Kedrodasos Beach

Kedrodasos Beach lies near Elafonissi in southwest Crete, with clear turquoise water, pale sand and juniper trees that provide welcome shade. Its rocky shoreline and walk down make the visit more of an outing than a quick stop, but the quieter setting has room for secluded spots among the trees and boulders. Bring what you need for the day: there are no facilities on the beach. The water is popular for snorkeling, though rocks at the water’s edge can make getting in difficult.

A quieter stretch of southwest Crete

Kedrodasos is close to Elafonissi, but the two beaches offer different settings. Here, juniper trees grow beside sand dunes and large rocks, creating shaded places to rest away from the water. The trees are sometimes called cedars, though juniper is the more accurate name.

The area feels comparatively secluded, and people come to spend time outdoors, swim and snorkel. Some camp nearby or on the beach. Naturism is also accepted, so you may encounter people sunbathing without clothes.

The walk, shoreline and what to bring

Reaching the beach involves a walk down a rocky path. Wear sturdy shoes rather than flip-flops, and take care underfoot. The shoreline and seabed are rocky in places, which can make entering the sea awkward; water shoes can help. Those same rocks provide places to explore while snorkeling in the clear water.

There are no facilities on the beach, so pack food and drinking water along with anything else you need. A small snack bar has been reported near the parking area, but it is not on the beach. Carry your rubbish out with you, and keep an eye on your belongings.