Votsalaki beach
Votsalaki (or Botzalaki) is located 71km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and 36km east of Ierapetra, on the west end of Goudouras, at the position of Aspra Chomata (white grounds in Greek). It is situated amid the arid and rugged landscape of East Crete, close to the exit of the impassable Gorge Asprolithos.
Votsalaki is one of the most amazing beaches of Crete. It has small pebbles and crystal clear waters. The sea color is magical, taking green, blue and reddish hues due to the local soils. Votsalaki is quite secluded, although it is next to the main road. It's west end is ideal for naturists, because the cliffs surrounding the beach look like walls and protect them from the prying eyes.
You can drive to Votsalaki from Ierapetra by getting the main road heading east to Sitia, along the south coastline of Crete. After Makrigialos, get the road to Goudouras and stop 2.5km after Kapsa Monastery.
Thodori's beaches
If from Votsalaki you head towards Makrigialos, you'll meet, among others, the outstanding remote sandy beach with pebbles in parts, called Thodoris Limani, probably after a previous owner of the land named Thodoris. It consists of two adjacent coves. Tthere are no facilities and natural shade on the beach; thus, don't forget to get your umbrella and water with you. It is worth a visit due to the amazingly vivid sea colors that have greenish and pinkish hues.
