Maridatis or Maridati Beach can be found via an exit from the road leading between the palm beach of Vai and the small town of Palekastro. If you're coming from the south the exit is just before the one for Kouremenos Beach. The distance from the main road is 1.2 kilometers and the last couple of 100 meters are unpaved, but doable. It is a beautiful and serene beach with coarse sand, pebbles and some rocks, and I estimate that it is about 200 meters long and quite wide. It lies in a sheltered bay where it often is good to be even if on other places there is a strong wind.

The beach of Maridatis also seemed suitable for naturists and that proved to be so. The southern side of the beach is intended for naturists and it never seems to be really busy here. We could skinny dip into the sea. At first we were the only visitors, and later two more people visited the beach, of which one also sunbathed without swimwear. Maridatis Beach was also clean. I think the people of the nearby taverna take care of this. On the beach there are trees for those who want to sit in the shade, but there are no umbrellas or sunbeds for hire. At the beach you will also find the so-called Maridatis wetlands, a swampy area with brackish water, attracting specific birds.

Update 2017: a "no nudism" sign has appeared.

At 150 meters from the beach of Maridatis is this good fish tavern, where a cheerful gentleman (Manoli) is waiting for you with a big smile. There's nice Greek music and it is atmospheric, with beautiful views of the sea. The house wine is very tasty. We ordered the tzatziki, Greek salad and a fish dish that was on offer. Everything tastes fine, both the Greek salad and tzatziki which the well seasoned with garlic. The fish dish (9 euro in 2015, very cheap!) is deliciously seasoned. After lunch we get a bottle of delicious home made raki, and a dish with watermelon and Greek bananas. Top, delicious dinner and enjoyed the place.

At the taverna are a few studios and apartments for rent (see below). I understand it's a pretty popular place for those who have discovered it once, and he has many repeat customers.

Our verdict: a 9 out of 10

Only 150 metres from the Maridatis Beach in Palaikastron, Maridatis Apartments is a self-catering accommodation featuring a sun terrace and garden. Free Wi-Fi is available.

The split level apartments come with a TV, balcony, and seating area. A fully equipped kitchenette with fridge and electric kettle in included. Featuring a bath or shower, the bathroom comes with free toiletries. The studios come with a kitchen, bathroom and a large common space serving as a seating and sleeping areas. Some of the rooms have air conditioning. All rooms offer view of the sea and surrounding area.

There is a tavern right next to hotel with traditional meals owned by the hotelier and breakfast is served a la carte.

Maridatis Apartments is only 3 km from the centre of Palaikastro on the road to Vai. Siteia is 20 km away and Sitia Public Airport is located 15 km away. Free parking is offered on site.

Check availabilities and prices & book Maridatis Apartments - click here.