Back to newsSouthern Crete's coastline, including the beaches of Matala and Agios Pavlos, is known for its raw, unspoiled beauty but comes with real safety considerations during strong Livas winds. The Livas is a warm southerly wind that frequently affects the southern coast, creating rough surf, strong currents, and unpredictable sea conditions that can make swimming dangerous even for experienced swimmers.
Tourists planning to visit beaches in this region should check local wind forecasts before swimming. When Livas winds are active, red or yellow warning flags may be displayed at monitored beaches. At unguarded beaches, which are common along the southern coast, there are no lifeguards on duty, so extra caution is essential.
The safest approach is to swim only at calm, sheltered spots and to avoid entering the water when waves are breaking unevenly or currents are visibly strong.
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Livas Winds Turn Southern Crete Beaches Dangerous for Swimmers
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