Chrissi Island sits off the coast of Ierapetra in the Libyan Sea, within Crete’s Lasithi region. Known also as Gaidouronisi, its golden beaches and clear turquoise waters give it a distinctive beauty, with uninterrupted sea views extending beyond its low shoreline.
The island’s juniper trees, commonly called cedars locally, grow across a landscape of sandy dunes. Their wind-sculpted shapes are a defining feature of Chrissi and form part of its valuable protected ecosystem.
Golden Beach, officially named Belegrina, is one of Chrissi’s most recognisable coastal spots. Boat trips from Ierapetra provide views of the island and its surrounding waters. Conservation measures regulate visits and protect the interior, so checking access arrangements is essential when planning a trip.
