Location

Xerokambos is a magnificent beach complex, on the southeastern tip of the Lassithi prefecture.
It is located 103km east of Agios Nikolaos, 47km east of Sitia, 69km from Ierapetra and 20km from the mountainous village of Ziros.

Characteristics

Facilities

The beaches aren’t organised but there are taverns, mini markets and accommodation options in the vicinity.

Notes

The settlement of Xerokambos is among the most isolated and less affected by mass tourism areas in Crete.
It is a remote and unspoilt place, mostly rocky, consisting of low vegetation and olive groves, surrounded by steep mountains and gorges and provides beaches for all tastes: rocky and pebbly ones, golden sand beaches with shallow green-blue waters, even a small cove with clay, offering to the visitors a free, natural spa!

All beaches that comprise Xerokambos are isolated and quiet, sheer perfection for honeymooners!
Bear in mind that not all of them have taverns and super markets in close vicinity so if you decide to visit the most northern ones you should carry food and drink with you.

The most southern beach is a pebbly one where fishing boats anchor.
Moving to the northeast, on a dirt road, you find two adjacent and secluded coves, accessible through a stone path.
After the above 3 small coves you will find the largest beach in the area, an unorganised sandy beach with exquisite shallow green-blue waters, facing three large rocks.

Following the paved road to the north you come into the main settlement of Xerokambos where super markets, accommodation and dining facilities can be found.
Bear in mind though that a petrol station and a pharmacy can only be found in Zakros, an approximate 20 minute drive, whereas an ATM machine is found at the village of Ziros, about half an hour away.

Just below the picturesque church of St Nicholas, other narrow secluded coves are found, including one which is surrounded by rocks of clay perfect for a natural peeling treatment when the sun goes down.
Heading north, you will come across the amazing sand dunes which host white sand lilies and lead to another exquisite sandy beach of Xerokambos, shelter for the loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta).
After a few minutes walk, an isolated and ideal for snorkeling beach awaits you.
This beach is surrounded by loose red rocks so you are strongly advised to be very cautious as there is always a possibility of stone falls.

Overall, the beaches of Xerokambos are strongly affected by strong winds although in late August, the winds calm down and Xerokambos becomes one of the most alluring places in eastern Crete.
Moreover, in August 29th, the locals celebrate Saint John with a traditional feast.

How to get to Xerokambos

Xerokambos is accessible only by rented cars and motorbikes.
If you choose to drive from Sitia, follow the road connecting Sitia and Ierapetra with the village of Ziros, a magnificent drive when you start descending and given the opportunity to enjoy the spectacular views on the Libyan sea and the lunar atmosphere the area exudes.
The route is well signposted.
Xerokambos is also accessed from Zakros, on a good asphalt road.