Heraklion Afrathias beach

General information

Afrathias Beach is a hidden treasure around 61 km from Heraklion Town. It is the longest beach in the region of Messara, situated between the Tymbaki Airport and the seaside settlement of Kalamaki, and close to popular locations such as Phaistos, Matala, and Mount Psiloritis. The soothing, tranquil atmosphere of the place is highly recommended if you want to spend some time in nature, undisturbed and isolated from the commotion of the big city.

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The surface of the Afrathias shore is sandy and completely flat, with a large wetland. The waters have a lovely blue color and are not very deep. However, due to the winds that blow in the area, the sea can get wavy. It is recommended that you take a look at the weather forecast before you visit, in order to savor the experience to the fullest. The beach is partially organized, with some umbrellas, sunbeds, and showers. You can also find a tavern and some tourist accommodations around it, as well as trees where you can sit and enjoy the shade.

The wildlife in the area is truly remarkable. It’s a vital location for immigrating birds such as waterfowl and shorebirds, and it is also the place where the Caretta-caretta turtles lay their eggs each June. It’s crucial that the shore stays clean and protected so that the presence of these animals there is preserved.