Location
Greece
Status
Informal / Traditional
Suitable for
Families and adults
Terrain
Sand
Best season
May to October (September is quietest)
About Kedrodasos Beach
Kedrodasos is a series of sandy coves about 1 km east of the famous Elafonissi lagoon in the far south-west of Crete, roughly 76 km from Chania. Its name means 'cedar forest', though the old, slow-growing trees on the dunes are junipers, protected under the Natura 2000 network like Elafonissi itself. Unlike its busy neighbour it has no beach bars, sunbeds or toilets, and that, along with the shade, the quiet and shelter from the wind, has long made it a favourite of nude bathers and unofficial campers. Cretan Beaches lists it among the island's naturist beaches. There is no marked nude section; the further you walk over the sand and rocks from the path, the more secluded the coves get. The main beach has white sand and clear turquoise water, while parts of the seabed are rocky, so water shoes help. The juniper trees and large rocks give genuine natural shade. Visitors are asked to stay off the fragile dunes and trees and to carry out all rubbish, which has become a problem.
Getting there
Drive towards Elafonissi and take the signed dirt road through the greenhouses; it is rough in places and easier with a 4x4. Park near the small canteen above the beach and walk down a rocky path for about 10-12 minutes; wear trainers rather than flip-flops. Alternatively, walk the E4 coastal path east from Elafonissi past several small deserted coves. There is no public transport to Kedrodasos itself, and the site is not wheelchair accessible.
What visitors say
Visitors describe Kedrodasos as a calm, uncrowded alternative to Elafonissi, with plenty of real shade under the junipers and rocks and generally less wind. Several mention that nude bathers are common and that private nooks can be found by walking along the shore. Complaints focus on rubbish left by visitors and campers, a rocky seabed, and no toilets; the only snack bar is up by the parking. One review warns of theft, so do not leave valuables unattended.
Summarised in our own words from public reviews and guides listed under Sources.
Amenities
Legal context
Cretan Beaches states that naturism is officially not allowed in Crete but is practised on remote beaches like Kedrodasos; it is tolerated rather than authorised. The area is a Natura 2000 protected site, and Destination Crete stresses that camping there is strictly illegal (checked 2026).
Naturism at Kedrodasos Beach 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. 35.2686, 23.5631
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.
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Frequently asked questions
Is nudity accepted at Kedrodasos?
Yes, informally. Cretan Beaches lists it among Crete's naturist beaches, and reviewers report nude bathers along the coves.
How do I get there?
Take the dirt road through the greenhouses near Elafonissi, park by the canteen and walk about 10-12 minutes down, or walk the E4 path from Elafonissi.
Can I camp there?
No. Despite campers being seen, camping is illegal and the site is a protected Natura 2000 area.
Are there facilities?
None on the beach; there is a small canteen uphill near the parking. Bring water and food.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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