Kommos Beach, located 66 km southwest of Heraklion, is situated 2 km north of Matala and close to the village of Pitsidia. It is the southernmost and most secluded part of the long Messara Bay beachfront. Historically, Kommos served as the port of the ancient city of Phaestus, and remnants of the old port can still be seen along the beach. You can easily reach Kommos by driving toward Matala and following the signs near Pitsidia.

The beach is exposed to westerly winds that blow frequently in the area, so you should be cautious as some parts of the seabed are rocky. Kommos is also a protected area for loggerhead sea turtles, which nest on the beach from May to September.

The northern section of Kommos, known as Potamos (or Potamoserma), has been a popular naturist destination since the days when hippies flocked to the area. There are no buildings here, as Kommos is a protected archaeological site, meaning construction is not allowed. In contrast, the southern part of the beach is more organized, with umbrellas, sunbeds, toilets, showers, a foodtruck, and a lifeguard on duty. The area is also surrounded by sand dunes where you can spot white lilies of the sand, signaling the end of summer.

The views of the Paximadia islets are spectacular, especially during sunset. Just 300 meters offshore, opposite the archaeological site, you'll see a large rock known as Volakas. According to local legend, this rock is the boulder that the blinded Cyclops Polyphemus threw at Odysseus' ship in an attempt to prevent its escape, after Odysseus and his companions fled from Polyphemus' cave.

Good to know

There’s a small food truck on the beach where a friendly family will warmly welcome you. You can enjoy burgers, sandwiches, salads, fresh juices, coffee, and other beverages. Sunbeds are also available for rent at a very reasonable price (10 euros per set of 2 sundeds)

Keep an eye out for turtle nests on the beach; they are well-marked to ensure you don’t accidentally step on them. With a bit of luck, you might spot these nests during your visit!

You can park your car here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rcfhrjF9oRfDmQNS7 and costs 3 euros. You can also park along the road. This is free.

You can find more information in the blog article below.