Kato Zakros
Region of Crete, Greece — Excellent water quality
Kato Zakros is a beach in Crete, Greece, located 10.14 km from Itanos Municipal Unit. It holds a Blue Flag award, which means it meets strict standards for water quality, environmental management, and visitor safety. The beach is open from July 1 to September 30…
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Kato Zakros
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Kato Zakros?
Kato Zakros is a beach in Crete, Greece, located 10.14 km from Itanos Municipal Unit. It holds a Blue Flag award, which means it meets strict standards for water quality, environmental management, and visitor safety. The beach is open from July 1 to September 30 and has free access. A kiosk and shop are available on-site.
The best time to visit is April through June, when crowds are lighter. July and August bring peak summer tourism. Before swimming, check local water safety conditions. The Blue Flag is awarded annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education, making this a solid choice for families and swimmers looking for a well-maintained beach.
It sits alongside Blue Flag beaches in Region of Crete, part of a broader network of Blue Flag certified beaches across Greece certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Kato Zakros 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 | 13°C | 10°C | Low |
| Feb | 13°C | 10°C | Low |
| Mar | 14°C | 11°C | Low |
| Apr | 17°C | 14°C | Low |
| May | 22°C | 19°C | Low |
| Jun | 25°C | 22°C | Low |
| Jul | 27°C | 24°C | Med |
| Aug | 27°C | 24°C | High |
| Sep | 25°C | 22°C | Med |
| Oct | 21°C | 18°C | Low |
| Nov | 18°C | 15°C | Low |
| Dec | 15°C | 12°C | Low |
The best time to visit Kato Zakros 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 Kato Zakros get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Greece, Kato Zakros sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Kato Zakros open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (01-07 – 30-09). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Kato Zakros
Is Kato Zakros safe to swim?Kato Zakros 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 Kato Zakros?Peak water temperature at Kato Zakros 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 12.6°C.
What is the beach like at Kato Zakros?Kato Zakros is a sandy beach 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 summer tourism. Before swimming, check local water safety conditions. The Blue Flag is awarded annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education, making this a solid choice for families and swimmers looking for a well-maintained beach.
Does Kato Zakros have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Kato Zakros meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Showers are available. Toilet facilities are on site. Parking is available nearby.
Kato Zakros 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 Kato Zakros
How do I get to Kato Zakros by car?Kato Zakros is approximately 10.14 km from Itanos 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 Kato Zakros?The nearest airport is Heraklion International "Nikos Kazantzakis" Airport (HER), approximately 102.1 km away.
Can I get to Kato Zakros by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Itanos 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 | ✓ Available during season |
| Toilets | ✓ Available during season |
| Official Season | 01-07 – 30-09 |
| Beach Type | Sandy beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 35.0948°N, 26.2636°E |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Greece |
Frequently Asked Questions
Kato Zakros FAQ
Is Kato Zakros suitable for children?
Kato Zakros is a Blue Flag certified beach in Region of Crete, Greece. Shower facilities are available. 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 Kato Zakros free to access?
Yes, access to Kato Zakros 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 showers and toilets 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 Kato Zakros?
The best time to visit Kato Zakros 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 Kato Zakros?
Kato Zakros 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 Kato Zakros?
Kato Zakros is located in Region of Crete, Greece. It is approximately 10.14 km from Itanos Municipal Unit. The nearest airport is Heraklion International "Nikos Kazantzakis" Airport (HER), 102.1 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
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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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