrain create a naturally secluded setting. The exact coordinates for Kaminaki Beach are 34.9538° N, 25.1774° E.

Kaminaki Beach is best accessed by rental car, allowing travelers to reach Tris Ekklisies, 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) west, before continuing by boat or foot.

What Does the Kaminaki Map Look Like?

Find below an image describing the map, area and perimeter of Kaminaki Beach.

What are the Activities at Kaminaki Beach?

Kaminaki Beach offers swimming, snorkeling, coastal exploration, and secluded relaxation.

Swimming at Kaminaki Beach is accessible, with clear waters and a naturally sheltered cove ensuring calm conditions.

Snorkeling at Kaminaki Beach is rewarding, as the rocky seabed and underwater formations attract marine life, enhancing visibility.

Coastal exploration at Kaminaki Beach includes hiking through Pervoliano Gorge or traversing the rugged cliffs that frame the shoreline.

Relaxation at Kaminaki Beach remains uninterrupted, with no sunbeds or umbrellas, allowing visitors to experience the natural surroundings without distractions.

When is the Best Time to Visit Kaminaki Beach?

The best time to visit Kaminaki Beach is between June and August, when the water remains warm enough for underwater activities, between 19,8 ℃ (67,6 ℉) to 28 ℃ (82,4 ℉), allowing visitors to enjoy prolonged time in the sea without discomfort.

Kaminaki Beach is warmest from July to September, with temperatures peaking at 28.3°C (82.9°F) in July due to continuous sun exposure.

Find below a table explaining the water temperature in Kaminaki Beach.

What Attractions are Near Kaminaki Beach?

Find below the nearby attractions at Kaminaki Beach.

• Tris Ekklisies. Tris Ekklisies is a small coastal village that serves as the closest harbor and access point to Kaminaki Beach. Tris Ekklisies takes its name from three historic churches (“Tris Ekklisies” means “Three Churches” in Greek). It is 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) west of Kaminaki Beach. Tris Ekklisies is known for its quiet seafront, fresh seafood tavernas, and its role as the main departure point for boat trips to Kaminaki Beach.
• Pervoliano Gorge. Pervoliano Gorge is a rugged gorge that descends through the Asterousia Mountains, ending at Kaminaki Beach. Pervoliano Gorge gets its name from the Greek word “perivoli,” meaning “orchard”, referencing ancient cultivated areas once found along its path. It leads directly to Kaminaki Beach, forming a natural access route for hikers. Pervoliano Gorge is known for its steep cliffs, wild terrain, and challenging hiking trail that connects the mountains to the remote coastline.
• Skiadaki Beach. Skiadaki Beach is a secluded beach near Kaminaki Beach, featuring clear waters and an unspoiled natural setting. Skiadaki Beach means “little shade” in Greek, likely referencing the limited natural shade from surrounding rock formations. It is 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) east of Kaminaki Beach. Skiadaki Beach is known for its isolation, crystal-clear waters, and suitability for swimming away from crowds.
• Voidomato Beach. Voidomato Beach is a remote coastal spot with rocky terrain and deep blue waters, located near Kaminaki Beach. Voidomato Beach translates to “ox’s eye” in Greek, referring to the circular rock pools or deep blue water color. It is 2.5 kilometers (1.6 miles) east of Kaminaki Beach. Voidomato Beach is known for its dramatic rock formations, deep waters, and peaceful surroundings, making it ideal for solitude and snorkeling.
• Asterousia Mountains. Asterousia Mountains is a rugged mountain range that dominates southern Crete, creating the steep landscape surrounding Kaminaki Beach. Asterousia Mountains derives its name from the Greek word “asteri,” meaning “star,” referencing ancient celestial navigation in the region. The mountains extend directly inland from Kaminaki Beach, shaping its isolated and wild environment. Asterousia Mountains is known for its dramatic cliffs, deep gorges, and difficult-to-access beaches that offer some of the most remote landscapes in Crete.

How Do You Get to Kaminaki Beach?

Beachgoers can get to Kaminaki Beach by boat, driving, or hiking, each offering different levels of accessibility.

Hiking to Kaminaki Beach requires navigating the Pervoliano Gorge, a challenging route through steep and rugged terrain.

Boat travel to Kaminaki Beach is a convenient option, with Tris Ekklisies, located 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) west, serving as the nearest harbor.

Driving is the most flexible choice, with rental cars from Heraklion offering short-term and daily options, allowing travelers to reach Tris Ekklisies before continuing by boat or foot, as public transportation in the area is extremely limited.

Can visitors rent a Car and drive to Kaminaki Beach?

Yes, tourists can rent a car and drive to Kaminaki Beach. Car rental offers flexibility, making it the most practical option for tourists exploring multiple destinations along Crete’s northern coast. Crete Car Hire rates differ depending on the car type, rental duration, and season. The average daily cost for an economy car ranges from €25 (£20.85, $26.05) – €30 (£25.02, $31.26), while a weekly rental starts at €175 (£148.75, $187.25). Prices may increase during peak tourist months, so booking in advance is recommended.

Most car rental companies in Crete offer an online reservation system, allowing travelers to secure a vehicle before arrival. Visitors must provide a valid driver’s license, identification, and a credit or debit card to complete the rental process.

Car rental insurance is important, as it protects a passenger against the cost of damage when renting a car. Crete car rental includes insurance for collision damage waiver and a driver’s credit or debit card is required as a guarantee. The legal age requirement when driving in Crete is 18 years old.

The driver must have a valid driving licence and essential documents like an ID or passport. Both women and men can drive in Crete. Travelling with groups or family members requires a much bigger car. Selecting a smaller car is best when driving in Crete. The car type is one important factor in how to choose the right car to rent in Crete. The most important document needed for renting a vehicle is a valid driving licence. A credit or debit card may also be presented, including a passport or an ID card.

Where to Stay Near Kaminaki Beach?

Find below a list of places to stay near Kaminaki Beach:

• Crete Southside Villas. Crete Southside Villas is located in Tris Ekklisies, a small coastal village on the southern coast of Crete, 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) west of Kaminaki Beach. The villas offer a pool with sea views, private terraces, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Self-catering facilities are available, and nearby tavernas in Tris Ekklisies serve fresh seafood and traditional Cretan dishes.
• Mediterranean Dolphin Guest House. Mediterranean Dolphin Guest House is located in Tris Ekklisies, offering a quiet stay near the coastline, 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) west of Kaminaki Beach. The guest house gives guests access to mountain views, air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a communal terrace. Self-catering is available, with local tavernas nearby serving seafood, grilled meats, and Mediterranean dishes.
• House of View. House of View is located in Paránimfoi, a hillside village overlooking south  Crete, 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) west of Kaminaki Beach. This accommodation offers air-conditioned rooms, private balconies, free Wi-Fi, and panoramic sea views. Self-catering is available, with local dining options in Paránimfoi offering Cretan cuisine and fresh seafood.
• San Georgio Hotel. San Georgio Hotel is a top-notch option for those seeking a memorable stay near Kaminaki Beach. San Georgio Hotel features well-appointed rooms with modern amenities, a swimming pool, a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere. Guests can relax on the terrace, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area or take a stroll to explore the nearby attractions.

Where to Eat Near Kaminaki Beach?

Find below some of the places to eat near Kaminaki Beach:

• Taverna o Gialos. Taverna o Gialos is located in Tris Ekklisies, near the village’s beachfront, 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) west of Kaminaki Beach. Marinela Dining by the Sea offers a casual seaside setting with outdoor seating and views of the Libyan Sea, creating a relaxed dining experience. The restaurant serves grilled seafood, local fish, and classic Cretan dishes.
• Marinela Dining by the Sea. Marinela Dining by the Sea is located in Tris Ekklisies, a coastal village on the southern coast of Crete, 5.1 kilometers (3.2 miles) west of Kaminaki Beach. Manias Restaurant provides a family-friendly taverna atmosphere with warm hospitality and rustic decor. The restaurant serves seafood, grilled meats, and traditional Cretan dishes.
• Manias Restaurant. Manias Restaurant is situated in Tris Ekklisies, offering a quiet dining spot near the beach, 5.2 kilometers (3.2 miles) west of Kaminaki Beach. Taverna o Gialos features a traditional Greek taverna ambiance with a beachfront view and friendly service. The menu features fresh seafood, homemade Greek specialties, and meze-style dishes.
• Tavern Ann: Tavern Ann is a family-friendly restaurant that serves mouth-watering local dishes. Their menu features a range of Cretan specialities, including grilled meats, traditional stews and fresh salads. Visitors often praise the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Tavern Ann, making it a pleasant spot to enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner. The restaurant is located a short distance from Kaminaki Beach, allowing visitors to access it for a delightful dining experience easily.
• To koutouki tou Manoli: To koutouki tou Manoli is a cosy tavern near Kaminaki Beach. The restaurant is known for its traditional dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From hearty stews to grilled meats and vegetarian options, To Koutouki tou Manoli offers a diverse menu that caters to different tastes. Guests appreciate the friendly service and the high quality of the food. It is a short distance from Kaminaki Beach, making it a convenient choice for a memorable dining experience.

Is Kaminaki Beach safe and worth Visiting?

Yes, Kaminaki Beach is worth visiting for its crystal-clear waters, rugged scenery, and isolated coastal environment. Kaminaki Beach is shielded by towering cliffs and rough terrain, creating a naturally secluded retreat away from crowds. The beach has a shoreline with a combination of pebbles and rocky outcrops, maintaining its untouched and unspoiled appeal.

Kaminaki Beach is safe for tourists, with generally calm waters and a sheltered cove providing suitable conditions for swimming and snorkeling. Kaminaki Beach has a seabed with pebbles and submerged rocks, where water shoes may enhance comfort.

Kaminaki Beach experiences minimal waves for most of the year, making it accessible for both experienced and casual swimmers. Kaminaki Beach remains secluded, so visitors should bring necessary supplies and remain mindful of their surroundings.

Is Kaminaki Beach Free to Enter?

Yes, Kaminaki Beach is free to access, as it is a public beach with no entry fee. Kaminaki Beach offers visitorsa no cost entry, though no sunbeds, umbrellas, or commercial services are available. Kaminaki Beach does not require reservations, but booking nearby accommodations in advance is advisable during peak travel seasons.

Are Children and Pets Allowed to Visit Kaminaki Beach?

Yes, children and pets are allowed at Kaminaki Beach, though its remote nature requires additional precautions.Kaminaki Beach has a rugged shoreline and deep waters, making adult supervision necessary for young swimmers.Kaminaki Beach welcomes pets, but owners should follow local regulations, ensure proper supervision, and respect the natural environment.

Visitors should verify the available amenities at any kids friendly beach in Crete, such as restrooms and changing areas, to ensure a comfortable experience for families with children. Checking facilities in advance helps parents plan a smooth and enjoyable visit while exploring the beach’s natural setting.

Last updated on April 10th, 2025