The 10 Best Beaches on Crete: My Personal Favourites for Sun-Soaked Bliss.
The 10 Best Beaches on Crete: My Personal Favourites for Sun-Soaked Bliss
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We love Crete’s beaches. The island has some of the most beautiful coastlines in all of Greece. From sandy shores to hidden coves, there’s a beach for everyone.
The 10 best beaches on Crete offer crystal-clear waters, stunning views, and plenty of space to relax. We’ve visited many of them ourselves and can’t wait to share our favourites with you. Whether you’re after a lively spot or a quiet getaway, Crete’s beaches won’t disappoint.
Vai Palm Beach
We love Vai Palm Beach for its unique beauty and stunning natural surroundings. It’s one of our favourite spots on Crete’s eastern coast.
The beach gets its name from the impressive palm forest that backs onto the golden sand. With thousands of palm trees, it’s the largest palm grove in Europe.
We find the turquoise waters here absolutely gorgeous. They’re crystal clear and perfect for swimming or snorkelling. The beach itself is a mix of sand and small pebbles.
While Vai can get busy in peak season, we think it’s still worth a visit. The palm trees provide welcome shade on hot days. There are also sunbeds and umbrellas for hire if we want extra comfort.
We love grabbing a bite at the beachside taverna. The fresh local food really hits the spot after a swim.
For us, the best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon. The light at these times makes the beach look even more magical.
Rating: 4.5 (8200 reviews)
Location: Epar.Od. Monis Toplous – Vai, Toplou 723 00, Greece
Contact: +30 2843 340500
Website: Visit website
Location Vai Beach (please click for details)
Elafonissi Beach
We love Elafonissi Beach! It’s a true gem on Crete’s southwest coast. The beach is famous for its pink sand, which looks stunning against the turquoise water.
We’ve found that the pink colour can vary depending on when you visit. But even if it’s not super pink, the clear water is amazing for swimming and snorkelling.
One of our favourite things to do is walk across the shallow water to the small island of Elafonisi. It’s a nature reserve and feels like a different world.
We think Elafonissi is perfect for a day trip from Chania or Falassarna. But if you want to really soak up the atmosphere, we’d suggest staying a few days.
The beach can get busy in summer, so we like to arrive early. That way, we can grab a good spot and enjoy the peace before the crowds arrive.
We always bring plenty of water and sun cream. The sun can be strong, and there’s not much shade unless you rent an umbrella.
Rating: 4.6 (29000 reviews)
Location: Kissamos 730 01, Greece
Contact: +49 951 24767
Location Elafonissi Beach (please click for details)
Matala Beach
We love visiting Matala Beach on Crete’s southern coast. It’s a unique spot with a fascinating history. The beach is famous for its caves carved into the cliffs, which were once home to hippies in the 1960s and 70s.
The golden sand and clear blue waters make it perfect for swimming and sunbathing. We always enjoy lounging under the beach umbrellas and taking in the stunning views.
One of our favourite things about Matala is its laid-back vibe. The village has kept its bohemian charm, with colourful shops and tavernas lining the streets.
We recommend visiting in the evening to watch the spectacular sunsets. The sky turns shades of orange and pink, reflecting off the sea – it’s truly magical.
While Matala can get busy in peak season, we think it’s worth the visit. The mix of natural beauty, history, and relaxed atmosphere makes it one of our top picks for Cretan beaches.
Rating: 4,5 (6500 reviews)
Location: Matala Beach
Location Matala Beach (please click for details)
Preveli Beach
We absolutely love Preveli Beach! It’s one of our favourite spots on Crete. This stunning beach is known for its unique palm forest and crystal-clear waters.
Getting to Preveli isn’t the easiest, but that’s part of the adventure. We found three main ways to reach the beach. The boat ride is the simplest, but we prefer the challenge of the steps or the river crossing.
The palm trees are what make Preveli truly special. They create a tropical oasis that we’ve never seen anywhere else in Greece. It feels like we’ve stepped into a little piece of paradise.
We always enjoy a dip in the cool freshwater stream that flows into the sea. It’s so refreshing on a hot day! The mix of river and sea water creates interesting temperature pockets as we swim.
Preveli’s dramatic cliffs add to its beauty. We love finding a spot to sit and take in the breathtaking views. It’s a perfect place for photos too.
We recommend packing supplies as there aren’t many amenities nearby. A picnic under the palms is our favourite way to spend an afternoon at Preveli Beach.
Rating: 4.5 (8800 reviews)
Location: Preveli beach
Location Preveli Beach (please click for details)
Glyka Nera beach
We visited Glyka Nera beach and loved it! The name means ‘sweet water’ and for good reason. Fresh spring water flows directly into the crystal-clear sea.
The beach is a hidden gem on the south coast of Crete. To get there, we had to hike down a steep cliff. The walk was strenuous, but the view was breathtaking.
The turquoise-coloured water was inviting and refreshing. We spent hours swimming and snorkelling. The pebbles on the shore were smooth and comfortable under our feet.
There is a small taverna on the beach where we enjoyed delicious Greek specialities. The perfect place for a break from sunbathing!
Rating: 4.7 (925 reviews)
Location: Glyka Nera beach
Website: Visit website
Location Glyka Nera Beach (please click for details)
Red Beach
We also visited the breathtaking Red Beach and were immediately enamoured. The beach owes its name to the reddish rocks and the shimmering red sand. It really is a unique sight!
The turquoise blue water is perfect for a swim. We refreshed ourselves and enjoyed the peace and quiet. The beach is not overcrowded, which we found very pleasant.
To get to Red Beach, we had to hike a bit. The path is a little steep, but the view makes up for the effort. We recommend taking sturdy shoes and enough water with you.
There is little shade on hot days. We brought a parasol with us and that was a good decision. The surroundings are beautiful and perfect for nature lovers.
Rating: 4.5 (1500 reviews)
Location: Red beach
Location Red Beach (please click for details)
Potamos Beach
We regularly visit the beautiful Potamos Beach on Crete and are always delighted. The golden sand and crystal-clear water are perfect for relaxing. The bay is surrounded by gentle hills that offer protection from the wind.
There are sunbeds and parasols for hire on the beach. We enjoyed lying in the sun and listening to the sound of the sea. The small beach bars offering cool drinks provided refreshment.
The water is perfect for swimming and snorkelling and you can see colourful fish between the rocks and above the sand on the seabed. Children had fun splashing around in the shallow areas. The beach was clean and well maintained.
We like the relaxed atmosphere. It’s not crowded, but still lively. We come to this beautiful place regularly as it’s not too far from where we live in Crete.
Rating: 4.5 (3300 reviews)
Location: 700 07, Greece
Contact: +30 2897 340215
Balos Lagoon
We’ve been to many stunning beaches, but Balos Lagoon truly took our breath away. It’s a mesmerising spot on the northwest coast of Crete that we can’t stop raving about.
The lagoon’s turquoise waters are so clear, we could see right through to our toes. We loved how the white sand mixed with pink hues, giving the beach a unique charm.
Getting there was a bit of an adventure. We took a bumpy road and then hiked down a steep path. But the panoramic views at the top made it all worthwhile.
We spent hours lounging on the soft sand and paddling in the shallow waters. It felt like our own little slice of paradise.
If you visit, we recommend bringing snacks and water. There are a few facilities, but it’s best to come prepared.
We reckon Balos Lagoon is a must-see on any Cretan holiday. It’s often ranked as one of the best beaches on the island, and we wholeheartedly agree.
Peristeras Beach at Georgioupolis
We absolutely love Peristeras Beach near Georgioupolis! It’s one of our favourite spots in Crete. This lovely stretch of sand sits on the north coast of the island.
The beach is quite long, stretching for about 10 km. We find it’s never too crowded, even in peak season. There’s always plenty of space to spread out our towels and relax.
We’re big fans of the soft, golden sand here. It’s perfect for building sandcastles or just lounging in the sun. The water is usually calm and clear, making it great for a refreshing swim.
One thing we really enjoy is the beautiful view of the White Mountains in the distance. It’s quite a sight while we’re soaking up the sun!
We often grab a bite at one of the nearby tavernas. The fresh seafood is delicious, and it’s lovely to have a meal with a sea view.
For a bit of adventure, we sometimes hire paddleboards or kayaks. It’s a fun way to explore the coastline and get a bit of exercise.
Rating: 4.6 (238 reviews)
Location: 35°21’17.3″N 24°16’48., 9, Dikastika 190 07, Greece
Location Peristeras Beach (please click for details)
Frangokastello beach
We have another real insider tip for you: The beautiful Frangokastello beach in the south of Crete. When we got there, we were immediately overwhelmed by its beauty. The golden sand stretches as far as the eye can see.
The crystal-clear water is perfect for swimming and snorkelling. We spent hours exploring the colourful underwater world. There are also several tavernas on the beach where we enjoyed delicious Greek specialities.
A particular highlight is the Venetian fortress right on the beach. It gives the place a unique atmosphere. We watched the sunset there in the evening – an unforgettable moment.
The beach is never crowded and is perfect for relaxing. We rented sunbeds and parasols and just let our minds wander. The shallow water is ideal for children to splash around in.
Rating: 4.5 (884 reviews)
Location: Frangokastelo beach
Website: Visit website
Location Frangokastello beach (please click for details)
Best Times to Visit Beaches
We’ve found that the best times to visit Crete’s beaches depend on your preferences. Some months offer warm waters and bustling crowds, while others provide tranquillity and cooler temperatures. Let’s explore the ideal seasons for beachgoers.
Spring
Spring is tougher people the favourite time to hit the beaches in Crete. The weather warms up nicely from March to May, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The crowds are thinner, making it perfect for a peaceful holiday.
The sea might be a bit chilly for swimming, but it’s great for long walks on the sand. We’ve noticed the wildflowers bloom during this time, adding splashes of colour to the coastline.
Spring is ideal for:
- Sunbathing
- Beach picnics
- Coastal hikes
Summer
Summer is when Crete’s beaches truly come alive. From June to August, we bask in temperatures between 25°C and 35°C. The sea is wonderfully warm, perfect for swimming and water sports.
We’ve found that popular spots like Balos Beach can get quite busy. But the lively atmosphere is brilliant for socialising and enjoying beach parties.
Summer highlights:
- Water sports (jet-skiing, parasailing)
- Beach bars and clubs
- Nighttime beach events
Remember to pack plenty of sun cream and stay hydrated!
Autumn
Autumn offers a delightful mix of warm weather and fewer tourists. From September to November, we enjoy temperatures between 20°C and 28°C. The sea remains warm from the summer heat, making it lovely for swimming.
We’ve noticed that hotel prices often drop during this season. It’s a great time to snag deals on beachfront accommodation. The beaches near Chania are particularly stunning in autumn.
Autumn perks:
- Cheaper accommodation
- Warm sea temperatures
- Beautiful sunsets
It’s our secret favourite time to visit Crete’s beaches!
Tips for a Perfect Beach Day
We love spending time at Crete’s gorgeous beaches. Here are our top tips to make your beach day amazing and stress-free.
Packing Essentials
We always bring these must-haves:
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Beach umbrella or tent
- Towels and swimwear
- Plenty of water
- Snacks and fresh fruit
- Hat and sunglasses
- Good book or e-reader
- Portable phone charger
Don’t forget a waterproof bag to keep your valuables dry. We like to pack a light picnic lunch too. Sandwiches, crisps, and grapes travel well.
Safety Precautions
The sun in Crete can be intense. We reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, even on cloudy days. It’s easy to get dehydrated, so we drink water often.
Some beaches have strong currents. We always check for warning flags before swimming. Red means dangerous conditions. Yellow means be cautious. Green is all clear.
If you’re not a strong swimmer, stick to shallow areas. Many popular beaches have lifeguards, but it’s best not to rely on them entirely.
Local Etiquette
Greeks are laid-back, but there are a few unwritten rules we follow:
- Keep noise levels down
- Take all rubbish with you
- Don’t smoke near others
- Wear swimwear on the beach (no nude sunbathing outside designated areas)
We always ask before taking photos of people. It’s polite to buy a drink if using a beach bar’s sun loungers.
Lastly, we respect the local environment. We never take shells or sand as souvenirs. Crete’s beaches are beautiful – let’s keep them that way!
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve gathered some common queries about Crete’s beaches to help you plan your perfect holiday. From romantic spots to family-friendly shores, we’ve got you covered.
Where can one find a comprehensive map that details the top beaches in Crete?
We love using the interactive map on Crete Locals. It shows all the best beaches across the island, including our favourites like Elafonissi and Balos Lagoon.
Could you recommend the finest beaches in Crete for a romantic getaway?
For a loved-up escape, we adore Preveli Beach. Its heart-shaped palm forest and crystal-clear waters create a dreamy atmosphere. Matala Beach is another top pick, with its stunning sunset views and cosy tavernas.
Which beaches in the Heraklion area of Crete are considered the best?
Agia Pelagia Beach is our go-to near Heraklion. It’s just a 30-minute drive from the city and offers a peaceful vibe. We also fancy Amoudara Beach for its long sandy coastline and brilliant facilities.
I’m searching for the loveliest sandy beaches in Crete; do you have any recommendations?
We’re head over heels for Elafonissi Beach. Its pink-tinged sand and turquoise waters are simply magical. Vai Palm Beach is another stunner, boasting golden sands surrounded by Europe’s largest natural palm forest.
What are the most family-friendly beaches to visit in Crete?
For fun-filled family days, we recommend Matala Beach. Its shallow waters and nearby amenities make it perfect for little ones. Agia Pelagia is another top choice, with calm seas and plenty of space for beach games.
In which area of Crete can one enjoy beauty without the crowds?
We love escaping to Glyka Nera in southwest Crete. This hidden gem is less crowded and boasts breathtaking natural beauty. You can reach it by water taxi or a scenic hike from Loutro.
