Kommos

Kommos is located 65km southwest of the city of Heraklion, just a few kilometers north of Matala and close to the traditional village Pitsidia. It is a private isolated beach on the Southest part of Mesara bay. Kommos used to be the only port of Phaistos, as you will see the ruins from the old port as you walk or drive to the beach. You can easily access Kommos by driving in the road heading to Matala, until you see a sign on your right hand to Kommos.

Kommos is exposed to westerly winds that usually blow in the area. But be careful because of the rocks in the sea. Be aware of the protected sea turtles (Caretta caretta) that lay their eggs in the sand during the Summer season.

Potamos, the northern part of Kommos, is a must destination for naturists, since hippies were flooding with hundreds in the area. There are some tamarisk trees around, but no buildings as long as Kommos is a archaeological area under protection. Close to the archaeological site, on the south, you can find an organized beach with umbrellas, sun beds, showers, toilet, a canteen and a lifeguard. Along the beach you can admire the beautiful white lilies, which are signing the end of the summer. If you wish for a place to eat you can go till Kalamaki or Matala.

The view from Kommos is amazing as you can admire the Paximadia Islands and the Volakas, an enormous rock lying inside the sea. The Greek mythology maintain that the stone was thrown by the blinded Cyclope Polyphemus in order to prevent Odysseus and his companions from escape from Polyphemus’ cave.