Full Description & Details
Kokkinos Pyrgos is a small coastal village on the southern coast of Crete, at the edge of Messara Bay. The harbour sits directly in front of the village, which is about 2 km from Timbaki. The name means "red tower," from a medieval castle built of red clay earth. The setting is relaxed and quieter than the larger tourist resorts on the island, with a long sandy beach stretching on either side of the harbour. The beach northwest of the harbour is called Makrimaliana (or Kakoskalo), and the southeast part is called Katalyki.
The marina is small to medium-sized, with a limited number of berths and basic mooring facilities. Depth varies by location within the harbour, but it generally accommodates small to medium-sized yachts and boats. The harbour offers docking for sailing and fishing boats. Water and electricity supply are available at the docks. Holding is not described in detail in the sources, so skippers should assess the bottom conditions on arrival. Overnight stays are permitted.
Amenities include showers and restrooms, a small shop for basic supplies and marine equipment, and provisions. Taverns across the harbour serve fresh fish, and there are restaurants, hotels, and bars along the beach and harbour front. Boat repair services may be available nearby, but this is not confirmed. The village itself is at the marina, so provisions and dining are within walking distance.
Nearby attractions include the Minoan palace ruins at Phaistos, the caves and beach at Matala, and the harbour village of Agia Galini. The closest international airports are Heraklion, about 70 km away, and Chania, about 120 km away. The marina is accessible by road with parking available. The area is exposed to the open Libyan Sea, so check weather conditions before approaching, especially in summer when meltemi winds can affect the south coast.
How to get there
Kokkinos Pyrgos lies on the south coast of Crete in Messara Bay. The harbour is in front of the village, with the beach extending to the northwest and southeast. The approach is from the open Libyan Sea; there are no described channels or marked waypoints in the sources.
Two small uninhabited islets lie off Messara Bay, about 7.5 nautical miles away, and are visible from a distance. Skippers should approach with caution and assess local conditions, as the harbour offers basic mooring rather than a fully sheltered marina. The Port Authority for Kokkinos Pyrgos can be contacted by phone at 28920 52983.
Land access is by road from Timbaki, about 2 km away, and from the local road network connecting to Heraklion and other major towns on Crete. Parking is available near the marina. The village is at the harbour, so restaurants, shops, and provisions are immediately accessible on foot.
Formal entry procedures are not described in the sources; the Port Authority contact is the appropriate point for any clearance or berthing questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the depth and berth capacity at Kokkinos Pyrgos marina?
Kokkinos Pyrgos is a small to medium-sized marina with a limited number of berths. Depth varies by location within the harbour, but it generally accommodates small to medium-sized yachts and boats.
Does Kokkinos Pyrgos marina have water and electricity at the docks?
Yes, Kokkinos Pyrgos marina provides basic services including water and electricity supply for docked boats, along with showers and restrooms.
Can I stay overnight at Kokkinos Pyrgos marina?
Yes, overnight stays are permitted at Kokkinos Pyrgos marina.
What facilities and provisions are available at Kokkinos Pyrgos?
Kokkinos Pyrgos has a small shop for basic supplies and marine equipment, and taverns across the harbour serve fresh fish. Restaurants, hotels, and bars are also along the beach and harbour front.
How do I contact the port authority at Kokkinos Pyrgos?
The Port Authority for Kokkinos Pyrgos can be reached by phone at 28920 52983.
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