The Kalivaki coast near Georgioupolis, looking towards the hills

Kalivaki Beach: the sheltered end of Georgioupolis bay

Kalivaki beach at the west end of Georgioupolis bay: sand between the Almyros and Boutakas rivers, cooler water, better wind shelter and full facilities.

Photo: The Kalivaki coast near Georgioupolis, looking towards the hills.

By TripToCrete · Updated 20 October 2026 · 2 min read

Quick answer: Kalivaki is the westernmost beach of Georgioupolis bay, 38 km east of Chania, between the mouths of the Almyros and Boutakas rivers. It is sandy and shallow, cooler than you expect, and more sheltered from wind than the rest of the bay.
Region
Apokoronas, Chania
Distance
38 km from Chania, 21 km from Rethymno
Beach
Sand, shallow
Facilities
Umbrellas, lifeguard, showers, tavernas
The Kalivaki coast near Georgioupolis, looking towards the hills
The Kalivaki coast near Georgioupolis, looking towards the hills.

Why choose Kalivaki

Two year-round rivers enter the sea here, so the water is noticeably cold in places. In return the beach is better protected from wind than the long open strands of Georgioupolis and Kavros, which makes it a good choice for children on breezy days.

Sea turtles nest on this coast in summer; respect any marked nests.

Getting there

Kalivaki is just west of Georgioupolis, off the old national road; you can walk from the village in about 10 minutes. Buses between Chania and Rethymno stop at Georgioupolis.

Sunbeds, water sports, showers and a lifeguard operate in season, with tavernas behind the beach.

Nearby

Lake Kournas, Crete's only natural freshwater lake, is about 4 km inland. The Almyros wetland, rich in birds, is under a kilometre away.

Open the map location ↗

Questions before you go

Why is the water cold at Kalivaki?

The Almyros and Boutakas rivers flow into the sea here all year, bringing cold fresh water.

Is Kalivaki good on windy days?

It is the most sheltered beach in Georgioupolis bay, so it is often the best local choice when the wind is up.

How far is Lake Kournas from Kalivaki?

About 4 km by road.

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