Voulisma Beach Istro
A breathtaking beach on Crete known for its vibrant turquoise waters and soft golden sand, offering a tropical escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Secure a good spot
Voulisma Beach Istro
Best Time
Secure a good spot
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking beach on Crete known for its vibrant turquoise waters and soft golden sand, offering a tropical escape.
"Beautiful turquoise beach, but very narrow with almost no space for towels."
🎯 Arrive Early!
Beat the crowds and secure a sunbed by arriving before 10 AM.
💰 Sunbed Price Check
Sunbeds can be pricey (€15-€30). Explore smaller coves for potentially more space.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Turquoise Waters
Experience breathtakingly clear, vibrant turquoise and blue waters that rival famous beaches.
Golden Sand
Relax on soft, fine golden sand that creates a tropical paradise feel.
Panoramic Views
Admire the stunning scenery from above, showcasing the beach's unique beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Prime Spots
Sunbed Costs and Alternatives
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early!
Beat the crowds and secure a sunbed by arriving before 10 AM.
💰 Sunbed Price Check
Sunbeds can be pricey (€15-€30). Explore smaller coves for potentially more space.
🌊 Explore Smaller Coves
Beyond the main beach, discover quieter spots for a more peaceful experience.
🚗 Easy Access
The beach is conveniently located near the main road with parking available.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early!
Beat the crowds and secure a sunbed by arriving before 10 AM.
💰 Sunbed Price Check
Sunbeds can be pricey (€15-€30). Explore smaller coves for potentially more space.
🌊 Explore Smaller Coves
Beyond the main beach, discover quieter spots for a more peaceful experience.
🚗 Easy Access
The beach is conveniently located near the main road with parking available.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Voulisma Beach is lauded for its stunning, almost tropical turquoise waters and soft golden sand, often compared to more famous Cretan beaches. However, many visitors note its narrowness, leading to a crowded feel, and find the sunbed rental prices to be quite high. Some reviews also mention occasional plastic pollution in the water.
"Beautiful turquoise beach, but very narrow with almost no space for towels. Sunbeds & umbrella cost €30. Stunning from above, but the water was full of plastic — the dirtiest I’ve seen in Greece."
Alexandru Silviu
"Great location, but definitely not worth paying €30 for sunbeds. We didn’t try the service because the price felt like outright exploitation. The beach is completely covered with sunbeds and no free space is left for free swimmers."
D - R Dia
"Voulisma Beach has white sand and fantastic crystal clear turquoise and blue waters. It’s no less beautiful than famous Balos beach in the west.
You can enjoy water sports like water skiing. Prices are affordable.
2 sun-beads and umbrella are 15 euros."
Nada Stefanović
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Voulisma Beach is located about 12 km from Agios Nikolaos, near the village of Istro. You can reach it by car, taxi, or local bus. Driving is straightforward, with parking available near the beach.
Yes, local buses frequently run from Agios Nikolaos towards Istro, stopping near Voulisma Beach. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
There is parking available near the beach, though it can fill up quickly during peak season. Arriving early is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Voulisma Beach itself is free. You only pay if you choose to rent sunbeds and umbrellas.
Voulisma Beach is a public beach and is accessible at all times. However, facilities like sunbed rentals and tavernas will have specific operating hours, typically from morning to late afternoon/early evening.
Prices for sunbeds and umbrellas can vary, with reports ranging from €15 to €30 for a set. It's advisable to confirm the current prices upon arrival.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Yes, Voulisma Beach is excellent for swimming with its calm, crystal-clear, shallow turquoise waters, making it ideal for families and casual swimmers.
Some reviews mention the availability of water sports like water skiing, though options might be limited.
The beach typically offers amenities like sunbeds, umbrellas, and nearby tavernas or cafes for refreshments.
Voulisma Beach is very popular and can get crowded, especially during the high season (July-August). Its narrowness can make it feel more packed.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are usually tavernas or cafes located near or on Voulisma Beach, offering food and drinks for visitors.
You can typically expect traditional Greek cuisine, including fresh seafood, salads, and local specialties at the tavernas near the beach.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offer softer light for photography. The aerial views are particularly stunning at any time of day.
The striking contrast between the golden sand and the incredibly vibrant turquoise water makes Voulisma Beach highly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, families should be prepared for the beach's narrowness and potential crowds during peak season. Arriving early is highly recommended to find a comfortable spot for your family. While sunbeds are available, consider bringing your own beach towels and umbrella if you prefer more flexibility or want to save on rental costs. The proximity to Istro village also means easy access to amenities and potential dining options.
💰 Budget Travelers
Alternatively, explore the smaller, less organized coves adjacent to the main beach, which often have more free space and fewer rental facilities. Packing your own snacks and drinks can also help manage expenses, though there are usually affordable tavernas nearby for a meal.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Charm of Voulisma Beach
+1Despite its beauty, visitors should be aware that Voulisma Beach is known for being quite narrow. This means that even though the main stretch is long, it can feel crowded quickly, especially when sunbeds are set up. Some travelers suggest that the smaller, adjacent coves might offer a more serene experience.
For those looking for a visually stunning beach experience, Voulisma is a must-visit. Its accessibility and unique color palette make it a popular choice for photographers and beach lovers alike, though managing expectations regarding space during peak times is key.
Navigating Sunbeds and Space
Travelers often advise arriving very early in the morning to secure a good spot, either a sunbed or a patch of sand before the beach becomes densely populated. If the main beach feels too packed or the prices too high, exploring the smaller coves nearby is a frequently recommended alternative. These less-developed areas can offer a more peaceful atmosphere and a chance to enjoy the stunning waters with fewer people.
When planning your visit, consider your priorities. If a comfortable sunbed with service is essential, factor in the cost. If you prefer more freedom and space, aim for an early arrival or seek out the quieter sections of the coastline.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit