Kalamaki, about 70 km from Heraklion, is a small coastal village in the south of Crete. For all those whowant to avoid mass tourism with hotel complexes and discotheques on each and every corner,Kalamaki can offer some relaxing days or weeks. The 2.5 km long sandy beach guarantees an enjoyable beach holiday. Because of the size of the beach, the visitors, among them many Greeks, are spread out nicely across the beach.

For sun protection, authentic self-made straw umbrellas characterize the beach, contrary to the heavy duty out-of-the-box umbrellas one so often finds. Every now and then the beach chairs are made available by the taverns free of charge, which is also rather rare in Greece. For the freshwater addicts there is a Swimming Pool (with bar) you can visit on the main entrance road of the village.

The location of Kalamaki offers many possibilities of undertaking trips to lots of interesting places and of becoming acquainted with Crete in general. Some examples with distances from Kalamaki and short descriptions can be found in the sight-seeing section.

Which particularly is pleasant about Kalamaki, are the genuineness and cosiness as well as the warmheartedness of its inhabitants, that give this place it's natural charm.

There are several Taverns and Bars directly at the beach, that beside Greek specialities also offer Central European meals. A special tip is the tavern of Iannis on the main square of Kalamaki. Here one finds many Greeks among the guests, who appreciate the traditional kitchen of Iannis. Simply ask anyone for Iannis,
the place is very well-known in the village.

On the main square, you'll find Mini-Markets, which can provide you with everything you need for a pleasant holiday. Daily papers and weekly newspapers from many different countries; Brittish, German, Austrian, Belgian, Dutch, etc.

Also a small book shop is present, which sells among other things, literature in English and German. Furthermore cars, minibuses, jeeps or motorcycles and bicycles are for rent. Also tours and/or trips (for example a daily trip to the most southern point of Europe, the island Gávdos or to the Préveli Beach) are organised.

Vehicles rent in advance can be parked outside the airport of Heraklion (unfortunately Chania is not an option). If no vehicle is rent, a taxi can be sent to the airport (Heraklion or Chania), which brings you directly to Kalamaki.

Important and useful telephone numbers for
your stay on Crete and in Kalamaki