Restrooms
Not AvailableNo
Food & Drinks
Not AvailableNo
Parking
AvailableYes
Nudity Policy
OPTIONALNudity is optional
The Good
- Crystal-clear, vibrant water: Souda Beach is famous for its exceptionally clear water. The visibility is excellent, making it one of the best snorkeling spots in this part of Crete, especially around the rocky formations where colorful fish gather.
- Refreshing even in extreme heat: Even during peak summer when air temperatures reach 38°C, the water stays cool and refreshing, making swims incredibly pleasant.
- Organized but still relaxed: The beach is well laid out with several sunbed and umbrella sections operated by nearby tavernas and beach bars. Prices typically range from €6 to €10 per set depending on the section and season.
- Plenty of food and drink options: There are two to three good tavernas and beach bars along the road above the beach. Some provide drink service directly to your sunbed and even offer free umbrellas with purchases.
- Mixed-use beach that generally works: One end of the beach is used by naturists (unofficially), while the rest is a standard family beach. In calmer periods, both groups usually coexist without issues.
The Bad
- No proper public toilets on the beach: The only restrooms available are inside the tavernas on the western end, which can be inconvenient if you are stationed far away.
- Can become very windy: When Meltemi winds pick up, conditions change quickly. If it becomes windy, swimming can turn rough and uncomfortable.
- Water gets deep quickly in many areas: The drop-off can be steep, making it tricky for small children and older swimmers unless they stay in the shallower sections.
- Pebbly shoreline: The beach is mostly small stones and pebbles, not fine sand. Water shoes are helpful.
- Crowded in high season: In July and August the beach can become very busy, especially near the tavernas and estuary.
The Naked Truth
Souda Beach is a hybrid beach that mostly works; but not perfectly. It’s beautiful, well-run, and easy, with some of the clearest water around Plakias. If you’re here for swimming, snorkeling, food, and comfort, it delivers.
The nudity situation is unofficial and situational. At the far end, naturism is normal and long-established. On quiet days, coexistence is calm. On busy summer days, tension is real.
Bottom line: this is not a pure naturist beach in Crete, but it does work for naturists who stay to the far end and keep expectations realistic. If you want clarity and zero awkwardness, other beaches in Crete do it better. If you want great water, food nearby, and flexibility, Souda is still a strong choice.
Insider Tip
If you want to stay comfortably clothed, rent sunbeds closest to the tavernas. If you prefer a quiet naturist experience, walk further toward the far eastern end, where it becomes calmer.
Who's Here
A wide mix of families, couples, solo travelers, snorkelers, locals from Plakias and nearby villages, and naturists at the far end. Outside peak season, the vibe is relaxed and friendly.
Beach Surface
Mostly fine pebbles along the shoreline, with some sandy patches in the middle and a mix of sand and small stones toward both ends. The seabed alternates between pebbles and rock.
Access Difficulty
Easy: The beach is directly accessible by car, with street parking just above the road, often less than 25 meters from the shore.
Photos
Our Visit
Discover the beauty and freedom of Souda beach, a stunning nude beach destination.
Discover the beauty and freedom of Souda beach, a stunning nude beach destination.
Map
Getting There
Souda Beach is located on the south coast of Crete, just east of Plakias.
By Car: From Plakias, drive east along the coastal road toward Damnoni / Souda. After a few minutes, the beach appears directly below the road. Street parking is available along the roadside above the beach, usually within 25–50 meters of the shore.
By Foot: If you’re staying in Plakias, you can walk along the coastal road. The walk takes about 25–35 minutes.
Public Transport: There is no direct public transport to Souda Beach. Access is by car or on foot only.
Recommended Accommodation
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