Xerokampos Crete: All You Need to Know by Locals!

Xerokampos Beach is a remote coastal settlement located in the southeastern part of Crete, Greece, 102 kilometers (63.37 miles) southeast of Agios Nikolaos, 44.1 kilometers (27.4 miles) south of Sitia and 69.6 kilometers (43.24 miles) east of Ierapetra. The beach serves as a destination for visitors seeking pristine beaches, clear waters and unspoiled natural beauty away from mass tourism. The climate in Xerokampos is pleasant during the shoulder seasons of May to June and September to October, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The beach features a variety of textures, including white sand, fine pebbles and clay and the coastline is characterized by small coves, rocky capes and sea caves. Tourism plays a role in the local economy, with a few houses, guesthouses and tavernas scattered throughout the valley.

What is Xerokampos Beach?

Xerokampos Beach is a remote coastal settlement located in the southeastern part of Crete, Greece. The area of East Crete is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters and unspoiled nature. The beaches of Xerokampos feature a variety of textures, including white sand, fine pebbles and even clay. The coastline is characterized by a succession of small coves separated by rocky capes and sea caves. The water is exceptionally clear, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Xerokampos has been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence of Minoan settlements in the area. The name “Xerokampos” translates to “dry plain” in Greek, referring to the arid and rocky landscape that surrounds the settlement. In recent years, Xerokampos has begun to attract more visitors due to the paving of roads connecting it to nearby villages like Ziros and Zakros. The area remains relatively undeveloped, with only a few houses, guesthouses and tavernas scattered throughout the valley.

Where is Xerokampos Beach located?

Xerokampos Beach is located in the southeastern part of Crete, Greece. It is located 102 kilometers (63.37 miles) southeast of Agios Nikolaos, 44.1 kilometers (27.4 miles) south of Sitia and 69.6 kilometers (43.24 miles) east of Ierapetra.. The settlement is part of the municipality of Sitia in the Lasithi regional unit. To reach Xerokampos from Sitia, one can take the road that leads to Palekastro, then turn south towards Ziros. From Ziros, a 20.4 kilometers (12.7-mile) narrow road leads to Xerokampos. Visitors can access Xerokampos from Zakros, which is located 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) to the north, via a newly paved road. The coordinates of Xerokampos are 35.0314° N, 26.2211° E. The journey from Heraklion, the capital of Crete, to Xerokampos is 163.5 kilometers (101.6 miles) and takes 3 hours by car. The route passes through the town of Agios Nikolaos, which is 62.5 kilometers (38.8 miles) from Heraklion, before continuing south to Ierapetra and then east to Xerokampos. From Ierapetra, the distance to Xerokampos is 69.6 kilometers (43.3 miles) and the drive takes 1 hour and 40 minutes. The nearest villages to Xerokampos are Ziros, located 20.4 kilometers (12.7 miles) to the north and Zakros, located 14.4 kilometers (8.9 miles) to the northeast. The closest larger town is Sitia, which is 12.6 kilometers (7.8 miles) to the north of Xerokampos.

How does the Xerokampos Beach Map look?

Find below an image of the Xerokampos Beach map.

What are nearby attractions in Xerokampos Beach?

Listed below are the nearby attractions in Xerokampos Beach:

Minoan Palace of Zakros: The Minoan Palace of Zakros is an archaeological site located in Kato Zakros 723 00, Greece, 14.7 kilometers (9.13 miles) north of Xerokampos Beach. It is the fourth-largest Minoan palace discovered in Crete, built around 1900 BC and destroyed around 1450 BC. The palace covers an area of about 8,000 square meters (86,000 square feet) and features several preserved rooms, including the main hall, storage areas and workshops. Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the Minoan civilization that once thrived in the region. The entrance fee to the Minoan Palace of Zakros is €6 ($6.54, £5.22) for adults and €3 ($3.27, £2.61) for reduced tickets.
Museums of Zakros: Museums of Zakros have two museums that provide further insights into the area’s history and culture located Ζάκρος 723 00, Greece. The Natural History Museum showcases the diverse flora and fauna of the Sitia Geopark, with exhibits highlighting the unique geological features and ecosystems found in the region. The Museum of Water and Hydraulics, housed in three restored water mills, presents the traditional methods of water management and the importance of water in the daily lives of the local people. These museums offer a comprehensive understanding of the natural and cultural heritage of Zakros and its surroundings. The distance from Xerokampos Beach to Zakros is 8.8 kilometers (5.47 miles).
Zakros Gorge: Zakros Gorge, also known as the “Gorge of the Dead”, is a natural formation located between the upper village of Epano Zakros and the lower village of Kato Zakros, 9.8 kilometers (6.09 miles) north of Xerokampos Beach. The gorge is part of the European long-distance hiking path E4 and extends for 4 kilometers (2.49 miles) from the upper village to the Minoan Palace of Zakros. The gorge features steep cliffs, narrow passages and a variety of flora and fauna, including rare species of birds and plants. Hiking through the Zakros Gorge typically takes 2 hours, there is no specific entrance fee for the gorge, but visitors should be prepared for a moderate hike and take necessary precautions.
Dragon’s Overlook: Dragon’s Overlook is a rock formation located in Dragon’s Way, Sitia 720 59, Greece, 41.4 kilometers (25.72 miles) east of Xerokampos Beach. The formation gets its name from its resemblance to a dragon’s head when viewed from certain angles. The hike takes 1 hour to complete and is considered moderate difficulty. Once at the overlook, visitors can explore the rock formation and take in the panoramic views. There is no cost to visit Dragon’s Overlook. The attraction is best suited for adults and older children who are comfortable with hiking and uneven terrain.
Erimoupolis Red Marbles: Erimoupolis Red Marbles is a quarry located at Sitia 723 00, Greece, 36.3 kilometers (22.56 miles) northwest of Xerokampos Beach. The quarry has been in operation since ancient times and is known for its distinctive red marble. The marble from Erimoupolis has been used in construction projects throughout Greece and the Mediterranean, including in the Palace of Knossos on Crete. Visitors can tour the quarry and learn about the history and process of marble extraction. Tours are available daily and cost €10 ($10.9, £8.7) per person. The quarry is best suited for adults and older children who are interested in history, geology or industrial processes. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for walking on uneven surfaces. Visitors can purchase souvenirs made from the marble at the quarry gift shop, with prices ranging from €20 ($21.8, £17.4) to €100 ($109, £87).
Ancient City Itanos: Ancient City Itanos is an archaeological site located 35.8 kilometers (22.25 miles) northeast of Xerokampos Beach. The city was founded in the 9th century BCE and was an important center of trade and commerce in the region until its decline in the 2nd century BCE. Visitors can explore the ruins of the city, which include remains of houses, public buildings and a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. Ancient City Itanos features a small museum displaying artifacts found during excavations.
Agia Irini Gorge. Agia Irini Gorge is located about 5 km west of Xerokampos and connects the tiny village of Agia Irini with the remote beach of Agia Irini, surrounded by high rocks. The gorge can be reached from the road that connects Xerokampos with Ziros. You can explore the Agia Irini Gorge and the gorge of Platyvolo on foot along old unmarked trails. Both gorges are extremely wild, with high walls and steep descents towards the sea.
Discover the beaches near Xerokampos. Although you will have enough choices for excellent beaches in the Xerokampos area, if you wish to explore further, you can find other superb and secluded beaches along the eastern coast of Crete. To the north, the beach of Kato Zakros is just a few kilometers away and is considered among the most beautiful on the island. There are few beaches further to the north, usually inside small sandy coves, but you can drive to the world-famous Vai beach, with its superb palm trees. South of Xerocampos, you can find the small beaches of Agia Irini, Vlyhada and Livadi.

What are the activities in Xerokampos Beach?

There are 4 major activities at Xerokampos Beach. These are swimming, snorkeling, hiking, camping and sunbathing. Swimming is the most popular activity at Xerokampos Beach. The beach has crystal-clear turquoise waters that are ideal for swimming. The main south beach is 630 meters long, providing ample space for beachgoers. There are also several smaller beaches and coves in the area with fine sand, pebbles and rocks to explore while swimming. Snorkeling is another great activity at Xerokampos. The clear waters provide excellent visibility for observing the vibrant marine life beneath the surface. Visitors can bring their own snorkeling gear or rent equipment from nearby facilities to explore the underwater world along the coast. Hiking is possible in the area surrounding Xerokampos Beach. There are gorges located near the beach, such as the Xerokampos Gorge (also known as Lamnoni Gorge). The Xerokampos Gorge is located at the southern end of the beach and can be accessed from the bottom, allowing visitors to hike upstream as far as they desire. Hikers can explore these gorges on foot, admiring the steep cliffs and unique geological formations. Camping is not an officially designated activity at Xerokampos Beach. There are no established campsites in the immediate vicinity and some visitors may choose to camp in the surrounding areas, although it is essential to respect the environment and local regulations. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing on the beach, exploring the nearby coves and caves or simply relaxing at one of the local tavernas, savoring traditional Cretan cuisine. Prices for meals at these tavernas typically range from €10 ($10.90, £8.70) to €20 ($21.80, £17.40) per person.

When is the best time to visit Xerokampos Beach?

The best time to visit Xerokampos Beach is during the shoulder seasons of May to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F) and the sea remains warm enough for swimming. Visitors can enjoy the beach and nearby hiking trails with fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months. July and August are the busiest months at Xerokampos Beach, with high temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). The beach and the few tavernas in the area can become more crowded during this time, as it is the peak of the tourist season. Due to the remote location and limited development of Xerokampos, even during the summer months, the beach remains relatively less crowded compared to other more popular destinations in Crete.

For people seeking a more secluded and peaceful experience, visiting Xerokampos Beach in May, June, September or October is recommended. During these months, visitors can still enjoy warm weather and comfortable sea temperatures, while having more space to relax on the beach and explore the surrounding natural attractions, such as the Agia Irini Gorge and Lamnoni Gorge.

In the winter months, from November to April, Xerokampos Beach sees very few visitors. The weather is cooler, with temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F) and the sea may be too cold for swimming. Some tavernas and accommodations may also be closed during this time

How to Get to Xerokampos?

Visitors can get to Xerokampos Beach by taxis, rental cars, public buses and shuttle transfers. The beach is accessible by car from various cities and towns in Crete.

From Heraklion, the capital of Crete, the distance to Xerokampos Beach is 164 kilometers (101.9 miles), with an estimated driving time of 2 hour and 43 minutes. The route involves taking the road towards Sitia and then following the signs to Ziros and Xerokampos.

For those coming from Sitia, the distance to Xerokampos Beach is 44.1 kilometers (27.4 miles), with a driving time of roughly 58 minutes. The route passes through the village of Ziros before reaching Xerokampos.

From Ierapetra, another nearby town, the distance is 69.6 kilometers (43.24 miles), with an estimated driving time of 1 hour and 25 minutes. Public transportation to Xerokampos is limited. Visitors can take a bus from Heraklion or Sitia to Zakros or Ziros, the closest villages to Xerokampos. From there, they would need to take a taxi to cover the remaining distance to the beach. The bus journey from Heraklion to Sitia takes 3 hours and 30 minutes, while the taxi ride from Sitia to Xerokampos is 50 minutes.

The easiest and most direct route to Xerokampos Beach is by driving from Heraklion with a Crete car rental. The route involves taking the National Road towards Agios Nikolaos and then following the signs to Sitia. From Sitia, visitors should follow the road to Ziros and then continue on to Xerokampos.

Getting to Xerokampos by Car

The best way to get to Xerokampos is with a rental car from Heraklion airport. The trip usually takes almost three hours, passing along parts of the northern and southern coast of Crete. The best option is to drive up to Pachia Ammos and then turn south across the island to Ierapetra, continuing to Ziros and further up to Xerokampos. The winding road from Ziros is recently paved and offers superb views of the coast. Hiring a car in Crete and driving to Xerokampos is definitely your best option to reach this remote destination and further explore the eastern coast of the island.

There are a few guesthouses and taverns close to the beaches, while more services can be found in Ziros or Zakros, including a gas station.

Getting to Xerokampos by Bus

There are no direct buses to Xerokampos and if you wish to use public transport, you can take a bus from Heraklion to Sitia and then find another bus to either Ziros or Zakros. From Sitia or these villages, you will then have to take a taxi and the cost will definitely rise much more than simply hiring a car and driving to Xerokampos. You could reach it in about two and a half hours, depending on traffic. Getting to Xerocampos with a bus plus a taxi could take half a day.

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:

Rental Cost: The cost of renting a car in Crete varies depending on factors such as the rental company, car type and rental duration. Travelers should compare prices from different providers and consider any additional fees, such as insurance or taxes, to determine the total cost of the rental.
Insurance Coverage: Travelers should carefully review the insurance options provided by the rental company when renting a car in Crete. Some companies may include basic insurance in the rental price, while others may offer additional coverage for an extra fee. Travelers should ensure they have adequate coverage for their needs, including liability, collision damage waiver and theft protection.
Driving License and Age Requirements: To rent a car in Crete, travelers must possess a valid driving license from their country of residence. Some rental companies may also require an international driving permit, especially for non-EU citizens. Most rental companies have a minimum age requirement of 21 years old, with some imposing a surcharge for drivers under 25 or over 65 years old.
Car Type and Size: Travelers should consider the type and size of car that best suits their needs. Factors to consider include the number of passengers, amount of luggage and planned itinerary. Smaller cars may be more fuel-efficient and easier to navigate on narrow roads, while larger vehicles may be more comfortable for longer journeys or for accommodating more passengers and luggage.
Pickup and Drop-off Locations: Rental companies in Crete offer various pickup and drop-off locations, including airports, cities and popular tourist destinations. Travelers should choose a location that is convenient for their itinerary and consider any additional fees for one-way rentals or out-of-hours pickups or drop-offs.
Road Conditions and Driving Style: Crete has a mix of modern highways and narrow, winding mountain roads. Travelers should be prepared for challenging driving conditions, especially in rural areas or during peak tourist seasons when traffic can be heavy. It is essential to familiarize oneself with local driving laws and customs, such as speed limits and parking regulations, to ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience.

How much does a car rental in Crete cost?

The cost of a car rental in Xerokampos, Crete, varies depending on the type of trip, duration, car type and number of persons. For a week-long trip, a rental car can cost between €200 ($218, £174) and €400 ($436, £348), depending on the car type. A compact car for two persons can cost €200 ($218, £174) per week, while a larger vehicle for four persons can cost up to €400 ($436, £348) per week. The rental price typically includes unlimited mileage and basic insurance coverage. For a day rental, car rental prices in Xerokampos range from €30 ($32.7, £26.1) to €60 ($65.4, £52.2) per day. A small car for two persons can cost €30 ($32.7, £26.1) per day, while a larger car for four persons can cost up to €60 ($65.4, £52.2) per day. A larger vehicle for four persons can cost up to €80 ($87.2, £69.6) per day. The rental price with Crete car hire include unlimited kilometers, one additional driver, all local taxes and VAT.

What are the best places to overnight near Xerokampos Beach?

Listed below are the best places to overnight near Xerokampos beach:

Vista Mare Luxury Villas: Vista Mare Luxury Villas is located at Lefki 720 59, 1.1 kilometer (0.68 miles) from Xerokampos Beach. The villas feature private pools, fully equipped kitchens, air conditioning and sea views. Depending on the season and villa size, costs range from €150 ($163.5, £130.5) to €300 ($327, £261) per night. The property has a rating of 4.5/5 on Tripadvisor and 4.9/5 on Google.
Natica Mare Villas: Natica Mare Villas is located at Lefki 720 59, Greece, 2.8 kilometers (1.74 miles) from Xerokampos Beach. The villas offer private pools, barbecue facilities, air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. Prices vary from €120 ($130.8, £104.4) to €250 ($272.5, £217.5) per night, depending on the season and villa type. The property has earned a 4/5 rating on Tripadvisor and 4.8/5 on Google.
Villa Petrino: Villa Petrino is located at ΞΕΡΟΚΑΜΠΟΣ, ΣΗΤΕΙΑΣ 723 00, Greece, 400 meters (0.25 miles) from Xerokampos Beach. The villa features a private pool, garden, terrace and fully equipped kitchen. The cost ranges from €100 ($109, £87) to €200 ($218, £174) per night, depending on the season. The property has a rating of 4.5/5 on Tripadvisor and 4.7/5 on Google.
Hotel Kato Zakros Palace: Hotel Kato Zakros Palace is located at Itanos 723 00, Greece, 13.8 kilometers (8.57 miles) from Xerokampos Beach. The hotel offers a swimming pool, restaurant, bar and air-conditioned rooms with balconies. Prices vary from €50 ($54.5, £43.5) to €100 ($109, £87) per night, depending on the season and room type. The property has earned a 3.5/5 rating on Tripadvisor and 4.6/5 on Google.
Flisvos Hotel: Flisvos Hotel is located in Kon/nou Karamanli 4, Sitia 723 00, Greece, 37.2 kilometers (23.1 miles) from Xerokampos Beach. The hotel features a swimming pool, restaurant, bar and rooms with sea or mountain views. Depending on the season and room type, the cost ranges from €40 ($43.6, £34.8) to €80 ($87.2, £69.6) per night. The property has a rating of 4/5 on Tripadvisor and 4.1/5 on Google.

What are the best places to eat near Xerokampos Beach?

Listed below are the best places to eat near Xerokampos Beach:

Taverna Creta Sun: Taverna Creta Sun is a restaurant located at Epar. Od. Zirou Paleokastrou 103, Xerokampos 720 59, Greece, just 180 meters (0.12 miles) from Xerokampos Beach. The taverna offers a wide selection of Greek and Cretan dishes, including fresh seafood, grilled meats and vegetarian options. Prices range from €6 ($6.54, £5.22) to €18 ($19.62, £15.66) per dish. The restaurant features a beautiful garden setting with outdoor seating and a playground for children. Taverna Creta Sun has earned a 4/5 rating on Tripadvisor and 4.5/5 on Google. The taverna is open daily for lunch and dinner during the summer season.
Villa Petrino – Taverna KOSTAS – Xerokampos: Taverna KOSTAS is part of the Villa Petrino complex, located at ΞΕΡΟΚΑΜΠΟΣ, ΣΗΤΕΙΑΣ 723 00, Greece, 400 meters (0.24 miles) from Xerokampos Beach. The taverna specializes in traditional Greek cuisine, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and homemade recipes. Prices range from €8 ($8.72, £6.96) to €22 ($23.98, £19.14) per dish. Taverna KOSTAS has a 4.5/5 rating on Tripadvisor and 4.7/5 on Google. The taverna is open for lunch and dinner and it’s recommended to make a reservation, especially during peak season.
AKROGIALI TAVERN: AKROGIALI TAVERN is a beachfront restaurant located at Ξεροκαμπος, Ζήρος 720 59, Greece, just 1.1 kilometers (0.68 miles) a few steps from the shore. The tavern specializes in fresh seafood dishes, including grilled octopus, fried calamari and seafood pasta. Prices range from €12 ($13.08, £10.44) to €30 ($32.7, £26.1) per dish. The restaurant features a large outdoor seating area with direct views of the Aegean Sea and Xerokampos Beach. AKROGIALI TAVERN has earned a 4.5/5 rating on Tripadvisor and 4.4/5 on Google. The tavern is open daily for lunch and dinner during the summer season.
Dolphin: Dolphin is a seaside restaurant located at Xerokambos Beach, Greece, just 1.2 kilometer (0.75 miles) from the shore. The restaurant specializes in Mediterranean cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood and local ingredients. Prices range from €10 ($10.9, £8.7) to €25 ($27.25, £21.75) per dish. Dolphin features a large outdoor terrace with views of the Aegean Sea and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. The restaurant has earned a 4/5 rating on Tripadvisor and 4.2/5 on Google.
Dionysos Restaurant: Dionysos Restaurant is a modern Greek restaurant located at Φέρμα, Ag. Ioannis 722 00, Greece, 57.4 kilometers (15.53 miles) from Xerokampos Beach. The restaurant offers a creative menu that combines traditional Greek flavors with contemporary techniques and presentation. Prices range from €12 ($13.08, £10.44) to €30 ($32.7, £26.1) per dish. Dionysos The restaurant has earned a 4.5/5 rating on Tripadvisor and 4.7/5 on Google. Dionysos Restaurant is open for dinner only and it’s recommended to make a reservation, especially on weekends.

Is Xerokampos Beach worth visiting?

Yes, Xerokampos Beach is worth visiting. The beach offers crystal-clear waters and fine sand, making it ideal for relaxation and swimming. Its remote location ensures that it remains uncrowded, even during peak summer months. The surrounding landscapes, with mountains, olive groves and gorges, add to the appeal of the area. Visitors should be prepared for limited amenities and a long drive to reach the beach. Xerokampos Beach is considered one of the best Crete beaches to visit.

Is Xerokampos Beach safe?

Yes, Xerokampos Beach is safe. The beach itself is sandy and has shallow, clear waters, making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling. As with any beach destination, visitors should exercise caution and be aware of potential risks such as strong currents or rocky areas. It is always advisable to check local weather conditions and follow any safety guidelines provided by local authorities. The remote location of Xerokampos Beach also means that medical facilities and emergency services may be limited, so visitors should take necessary precautions and be prepared for any potential emergencies.

How is the preservation of Xerokampos Beach?

The preservation of Xerokampos Beach is largely due to its remote location and limited development in the area. Xerokampos is located in the southeastern part of Crete, far from major towns and cities. The nearest villages are Zakros and Ziros, This isolation has helped maintain the beach’s pristine condition, as it is not easily accessible to large numbers of tourists. The infrastructure in Xerokampos is minimal, with only a few taverns, mini-markets and scattered accommodations. There are no large resorts or hotel complexes in the immediate vicinity, which has prevented over-development and helped preserve the natural beauty of the area. The limited tourist services have also contributed to keeping visitor numbers relatively low, reducing the potential for environmental damage. The local authorities and residents have taken steps to protect the environment in Xerokampos. The beach is part of the Natura 2000 network, a European Union-wide conservation initiative that aims to protect threatened species and habitats. This designation provides a legal framework for managing and preserving the area’s natural resources. The local community has worked to keep the beach clean and minimize waste, ensuring that the environment remains unspoiled. The Greek government has implemented laws and regulations to safeguard its coastlines and natural areas. These include restrictions on construction and development within a certain distance from the shore, as well as measures to prevent pollution and protect wildlife.

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

No, there is no need to book in advance to visit Xerokampos Beach, as it is a public beach accessible to everyone. If visitors plan to stay overnight in the area, it is recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially during the peak summer season. The limited number of rooms, apartments and villas in Xerokampos can fill up quickly, so early reservation is advised to ensure availability. Visitors should also note that public transportation to Xerokampos is limited, so if planning to use a taxi or rent a car, booking these services in advance can help avoid any last-minute inconveniences.

Are children permitted at the Xerokampos Beach?

Yes, children are permitted at Xerokampos Beach, as it is a public beach open to all ages. The shallow, clear waters and sandy shore make it a suitable destination for families with children. Parents should supervise their children at all times and be aware of any potential hazards, such as strong currents or deep waters. It is also important to note that the beach has limited facilities, so families should come prepared with essentials such as water, snacks and sun protection. The long drive to reach Xerokampos Beach may be challenging for some children, so parents should plan accordingly and take necessary breaks during the journey.

Published on May 19, 2024