Playa de Chrissi Island (Belegrina)

Introduction

Welcome to one of the Aegean's most precious treasures! Today we embark on a virtual journey to Playa de Chrissi Island (Belegrina), a true hidden paradise in southern Crete, Greece. Also known as the 'Golden Island' (Gaidouronisi in Greek, meaning 'Donkey Island'), Chrissi is a small, uninhabited jewel majestically emerging from the blue waters of the Libyan Sea.

This island, part of the province of Lasithi (Crete), is a protected natural sanctuary, famous for its spectacular beaches, its forest of ancient cedars, and its unreal turquoise-colored waters. The Playa de Chrissi Island (Belegrina), often referred to simply as Belegrina or Golden Beach, is the most famous and accessible of its shores. Here, time seems to stand still, and natural beauty completely envelops us, offering an experience of disconnection and awe that few beaches in the world can match.

We, as beach tourism experts, have explored countless destinations, but the playa Playa de Chrissi Island (Belegrina) has a particular charm. Its fine, golden sand, formed by millions of crushed seashells, and its shallow, crystal-clear waters make it an ideal destination for those seeking to relax and immerse themselves in the purest nature. Get ready to discover every corner of this Greek paradise with us.

How to Get to Playa de Chrissi Island (Belegrina)

Getting to Playa de Chrissi Island (Belegrina) is, in itself, part of the adventure. Since Chrissi is an uninhabited and protected island, access is exclusively by sea. The main starting point is the city of Ierapetra, in southern Lasithi (Crete), although during the high season excursions can also be found from other nearby ports.

From Ierapetra

From the port of Ierapetra, numerous boats and ferries depart daily for Chrissi Island. The crossing usually takes between 45 minutes and an hour, depending on the type of vessel and sea conditions. We recommend booking tickets in advance, especially if traveling during the high season (July and August), as demand is very high. The boats usually dock at the small pier on Chrissi, from where a short walk through the cedar forest leads directly to Belegrina, the playa Playa de Chrissi Island (Belegrina).

Tips for the Crossing

• Schedules: The first boats usually depart around 10:00 a.m. and the last ones return to Ierapetra between 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., giving enough time to enjoy the island.
• Prices: Ferry ticket prices are reasonable and usually include the natural park protection tax.
• Preparation: There are usually small bars on board the boats where you can purchase drinks and snacks, but it's always a good idea to bring some water and provisions.

The Sand and Water

Undoubtedly, one of the biggest attractions of Playa de Chrissi Island (Belegrina) is its combination of sand and water. We were amazed the first time we set foot on its shores, and we are sure you will feel the same.

The Golden Sand

The sand of Belegrina is fine and of a distinctive golden color. This hue is no coincidence; it is due to the presence of millions of tiny crushed seashells, which give it a unique shine under the Cretan sun. Walking barefoot on this soft blanket is a delight, and its texture is perfect for spreading out a towel and enjoying a day in the sun. The predominant ground type is, of course, sand, making it very comfortable for all ages.

The Turquoise Waters

The waters bathing the playa Lasithi (Crete) of Belegrina are of a transparency and color that defy description. They range from a vibrant turquoise blue in the shallow areas to a deeper blue in the open sea. They are incredibly crystal clear, allowing you to see the seabed with total clarity, even several meters deep. Furthermore, they are notably calm and shallow at the shore, making them ideal for swimming and safe for children. The water temperature is usually very pleasant for most of the year, especially from June to September.

Services and Facilities

It is essential to understand that Chrissi Island is a protected natural space, which implies that services and facilities are deliberately limited to preserve its ecosystem. We appreciate this approach, as it helps keep the island in its pristine state.

Basic Services on the Beach

Although you won't find large resorts or developed tourist infrastructure, there are some basic services for the comfort of visitors to the playa Playa de Chrissi Island (Belegrina):

• Sunbeds and Umbrellas: At Playa de Chrissi Island (Belegrina), it is possible to rent umbrellas and sunbeds for an additional cost. This is highly recommended, as natural shade is scarce.
• Chiringuitos: In the vicinity of the main beach, you will find some very basic chiringuitos, often managed by the boat operators themselves, where you can buy cold drinks, snacks, and some simple dishes like salads or sandwiches. Don't expect an elaborate gastronomic offer, but they are sufficient to satisfy hunger and thirst.
• Lifeguards: During the high season, there is usually a lifeguard presence in the busier areas of Belegrina, adding an extra layer of safety.
• Bathrooms/WC: Portable toilets or very basic facilities are installed near the beach for visitors. It is important to use them responsibly and maintain cleanliness.

Important Recommendations

• Enough drinking water,