Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
25 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
3 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Karteros Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity high, average temperature +23.9°C, warms up to +25.5°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Karteros Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 0.7 m.
Karteros Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 25 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Karteros Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 3 000 metres.
Karteros Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June. It ends in September. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Karteros Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Karteros Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: jellyfish (mildly venomous), sea urchins. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Karteros Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, Wi-Fi, kids playground, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Karteros Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Karteros Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Taverna Karteros, Beach Bar Karteros, Amnissos Taverna. Cuisines available: Greek, Seafood. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Karteros Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Headwear, Towel, Swimsuit, Cash, First aid kit.
Karteros Beach: when is the best time to swim?
The best time to swim is in the morning when the sea is calm. In the afternoon, the northern wind often picks up.
Karteros Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Littering on the beach is prohibited. Lighting fires is prohibited.
Karteros Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, diving, surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Karteros Beach: who is this beach best for?
Suitable for families with children thanks to the sandy seabed and gentle entry, as well as for water sports enthusiasts. Not suitable for those seeking solitude and quiet.
Karteros Beach: what makes this beach unique?
The beach is named after the Byzantine admiral Krateros, who landed here in 828 AD with a fleet of 70 ships to liberate Crete from the Saracens. Today, a modern beach handball sports centre is located here.
Karteros Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Long sandy beach — about 3 km, Clean water with sandy seabed, Developed infrastructure: tavernas, bars, hotels, Beach handball sports centre, Close to Heraklion — just 5 km, Convenient access from the airport, Popular spot among locals. Cons: Exposed to northern winds, often wavy, Crowded during high season, Limited parking, Noisy due to proximity to the airport, No natural shade, Rocky patches on the seabed in some areas.
Karteros Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Knossos Palace, Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Amnisos. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Karteros Beach: how do I get to the city of Heraklion?
The beach is located near the city of Heraklion. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Heraklion.