Stavros Beach, Crete
4.6 / 5 Calm turquoise bay beneath a dry rocky hill in Akrotiri, Chania, Crete · Hidden gem
Photo: G Da, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Stavros is a small, sheltered bay of fine sand and clear shallow water on the Akrotiri peninsula of Crete. A rocky hill rises behind the beach, and the film Zorba the Greek was shot here.
Practical info for Stavros Beach, Crete
| Access | Easy to reach from Akrotiri, on foot or by short drive. |
|---|---|
| Car parking | Free parking near the beach; fills in August. |
| Sunbeds & umbrellas | Beach bar, sunbeds, parasols and showers in season. |
| Food & drink | Cafes, bars or restaurants are close by. |
| Good to know | Visit in the morning for calm water and quiet sand. |
Last verified: October 2026. Compiled from official tourism pages, visitor guides and recent reports. Prices, fees and rules change by season, so confirm locally before you go.
Planning your visit to Stavros Beach, Crete
Sand beaches are usually gentle underfoot and easy for swimmers and children, though they can be exposed to wind and waves, so check conditions on the day. Bring a hat and extra water, as shade can be scarce away from facilities.
Access is rated easy, so most visitors can reach the beach without a long walk or special equipment.
The usual season runs June–September. Visiting near the start or end of that window usually means fewer people, but the sea is cooler and some facilities may not be open yet or may have closed for the year. We flag this beach as a hidden gem, so it is quieter than the headline beaches nearby, but it is no secret: arrive early in peak summer.
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Featured in: Best Sandy Beaches in Greece · Best Family Beaches in Greece · Easiest Beaches to Reach in Greece · Hidden Gem Beaches in Greece · Beach finder
View Stavros Beach, Crete on the map · Compare with all beaches
Best months to visit Stavros Beach, Crete
The swimming season here runs from June to September. July, August are the warmest and busiest, with the sea around 25 °C, so arrive early for parking and a good spot. June and September are quieter and cooler: good for walking and photos, though some beach bars and lifeguard posts may not be open yet or may already have closed for the year.
Who Stavros Beach, Crete suits
Sand makes it comfortable for sunbathing, building sandcastles and long walks along the water line. Easy access makes it practical for families, older visitors and anyone with a pushchair. It is flagged as a hidden gem, so it suits travellers who prefer quieter places over the headline beaches. Food and drink close by make it easy to stay for the whole day.
Getting there and nearby
Free parking near the beach; fills in August. The beach sits at about 35.587, 24.045 on the map, so use the map link above for directions. If you are planning a day around it, the closest other beaches on our list are Seitan Limani (8 km), Marathi Beach (15 km), Georgioupoli Beach, Crete (32 km).
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Stavros Beach, Crete?
Stavros Beach, Crete is best visited June to September. The sea is typically around 25 °C in season. Visit in the morning for calm water and quiet sand.
How do I get to Stavros Beach, Crete?
Access is rated easy. Free parking near the beach; fills in August.
What facilities does Stavros Beach, Crete have?
Beach bar, sunbeds, parasols and showers in season.
Where is Stavros Beach, Crete?
Stavros Beach, Crete is in Akrotiri, Chania, Crete (approx. coordinates 35.587, 24.045).
Is Stavros Beach, Crete good for children?
Access is rated easy and the beach is sandy, which usually suits families. Check water and weather conditions on the day and keep children in sight near the water.
What should I bring to Stavros Beach, Crete?
Facilities: Beach bar, sunbeds, parasols and showers in season. A hat and sun protection are useful. Bring water and snacks if there is no kiosk or restaurant.
Is there parking at Stavros Beach, Crete?
Free parking near the beach; fills in August. Fees and rules change, so confirm locally.
Are there sunbeds at Stavros Beach, Crete?
Beach bar, sunbeds, parasols and showers in season. Prices are approximate and change by season.
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Beaches near Stavros Beach, Crete
Seitan Limani
Akrotiri, Chania, Crete, Greece · 4.6 / 5 · 8 km away
Marathi Beach
Kato Marathi, Chania, Crete · 4.3 / 5 · 15 km away
Georgioupoli Beach, Crete
Georgioupoli, Chania, Crete · 4.4 / 5 · 32 km away
Balos Lagoon
Crete, Greece · 4.8 / 5 · 41 km away
Falasarna Beach
Chania, Crete · 4.7 / 5 · 43 km away
Glyka Nera Beach
Sfakia, Crete · 4.6 / 5 · 43 km awayBrowse all beaches in Greece or compare every beach.
Scores are editorial ratings from the EuroShores team. Last updated 2026-10-21.