The most famous beaches of Crete that you must visit
Tourists from all over the world visit the island of Crete in Greece to enjoy the weather, the hospitality of the locals, but mostly to visit the famous beaches scattered all over the island.
From the most famous to the most relaxing, Crete offers a wide range of beaches from the west to the east and from the north to the south! Sandy, secluded and crowded beaches give visitors the chance to spend their days under the Cretan sun from May to October, when temperatures are ideal for a day on the coast.
CHANIA
Starting from the western part of the island in Chania, you'll have the chance to discover breathtaking beaches with crystal blue waters.
One of the most famous beaches is Falassarna beach, one of the many sandy beaches on the island that has been awarded the "European Blue Flag Award". The beach, with a total length of 3 km, consists mainly of sandy stretches but also of pebbled bays. People on the beach can enjoy the waves and the scenery and have a drink or lunch in the cafes and restaurants. You will also be able to rent water sports equipment or go scuba diving with a local group.
Another popular beach in the Chania area is Elafonissi beach. This sandy beach is known for its incredible natural pink sand accompanied by crystal clear blue waters. The colors of the sand, due to the pink and red shellfish fragments that the sea brings to the beach's edge, make this area popular. The calmness of the sea is appreciated by parents with children and leisure bathers.
The last place to visit in Chania is Kissamos beach, a long sandy beach with clear blue waters. On this particular beach you will find some spots that allow you to stay alone while enjoying the wild environment, while other spots provide you with some sunbeds and umbrellas, along with cafes and tavernas.
RETHYMNON
Τhe prefecture of Rethymno offers plenty of beaches to visit. Starting from the south coast it is worth stopping at the beaches of Triopetra, Plakias and Preveli with the beautiful palm forest in the background and the deep blue waters.
For those looking for a beach near the city of Rethymnon it is worth visiting Adelianos Kampos, a sandy beach with many activity options since in recent years many hotels have been developed in the area with restaurants and cafes.
HERAKLION
Arriving in the centre of Crete and the prefecture of Heraklion, you can't miss the famous beach of Matala, known for the action of the hippies and the beautiful caves on the slopes. For those seeking to discover the beauty of Crete's wild landscape, a walk on the remote beaches of the prefecture will amaze you. Agiofarago beach is located about 80 km south of Heraklion and to reach it you will need about 20 minutes of hiking through the local gorge.
On the south coast, we also find Vathi beach, which is more like a lagoon as it is hidden between rocks. In the past, this beach was a haven for pirates, and even today it is a magnet for visitors seeking privacy combined with the wild beauty of Crete.
LΑSITHI- AGIOS NIKOLAOS
In the easternmost part of the island, the first choice of visitors is Vai beach in Sitia. The beach is known to all for its palm forest that strongly reminds of an exotic destination.
Another beach that is worth visiting is Voulisma beach which is located near the town of Agios Nikolaos. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Crete and is often featured in postcards for the island. It has a lovely white sandy beach that gives it lovely exotic blue colors.
Finally, for those looking for carefree family moments of relaxation, the beach of Myrtos on the south coast of the island will fascinate you since it is located in the village of the same name and has all the amenities, such as hotels, supermarkets and taverns to spend a carefree holiday.
Whichever part of Crete you decide to visit, it is certain that the beauty of the island will fascinate you and the hospitality of the people will be unforgettable!