Looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of Heraklion? Located just a few kilometers from the city, Karteros Beach is a beautiful stretch of golden sand, bathed by the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea. An ideal stopover to discover the authentic face of the Heraklion coastline and take a break from the hustle and bustle.
Here are some useful tips for planning your visit to Karteros beach in Heraklion.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is Karteros Beach worth it?
Yes, it’s a beautiful beach and well worth a visit!
Located approx. 7km east of Heraklion, Crete, Greece. It lies in a small bay, offering a picturesque setting with crystal-clear turquoise waters.
This is one of the most beautiful beaches in Heraklion! And one of the city’s main attractions.
Beach type: sandy, supervised…
Sand or no sand?
The beach floor is made of fine, clear sand. We loved dipping our toes in it! Closer to the water, a few small pebbles mingle with the sand, but we didn’t find them bothersome.
Swimming conditions and supervision
The slope to access the water is extremely gentle and there is generally little swell. The beach is supervised between 10am and 6pm.
Installations
We found showers right on the beach. You can also rent deckchairs and umbrellas on site.
HAVE FUN in: Crete
Access to Karteros Beach, Heraklion
Where is Karteros Beach
- 7km east of Heraklion
- From Heraklion to Karteros Beach = 15min by car or 20min by public transport.
Access by car and parking
Access by car from Heraklion or elsewhere is easy. It’s on a well-maintained road that we found easy to drive on. Once on site, you can park in a large parking lot.
RENT YOUR CAR IN Crete
- Our preferred agency is Rental Center Crete
everything is included in the price and the service is excellent. No stress! - Choose a car with a decent engine for greater comfort on the few mountain roads.
- Book early for choice.
- If you prefer international brands, compare prices on DiscoverCars
Access from (parking lot or city)
Public transport access
If you take public transport, the “ Amnissos – Karteros Beach – Sports facilities ” (in Greek “ΑΜΝΙΣΣΟΣ – ΠΑΡΑΛΙΑ ΚΑΡΤΕΡΟΥ – ΑΘΛΗΤΙΚΕΣ ΕΓΚΑΤΑΣΤΑΣΕΙΣ”), of the metropolitan area’s transport network is a 5min walk from the beach. It is served by Bus n°7, which departs from Heraklion, near the Port, close to McDonald’s.
To plan your itinerary, we invite you to consult the route maps, timetables and fares, here.
Useful information
Dog
We didn’t see any signs regarding dog access to the beach.
Reduced mobility access
Karteros Beach hasno special facilities for people with reduced mobility. We found no adapted facilities or dedicated services.
With children
The slope is gentle and ideal for a visit with children.
Naturism
It is not possible to practice naturism on this beach.
Eating out
There’s also a beach bar serving drinks and snacks.
Otherwise, you’re not far from Heraklion! If you’re feeling hungry and haven’t packed a picnic, go for lunch. The city is home to some very fine restaurants. Discover our article dedicated to the best restaurants in Heraklion.
Hotels
You’re just a few minutes’ drive from Nice city center. Here are our recommendations:
WHERE TO STAY IN Heraklion
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Downtown
GDMMegaron Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
Near Ammoudara Beach, west
Paralos Lifestyle Beach Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
Inland
Manili Boutique Suites & Villas – See prices, photos and availability
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Crete
- Best of
What to do in Crete
Most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful cities
Most beautiful beaches in Crete
Best archaeological sites
Best museums
- Practical advice
When to go?
How to rent a car in Crete
Driving tips
- The must-dos
Attractions in Chania
Attractions in Rethymnon
Attractions in Heraklion
Matala
Balos Lagoon
Spinalonga Elafonissi
