Karoumes Beach
A secluded Cretan paradise reached by a scenic gorge hike, offering pristine sands and crystal-clear waters for swimming and snorkeling.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Water is cool, marine life is active
Karoumes Beach
Best Time
Water is cool, marine life is active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded Cretan paradise reached by a scenic gorge hike, offering pristine sands and crystal-clear waters for swimming and snorkeling.
"This beach is a gem. We were all alone, and the snorkeling was also great."
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trekking sandals are okay, but good hiking shoes offer much better comfort for the gorge walk.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Crucial for the hike! There are no shops or water sources on the trail or beach.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 89 reviews
Type
Beach
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Untouched Karoumes Beach
Chochlakies, Sitia, Crete
A secluded gem accessible via a stunning gorge hike, offering pristine sands and crystal-clear waters.
Chochlakies Gorge Hike
Chochlakies Village to Karoumes Beach
An adventurous and rewarding trek through a beautiful gorge, leading to the hidden beauty of Karoumes Beach.
Snorkeling in Clear Waters
Karoumes Beach
Discover vibrant marine life just meters from the shore in the calm, clear waters of this secluded bay.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
The Gorge Hike to Karoumes Beach
Pack Smart for Your Beach Day
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trekking sandals are okay, but good hiking shoes offer much better comfort for the gorge walk.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Crucial for the hike! There are no shops or water sources on the trail or beach.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
A hat and sunscreen are essential for the hike and beach time, as there's little shade.
🤿 Don't Forget Snorkel Gear
The clear waters are perfect for spotting curious fish right near the shore.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trekking sandals are okay, but good hiking shoes offer much better comfort for the gorge walk.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Crucial for the hike! There are no shops or water sources on the trail or beach.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
A hat and sunscreen are essential for the hike and beach time, as there's little shade.
🤿 Don't Forget Snorkel Gear
The clear waters are perfect for spotting curious fish right near the shore.
🚗 Park Carefully in Chochlakies
Narrow village streets can be challenging for large vehicles; park near the church.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Karoumes Beach is a hidden gem praised for its stunning, untouched beauty and excellent snorkeling. Visitors highlight the rewarding hike through the Chochlakies Gorge as a key part of the experience, though it requires preparation. The lack of facilities means packing everything you need is essential for enjoying this secluded paradise.
"This beach is a gem. We were all alone, and the snorkeling was also great. Water was a bit chilly at the end of may, but the curious cornetfish were always nearby, sometimes less than a meter away!
The hike down the stony gorge to the beach takes about one hour. Is it hard? It depends on your fitness. Fore a fit hiker it's a pleasant stroll, otherwise may be more or less difficult. You can do it in trekking sandals, but good hiking shoes will be way more comfortable. Take water and a hat."
Radqq
"Quiet beach with only a few People. The gorge walk to the beach is nice and easy to do. Take enough food and drinking water with you."
cees
"Beautiful place for (nudism) and swimming/snorkeling. The hike through the gorge takes around one hour. The hike from Kato Zakros takes around 3 hours."
Te Rin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary way to reach Karoumes Beach is by hiking through the Chochlakies Gorge. You'll need to drive to Chochlakies village, park near the church, and then embark on a roughly one-hour trek.
The difficulty depends on your fitness. It's described as a pleasant stroll for fit hikers but can be more challenging for others. Good hiking shoes are recommended for comfort.
No, you cannot drive directly to Karoumes Beach. The access is via a hiking trail through the gorge.
Yes, a longer hike is possible from Kato Zakros, taking around 3 hours, but the Chochlakies Gorge route is more common.
You can drive to Chochlakies village. Be aware that the streets within the village can be very narrow, so larger vehicles might struggle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required for Karoumes Beach. It's a natural, undeveloped beach.
Karoumes Beach is accessible at any time, as it's a natural beach. However, hiking during daylight hours is recommended for safety.
There is no entry fee for hiking the Chochlakies Gorge to reach Karoumes Beach.
While technically accessible, visiting during warmer months (late spring to early autumn) is more comfortable for hiking and swimming. Water can be chilly in late May.
Due to the challenging gorge hike, Karoumes Beach is not easily accessible for individuals with significant mobility issues.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
There are no facilities at Karoumes Beach. You must bring all your own food, water, and supplies.
Karoumes Beach is known for being quiet and uncrowded, often with only a few people or even being completely deserted.
You can swim, snorkel, sunbathe, and enjoy the peaceful, natural surroundings. Snorkeling is particularly good here.
Yes, many visitors report excellent snorkeling opportunities with curious fish visible very close to shore.
Karoumes Beach is mentioned as a beautiful place for nudism by some visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants or tavernas directly at Karoumes Beach. You need to bring all your own food and drinks.
A small café in Chochlakies village might serve coffee on your way back from the hike. Otherwise, you'll need to return to Sitia or Xerokampos for dining options.
Pack plenty of water, snacks, and a picnic lunch. Consider it a full-day excursion where you are self-sufficient.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic Chochlakies Gorge, the pristine beach itself, and the clear turquoise waters offer stunning photographic subjects. 
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful contrasts and softer shadows on the gorge walls and beach.
Capture wide shots of the secluded bay, close-ups of the unique rock formations in the gorge, and underwater shots if you're snorkeling.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit