Location
Greece
Status
Informal / Traditional
Suitable for
Adults only
Terrain
Mixed
Best season
May to October
About Sarandaris naturist cove (Hersonissos)
The coves of Hersonissos, known locally as Limanakia, line the coast from Cape Sarandaris east to the harbour of Hersonissos, about 27 km east of Heraklion on Crete's busy north coast. Cretan Beaches, the island's main beach guide, points out that while most Cretan naturist beaches are on the remote south coast, Hersonissos is an exception. Directly beside the small sandy beach at the base of Cape Sarandaris is a stony naturist cove, enclosed by high whitish limestone cliffs that hide it from the road and the hotels. Here, patches of sand alternate with rocks, and the water is clear and good for swimming. Because the cape shelters this stretch from the prevailing north-west winds, the sea is often calmer than elsewhere along the coast. Next to the nude cove is Sarandari beach, a shallow, sandy, family beach with sunbeds and a canteen, followed by the busier organized beaches of Giofyri and Creta Maris. The naturist cove itself has no services. The area is heavily developed with hotels, bars and cafés, and the town of Hersonissos is within walking distance, so expect a mainly resort crowd nearby, with nude bathers keeping to the cove.
Getting there
From Hersonissos harbour, follow the coastal road west towards Anissaras. Where the road turns inland, perpendicular to the shore, continue straight along the coast for about 50 m to where the asphalt ends; the Cape Sarandaris beach is below on the right. Climb down the steep steps from the cliff to that beach, then walk across to the naturist cove next to it. Roadside parking is possible near the end of the asphalt. Local buses run along the Hersonissos coast road. The steep steps and rocks make it unsuitable for wheelchairs.
Amenities
Legal context
Greece has no national register of designated nudist beaches; nudity is formally sanctioned only at licensed naturist establishments, but on secluded, traditionally nude spots it is generally tolerated, and police tend to act only on complaints. This cove is in a busy resort area, so keep nudity within the hidden cove and away from the neighbouring family beaches.
Naturism at Sarandaris naturist cove (Hersonissos) sits under Greece's rules for traditional tolerance — custom more than statute.
Full country law: Greece public nudity guide.
Researched 24 October 2026. No official source confirms naturist status, so treat it as unverified.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 35.3337, 25.3845
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in Greece
Frequently asked questions
Is there a nude beach in Hersonissos?
Yes. Cretan Beaches describes a small stony naturist cove at the base of Cape Sarandaris, west of the town, hidden by high cliffs. The main town beach is not nudist.
How do I find the naturist cove?
Follow the coast road west towards Anissaras to where the asphalt ends by the cape. Go down the steps to the Cape Sarandaris beach and walk to the cove beside it.
Are there facilities?
Not in the cove itself. Sunbeds and a canteen are available at Sarandari beach next door.
Is it family-friendly?
The cove is rocky and reached by steep steps. Families wanting nudity-free sand usually use Sarandari beach next door.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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