Schisma
Region of Crete, Greece — Excellent water quality
Schisma is a coastal beach in the Region of Crete, Greece, located 11.87 km from Agios Nikolaos. The beach holds Blue Flag certification, awarded annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education for meeting international standards in environmental quality and safety. The beach is open during…
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Schisma
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Schisma?
Schisma is a coastal beach in the Region of Crete, Greece, located 11.87 km from Agios Nikolaos. The beach holds Blue Flag certification, awarded annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education for meeting international standards in environmental quality and safety. The beach is open during its designated season, and swimmers should take appropriate precautions. Drinking water is available on-site. The best time to visit is April through June, with peak crowds arriving in July and August.
It sits alongside other certified beaches in Region of Crete, part of a broader network of other Blue Flag beaches in Greece certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Schisma 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 | 27°C | 24°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 Schisma is April, May, June. Air temperatures peak around 26.8°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 23.8°C in July.
How crowded does Schisma get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Greece, Schisma sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is Schisma 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 Schisma
Is Schisma safe to swim?Schisma 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 Schisma?Peak water temperature at Schisma reaches around <span class="inline-stat">23.8°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 Schisma?Schisma on the Region of Crete coast of Greece. It meets all Blue Flag criteria for environmental management, water quality, safety, and facilities.
Does Schisma have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Schisma meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services.
Schisma 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 Schisma
How do I get to Schisma by car?Schisma is approximately 11.87 km from Agios Nikolaos 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 Schisma?The nearest airport is Heraklion International "Nikos Kazantzakis" Airport (HER), approximately 50.2 km away.
Can I get to Schisma by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Agios Nikolaos 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 | 35.2616°N, 25.7248°E |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Greece |
Frequently Asked Questions
Schisma FAQ
Is Schisma suitable for children?
Schisma 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 Schisma free to access?
Yes, access to Schisma is free — there are no entry fees or charges to use the beach. 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 Schisma?
The best time to visit Schisma is April, May, June. Water temperature peaks at around 23.8°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 26.8°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 Schisma?
Schisma 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 Schisma?
Schisma is located in Region of Crete, Greece. It is approximately 11.87 km from Agios Nikolaos Municipal Unit. The nearest airport is Heraklion International "Nikos Kazantzakis" Airport (HER), 50.2 km away. 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.
Read moreOur editorial team's pick of the standout Blue Flag beaches in Greece — rated for family friendliness, scenery, and facilities.
Explore GreeceWhat the flag actually means, how certification works, and why a Blue Flag is a genuinely reliable signal — not just a marketing tool.
Read more