Kedrodasos Beach: Breathtaking Beach in Crete

Kedrodasos Beach is a secluded beach located on the southwestern coast of Crete, Greece. It is located around 76km southwest of Chania and just 1 km east of the well-known Elafonissi Beach. Kedrodasos Beach earns its name from the abundance of juniper trees gracefully adorn its dunes. These junipers, often mistaken for cedars, contribute to the beach’s lush greenery that contrasts its pristine white sands and the clear, turquoise waters of the ocean.

Kedrodasos Beach is a shelter for nature enthusiasts, marine lovers and those seeking solitude. With its shallow, crystal-clear waters sprinkled with large boulders, the beach offers excellent opportunities for swimming and snorkelling. Complementing this underwater experience, the beach’s secluded location and natural backdrop make it an attractive destination for those seeking peace away from the typical tourist crowds. Its proximity to Elafonissi Beach, a tourist hotspot known for its pink sand, also makes it an ideal place for visitors wanting to explore two beach experiences in one trip.

Kedrodasos Beach is known to be nudist-friendly. It is a popular destination for naturists who enjoy practising nudism or clothing-optional sunbathing. The secluded and natural setting of the beach makes it a suitable choice for those who prefer a more liberating and natural beach experience. Visitors can often find areas on the beach where they can comfortably practise nudism without feeling judged or uncomfortable.

Kedrodasos Beach is located in the Pelekanos 730 01 regions of Greece. The GPS coordinates of Kedrodasos Beach are 35.256265°N latitude and 23.549555°E longitude. While Kedrodasos Beach doesn’t offer amenities or facilities like restaurants or restrooms, it has clear, shallow waters and large boulders. It is an excellent spot for swimming and snorkelling. Visitors have rated Kedrodasos Beach an impressive 4.8 out of 5. This high rating mainly stems from the beach’s unparalleled natural beauty, clear waters and secluded location, offering a genuine escape from the busy tourist spots.

What is Kedrodasos Beach?

Kedrodasos Beach is a secluded beach located on the southwestern coast of Crete, Greece. It is located around 76km southwest of Chania and just 1 km east of the well-known Elafonissi Beach. Kedrodasos Beach gets its name from the dense forest of juniper trees, often mistaken for cedars, that are found in the area (“Kedrodasos” means “Cedar Forest” in Greek). These juniper trees contrast the beach’s white sands and the clear, turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea, making it an incredibly picturesque spot. Locals call the beach as “the juniper wood” beach.

Kedrodasos Beach is known for its unspoiled natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for a peaceful retreat or a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience in Crete. The location of Kedrodasos Beach, close to Elafonissi Beach, also offers visitors the opportunity to experience two different beach atmospheres in one trip – the secluded tranquillity of Kedrodasos and the vibrant tourist hotspot of Elafonissi. Visitors have rated Kedrodasos Beach, appreciating its natural beauty, clear waters and secluded location that offers a respite from crowded tourist spots. It’s a must-visit for those who appreciate untouched beauty and quiet retreats.

Where is Kedrodasos Beach located?

Kedrodasos Beach is located on the southwestern coast of Crete, one of Greece’s many islands. Specifically, it’s approximately 76 kilometres southwest of Chania, a significant city in Crete. It is also about 1 kilometre east of Elafonissi Beach, another popular spot on the island.

Kedrodasos Beach is located in the Pelekanos 730 01 regions of Greece. The GPS coordinates of Kedrodasos Beach are 35.256265°N latitude and 23.549555°E longitude. It is 340 metre long and 46 metre wide at it’s widest side.

Kedrodasos is an untouched natural paradise and doesn’t offer facilities like umbrellas, sunbeds or taverns. So, visitors should be prepared to bring supplies like water, food, sunscreen, etc. And most importantly, as the beach is part of the Natura 2000 Protection Program, everyone is expected to respect the environment and leave no trace.

How does the Kedrodasos Beach Map look?

Find below on the image a map of Kedrodasos Beach.

What are the activities at Kedrodasos Beach?

There are 3 major activities at Kedrodasos Beach. These are swimming and sunbathing, hiking and windsurfing or kitesurfing.

Firstly, Kedrodasos Beach’s clear, turquoise water and sunny weather make it an excellent spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is relatively secluded, offering visitors a peaceful environment to relax and soak up the sun. The sea’s typically calm and warm waters are ideal for a refreshing swim and the sandy beach is perfect for lounging and sunbathing. Secondly, hiking and exploring are other enjoyable activities at Kedrodasos Beach. The beach is surrounded by a forest of ancient cedar trees, creating a unique and picturesque setting. Walking trails meander through this forest, allowing visitors to explore this special ecosystem. The surrounding region also presents various flora and fauna, which can be discovered while hiking. Lastly, windsurfing or kitesurfing is a popular activity at Kedrodasos Beach. Kedrodasos beach is ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing due to its unique geographical features. It’s protected from south winds, creating a desirable condition for these sports. Its consistent winds and low ripple effect further enhance its suitability for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Enthusiasts worldwide visit every summer to enjoy their sport in this exotic location. Furthermore, the beach’s isolation and the lack of nearby infrastructure mean there’s little to disrupt the water’s surface, providing ideal conditions for both sports.

When is the best time to visit Kedrodasos Beach?

The best time to visit Kedrodasos Beach is typically between late spring and early fall, roughly from May to early October. During these months, the weather is generally warm and pleasant, suitable for Kedrodasos Beach activities like swimming, sunbathing and camping. July and August are the warmest and busiest months because they coincide with the peak tourist season. To avoid large crowds but enjoy good weather, the shoulder months like May, June, September and early October can be excellent choices.

How was the preservation of Kedrodasos Beach?

Kedrodasos Beach remained a relatively untouched and unspoiled paradise, mainly due to its remote location and the concerted efforts of local communities and authorities to preserve its natural beauty. Kedrodasos Beach’s seclusion has helped to shield it from the pressures of over-tourism. Additionally, its status as a Natura 2000 protected area helps ensure the conservation of its unique ecosystems. The Natura 2000 is a network of nature protection areas across the European Union designed to ensure the survival of Europe’s most valuable and threatened species and habitats. Despite these protections, like all-natural areas, Kedrodasos Beach could face challenges related to human impact, climate change and other environmental pressures. Visitors must respect the area and follow local guidelines to help preserve this beautiful place for future generations.

What are the nearby attractions in Kedrodasos Beach?

Listed below are the best attractions near Kedrodasos Beach:

Elafonissi Beach: Elafonissi Beach is just a short distance from Kedrodasos. Elafonissi beach is another stunning beach known for its pink-tinted sands and turquoise waters. It’s often listed among the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Cave of Agia Sofia: Cave of Agia Sofia, with stalactites and stalagmites, is located near the village of Topolia. The cave also houses a small chapel dedicated to Saint Sophia.
Castel Selino: Castel Selino, also known as the Fortress of Frangokastello, this Venetian castle is located on the south coast of Crete and is a famous historical site. A unique phenomenon, the Drosoulites, ghost-like figures of warriors, are said to appear on the nearby beach annually.
Anidri Gorge: Anidri Gorge is located near the village of Anidri. This is a beautiful and relatively easy hike. Anidri Gorge is less crowded alternative to the more famous Samaria Gorge but offers stunning views and the chance to explore Crete’s unique flora and fauna.
Paleochora: Paleochora is a picturesque and peaceful village on the south coast of Crete, known for its beautiful beaches and good food. Paleochora is a great place to relax and experience Cretan hospitality.
Chrisoskalitissa Monastery: Chrisoskalitissa Monastery is a historic monastery on a hill with breathtaking sea views. It’s named after the golden step (“chrisoskalitissa” in Greek) that only people with pure hearts can see.

How do you get to Kedrodasos Beach?

There are 3 options to get to Kedrodasos Beach. These are by car rental, by public bus and by guided boat trips. Firstly, visitors can rent a car. The car journey from Chania to Kedrodasos Beach is approximately 75 km and generally takes 1.5-2 hours. Using a GPS or smartphone mapping application can help with navigation. The route is scenic but can be quite winding at times. Cars park at the Elafonissi Beach parking lot. From here, a kilometre-long hike along the coastal path leads to Kedrodasos. Secondly, public buses run from Chania to Elafonissi (which is very close to Kedrodasos). The buses run daily during the tourist season (April – October) . Passengers get off at the last stop and hike to Kedrodasos. This bus journey takes about 2.5-3 hours. Third, travel agencies in Crete arrange boat trips to Elafonissi. Passengers disembark at Elafonissi and hike to Kedrodasos. Lastly, some companies provide guided tours, including transport, a guide and sometimes meals. These tours often include a visit to Elafonissi and surrounding beaches like Kedrodasos. Visitors must carry everything needed for the day as Kedrodasos offers no facilities. It’s crucial to collect all litter upon leaving to maintain the beauty of this natural area.

The best way to get to Kedrodasos beach is by car rental. Hiring a car for travelling to Kedrodasos Beach is the most convenient option for those who want the flexibility and need to explore the beach independently. Many car rental services in Chania, including well-known international and local companies. These companies typically have a range of vehicles to cater to different group sizes and travel needs.

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 hire 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 hire 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 Kedrodasos Beach?

Getting to Kedrodasos beach is inexpensive. There are no admission fees at Kedrodasos Beach. If people decide to get there with a private car, there is a parking fee of €2 per car. Since no restaurants or shops exist at Kedrodasos Beach, visitors should plan accordingly and pack their own food and drinks. This allows for a more affordable experience as you won’t have to spend money dining out or purchasing items from beachside establishments. Overall, visiting Kedrodasos Beach can be a relatively affordable option for visitors, considering the lack of admission and small parking fees.

Where to stay near Kedrodasos Beach?

Listed below are the best hotels to stay near Kedrodasos Beach:

Glykeria Hotel: Glykeria Hotel is located in a white building overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. It’s a 10-minute walk from Voulolimni Beach and a 12-minute walk from the historic Chrisoskalitissa Monastery. The modern rooms have amenities such as Wi-Fi, mini-fridges and tea/coffee makers. Some rooms can accommodate up to three guests. The hotel offers complimentary parking, a relaxed restaurant with a terrace and an outdoor pool with sea views. Breakfast is available. The distance from Glykeria Hotel to Kedrodasos Beach 5.8 km which is a 10 minutes drive.
Hotel Pal Beach: Hotel Pal Beach is right across from Pachia Ammos Beach on the Mediterranean Sea. It’s located 72 km from the Old Venetian Harbour in Chania. The rooms are modestly decorated and feature garden views. Upgraded rooms offer additional amenities such as mini-fridges and balconies with sea views. Suites provide satellite TV, coffee makers and separate living rooms. Limited air conditioning is available. The hotel serves a breakfast buffet in a simple dining room with a terrace overlooking the beach.
Hotel Poseidon Paleochora: Hotel Poseidon Paleochora overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and is 2 km from the 13th-century Castel Selino. It’s approximately 89 km from Chania International Airport. The hotel consists of two plain buildings and offers simple rooms accommodating up to four people. The rooms come with free Wi-Fi, kitchenettes, TVs with satellite channels and modest balconies or terraces. Some rooms provide sea views too. Hotel Poseidon Paleochora is 29.1 km away from Kedrodasos Beach .

Where to eat near Kedrodasos Beach?

Listed below are the best restaurants in and near Kedrodasos Beach:

Kalomirakis Tavern: Kalomirakis Tavern offers excellent quality food and great service. It’s a popular choice for those looking for a satisfying meal after a swim near the beach. They have a variety of options, including market fish specials. The restaurant provides outdoor seating and offers takeout and dine-in options. It is also wheelchair accessible and has amenities such as a bar onsite. The atmosphere is casual and cosy and the staff is knowledgeable about the food.
Seagull Restaurant: Seagull Restaurant is known for serving the best seafood in the area. The food is fresh and delicious and the staff is extra friendly. Customers rave about the excellent atmosphere and the owner’s incredible story. The restaurant offers outdoor seating, curbside pickup, takeout, delivery and dine-in options. They serve alcohol, including beer and wine. The dining options include breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert.
Glykeria Restaurant: Glykeria Restaurant offers various dishes, including moussaka and in-house marinated anchovies. The view from the restaurant is phenomenal, with stunning sea and mountain views. The staff provides excellent service and there is complimentary wine and dessert. The reasonable prices make it a highly recommended dining option near Kedrodasos Beach.

Is Kedrodasos Beach worth visiting?

Yes, Kedrodasos Beach is worth visiting. Kedrodasos Beach is known for its stunning natural beauty, with crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft golden sand. What sets Kedrodasos Beach apart is its unique atmosphere and peacefulness. It is surrounded by a dense cedar forest, which creates a quiet environment. The absence of commercialisation and development adds to the charm of Kedrodasos Beach. It is an unspoiled and pristine paradise where you can connect with nature. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming and snorkelling in crystal-clear waters. Kedrodasos Beach is also suitable for nature walks and exploration, with the cedar forest providing shade and a peaceful backdrop. Without doubt, Kedrodasos beach is considered one of the Best 10 Crete Beaches from Rethymno to Chania.

Is Kedrodasos Beach safe?

Yes, Kedrodasos Beach is considered very safe. One aspect to keep in mind is the natural environment of the beach. Kedrodasos Beach is surrounded by a cedar forest, so it’s advisable to be aware of your surroundings and watch out for any potential hazards, such as uneven terrain or fallen branches. Additionally, it’s advisable to bring necessary supplies like water, snacks and sun protection since there are no restaurants or shops directly at the beach.

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

No, visiting Kedrodasos Beach does not require a booking in advance. Kedrodasos Beach is a public beach with no formal entry rules. Folks can enjoy its natural charm without any restrictions. However, booking accommodation ahead is wise if people wish to stay in nearby homes or inns. Similarly, if visitors plan to rent a car to get to Kedrodasos Beach, sorting out transport in advance is a good idea as prices tend to increase in the summer season (June – August).

Is Kedrodasos beach nudist friendly?

Yes, Kedrodasos Beach is considered a nudist-friendly beach. The beach is known for its naturist nature and attracts guests comfortable with nudity. A nudist beach in Crete refers to a beach where naturism, the practice of social nudity, is permitted and embraced.Visitors should respect local customs for a harmonious experience. The nudist beaches in Crete provide a unique chance to engage with nature and enjoy a liberating, naturist lifestyle. Enjoying naturist or clothing-optional experiences enable visitors to participate in activities like swimming and sunbathing without clothes, promoting a sense of freedom and privacy. However, visitors are not pressured to participate if they are uncomfortable with it.

Last updated on January 24th, 2024