Domata, the secluded 2-in-1 beach of Crete

It is idyllic but not easily accessible, so you will never find many people, not even at the peak of summer. If you visit Domata Beach at the peak of the Greek summer, you may be among very few people. It has undeniable beauty and remains a pristine place. This is because Domata Beach is naturally isolated and not very accessible.

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To get there, you must be prepared and willing to embark on a little adventure in Sfakia, in the southern part of the regional prefecture of Chania, Crete.

This heavenly beach is 58 kilometres south of Chania, in an area known to the locals as “Tseses”. The nearest seaside village is Sougia, 7 kilometres to the east.

Domata in the Cretan dialect is the name given to the roofs. This peculiar name stems from the fact that a very special landscape has formed around the beach due to years of water and wind erosion. Terraces, ravines and vertical rocks made of stones resemble roofs.

In addition to this dramatic backdrop, Domata is a beach with small pebbles in grey tones and beautiful waters in various shades of blue.

If the waters appear a little murky, it is not because they are unclean but because seawater and fresh water from the springs that run underground and underwater in the area mix.

Behind the beach, the landscape is dotted with pine trees, which provide wonderful natural shade and opportunities for rough camping.

Once in Domata, it will not take long to realise that a cluster of rocks separates two beaches. The western one tends to be considered the main one—it is, after all, the largest—but many visitors believe the smaller eastern one is more beautiful.

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However, you can only get there by swimming a little as there is no land access over the rocks.

How to get there

Domata Beach is accessible by land and sea; the simplest way is the latter.

However, it still requires proper planning, equipment, and supplies. You will need to take the boat from Sfakia to Agia Roumeli, where you’ll have to find a local boatman who will not only take you to the beach but also bring you back.

Of course, those lucky enough to own their boat can come and go at their own will.

There are two ways to reach Domata Beach by land, both of which require considerable hiking experience.

You have to factor in the return trip in addition to the journey, and if you plan to camp on the beach for the night, you should ensure you have all the essentials with you.

The first way requires you to reach Agia Roumeli – or alternatively the village of Sougia – and from there follow the European Route E4. Remember, this is a strenuous and dangerous route, as most of the time you will literally be walking on the edge of a cliff up to 700 metres high.

The second way is crossing the Klados Gorge, which reaches Domata Beach. However, the path is rough, and you must be careful not to get lost.