Okeanis is located in Koutsouras village, 22 km east of Ierapetra and 34 km southwest of Sitia.
Koutsouras is known for its wild and beautiful landscape, its clear waters and its exceptional traditional taverns which cater all tastes.
In Koutsouras you can find a bakery, supermarkets, a pharmacy and a family doctor. Within the village there is an organized beach with sunbeds and parasols, whilst close by there are numerous beaches with coarse, black sand or pebbles and tranquil waters, which constitute the ideal choice for an exploration.
For those who are connected with nature, it is recommended a walk inside the wood of Apigania, at a distance of 600m from Okeanis. The wood leads up to the Red Butterfly Gorge, a place with running waters, impressive waterfalls and rich vegetation.
The area is ideal for a quiet holiday and an opportunity to unwind. However, adjacent to Koutsouras is Makrigialos, a seaside resort with traditional taverns and restaurants and an intense nightlife.
If you wish to search deeper into the local culture, it is essential to visit the picturesque mountain villages of Stavrochori, Agios Stefanos and Pefki, which embody Cretan authenticity and folklore. You can also attend a traditional festival which is organized by the local cultural association in the summer.
Koutsouras is a starting point to explore this unique corner of Crete.
There are numerous beaches along the whole southern coast from Ferma to Goudouras such as Maheridi beach (1.5 km), Achlia beach (4km), Kalamok nias beach (2.5km), Amoudi beach (8km).
Because of its proximity trips to Sitia, the easternmost town of Crete with the famous palm forest of Vai and its untouched sandy beaches are feasible. On the way to Vai you will meet the Monastery of Toplou, an exceptionally interesting place that is worth visiting.
Ierapetra is a 20 min driving distance from Okeanis and the trip through a lavish pine forest on the southern slopes of Mount Thripti has many surprises in store. Driving 30 min further from Ierapetra, you can stop at Agios Nikolaos and visit the island of Spinalonga with its extraordinary history.
For those who wish to discover the treasures the Libyan sea hides, boats depart daily from Makrigialos for the island of Koufounisi, also known as the ‘Porfyra island’ by the Minoans. It is renowned for its many golden beaches and the Clia desert.
From Ierapetra boats depart for the island of Chrissi (or Gaidouronisi) with its famous cedar woods, which is the largest in Europe, and its plentiful fossilized seashells.
Distances
- Heraklion airport: 114 km
- Sitia airport: 38 km
- Ierapetra: 22km
- Agios Nikolaos: 55 km
- Elounda: 65 km
- Rethymno: 193 km
- Chania: 256 km