Trafoulas beach
Trafoulas or Dragon Bay is located 4km east of Lendas and 69km south of Heraklion. It is a completely isolated beach of south Crete, which is formed at the exit of the imposing canyon on the Cape Trafoulas or Trahilas. According to the legend, this beach was visited by King Minos and his men, while the neighbouring Loutra beach was the bathing beach of Minos's wife, Pasiphae, and her female followers. The canyon is incorrectly known as Steno Faragi (Narrow Gorge), as Steno Faragi is the narrow part of the canyon of Tripiti. The lower part of the gorge leading to Trafoulas is called Canyon Pidimatou (Jumping Canyon), as it is so narrow that an animal can jump from one side to the other.
To get there you have to drive for a while in the wild road that starts from Lendas harbour (in Loutra) and heads to village Krotos. Just after 500m, you will see the small canyon on your right hand and the starting point of the hiking path that heads to the beach. On the edge of the wild road, you will have the chance to see a beautiful panorama that includes the shore from Loutra to Lendas. Leave your car somewhere there and follow the trail to the beach (15-20’). Of course, it is easier, but less adventurous, to access Trafoulas by boat from Lendas. the gorge is very nice and full of oleander.
The beach of Trafoulas is also called Psili Ammos (i.e. Fine Sand) and is the most beautiful beach of the wider area. It is totally secluded, exception made for a couple of people who stay sometimes in a large cave on the beach. On the east part of the beach there are 4 caves, 2 high on the cliffs and 2 at the beach. They can offer some sort of protection from the sun, provided that they are not occupied by someone else. What is more, the cliffs at the eastern part seem to be suitable for climbing and there are marks that they have been used for this purpose (there are some "hooks" on some cliffs). The beach is quite long with tiny grayish gravel and some smooth rocks in the middle and has very deep clear waters. It is also surrounded by huge vertical cliffs, which continue descending vertically for several meters in the water. The white rocks on the beach have been carved by the weather and form wonderful natural marble sculptures. Pahia Ammos is also known to naturists, who feel here very well protected from prying eyes.
The only drawbacks are that there is almost no shade during the sun peak hours, apart from the caves. 
