Gavdos is a dreamlike island with wild beaches, pristine nature and a beautiful lighthouse. It is the southernmost island of Crete and a unique destination for free camping, naturism and stress-free holidays.
Stunning landscapes dominated by pines, junipers and endemic species of flora and fauna decorate the island. It is ideal for hiking and the best way to discover its pristine beauty is to walk!
Sarakiniko Beach
In the past, Gavdos was a haven for hardy independent travellers who rocked up to camp and chill under the brightest stars in Europe. They still come here today, but now in a more organised way, renting rooms and apartments in a handful of small hotels, villas and studios.
The most popular beach on the island is Sarakiniko, named after the pirates who sought refuge in its shallow clear waters. The beach is a short bus ride or a half hour walk north of the port at Karave and offers quality services, cafes and tavernas.
Also worth a visit is the more wild and isolated Pyrgos beach, situated in the north of the island and accessible by a steep hike or a small boat. Here you will find a gorgeous rocky beach with golden fine sand and impressive caves. Make sure you take a blanket and snacks to sit on – the rocky landscape makes for awesome star-lit picnics.
Tripiti Beach
Gavdos is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, with multiple paths connecting unique pine trees, juniper and cedar forests and incredible isolated beaches. It has been inhabited since antiquity, and you can find numerous ruins around the island. It is recommended to visit the island after Easter or late in September for best conditions.
The most famous beach of the island is Sarakiniko, named after the pirates that found refuge there. It has amazing turquoise waters, golden sand and cedars offering shade. During summer it can get crowded, but the rest of the year it is not so popular.
Tripiti beach is a very beautiful, sandy and pebbled beach, which is considered to be the southernmost point of Europe. It offers unobstructed views of Libyan sea and is famous for its Throne of Odysseus, an oversized chair that was placed there by a group of Russian physicists who were looking for the human immortality.
Korfos Beach
The remote island of Gavdos offers unforgettable seascapes and mountain landscapes. The beaches of Gavdos are sandy and crystal clear, attracting naturists and those who want to get a tan against the backdrop of an extraordinary scenery.
One of the best beaches of Gavdos is Sarakiniko, named after the pirate Barbarosa who sought refuge in its waters during 1539. This beach features fantastic turquoise waters and golden sand, while ancient cedar trees add a romantic touch to the landscape.
Another great beach of Gavdos is Tripiti, whose rock formations are famous for the three suggestive arches that rise from them. The beach is also known for a unique landmark: a huge chair several times taller than the average human that designates it as Europe’s southernmost point.
The beaches of Gavdos are non-organized, so visitors should bring all the necessary supplies they need to spend a carefree holiday. It is also advisable to check the ferry schedules and bring extra provisions in case of delays or cancellations.
Potamos Beach
Located on the western part of Gavdos Island, it is the southernmost point of Europe. It is also known as the cape of Tripiti. It is a sandy beach featuring three natural consecutive arches and the well-known huge chair standing above them.
It is one of the most preferred spots on the island for naturists and campers. It is a safe sandy beach that offers ample space for sunbathing.
The beach is sheltered by the wild cliffs that form its backdrop, and you can enjoy a swim in its clear turquoise waters. You can reach it either by a long hike from Lavrakas or from Ambelos, or via boat.
It is another lovely sandy beach with shallow waters that attracts families and kids. It is one of the most secluded beaches on the west side of Gavdos and can be reached only by walking through the rugged cliffs or by boat. The beach is named after the white sea lilies that bloom on its shores in autumn.