Kaki Skala-Avra
Region of Crete, Greece — Excellent water quality
Kaki Skala-Avra is a Blue Flag beach on Crete's coast. The beach holds this award annually from the Foundation for Environmental Education, which certifies water quality, environmental standards, and visitor safety.
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Kaki Skala-Avra
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Kaki Skala-Avra?
Kaki Skala-Avra is a Blue Flag beach on Crete's coast. The beach holds this award annually from the Foundation for Environmental Education, which certifies water quality, environmental standards, and visitor safety.
The best time to visit is April through June, when crowds are lighter. July and August bring peak season crowds but warmer weather. Check local water safety conditions before swimming.
The Blue Flag status makes it a solid choice for families and swimmers looking for a well-maintained beach.
It sits alongside certified beaches along Region of Crete, part of a broader network of certified beaches throughout Greece certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Kaki Skala-Avra faces E toward Mediterranean Sea. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in April, May, June. The beach's orientation determines when it catches direct sun — plan your visit around this to make the most of your time there.
Planning
When to Go — Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 12°C | 9°C | Low |
| Feb | 13°C | 10°C | Low |
| Mar | 14°C | 11°C | Low |
| Apr | 17°C | 14°C | Med |
| May | 21°C | 18°C | Med |
| Jun | 25°C | 22°C | Med |
| Jul | 27°C | 24°C | High |
| Aug | 28°C | 25°C | High |
| Sep | 25°C | 22°C | Med |
| Oct | 21°C | 18°C | Low |
| Nov | 18°C | 15°C | Low |
| Dec | 14°C | 11°C | Low |
The best time to visit Kaki Skala-Avra is April, May, June. Air temperatures peak around 27.4°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 24.4°C in July.
How crowded does Kaki Skala-Avra get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Greece, Kaki Skala-Avra sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Kaki Skala-Avra open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (typically July–September). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Kaki Skala-Avra
Is Kaki Skala-Avra safe to swim?Kaki Skala-Avra is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is rated <span class="inline-stat">Excellent</span>. The beach does not have lifeguards stationed on the beach — swim with appropriate caution.
What is the water temperature at Kaki Skala-Avra?Peak water temperature at Kaki Skala-Avra reaches around <span class="inline-stat">24.4°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 12.1°C.
What is the beach like at Kaki Skala-Avra?Kaki Skala-Avra on the Region of Crete coast of Greece. The best time to visit is April through June, when crowds are lighter. July and August bring peak season crowds but warmer weather. Check local water safety conditions before swimming.
Does Kaki Skala-Avra have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Kaki Skala-Avra meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Parking is available nearby.
Kaki Skala-Avra sits on the Mediterranean Sea — explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Mediterranean.
Planning a trip to Greece? How Greece earns the most Blue Flags — our editorial guide to certified beaches across the country.
Transport
Getting to Kaki Skala-Avra
How do I get to Kaki Skala-Avra by car?Kaki Skala-Avra is approximately 8.58 km from Ierapetra Municipal Unit. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to Kaki Skala-Avra?The nearest airport is Heraklion International "Nikos Kazantzakis" Airport (HER), approximately 70.2 km away.
Can I get to Kaki Skala-Avra by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Ierapetra Municipal Unit.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✗ |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✗ |
| Beach Type | Coastal beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 35.0143°N, 25.8416°E |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Greece |
Frequently Asked Questions
Kaki Skala-Avra FAQ
Is Kaki Skala-Avra suitable for children?
Kaki Skala-Avra is a Blue Flag certified beach in Region of Crete, Greece. The EU Excellent water quality rating means the water is safe and clean for all swimmers, including children. Blue Flag certification itself requires meeting strict environmental and safety standards that benefit all beach users.
Is Kaki Skala-Avra free to access?
Yes, access to Kaki Skala-Avra is free — there are no entry fees or charges to use the beach. Parking is available nearby; check local signs for any parking charges. Facilities including beach amenities are typically available during the official season at no charge. The beach is managed by local authorities under the Blue Flag programme.
When is the best time to visit Kaki Skala-Avra?
The best time to visit Kaki Skala-Avra is April, May, June. Water temperature peaks at around 24.4°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 27.4°C in summer. If you prefer quieter conditions, visiting in June or September gives you warm weather with fewer crowds than the July–August peak. The Blue Flag is displayed during the certified season, confirming the beach meets all water quality and safety standards.
What is the water quality at Kaki Skala-Avra?
Kaki Skala-Avra is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict annual water quality standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is currently rated Excellent. Blue Flag certification is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and requires independent water quality monitoring throughout the season. The results are publicly available from the European Environment Agency.
How do I get to Kaki Skala-Avra?
Kaki Skala-Avra is located in Region of Crete, Greece. It is approximately 8.58 km from Ierapetra Municipal Unit. The nearest airport is Heraklion International "Nikos Kazantzakis" Airport (HER), 70.2 km away. Parking is available at or near the beach. Check local transport authority websites for current public transport schedules. A car is the most flexible option for reaching the beach, particularly outside peak season.
Explore More
More Blue Flag Beaches in Greece
Editorial
From the Zeach Blog
Everything you need to know about what makes a beach qualify for Blue Flag status — from water quality to environmental education.
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