Sarakiniko, Gavdos
Gavdos island, south of Crete · Greece
Europe's southernmost island, where swimwear-free camping under the junipers is the way of life. Wild, slow, unforgettable.
Updated
- Status
- Tolerated
- Crowd
- Naturist
- Country
- Greece
- City
- Crete
- Water
- Sea
- Best time
- June to September
- Confidence
- Medium
Find it
34.8580° N, 24.0880° ECrowd A clothing-optional beach with no particular gay crowd. Families, couples and regulars. Go for the sun and the swim, not the scene.
Getting there
Ferry from Chora Sfakion or Paleochora (two to three hours), then a walk or the island bus. Bring everything.
The rules
Tolerated. Not designated, but going without swimwear has been the custom for years and is left alone. Rules and patrols can change, so read the signs when you arrive.
No photos of anyone, sunscreen everywhere, cover up the moment you leave the clothing-optional stretch, and head home with the light. Sunbathe, swim and keep the beach respectful for everyone.
Questions people ask
Beach questions
Where exactly is Sarakiniko, Gavdos?
Gavdos island, south of Crete, Greece. The map pin is 34.8580° N, 24.0880° E.
What is Sarakiniko, Gavdos like?
Europe's southernmost island, where swimwear-free camping under the junipers is the way of life. Wild, slow, unforgettable.
How do I get to Sarakiniko, Gavdos?
Ferry from Chora Sfakion or Paleochora (two to three hours), then a walk or the island bus. Bring everything.
More in Greece
Method
Status says what the law and the locals allow; crowd says who is on the sand. Both come from gay-travel guides, the national naturist federations and members who were just there, scored on sources, recency, crowd, legal footing and safety. How we rank. Pins mark the beach; the gay end is described above. Last reviewed September 2026.