Rest at the resort of the southern coast of Crete in the area of the village of Kalamaki is a quiet measured pastime. There are no parties, disco bars or striptease dens. Only five kilometers of sandy beach and water activities: kiting, fishing, scuba diving, rental of water bikes, kayaks and the like. Along the beach stretches a series of taverns and colorful restaurants, which has no end in sight. Greek and Mediterranean cuisine is prepared, fish and seafood are a priority. Meat and authentic Greek dishes are also very popular. Experienced tourists look at the local Greeks – where they go to dine, then it is better there. Near the international airport: planes land right above the heads of sunbathing tourists who catch the moment for a spectacular photo against the background of the liner. Renting a sun lounger on the beach costs 8 euros. Parking, umbrella, shower and changing cabins – free of charge. There is a large nudist beach nearby, but this does not interfere with couples with children. The coastline in Kalamaki is also known for the fact that here they lay eggs in nests of swimming turtles of the species “Kareta-Kareta”, reaching a diameter of 80 cm. Beach employees monitor the nesting process and protect turtle clutches so that vandals do not disturb the animals. In season, the sea warms up well and foams with waves only on windy days, which are not often. Entering the water is extremely gentle – 30 meters will still be knee-deep, which is ideal for families with children. A 15-minute taxi ride away is the famous Matala Beach, where tourists from all over the world like to relax. After 5 km on foot you can walk to another famous beach – Crystal, located next to the rocks. Travel from Heraklion airport by bus costs 4 euros one way. The village of Kalamaki half consists of guest houses and mini-hotels, which have everything you need for a good rest.
Marina O writes a review: “We rested in a hotel near the village of Acharavi, but there were constant storms. Then, on the advice of local residents, we moved to Kalamaki, because here the cape and rocks cover the bay. There really is no wind and I swam all day long. Nature is very beautiful, the water is pure, the sand is fine and like velvet. There are no stones, no slabs, no rubble. In warm water, you can lie for hours. Clutches of turtles are fenced, which gives the beach a special charm of the reserve. A large number of taverns and free parking complete the image of Kalamaki as an ideal place for a lazy holiday or a base.”
Rodanthi Guest House
Guest house “Rodanti” is a comfortable apartment in a cottage designed for a dozen apartments. It is located 200 meters from the sea on the southern outskirts of Kalamaki. Instead of a welcome compliment, the host puts up a whole set: rakia, sausage, cheese, a plate of fruit, bread, cookies, etc. This move really touches the hearts of hotelguests who have come a long way and are thoroughly tired. Of the pros: a large area and convenience of the apartments along with privacy. Of the minuses: poorly catches Wi-Fi and there is no entertainment. Nearby in the village there are good taverns and grocery stores. The option is suitable for those who rent a car.
Tarsia Homes & Suites
“Tarsia” is a guest house with apartments on the first coastline. The stylish, modern rooms are equipped with everything you need except a dishwasher. Beautiful furniture, decorative items, elegant textiles are a plus. A plate of fruit and a bottle of wine are a compliment from the host. Restaurants and taverns are nearby, but a large supermarket is far away – 15 minutes away by car. There is a grocery mini-market nearby. The small garden offers barbecue grills, a terrace with a tiny swimming pool and a patio with sun loungers. Thanks to the designer decoration of the premises and the functional local area, “Tarsia” is one of the best accommodation options in the class of guest houses.
Sergey writes a review: “Rented a room in August at the Tarsia Hotel. I liked everything: two bedrooms, a kitchen-living room and even a summer shower. Made for people. Air conditioners are installed in every room, the barbecue area is in the shade, even in a hammock lay and were satisfied. In August, the beach was half-empty, which was also pleasing. The other beaches we were to praise never got to. In Kalamaki, the atmosphere is lazy and it is so comfortable to relax that you do not want to go anywhere. We just went on an excursion to see the ruins of the Palace of Phaistos and Agio Farago. To do this, we took a car for a day at one of the three rental points to save on the services of the tour desk. “
Aristodimos Luxury Apartments
Guest House “Aristodymos” also offers apartments on the first coastline. The suite consists of two bedrooms and a kitchen-living room. Of the equipment, it is worth highlighting the air conditioner, smart TV with a plasma screen and a kettle. Kitchen equipment is standard: refrigerator, stove, kettle. The interior of the spaces is extremely simple: everything is painted white, the furniture is also selected in light colors. In addition to renting out apartments, the owners of “Aristodimos” keep a restaurant under the same name. The area around is dotted with authentic taverns and restaurants of Mediterranean cuisine, so vacationers choose a place to their liking. In general, this is not the most interesting accommodation option.
Stelani Villas & Suites
“Stellani” offers to rent mini-villas with a pool or apartments without it, located a kilometer from the center of the village. Equipment is standard: kitchenette, TV and air conditioning. Of the pluses – it is a gorgeous view of the sea, fresh renovation in the modern Greek style and privacy. Here you will not hear the hum and noise from the beach, the squeaks and squeals of children, the transport roaring in the middle of the night. For this, you will have to pay by the fact that the way to the sea and taverns will take at least 15 minutes along a winding unlit road. Back you need to climb the mountain. Welcome compliment – rakia, wine and snack from the host. The option from “Stellani” is quite suitable as a place of basing for those who rent a car.
Holiday Luxury Villas
“Holiday Luxury” is a small hotel with a swimming pool, located a hundred meters from the beach. On the plus side: daily cleaning, comfortable interior area, fresh suites and a wonderful view of the sea. Of the equipment there is everything, including a dishwasher and washing machine. Of the minuses: 112 steps, on which you have to climb and descend several times a day. Overall a good value for money hotel.
Tatyana writes a review: “we rented a room with two bedrooms, two balconies and a spacious kitchen-living room. The equipment is good – only a coffee machine is not enough. Linen is changed once a week, the use of a safe and air conditioning without extra charge. Met very well. The first two or three days we climbed from the beach to the hotel with rants. Then they swerched and took off like butterflies. But the view from the balconies to the sea is gorgeous. We took a lot of excursions, children under 5 years old – free of charge. We went to the Labyrinth, the Cave of Zeus, the Aquarium, the Aquapark, the city of Rethymnon, the island of Elafonisi and fishing. I liked everything, thank you Crete.”
Elkysti Crete
Apartments in a modern style in “Elkisty” look attractive. A small infinity pool can be with green water, according to reviews. The rooms are equipped with plasma with smart TV, air conditioning, refrigerator and washing machine. The location is not very profitable and without a rented car to live here will not be convenient at all. However, the 600 meters of descent to the beach is partially compensated by a beautiful view of the sea and the coastline.
Aristodimos Luxury Suite
“Aristodimos Luxury Suite” is a house with apartments a stone’s throw from the beach of Kalamaki. No need to climb or descend about a kilometer along a dusty road. I left the apartment and here is the sea, and here is the sand. Nearby is the tavern of the same name, as well as a number of other establishments for every taste. The apartments are offered with a fresh designer renovation and high-quality equipment, including even a coffee machine. A terrace with sea views and rattan garden furniture is a favorite place for tourists. A bottle of wine, a plate of fruit and a sunset over the sea surface will give an unforgettable experience. There is also a small children’s playground on site. Wi-Fi and parking are free, as in other hotels on the coast. Of the minuses of this offer, only the cost can be called, although it is at the level of other guest houses in this segment.
Koronio Villas
Villa “Coronio” is located 1.5 km from the sea on a hill, but it has a number of advantages. For example, there is a medium-sized swimming pool and a beautiful local area with a lawn, decorative bushes and flowers. Inside the villa there is a fireplace for romantic gatherings. Designer decoration of premises: something between the style of Greek apartments and the interior of a medieval castle. The presence of a small fitness club is a plus, as well as a gorgeous view of the panorama of the coast. Of course, you need to rent a car so that it is convenient to live in this villa. In general, this is a good place for a secluded holiday in the event that you are satisfied with the price of the issue.
Bella Mare Luxury Apartments
Mini-hotel “Bella Mare” is located on the beach in the center of Kalamaki. The apartments of the three-storey house overlook the beach, from where a beautiful view opens. The interior in light colors and equipment are standard, there is nothing much to highlight. Friendly hosts warmly welcome tourists.
Diana writes a review: “in August we rested in the Bella Mare, were satisfied with the comfort and terrace overlooking the sea. Everything was very clean and comfortable. The owner of the hotel advised to choose one tavern for dinner, where the locals like to dine. We still remember the delicious food and a wonderful evening. On departure, the hostess gave us natural olive oil and rakia, which was very pleased. We recommend the hotel!”
Villa Iceberg
Villa “Iceberg” is a fairly quiet place with a small pool, a couple of sun loungers and a barbecue. The interiors of the apartments are made in white with beautiful furniture, which is diversified by decorative items and hand-made decorations. It looks spectacular and unusual. There is also a small garden, free Wi-Fi, parking and air conditioning. In general, the villa leaves a pleasant impression. Of the minuses, it is necessary to note the location on the second line of houses – the view from the windows to the houses and trees.
Delfini Villas 1, 2, 3, 4 – Kalamaki
Delfini Villas are built in a classic Cretan style on the outskirts of Kalamaki, 300 metres from the beach. The owner positions them as premium housing, which is reflected in the cost of rent. Of the pros: there is a tiny infinity pool, a barbecue with a barbecue set, and a fireplace in the living room. There is a gym, Wi-Fi and a welcome set of products. Your holiday will be decorated with a wonderful view of the coast from a spacious terrace. The interior design is rusty and similar to the rooms of hotels of the three-star level. The rooms and kitchen are fully equipped with a dishwasher and air conditioning. Villas “Delphini” can be recommended to those tourists who are looking for privacy, rent a car and agree to pay this price. However, it is worth noting that premium villas usually have more expensive finishes, a larger pool, a sauna and a jacuzzi, which is not observed in delfini.
Kalamaki on map
