Koutsouras Beach: A pebbly beach near Makrigialos Crete

Koutsouras Beach is located on the southern coast of Crete. It sits approximately 22 kilometres (13.6 miles) east of Ierapetra and is part of the village of Koutsouras. With a population of slightly over 800 people, the village provides a more relaxed and intimate setting compared to its larger neighbour, Makrigialos. The beach is relatively small, but its clear waters and pebbly shores create a stunning contrast against the shaded pine trees. Koutsouras Beach has been well-preserved, earning the prestigious Blue Flag Certification, which is a testament to its commitment to cleanliness, environmental quality and safety. The beach is well-protected from the north winds, ensuring a pleasant experience for sunbathers and swimmers alike.

Visitors to Koutsouras Beach can enjoy a variety of activities. Snorkelling is a popular choice, as the clear waters invite exploration of the diverse marine life beneath the surface. Swimming is equally enjoyable and the shallow and calm waters suit families with children. The village of Koutsouras also serves as a convenient base for those seeking adventure beyond the beach. Hiking lovers can explore the nearby Koutsouras Gorge, also known as “Butterfly Gorge”, although the butterfly population has diminished in recent years due to a past wildfire.

For those interested in exploring local history and culture, the nearby Kapsa Monastery is worth a visit. Situated between Makrigialos and Sitia, the monastery offers a glimpse into the region’s Byzantine heritage and provides stunning views of the Libyan Sea from its rocky mountain slope. Additionally, visitors can venture to the charming villages of Orino, Stavrochori and Chrysopigi, each offering unique landscapes.

Accommodation options near Koutsouras Beach cater to various preferences and budgets. Palm Beach Hotel, Eva Rooms and Artemis Hotel are among the choices for travellers seeking a comfortable stay close to the beach. Fish taverns and cafes within the village provide delightful dining experiences, allowing visitors to savour the flavours of authentic Cretan cuisine.

What is Koutsouras Beach?

Koutsouras Beach is a seaside destination in the village of Koutsouras on the southern coast of Crete. The beach features a unique blend of dark grey pebbles, clear waters and shaded pine trees. Though smaller and less crowded than the neighbouring Makrigialos beaches, Koutsouras Beach still offers a laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle. The beach has been awarded the prestigious European Blue Flag for its cleanliness and environmental quality, making it safe for a delightful and refreshing swimming experience. Visitors can participate in various water sports and sunbathe on the pebbly shores, while nearby fish taverns provide an opportunity to savour local seafood and cuisine. Additionally, the surrounding area offers many sightseeing opportunities, with mountain villages like Orino and Stavrochori to immerse in the region’s cultural heritage. Koutsouras Beach, with its preserved beauty and friendly locals, draws travellers seeking a relaxed retreat.

Where is Koutsouras Beach located?

Koutsouras Beach is located on the southern coast of Crete, in the village of Koutsouras. Situated approximately 22 kilometres (13.6 miles) east of Ierapetra, it was the administrative centre of the Makrigialos municipality before merging with the Ierapetra Region in 2011. The beach lies about 55 kilometres (34 miles) from Agios Nikolaos and 35 kilometres (21.7 miles) from Sitia, along the route to Ierapetra. According to the most recent census, the village of Koutsouras is the largest in the region, with over 800 people. To reach Koutsouras, visitors can take various transportation options. By car, they can follow the route from Agios Nikolaos, passing through Ierapetra and it will take about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Taxis are also available for a similar duration. For those on a budget, daily buses run from Heraklion to Ierapetra and from there, a taxi can be taken to reach Koutsouras, totalling around 2 hours of travel time.

How does the Koutsouras Beach Map look?

Find below on the image a map of Koutsouras Beach.

What are the activities at Koutsouras Beach?

Koutsouras Beach offers 3 activities for visitors to enjoy. Snorkelling is popular, as the beach’s blue waters provide an excellent opportunity to explore the marine life beneath the surface. The relatively small and well-protected bay enhances the snorkelling experience, allowing visitors to discover underwater wonders. Swimming is another favoured activity at Koutsouras Beach due to the clear waters, the excellent shade of pine trees and the unique dark grey pebbles, making it perfect for a refreshing dip. For those seeking adventure beyond the beach, hiking is a fantastic option. With the village of Koutsouras sitting at a perfect spot in Crete, visitors can hike into the nearby mountains and gorges for treks and breathtaking views.

When is the best time to visit Koutsouras Beach?

The best time to visit Koutsouras Beach is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. These months offer a pleasant and mild climate, making it ideal for exploring the beach and the surrounding areas without the large crowds often found during the peak tourist season. The weather remains lovely and visitors can enjoy the waters and its unique pebbly shores in a more private setting. During these shoulder seasons, the village gives off a more authentic and laid-back atmosphere, allowing travellers to experience the Mediterranean lifestyle without the worries of huge crowds. However, for those seeking the perfect beach day with longer sunlit hours, the summer months from June to September offer the warmest weather, making it an excellent time for swimming and sunbathing at Koutsouras Beach.

How was the preservation of Koutsouras Beach?

The preservation of Koutsouras Beach has been commendable, leading to its recognition with the prestigious Blue Flag Certification. This European Blue Flag award is a testament to the beach’s commitment to maintaining high standards of cleanliness, environmental quality and safety. Despite being a smaller and less visited beach than the nearby Makrigialos, Koutsouras Beach has been well-protected from the north winds, making its natural beauty remains intact. The efforts to safeguard the beach have contributed to creating a captivating environment with clear blue waters, shaded pine trees and unique dark grey pebbles, enhancing the overall appeal of the beach. The village of Koutsouras, in collaboration with local authorities, has successfully preserved the beach and its surroundings, offering visitors a clean and environmentally friendly destination.

What are the nearby attractions in Koutsouras Beach?

Listed below are the best attractions near Koutsouras Beach:

Butterfly Gorge: Butterfly Gorge connects the villages of Koutsouras and Oreino. It is also known as “Koutsouras Gorge”, with its entrance located in the Community Park on the Koutsouras. Despite its name, the gorge lacks butterflies, as they just come in the spring in recent years due to a massive wildfire that raged through the area in 1993, destroying most of the nearby woods.
Kapsa Monastery: Kapsa Monastery has been built since the Byzantine era and was believed to be established in the 15th century. It’s located between the villages of Makrigialos and Sitia, which is only about a few kilometres from Koutsouras, on a rocky mountain slope with views of the Libyan Sea.
Makrigialos Beach: Makrigialos Beach is a long and wide beach that is one of the most famous beaches in Makrigialos, next to Koutsouras village. It’s a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing and enjoying the views. Makrigialos Beach is also ideal for windsurfing since there’s always a nice breeze. Visitors can find a few beach bars and taverns to get drinks and snacks, sun loungers and umbrellas that can be rented.
Ferma Beach: Ferma Beach is a beautiful coastal destination located in the small seaside settlement of Ferma on the eastern coast of Crete. It is part of the Ferma group of beaches, which includes other nearby coastal spots such as Pigadi Beach and Giorgakis Beach. While Ferma Beach is not directly connected to Koutsouras Beach, they are both located in close proximity to each other along the eastern coast of Crete. Ferma Beach is about 11 kilometers west of Koutsouras Beach. Both beaches offer stunning views, crystal-clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.
Agia Fotia Beach: Agia Fotia Beach is a popular beach located in the Lasithi region of Crete, Greece. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, pebbly shores and lush greenery. Agia Fotia Beach is situated between Makrigialos and Ierapetra and it has become a favorite spot for both locals and tourists, contributing to the region’s tourism industry. While Agia Fotia Beach and Koutsouras Beach are not directly connected, they are located in close proximity to each other along the southern coastline of Crete. Visitors can easily explore both beaches and enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility they offer.
Mirtos: Mirtos is a charming beach community located in the Lassithi prefecture of Crete, Greece. It is known for its lovely beach with gritty, grey sand that doesn’t stick to the body. Mirtos has maintained its historic charm despite some moderate recent development. The beach offers all the facilities visitors may need, including small hotels, pubs, cafés, restaurants, supermarkets, a petrol station and a clinic. Mirtos and Koutsouras Beach are both located in the Lassithi region of Crete. Visitors can easily explore both beaches and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery they offer.

How do you get to Koutsouras Beach?

Visitors can reach Koutsouras Beach by various means of transportation. The most convenient way to get to Koutsouras Beach is by renting a car. If arriving in Crete at Heraklion, visitors can book a rental car in advance. From the airport, follow the route to Agios Nikolaos and continue to Ierapetra, from where Koutsouras is close. The drive typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. If renting a car is not preferred, visitors can opt for a taxi transfer. Pre-booking a taxi ensures a smooth journey without the hassle of driving and navigating. The taxi ride from Heraklion to Koutsouras is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, similar to driving with a rental car. For budget-conscious travellers, taking the bus is an option. Daily buses run from Heraklion to Ierapetra. However, there is no direct bus to Koutsouras. After arriving in Ierapetra, visitors need to take a taxi to reach Koutsouras and the entire trip can take around 2 hours, including possible stopovers along the way. A bus ticket typically costs around 12 euros.

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. 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.

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. Crete’s average car rental price 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, like Rental Center 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 availing of a rental car service in Crete, check and secure all the requirements.

How much does it cost to get to Koutsouras Beach?

Koutsouras Beach is free to enter for all visitors and locals. The main expense is the transportation to get to Koutsouras Beach. If renting a car, the price is just around €30 to €40 per day, which will depend on the rental agency, type of vehicle and rental duration. On the other hand, public buses operated by KTEL offer an affordable option, with ticket prices of around €12. Taxis are also available with cost depending on the distance and may incur additional fees.

Where to stay near Koutsouras Beach?

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

Palm Beach Hotel: A beachfront hotel offering comfortable rooms with sea views. It provides amenities like a swimming pool, restaurant and bar, making it a convenient choice for travellers seeking a relaxing stay by the sea.
Eva Rooms: Offering cosy and well-maintained rooms, Eva Rooms provide a budget-friendly option for travellers looking to stay near Koutsouras Beach. The accommodation is within walking distance of the beach and provides a convenient base for exploring the surrounding area.
Artemis Hotel: Situated near Koutsouras Beach, the Artemis Hotel provides a blend of comfort and traditional Cretan hospitality. Easy access to the beach and nearby attractions makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a pleasant and well-equipped stay.

Where to eat near Koutsouras Beach?

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

Robinson Taverna: This charming taverna offers a delightful dining experience focusing on fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes. Robinson Taverna is located near the beach, providing a picturesque setting for delicious meals with sea views.
Votsalakia Taverna: Situated close to Koutsouras Beach, Votsalakia Taverna serves authentic Cretan cuisine, including various grilled meats and flavorful local specialities. The taverna offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for a satisfying meal.
Edelweiss Cafe: For those seeking a relaxing spot to unwind, Edelweiss Cafe provides a cosy ambience with outdoor seating options. The cafe offers a selection of beverages, including coffee, refreshing drinks, light snacks and desserts, perfect for a leisurely break near the beach.

Is Koutsouras Beach worth visiting?

Yes, Koutsouras Beach is worth visiting. Despite being smaller and less crowded than some neighbouring beaches, it offers a unique and charming atmosphere with its clear waters, dark grey pebbles and shaded pine trees. The prestigious Blue Flag Certification recognises the beach’s cleanliness and commitment to environmental preservation. Visitors can enjoy various activities, such as snorkelling, swimming and hiking, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and adventure. Additionally, the nearby attractions, such as the Koutsouras Gorge and Kapsa Monastery, add to the excitement of this coastal destination.

Is Koutsouras Beach safe?

Yes, Koutsouras Beach is safe for visitors. The beach has been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag Certification, which indicates that it meets high cleanliness, water quality and safety standards. The waters are well-protected from the north winds, making swimming and water activities enjoyable and safe.

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

No, you do not need to book in advance to visit Koutsouras Beach. It is a public beach and no specific reservations are required to access or enjoy the area. Visitors can simply arrive at the beach during their preferred time and day without any prior booking. However, if you plan to stay in nearby accommodations or use specific services like beachfront sunbeds or umbrellas, make reservations in advance, especially during the peak tourist season when demand for such services can be higher. All of the best beaches in Crete are accessible to visitors without any entrance fee.

Are children permitted at Koutsouras Beach?

Yes, children are permitted at Koutsouras Beach. The beach is a family-friendly destination, with no restrictions on children accessing or enjoying the beach area. The calm and shallow waters and the well-protected bay make it a suitable and safe environment for children to swim and play. However, lifeguards may or may not be present, depending on the time of year. Hence, adults must be vigilant and take appropriate precautions to ensure a pleasant and secure experience for children at Koutsouras Beach.

What people say about Koutsouras Beach?

The reviews of Paralia Koutsouras beach are overwhelmingly positive, describing it as beautiful, peaceful and ideal for relaxation. The water is consistently noted as being crystal clear and clean, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. There are nearby rocks that make good snorkeling spots to see fish and sea life up close. While the beach itself is rocky and requires water shoes, the rocks do not deter people from enjoying the gorgeous blue waters. Several reviews rave about the beach being quiet and unaffected by winds, making it very calm and tranquil. There are also amenities like showers, chairs and umbrellas for rent and small beach bars or tavernas to get food and drinks right on the shore. With stunning natural scenery and easy accessibility, Paralia Koutsouras earns consistent praise in the reviews as a beautiful hidden gem of clear, azure waters and peacefulness perfect for a day of swimming, snorkeling or simply relaxing by the sea.

Last updated on October 23rd, 2023