Chelidoni Beach
A small, photogenic cove close to Paleokastro, good for clear-water swims and a quieter beach stop when conditions are calm.
Location & Area
Paleokastro, Crete
location & area guide
Just west of Heraklion, Paleokastro offers a quieter side of Crete's north coast.
Close to the beach, calm in character
From Yiamas Seaside Cottage, the beach is close, the village feels local and the wider region is easy to explore.
The village
A quiet seaside village near Heraklion
Paleokastro is a small seaside village on the western edge of Heraklion. From Yiamas Seaside Cottage, you are approximately 650 m from a peaceful cove with a natural mix of sand and pebbles, set beneath the ruins of the old castle.
Even in summer, the area keeps a calmer, more local atmosphere than the larger resort zones of Crete.
Getting here
Easy arrival from Heraklion
Heraklion Airport and Heraklion Port are around a 20-minute drive from the cottage, making arrival and departure straightforward.
Once you arrive, you can park inside the gate or on the quiet street outside. A car is recommended for exploring the wider region, although the beach and immediate surroundings are walkable.
The beach
Beach days within easy reach
The nearby cove is approximately 650 m from the cottage. It has calm, clear water and a mix of sand and pebbles. Early mornings and late afternoons are usually the most peaceful times to visit.
Water shoes may be useful where pebbles appear near the shore.
Nearby beaches
More beaches nearby
Agia Pelagia
A sheltered seaside village with organised beach areas, cafes and tavernas, useful for an easy half-day by the water.
Ammoudara Beach
A long sandy beach west of Heraklion with space for swimming, walking and simple beach facilities.
Walks & views
Short walks and open views
The old castle path offers wide views over the bay and is a good way to get a sense of the area. In spring and early autumn, the Paleokastro Gorge loop is also worth considering, with shaded sections and a small church set into the rock.
For a change of pace, Heraklion is within easy driving distance, with museums, markets, restaurants and the city waterfront.
Area gallery
More beaches and day trips
If you want to explore beyond the village, these are some of Crete's most beautiful and signature places to plan into your stay.
Matala Beach
Preveli Beach
Balos Lagoon
Elafonisi
Knossos Palace View
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Heraklion Archaeological museum
Gortyna
Elounda & Spinalonga
Samaria Gorge
Imbros Gorge
Richtis Gorge
Use Yiamas as a quiet base near Heraklion
Stay close to the water while keeping the wider region within easy reach by car.