Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach
Region of Crete, Greece — Excellent water quality
Themis Beach is a sandy beach in the village resort of Kokkini Hani, measuring roughly 70 by 30 metres. The resort has several hotels, apartments, bars, tavernas, and souvenir shops, with a relaxed beach atmosphere. The beach is clean and safe, with sunbeds and umbrellas…
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach?
Kokkini Chani, also known as Themis Beach, is a sandy beach located in the coastal resort village of Kokkini Hani on Crete's north coast. Covering approximately 70 by 30 metres, this compact beach sits within an established resort area just 7.6 kilometres from Heraklion Airport. The beach faces east and benefits from excellent bathing water quality. Lifeguards are on duty during the season, and organised watersports facilities operate adjacent to the beach. The resort itself offers a collection of hotels, apartments, bars, and tavernas, creating a functional beach atmosphere. A border of trees and shrubs separates the beach from the Themis Beach Hotel. Parking is available nearby, with the beach situated approximately 100 metres from the main road that passes through the resort.
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
Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach 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 | 13°C | 10°C | Low |
| Apr | 17°C | 14°C | Low |
| May | 20°C | 17°C | Low |
| Jun | 24°C | 21°C | Low |
| Jul | 26°C | 23°C | Med |
| Aug | 26°C | 23°C | High |
| Sep | 24°C | 21°C | High |
| Oct | 20°C | 17°C | Med |
| Nov | 17°C | 14°C | Low |
| Dec | 14°C | 11°C | Low |
The best time to visit Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach is April, May, June. Air temperatures peak around 25.8°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 22.8°C in July.
How crowded does Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach get?Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach operates as part of an established resort community, so it experiences a defined pattern of use rather than remaining quiet or isolated. The beach draws visitors staying in the local hotels, apartments, and other accommodation within the Kokkini Hani resort. During peak season (July and August), expect moderate to busy conditions, particularly on weekends and public holidays. The compact size of the beach—approximately 70 by 30 metres—means it reaches capacity more quickly than larger beaches.
The atmosphere is resort-oriented rather than remote. The presence of organised watersports operations, sunbed and umbrella hire, tavernas, and bars in the immediate vicinity creates a managed, commercial beach setting. Families with children form a significant portion of the crowd, particularly given the lifeguard presence and the safety-focused resort environment.
Off-season (September through May), the beach is considerably quieter, with visitor numbers dropping substantially after August. Winter months see minimal bathing activity due to cold water temperatures and shorter daylight hours. Spring and early summer gradually build visitor numbers as temperatures warm.
The old national road running through the resort does mean some traffic noise may be audible from the beach, particularly during daytime hours. The proximity to Heraklion Airport (7.6 kilometres away) should be noted, though the distance and coastal location minimise direct impact.
Is Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (01-07 – 31-10). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach
Is Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach safe to swim?Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach 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>. Lifeguards are on duty during the official season.
What is the water temperature at Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach?Peak water temperature at Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach reaches around <span class="inline-stat">22.8°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 11.7°C.
What is the beach like at Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach?Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach is a defined sandy beach within an established resort setting. The beach measures roughly 70 by 30 metres, making it a contained space rather than an expansive stretch of sand. The sand is light-coloured and well-maintained, with sunbeds and umbrellas available for hire during the bathing season.
The beach benefits from excellent bathing water quality, which is monitored regularly. The east-facing orientation means it receives morning and midday sun exposure. A tree and shrub border provides natural separation between the beach and adjacent accommodation, creating some definition of space.
Facilities on and around the beach include organised watersports operations, which are set up adjacent to the main swimming area. The Themis Beach Hotel, which adjoins the beach, makes its facilities available to visitors, though specifics of these arrangements should be confirmed directly with the hotel or beach management.
The beach operates a seasonal lifeguard service, enhancing safety during peak bathing months. The main access point is approximately 100 metres from Petros Taverna on the old national road, with ample car parking available in this vicinity.
Water temperatures vary significantly by season. Winter months (January through March) see temperatures between 8.7°C and 10.4°C. Spring warming brings the water to 13.7°C by April and 17.2°C by May. Summer peaks at 22.8°C in July and 23.1°C in August. Autumn cooling is gradual, with temperatures dropping to 17.3°C by October and 14.2°C by November.
The beach is best suited for swimming during the warmest months when water temperatures exceed 20°C, which occurs from June through September. The official swim season runs from June through August, reflecting both water temperature and lifeguard availability.
Does Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Trained lifeguards are on duty during the season. Toilet facilities are on site. Parking is available nearby.
Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach 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.
While You're Here
Beyond Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach
Kokkini Hani functions as a self-contained resort community with immediate facilities including hotels, apartments, bars, and tavernas. Petros Taverna, referenced as a local landmark, offers traditional dining. Souvenir shops within the resort provide basic shopping options.
Kokkini Hani functions as a self-contained resort community with immediate facilities including hotels, apartments, bars, and tavernas. Petros Taverna, referenced as a local landmark, offers traditional dining. Souvenir shops within the resort provide basic shopping options.
The location sits on Crete's north coast, approximately 7.6 kilometres east of Heraklion, the island's largest city. Heraklion offers broader facilities including museums, historical sites, shopping, and dining options. The nearby town of Gouves in the Gouves Municipal Unit provides additional services.
The location sits on Crete's north coast, approximately 7.6 kilometres east of Heraklion, the island's largest city. Heraklion offers broader facilities including museums, historical sites, shopping, and dining options. The nearby town of Gouves in the Gouves Municipal Unit provides additional services.
The north coast of Crete has other beaches within reasonable driving distance, allowing exploration of alternative swimming locations. The region has historical and archaeological significance related to Cretan culture and history, though specific sites near Kokkini Hani require local inquiry for current accessibility and opening hours.
The north coast of Crete has other beaches within reasonable driving distance, allowing exploration of alternative swimming locations. The region has historical and archaeological significance related to Cretan culture and history, though specific sites near Kokkini Hani require local inquiry for current accessibility and opening hours.
Transport
Getting to Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach
How do I get to Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach by car?Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach is approximately 4.57 km from Gouves 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 Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach?The nearest airport is Heraklion International "Nikos Kazantzakis" Airport (HER), approximately 7.6 km away. Heraklion International "Nikos Kazantzakis" Airport (HER) is the nearest airport, located just 7.6 kilometres from Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach. This makes it the most convenient air gateway to the beach. From the airport, several transport options are available. Rental car services operate from the airport terminal, offering flexibility for reaching the beach and exploring the wider region. Taxis and organised shuttle services are also available, though advance booking is recommended during peak season. The journey by road takes approximately 15-20 minutes depending on traffic conditions and the exact starting point within the airport complex. Arrive early enough to complete car rental or transport arrangements before midday traffic builds around Heraklion.
Can I get to Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach by public transport?Public bus services operate in the Heraklion region, with connections available to Kokkini Hani. Journey times and frequencies vary seasonally, with more regular services during summer months. The bus stops near the main road passing through the resort, placing you within walking distance of the beach. Journey duration from Heraklion city centre to Kokkini Hani is approximately 20-30 minutes depending on route and stops. Services are less frequent in winter months.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✓ On duty during official season |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✓ Available during season |
| Official Season | 01-07 – 31-10 |
| Beach Type | Sandy beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 35.3298°N, 25.2636°E |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Greece |
Frequently Asked Questions
Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach FAQ
Is Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach worth visiting?
Whether Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach suits your visit depends on your priorities. The beach offers excellent water quality, lifeguards, and organised facilities within an established resort setting. It is best suited for visitors seeking safe, managed beach conditions near Heraklion rather than remote or undeveloped beaches. The compact size (70 by 30 metres) means it fills quickly during peak season. Water temperatures are warm enough for comfortable swimming only June through August. If you value convenience, safety, and proximity to airport and facilities, it warrants a visit. If you seek solitude or expansive sandy beaches, explore alternatives.
How do I get to Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach?
Heraklion Airport (HER) is 7.6 kilometres away, making it the primary access point. Rental cars, taxis, and shuttle services are available from the airport with a 15-20 minute drive to the beach. Public buses serve Kokkini Hani with journey times of 20-30 minutes from Heraklion city centre. The beach sits approximately 100 metres from the main road through the resort, with ample car parking available. All access routes are straightforward and well-established.
What is the best time of year to visit Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach?
June through August offers the warmest water temperatures (21°C to 23.1°C) and reliable lifeguard cover. July and August see peak visitor numbers and warmest air temperatures (25.8°C to 26.1°C). May and September provide warmer conditions than winter but fewer crowds, with water temperatures of 17.2°C and 20.8°C respectively. Air temperatures remain pleasant through September (23.8°C). Winter months (November to March) see cold water (8.7°C to 14.2°C) unsuitable for most swimmers. Plan for June-August if warm water is essential.
What facilities are available at Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach?
The beach offers sunbeds and umbrellas for hire, organised watersports adjacent to the beach, and lifeguard cover during the bathing season. The adjoining Themis Beach Hotel makes some of its facilities available to beach visitors. Within the surrounding resort, hotels, apartments, bars, tavernas, and souvenir shops provide dining and shopping options. Car parking is ample near the beach. Specific details about hotel facilities available to non-guests should be confirmed directly with management before arrival.
Is Kokkini Chani/Themis Beach suitable for families?
Yes, the beach has features supporting family visits. Lifeguards are on duty during the bathing season, enhancing safety for children. The beach is clean and well-maintained within an established resort environment. Sunbeds and organised watersports cater to family needs. Water temperatures are child-friendly June through August (21°C to 23.1°C). The compact size means supervision is manageable. Nearby hotels and tavernas support family logistics. However, the small beach size means it becomes busy quickly during peak season, potentially reducing comfort for families seeking quiet space.
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