Xerokampos Beach, Crete
4.5 / 5 Quiet sand and rock coves in remote east Crete in Xerokampos, Sitia, east Crete · Hidden gem
Photo: Olaf Tausch, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Xerokampos is a remote bay in the far east of Crete, with pale sand, flat white rocks and clear blue water. The coast is dry and quiet, with only a few tavernas, and a string of small coves runs along the shore.
Practical info for Xerokampos Beach, Crete
| Access | Easy to reach from Xerokampos, on foot or by short drive. |
|---|---|
| Car parking | Free parking beside the beaches; a long drive on a winding road. |
| Sunbeds & umbrellas | A few tavernas and rooms nearby; no sunbeds in most coves. |
| Food & drink | Cafes, bars or restaurants are close by. |
| Good to know | Bring water and shade, drive the dirt tracks to the quieter coves, and eat at a village taverna. |
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 Xerokampos 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.
Related guides: Best Family-Friendly Beaches · Most Romantic Beach Getaways · Best Time to Visit Each Country · Best beaches in Crete
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 Xerokampos Beach, Crete on the map · Compare with all beaches
Best months to visit Xerokampos 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 Xerokampos 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 beside the beaches; a long drive on a winding road. The beach sits at about 35.093, 26.233 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 Vai Beach (18 km), Elounda Beach, Crete (50 km), Malia Beach, Crete (74 km).
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Xerokampos Beach, Crete?
Xerokampos Beach, Crete is best visited June to September. The sea is typically around 25 °C in season. Bring water and shade, drive the dirt tracks to the quieter coves, and eat at a village taverna.
How do I get to Xerokampos Beach, Crete?
Access is rated easy. Free parking beside the beaches; a long drive on a winding road.
What facilities does Xerokampos Beach, Crete have?
A few tavernas and rooms nearby; no sunbeds in most coves.
Where is Xerokampos Beach, Crete?
Xerokampos Beach, Crete is in Xerokampos, Sitia, east Crete (approx. coordinates 35.093, 26.233).
Is Xerokampos 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 Xerokampos Beach, Crete?
Facilities: A few tavernas and rooms nearby; no sunbeds in most coves. A hat and sun protection are useful. Bring water and snacks if there is no kiosk or restaurant.
Is there parking at Xerokampos Beach, Crete?
Free parking beside the beaches; a long drive on a winding road. Fees and rules change, so confirm locally.
Are there sunbeds at Xerokampos Beach, Crete?
A few tavernas and rooms nearby; no sunbeds in most coves. Prices are approximate and change by season.
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Beaches near Xerokampos Beach, Crete
Vai Beach
Sitia, Crete, Greece · 4.5 / 5 · 18 km away
Elounda Beach, Crete
Elounda, Lasithi, Crete · 4.4 / 5 · 50 km away
Malia Beach, Crete
Malia, Crete · 4.0 / 5 · 74 km away
Hersonissos Beach
Hersonissos, Crete · 4.0 / 5 · 81 km away
Apella Beach
Apella, Karpathos · 4.6 / 5 · 101 km away
Matala Beach
Matala, Heraklion, Crete · 4.5 / 5 · 135 km awayBrowse all beaches in Greece or compare every beach.
Scores are editorial ratings from the EuroShores team. Last updated 2026-10-21.