Kommos Beach is one of the longest beaches on the Greek island of Crete. It lies in the southern part of the island, about 66 kilometers (41.01 miles) southwest of the capital Heraklion. Kommos Beach is about 5 kilometers (3.11 miles) long and is backed by tamarisk trees, carobs and sand dunes.
Kommos Beach is a protected coastal zone located on the southern shore of Crete, renowned for its naturist-friendly environment, archaeological importance, and ecological purity. Kommos Beach is located along Messara Bay and facing the Libyan Sea and exemplifies a coastal ecosystem with minimal human alteration, offering biodiverse marine life and geological features suitable for snorkelling, swimming, and eco-tourism.
A natural beach is defined as a coastal area preserved from urban development, maintaining its original flora, fauna, and geological features. Less than 15% of Crete’s southern coastline remains in such an undeveloped state, making Kommos one of the few remaining examples, according to the Hellenic Ministry of Environment and Energy. Dr. Eleni Sapouna-Sakellaraki, an archaeologist specializing in Minoan civilization, notes: “Kommos is one of the rare sites where ancient civilization and untouched nature co-exist seamlessly, offering a dual lens into history and habitat”.
Types of natural beaches include undeveloped, semi-protected, and ecologically restored beaches; Kommos falls into the undeveloped and strictly protected category, as designated by the Greek archaeological and environmental authorities. This status prohibits commercial construction and maintains ecological integrity, which can be evaluated through water quality monitoring, biodiversity indices, and minimal erosion rates.
Kommos Beach is not only a haven for naturists seeking privacy but also a critical site for marine and historical conservation. Its tranquil atmosphere supports wellness tourism, with opportunities for silent retreats, reading, and nature therapy—enhanced by breathtaking sunset views behind the Paximadia islets. The absence of sunbeds, loud music, and commercial vendors ensures a low-impact tourism experience.
The archaeological remnants of Kommos mark it as the ancient port of Phaistos, a major Minoan city. The beach still reveals structural ruins of warehouses, a ship shed, and paved roads, attesting to the region’s trade significance between 2000–1400 BCE. The adjacent Kommos Archaeological Site provides deeper insight into Minoan urbanism and harbor logistics, making it a key node in Mediterranean prehistory.
What is Kommos Beach?
Kommos Beach is a popular destination for both tourists and locals in the Heraklion region in Crete. It stretches along the southernmost part of Messara Bay’s shoreline, approximately 66 kilometers (41.01 miles) southwest of Heraklion and just 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) north of Matala, near the village of Pitsidia. Kommos Beach features stunning rock formations and natural wonders, providing a unique backdrop for beachgoers. With its crystal-clear blue waters and sandy shores, Kommos Beach offers an ideal setting for swimming and enjoying the breathtaking views of the Libyan Sea and the Paximadia islands. The beach is also popular for its naturist-friendly section, known as Potamos or Potamoserma, a popular destination since the 1970s. In addition to its natural attraction, Kommos Beach has historical significance as it served as the port of Phaestus during the Bronze Age. The archaeological site of Kommos is just located nearby. It showcases the remains of a Minoan harbour, public buildings, warehouses, oil presses, shipyards and a small temple which adds to the overall experience of visiting Kommos Beach, providing visitors with a unique blend of natural beauty and ancient history.
Kommos Beach lies 66 kilometers (41.01 miles) southwest of Heraklion, 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) north of Matala and near the village of Pitsidia. Positioned as the southernmost part of Crete and situated along the expansive shoreline of Messara Bay, Kommos Beach offers a private and natural setting. To reach Kommos Beach, one can follow the road heading to Matala and look for a sign to Kommos near Pitsidia. The coordinates of Kommos Beach are 35.0176° N latitude and 24.7601° E longitude.
Find below on the image a map of Kommos Beach.
Swimming, snorkeling, and hiking are the main activities at Kommos Beach. The clear Libyan Sea provides calm waters for swimming. Snorkelers enjoy the rocky seabed and marine life. Nearby coastal trails and hills offer scenic hiking routes with panoramic sea views and natural surroundings.
To get to Kommos Beach from Heraklion, travel 65 kilometers (40.39 miles) to 7 kilometers (43.50 miles) km by rental car or taxi in about one hour. A taxi from Heraklion to Kommos costs €65 ($76.25, £56.43) and buses go to Matala for €8 ($9.38, £6.95) in two hours, followed by a short taxi ride to the beach. Car rental offers the most direct and flexible option.
To get to Kommos Beach from Chania, travel about 13 kilometers (80.78 miles) by rental car or taxi, taking approximately 2.5 to 3 hours via the National Road through Rethymno and Heraklion. Public transport requires multiple bus transfers, making car hire or taxi the most efficient and direct options.
The best time to visit Kommos Beach is from May to September, when warm weather, calm seas, and ideal swimming conditions prevail. This period also coincides with the loggerhead sea turtle nesting season. For fewer crowds, April to May or September to October offer pleasant weather and quieter surroundings.
Kommos Beach in Crete is free to visit. There is no admission fee, though nearby parking may incur variable charges. Due to its protected archaeological status, no food outlets operate directly on the beach. Nearby villages like Pitsidia, Kalamaki, and Matala offer dining options.
Minors and children are allowed at Kommos Beach. Kids can visit with parental supervision, despite its status as a partly nudist-friendly but unofficial naturist beach Parents are advised to accompany minors and explain the beach’s nature to ensure awareness and comfort in the environment.
The preservation of Kommos Beach focuses on protecting its archaeological heritage and natural ecosystem. Building is restricted to prevent environmental damage. Loggerhead turtle nesting areas are marked and monitored. Clean-up campaigns and educational programs support responsible tourism and long-term sustainability.
Kommos Beach is located 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) away from Kommos Archaeological Site which features ruins of a major Minoan port. Kommos Archaeological Site includes a palace complex, residences, and storage areas, offering insights into Bronze Age Minoan architecture, economy, and governance. It remains a key attraction for history enthusiasts.
What are the attractions to visit nearby Kommos Beach?
Find below a list with the attractions to visit nearby Kommos Beach.
- Kommos Archaeological Site: Kommos Archaeological Site is an ancient Minoan archaeological site and historic landmark located on the southern coast of Crete, Greece. Kommos Archaeological Site serves as a significant cultural and historical window into the maritime trade, religious rituals, and urban life of Minoan civilization during the Bronze Age.According to archaeological findings published by the American School of Classical Studies at Athens, Kommos thrived from around 1650 BCE to 1200 BCE and has been called “a rare example of a Minoan harbor settlement with both civic and religious importance”. The site provides deep insights into Minoan architecture, international trade networks with Egypt, Cyprus, and the Near East, and religious practices in coastal environments. Its main complementary concept is Phaistos, a nearby inland Minoan palace complex that provides contrasting data on Minoan urban planning and society. Historians, archaeologists, and anthropologists use Kommos to analyze Minoan seafaring, religious evolution, and socioeconomic interactions—these specialists are often referred to as Aegean prehistorians or Minoan archaeologists. The Kommos site was first systematically excavated in 1976 by Joseph W. Shaw and Maria C. Shaw, under the Canadian Institute in Greece, with fieldwork continuing into the 1990s. The site includes several distinct sub-parts: the harbor town, the sanctuary complex, storage and residential buildings, and Minoan roads and courtyards.
- Paximadia Islets: Paximadia Islets is a stunning natural attraction off the coast of Kommos Beach. These rocky islets offer scenic views and are known for their ever-changing shapes, especially during sunset, providing a backdrop to the beach.
- Matala Beach: Matala is another popular beach destination, approximately 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) south of Kommos Beach. Matala is known for its unique rock formations, including the famous Matala Caves, which were once inhabited by hippies in the 1960s and 1970s. The beach offers clear waters, sandy shores and a vibrant seaside village with tavernas and shops.
- Kalamaki Beach: Kalamaki Beach is a long, sandy stretch offering a more relaxed and quieter atmosphere than Matala. It is an organised beach with facilities such as sunbeds and umbrellas, making it a convenient spot for families. Kalamaki is known for its peaceful surroundings and beautiful sunsets over the Libyan Sea.
What are the top beaches to visit near Kommos and South Crete?
Find below a list with the top beaches to visit near Kommos and South Crete.
- Elafonisi Beach. Elafonisi Beach is a beach located in South Crete. Elafonisi Beach is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and pink sand, offering a natural spectacle on the island’s southwestern coast. Though further from Kommos, Elafonisi Beach is a must-visit beach for those exploring remote beaches in southern Crete.
- Preveli Beach. Preveli Beach is a beach in South Crete near Kommos, located at the mouth of the Kourtaliotiko Gorge. Preveli Beach is famous for its palm tree forest and the river that flows into the sea, offering a tranquil and exotic landscape not far from the Kommos area.
- Red Sand Beach. Red Sand Beach, also known as Kokkini Ammos, is a beach on the southern shore of the Heraklion district near Kommos. Red Sand Beach is distinguished by its red-hued sand, making it one of the island’s most unique beaches, located 1 kilometers (0.62 miles) from the iconic Matala Beach.
- Matala Beach. Matala Beach is a beach located in South Crete near Kommos, known for its striking rock formations and caves. Matala gained fame in the 1960s and 1970s as a hippie haven and remains a popular beach for travelers exploring the south coast near Kommos.
- Agiofarago Beach. Agiofarago Beach is a beach tucked away in a secluded gorge in South Crete near Kommos. Agiofarago Beach requires a short hike to reach and offers a peaceful, untouched coastline, ideal for those looking to experience solitude and natural beauty.
- Plakias Beach. Plakias Beach is a beach in the village of Plakias in South Crete, located near Kommos. Plakias Beach is known for its long stretch of sand, cliff surroundings, and views of the Libyan Sea, and it’s one of the better-equipped beaches with sunbeds, umbrellas, and water sports activities.
Can visitors hire a car and visit Kommos?
Yes, visitors can hire a car and visit Kommos Beach. Rental cars are available across Crete and offer the most flexible option for reaching Kommos. The beach is accessible via paved and well-maintained roads and renting a vehicle enables visitors to explore Crete according to their pace, including nearby villages and attractions.
What is the cost to rent a car in Crete?
The average price to rent a car in Crete is between €25 ($29.33, £21.71) and €40 ($46.92, £34.73) per day. A week-long rental costs about €250 ($293.28, £217.05), while weekend rentals average €78 ($91.50, £67.72). Prices vary based on car type, rental duration, and itinerary. Crete car rental costs vary depending on the number of persons, itinerary, car type, destination, and duration.
Crete Car rental companies offer a variety of cars depending on customers’ liking. Most car rental shops in Crete provide an online booking system whenever customers want to book a car. Simply follow the process and instantly book a vehicle on their website. Before booking a Crete car rental, check and secure all the requirements and factors.
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. But in order for a driver to be able to rent a car, the limit is 21. 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 vehicles 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 required 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.
Can nudists visit Kommos beach?
Yes, Kommos Beach is a popular nudist beach. The area is relatively large, so visitors should easily spot the nudist section of Kommos beach. Kommos beach is considered one of the best nudist beaches in Crete. Visitors should know that there are no official nudist beaches in Crete. All of them are unofficial. People should consider and respect the nudist beach etiquette when visiting such type of beaches.
What is the etiquette when visiting the Nudist Beaches in Crete?
Listed below are the Etiquette for Tourists Visiting the Nudist Beaches in Crete.
- Respect others’ privacy. Don’t stare or photograph without permission.
- Follow all local rules and regulations.
- Dress appropriately when entering or leaving the nudist area.
- Maintain good hygiene. Shower before entering and bring a towel to sit on.
- Bring essentials like towels, sunscreen, water. Clean up after yourself.
- Be Mindful of Children. If with children, ensure they understand the environment and respect others’ privacy.
- Embrace naturist culture. Avoid inappropriate behavior.
- Be friendly and polite. Respect personal space.
- Keep noise levels down for a peaceful environment.
- Be conscious of Photography. Ask before photographing others. Respect privacy.
Where to stay near Kommos Beach?
Listed below are the best hotels to stay near Kommos Beach:
- Hotel Neos Matala: Hotel Neos Matala offers comfortable accommodations just a short distance from Kommos Beach. The hotel features well-appointed rooms, a swimming pool, a restaurant and a bar. It provides easy access to the beach and is surrounded by shops, tavernas and cafes.
- Fragiskos Hotel: Fragiskos Hotel lies in the village of Pitsidia. It is a convenient option for those looking to stay near Kommos Beach. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a swimming pool and a restaurant. It is within walking distance of local amenities and provides a peaceful atmosphere for a relaxing stay.
- Palazzo Greco: Palazzo Greco is a boutique hotel that offers a luxurious stay near Kommos Beach. The hotel features elegant rooms with stunning sea views, a swimming pool, a bar and a restaurant. It provides an upscaling setting for guests and is a short drive from Kommos Beach.
Where to eat near Kommos Beach?
Listed below are the best restaurants in and near Kommos Beach:
- Vrachos Taverna: Vrachos Taverna is a place to eat near Kommos Beach, located in the nearby village of Kalamaki. Vrachos Taverna offers a traditional Greek dining experience featuring fresh seafood, grilled meats, and local Cretan specialties. With its waterfront location and charming ambiance, Vrachos is a top pick for those wanting to eat near Kommos Beach after a relaxing swim.
- Bunga Bunga: Bunga Bunga is a cosy restaurant to eat near Kommos Beach, known for its Mediterranean and international menu. Bunga Bunga features vegetarian and vegan options and uses locally sourced ingredients, making it ideal for health-conscious diners looking to eat well near Kommos Beach in a friendly, relaxed setting.
- The Secret Garden: The Secret Garden is a garden-style restaurant to eat near Kommos Beach, recognized for its delightful cuisine and peaceful outdoor environment. The Secret Garden offers Greek and Mediterranean dishes, including vegan and vegetarian selections, providing a scenic and serene option for eating near Kommos Beach.
Is Kommos Beach worth visiting?
Yes, Kommos Beach is worth visiting. Kommos Beach uniquely combines natural beauty with historical significance, allowing visitors to appreciate its charm. The stunning views of the Libyan Sea and the Paximadia islets, particularly during sunset, provide a backdrop for relaxation and enjoyment. Moreover, the archaeological site of Kommos adds a layer of interest, showcasing the remains of an ancient Minoan port. The presence of loggerhead sea turtles nesting on the beach further enhances its ecological importance.
Kommos Beach is a safe beach. Visitors should remain cautious of sea conditions and rocky seabed areas when swimming. Standard beach safety practices apply, and staying alert ensures a secure and enjoyable experience in this natural setting.
Travellers do not need to book in advance to visit Kommos Beach. It is a free public beach with open access. Reservations are only necessary for nearby accommodations or organised tours. While visiting the top beaches in Crete during peak season, early arrival helps secure a good spot on the beach.
Last updated on .
