Skiadaki Beach: Breathtaking Beach in Crete

Skiadaki Beach lies on the eastern side of the Asterousia Mountains in Greece. “Skiadaki”, which translates to “small shade”, reflects the unique characteristics of the beach as it is surrounded by towering cliffs that cast a beautiful shadow over the area. Skiadaki Beach is located at the exit of Kakoperatos Canyon and has a pebbled shoreline surrounded by steep rocks.

Situated approximately 66 km south of Heraklion and 10 km south of Achendrias village, getting to Skiadaki Beach can be done by two primary routes: rental car or boat. The most convenient is a car rental with an average cost of €30 to €40 per day. Most car rental shops in Crete offer an online booking system whenever customers want to book a car. It is highly recommended to rent a car in Crete and trek west of Agios Nikitas monastery for about an hour, navigating through two small gorges in the Petrigiari area.

The best time to visit Skiadaki Beach is summer, particularly from June to August. The warm and sunny weather creates an ideal setting for enjoying the crystal-clear waters and enjoyment under the sun. This period is also perfect for water sports lovers and outdoor activities such as snorkelling and swimming. However, for those seeking a more relaxing experience with fewer crowds, May and September offer pleasant weather and might be the best option.

Skiadaki Beach is rated 4.9 out of 5 due to its private environment that introduces a unique setting because of the explorable nearby gorge and lovely natural shade that has created a fun experience for visitors.

What is Skiadaki Beach?

Skiadaki Beach is a small and remote beach at the Kakoperatos Canyon’s end. The beach is known for its beautifully pebbled shoreline and the surrounding steep rocks. The name “Skiadaki” translates to “small shade”, which is inspired by the shady dark bottom of the gorge caused by the towering cliffs. Visitors to Skiadaki Beach can enjoy a range of activities, such as swimming and snorkelling, which allows visitors to explore the underwater world and observe marine life. Fishing is also popular in the surrounding area due to its clear water.

Where is Skiadaki Beach located?

Skiadaki Beach is located on the eastern side of the Asterousia Mountains in Greece. It can be found at the exit of Kakoperatos Canyon, approximately 66 kilometres south of Heraklion and 10 kilometres south of Achendrias village, surrounded by steep rocks. There are a few options to get to Skiadaki Beach. If driving or renting a car, take the route from Heraklion by heading south and following the signs towards Achendrias village. From there, continue to drive south and look for the signage on the way to the Beach. The journey will take you through winding roads, so it’s important to exercise caution and drive safely. In terms of public transportation, take a bus from Heraklion to Achendrias village. After arrival, either walk or hire a local taxi going to the beach. Another option to reach Skiadaki Beach is by boat. Boat tours are available from nearby coastal towns and villages and typically take a route along the coast, offering a glimpse of the area’s natural beauty.

How does the Skiadaki Beach Map look?

Listed below is an image of the Skiadaki beach map.

What are the activities at Skiadaki Beach?

There are 3 significant activities at Skiadaki Beach. These are hiking, snorkelling and fishing. A trek begins at Agios Nikitas Monastery and heads west, crossing through two small gorges in the Petrigiari area that takes about an hour, passing by beautiful views of the natural surroundings. Secondly, snorkelling is an option for underwater explorers due to the sea’s crystal-clear water, which is ideal for observing the rich marine life and the underwater landscape around the beach. And lastly, Fishing lovers find Skiadaki Beach a great spot as the beach’s location offers access to the bountiful Aegean Sea and provides adequate opportunities to cast a line and catch various fish.

When is the best time to visit Skiadaki Beach?

The best time to visit Skiadaki Beach is during the summer months, from June to September. This is when Crete’s warm weather creates the perfect conditions ideal for swimming and snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters of Skiadaki Beach. During peak season, the beach isn’t overly crowded given its remote location and challenging accessibility. Therefore, concerns about crowd sizes are usually fine here. However, visitors should remember that reaching the beach requires a hike that can be physically demanding. Therefore, it’s advisable to start the day early, especially during the hottest summer months, to avoid trekking during the day’s peak heat.

How was the preservation of Skiadaki Beach?

The preservation of Skiadaki Beach has been successful due to its private location and limited human impact. Located in a remote area accessible only by boat or through a challenging trek, the beach has remained relatively preserved from development and mass tourism. The local community and authorities have taken steps to protect the beach’s natural beauty, promoting responsible tourism practices and environmental conservation. Measures have been implemented to maintain the beach’s cleanliness and protect its ecosystems. In terms of laws protecting the area, Skiadaki Beach, like all beaches in Greece, is protected under Greek legislation, specifically the Shoreline Law (2971/01), which states that the seashore and beach are public properties and cannot be sold or bought. This law ensures free access to the beach for all people and prohibits the construction of permanent structures on the beach.

What are the nearby attractions in Skiadaki Beach?

Listed below are the best attractions near Skiadaki Beach:

Agios Nikitas Beach: Agios Nikitas Beach is just 2.5 kilometres from Skiadaki Beach. This beach is known for its unique natural beauty and is well-regarded for its clean, emerald waters with some beachfront taverns and cafes.
Maridaki Beach: Maridaki Beach is about 4.6 kilometres further along the coast. Maridaki Beach lies in a small cove offering a mix of pebbles and sand. Its clear waters make it an excellent choice for snorkelling and swimming for visitors.
Agios Nikitas Monastery: Agios Nikitas Monastery is a historical and cultural landmark located east of Skiadaki Beach on a hilltop. The monastery dates back to the 14th century, provides a peaceful retreat and offers impressive views over the surrounding landscape.
Portela Gorge: Portela Gorge is an exciting spot for those who enjoy trekking. The gorge features impressive rock formations and a variety of flora and fauna, offering a thrilling adventure as it winds its way down the mountainous landscape that ends at the south coast of Crete.
Tris Ekklisies beach: Tris Ekklisies Beach is a small beach located at village of Tris Ekklisies on the southern coast of Crete. It has sand and small pebbles and the water is known for its spectacular beauty. The beach is surrounded by several taverns and there is also a supermarket in the village. Tris Ekklisies Beach is one of the main highlights of the village and it offers a peaceful atmosphere for those looking to enjoy the Cretan sun and turquoise waters. The name of the village comes from the three small Byzantine churches that can be visited there.

How do you get to Skiadaki Beach?

To reach Skiadaki Beach, there are primarily two modes of transportation: by car or by boat. If travelling by car, visitors typically start their journey from Heraklion and rent a car. The drive takes approximately two hours and follows a challenging route through the diverse landscapes of Crete and ends in the Agios Nikitas Monastery, where visitors can park their cars.

From the monastery, visitors have two options to reach Skiadaki Beach. The first option is to take a one-hour hike through two gorges in the Petrigiari area, taking in the rough landscapes while enjoying the fresh air. The second option is to take a boat ride directly from the monastery to Skiadaki Beach, a less physically demanding way to reach the beach.

What are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete?

Listed below are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete.

Insurance: 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.
Driver’s age: 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.
Driver’s gender: Both women and men can drive in Crete. As long as the driver is of the legal age of 18, driving is permitted in Crete, regardless of gender.
Car type: Travelling with groups or family members requires a much bigger car. Car rental companies in Crete offer a variety of cars to choose from. Selecting a smaller car is best when driving in Crete. The reason for that is that some Greek roads are narrow. The car type is one important factor in how to choose the right car to rent in Crete.
Documents needed for renting a car: One important document needed for renting a vehicle is a valid driving licence. However, a credit or debit card may also be presented, including a passport or an ID card.

How much does a car rental in Crete cost?

Crete is best travelled using a rented vehicle. Tourists may quickly get to Crete’s top destinations using a rented car. Crete car rental costs vary depending on the number of persons, itinerary, car type, destination and duration. The average cost of renting a car in Crete is around €30 to €40 per day. A car rented for a whole week will cost an average of €250. Renting a vehicle for the weekend will cost around €78. Crete car rental rates differ depending on the car type. Car rental companies offer a variety of cars depending on customers’ liking. Most car rental shops in Crete offer an online booking system, whenever customers want to book a car. Simply follow the process and instantly book a vehicle on their website. Before availing of a rental car service in Crete, check and secure all the requirements.

How much does it cost to get to Skiadaki Beach?

Skiadaki Beach does not require any fee as it is a public beach. The main expense comes from transportation to Skiadaki Beach, which depends on the mode of transport and other factors. If choosing to rent a car, the average price can range from €30 to €40 per day while the cost of fuel can amount to approximately €15 to €30 for a one-way trip with a €3 to €5 per day for parking fees. If opting for a boat ride from the Agios Nikitas Monastery, the expense comes from boat tickets which may vary occasionally. Also, there are no shops or restaurants nearby Skiadaki Beach making it important to budget for food, beverages and other activities during the visit.

Where to stay near Skiadaki Beach?

Listed below are the best 3 hotels near Skiadaki Beach:

Triton Hotel: Triton Hotel sits across from Tsoutsoura Beach on the Mediterranean Sea. It’s a laid-back hotel, 15 km from climbing in Portela Gorge and 60 km from the Port of Heraklion. The rooms are simple and offer free Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, TVs and balconies. Higher-end rooms give sea views. Kids aged 9 and under stay free with an adult. Room service is there for guests. The amenities include free parking, an outdoor pool, a restaurant and a bar. Continental breakfast comes with an extra charge. Pets can join their owners here.
San Georgio Hotel: San Georgio Hotel is a modest hotel across the street from a black-sand beach on the Southern Cretan Sea. It’s 55 km from Heraklion Airport. The simple rooms have free Wi-Fi, satellite TV and mini-fridges. Some rooms include balconies, sea views and sofa beds. In-room breakfast is an option. Free parking is available if given prior notice. The hotel has a restaurant, a bar, a terrace with sea views, a playground, a garden and BBQ facilities. Other offerings include a shared kitchen, bike rentals, sunloungers and umbrellas on the beach. Pets can stay here with prior notice for a surcharge.
Ariadni Hotel: Ariadni Hotel offers a humble and comfortable stay. The hotel provides guests easy access to the beachside. The rooms, straightforward in their design, provide complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV and a minifridge. Ariadni Hotel is a perfect choice, If people seek a quiet retreat away from the typical tourist noise. The area has a couple of taverns, a kiosk and a small shop. The hotel exudes a sense of Greek peace and cosiness, passing it on to the guests.

Where to eat near Skiadaki Beach?

Listed below are the best 3 restaurants near Skiadaki Beach:

Priansos: Priansos serves Pizza, Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. Customers have praised the “Gioulbassi”, a slow-cooked meat dish. The restaurant is known for its “Politiki” cuisine, a unique blend of Greek and Cretan words. Reservations are possible and table service is available. The Priansos restaurant is approximately 37.7 kilometres away from Skiadaki Beach. This restaurant is a great place to have a meal before heading to Skiadaki Beach, given its relative proximity and the quality of its food.
Balcony on the Road: Balcony on the Road offers outdoor seating, curbside pickup and takeout options, along with dine-in. It serves alcohol, beer, coffee, hard liquor, small plates and wine. It’s open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with dessert options available. Amenities include restrooms and it is dog-friendly and suitable for kids. The atmosphere is described as casual and cosy. Customers love the home-cooked Mediterranean meals and the remarkable Cretan hospitality. The Balcony on the Road restaurant is approximately 27.8 kilometres from Skiadaki Beach.
Zorbas: Zorbas is a perfect spot for dining with friends and family. It boasts of using local products and serving delicious dishes. Customer reviews highlight the fast service and excellent English-speaking owner. Its menu includes a highly recommended lamb dish. The place has a hipster vibe but still maintains its local charm. Customers find Zorbas to be a good value for money. The Zorbas restaurant is roughly 37.5 kilometres away from Skiadaki Beach.

Is Skiadaki Beach worth visiting?

Yes, Skiadaki Beach is worth visiting for those seeking a private beach experience in Crete. Although it may require some effort to reach, its remote location and challenging access contribute to its preserved beauty and a sense of adventure. The Skiadaki beach is considered one of the best Crete beaches because of its pebbly coastline, crystal-clear waters and surrounding steep rocks create an exciting setting. Skiadaki Beach is perfect for nature lovers, photographers and those who appreciate natural landscapes.

Is Skiadaki Beach safe?

Yes, Skiadaki Beach is considered safe for all travellers. However, the beach is only accessible by a challenging hike or boat. The walk requires good physical condition and the boat ride depends on the sea conditions. Swimming can be enjoyed with caution due to the pebbly bottom and deep water.

Do you need to book in advance to visit Skiadaki Beach?

No, there is no need to book in advance to visit Skiadaki Beach. It is a public beach, so visitors can go there whenever they wish. However, if you plan to reach the beach by boat, arranging the boat trip in advance might be necessary.

Are children permitted at Skiadaki Beach?

Yes, children are permitted at Skiadaki Beach. However, due to the challenging access and the nature of the terrain, it may not be suitable for younger children or those who are not confident walkers or swimmers. Adult supervision is strongly recommended for safety.

Last updated on July 23rd, 2023