CalmBeach Greece

Kalypso Beach, Rethymno

Kalypso beach, Rethymno, Greece
Kalypso — Olaf Tausch, CC BY 3.0

See practical info for Kalypso in Rethymno, including location, beach type, wind exposure, map and tips to help you decide when to visit.

The pirate fjord between the cliffs

Kalypso lies on the south coast of Rethymno, Crete, between Plakias and Preveli, about 33 kilometres from the town. It is a long, narrow rocky inlet, also known as Karavos or the "pirate fjord", squeezed between sheer cliffs and ending in a small strip of sand.

Tradition holds that in Byzantine times pirates took refuge inside this enclosed cove, hence the nickname. The newer name is linked to the nymph Calypso, as local lore has Odysseus enchanted by the place, and to the namesake hotel complex built on the rocks of the fjord. The scenery remains among the most distinctive in southern Crete, with the rock walls keeping shade for much of the day.

Use of the beach is organized through the resort, with sunbeds and umbrellas set on the rocky platforms and parking available. Access is by a paved road through the complex, and the seabed deepens quickly.

Region
Rethymno, Greece
Beach type
Pebbles
Access
Easy road access
Coordinates
35.17237, 24.40001

About this beach

Kalypso is oriented towards the south-west, so it usually has natural cover from northerly, north-easterly and north-westerly winds. Orientation only reflects which way the coast faces, not confirmed shelter, so check wind and waves in the app before you go.

Kalypso has pebbles underfoot with water that deepens close to shore.

For amenities, Kalypso has an organised beach, sunbeds, natural shade and parking nearby. There is a campsite nearby (Camping Apollonia, ~1816 m).

Open the app for live recommendation score, wind exposure, waves, best time of day and nearby alternatives.

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Rethymno beach guides

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Nearby beaches oriented away from the Meltemi

Other beaches in Rethymno