Across from Ierapetra lies Chrissi Island, also known as Gaidouronisi. It is renowned for its stunning beaches with turquoise waters and lush palm juniper vegetation. The island derives its name from the golden sand that lines its shores. Legend has it that Cretans from nearby coasts once left their old donkeys on Gaidouronisi, contributing to its second name. Chrissi is protected within the European Natura 2000 program as an "area of outstanding natural beauty." For this reason, none of the island's beaches are organized.
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