Crete is the largest island in Greece, with the Sea of Crete to the north and the Libyan Sea to the south. The island has over 1000 km of coastline and hosts some of the most famous beaches in Europe. With such an abundance of sunshine, and warm temperatures, many people visit Crete to experience the stunning beaches. Due to the environment, Crete also hosts different kind of beaches. There are sandy, calm bays perfect for families with small children, there are pebbly beaches with deep azure waters for those who want to snorkel and swim and there are some long beaches with waves which is the adventurers paradise for surfing, windsurfing and water-sports. We have gathered together our favourite beaches in Crete.
The small fishing village of Almyrida is now a delightful beach resort. As you approach from the western end of the village you will see an early basilica dating from the fifth century, with a wonderful mosaic floor. Almyrida has a lovely bay shaped harbour keeping the beach sheltered and safe, making it an ideal spot for those with young families. It also benefits from a gentle sloping sandy beach…
Kalyves is a beach resort and yet still an agricultural market centre. It is a working village, where irrespective of tourism, village life goes on. There are two main beaches; the quieter one at the western end of the village (opposite the SYNKA supermarket) and the busier one at the harbour end. On foot it is nice to explore the quaint ‘old’ part, with its narrow lanes leading off from…
Preveli is located about 35km south of Rethymno and 10km east of Plakias. Beach of Preveli, also known as Lake Preveli or Phoenix, is located at the exit of the imposing Kourtaliotikos Gorge, where the Great River (Megas Potamos) is flowing. It is certainly the most famous beach in southern Crete, accepting thousands of visitors every summer. During the 60s and 70s, it was a favorite destination for hippies. On the…
The sandy beach of Marathi on the Akrotiri Peninsula is looking over Souda Bay to the area of Apokoronas and the White Mountains. Go to enjoy a day on the beach or have lunch/dinner in one of the fantastic Fish Tavernas. This beach is one of the favorite beaches of the Greeks living in Chania. You can rent a paddle boat, motor boat, see the fisher boats arriving in the…