Quick answer: Choose Kitroplatia, the small town beach in Agios Nikolaos, for a quick swim between cafés and sights. Choose Voulisma, 12 km east near Istro, for a full beach day on white sand with shallow turquoise water.
- Kitroplatia
- In town, small, pebbles and sand
- Voulisma
- 12 km east, white sand, Blue Flag
- Getting there
- Walk / car or bus
- Busy
- Both in high season
Kitroplatia
Kitroplatia is a small cove a few minutes' walk from Lake Voulismeni, lined with tavernas and cafés. It is convenient for a morning or evening swim but small and busy in summer.
Voulisma
Voulisma is a bay of white sand with very clear, shallow water, fully organised and popular. It is the better choice for families and for a whole day by the sea. Buses toward Ierapetra pass nearby.
Other options
Almyros, about 2 km south of town, is a longer beach with a freshwater spring and wetland behind it.
Questions before you go
Can I walk to the beach in Agios Nikolaos?
Yes, to Kitroplatia in the centre, and Almyros is about 2 km.
Is Voulisma better than Kitroplatia?
For a full beach day, yes; Kitroplatia is for a quick swim.
How do I get to Voulisma?
By car or by bus toward Ierapetra; it is about 12 km.
