There are several beaches in Crete that are called Kalamaki Beach. There is one in the north of the island, not far away from Chania, and there is one in the south of Crete. The beach here on the photos is Kalamaki beach in southern Crete. It is situated about 70 km from the capital Heraklion and is accessible via the route Heraklion - Mires - Kalamaki Beach, or from Rethymnon via the route Rethymnon - Spili - Akoumia - Timpaki - Kalamaki Beach.

The southern Kalamaki Beach has a beautiful 2.5 km long sandy beach where sun beds and umbrellas are for rent. Often sunbeds and umbrellas are free if you order a drink at the tavern where they belong to. In the village are several small shops, mini markets, a bakery and a large number of taverns, mainly on the lively promenade that is located along the beach (no cars). There are quite a number of accommodations for rent in Kalamaki Beach.

The beach of Kalamaki is situated between Kommos Beach (in the south) and Kokkinos Pyrgos Beach (in the north). Kalamaki Beach is very quiet compared to some other resorts in Crete, but there is still a little bit to do. Because the beach is so long you will always find a quiet spot for yourself. If you walk south for about ten minutes you'll come to a stretch of beach where there are some tamarisk trees, where there is also room for naturists. You have to be careful though because in between May and October there are nests with eggs of Caretta sea turtles on the beach. For this you will be warned by signs.

Kiknos Café is situated on the promenade that runs along the beach of Kalamaki. They sell simple meals and snacks, including pizza, sandwiches, yoghurt, omelettes and various types of breakfasts. We order therefore not haute cuisine but a cappuccino and a yoghurt with honey and walnuts. The coffee is good and strong, Lavazza, and comes with a bottle of water. The yoghurt is fine, but it is of course difficult to do it wrong. We are helped by a very nice girl that brings us a large plate of grapes (free) after we are finished.

Our verdict: pleasant and friendly, a 8,5 out of 10

Hotel Alexander Beach on the edge of Kalamaki in central southern Crete offers 25 comfortably furnished rooms with shower, toilet and own balcony each. Rooms are of medium size and offer an incomparable location right at the Libyan Sea.

Check availabiltiy & prices and book Alexander Beach Hotel in Kalimaki Beach - click here.

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Right on Kalamaki Beach, Crysalis offers air-conditioned accommodation with a private balcony. Several taverns serving fresh fish and local specialties, as well as cafés can be found near the property. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout. Bright and airy, all rooms and apartments feature a mini fridge and CD player. Each has a private bathroom with a shower and hair dryer. Some accommodation types are self-catered, while others enjoy views of the Libyan Sea. Crysalis Studios is located 2 km from the archaeological site of Phaistos and 4 km from the lively Matala village. Heraklion International Airport is 69 km away. Free parking is possible nearby.

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Located right above the sandy beach of Kalamaki in Ormos Messaras, Studios Paradise features self-catering units with free Wi-Fi and a balcony or patio. It includes a yoga room and a snack bar, and offers free sun loungers and umbrellas at the beach. Overlooking the Libyan Sea or the mountain, the studios and apartments of Paradise have a kitchenette with fridge, electric kettle and cooking hobs. Each unit is equipped with air conditioning and a hair dryer. A continental breakfast is served daily at the dining area. Drinks, coffee and light snacks can also be enjoyed at the snack bar throughout the day. Guests will find restaurants and mini markets within a short walk from the property. Studios Paradise is situated 62 km from Heraklion Town and Port and 68 km from Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport. Matala Village with its sandy beach is at 10 km, while Agia Galini Village is 20 km away. Car rental services can be provided and free public parking can be found on site.

Check availabiltiy & prices and book Studios Paradise in Kalimaki Beach - click here.