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Best Beaches In Crete

by Pankaj Upreti
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Best Beaches In Crete

Best beaches in Crete
Beaches in Crete | Photo Credit – Matteo Martinello

We recently wrote about Crete. We have introduced you to the best areas and neighborhoods. Now that you know where to stay in Crete, we offer you suggestions for the best beaches in Crete.

There are many cities in Crete that have beautiful and clean beaches. It was not easy to choose just a few, but we are sure that you will like everything you visit.

Elafonisi Beach

Best beaches in Crete
Elafonisi Beach | Photo Credit – _dChris

Two years ago, Elafonisi Beach entered the top 5 beaches on an annual basis according to the choice of Tripadvisor. That choice sounds quite logical when we see crystal clear water and pink sand. It sounds unreal, and it really does exist and it is only 75km from Chania.

You can reach it in several ways, by bus, boat, or your car. The water is shallow and warm, so it is recognizable. And of course, the pink sand that we have already mentioned. It is interesting not only for children but also for adults. The beach is suitable for all ages. You can find all the facilities you need, from comfortable lounges to bars.

Balos Beach

Balos Beach | Photo Credit – Spiros Vathis

Those who have never visited Crete have heard about this beach. Balos Beach is one of the most famous beaches in all Greece. The sand is white, almost transparent, and the sea is turquoise. The first association to the Caribbean, right? Tourists often say that it reminds them of paradise beaches from the Caribbean.

Gramvousa Island is nearby. Here are some endemic species that are nowhere to be found except in Crete. Therefore, it would be good to take the opportunity when you are in Crete. Not only will you enjoy the warm water and the kindness of the hosts, but you will also be able to see the unique plant and animal species.

Preveli Beach

Best beaches in Crete
Preveli Beach | Photo Credit – sk

You must be wondering where the best beaches are in Crete. One of them is near the capital. Preveli beach is located only forty kilometers from the capital. It looks like a lagoon that we only get to see in movies. This is a dreamland that you must visit. Unfortunately, as you can imagine, there are a lot of crowds here during the season.

All tourists want to spend quality time in this paradise. We understand them, and so will you once you leave. Don’t be discouraged by the crowds, but set aside at least one day to enjoy with dear people. You can get there by fishing boats, but also on foot, as you prefer. Preveli beach will remain in your beautiful memory.

Falasarna Beach

Best beaches in Crete
Falasarna Beach | Photo Credit – jdujic

Sometimes you can find it like Phalasarna. But it’s the same, don’t worry. This beach is one of the most famous along with the previous three we have listed. If you are looking for the best beaches in Crete for families, one of them is Falasarna Beach. It consists of several sandy beaches of various lengths. The sand is pink in color and looks almost unreal in photos and live.

The water is turquoise and completely clean. The mountains that are nearby only contribute to the magical feeling and make this picture complete. The beach is fully landscaped, so you can find everything you need for a pleasant stay. Also, it is big enough to accommodate all the tourists who visit it during the summer.

Matala Beach

Best beaches in Crete
Matala Beach | Photo Credit – Roberto Strauss

Matala Beach is located about 65 km from Heraklion, the capital of Crete. This beach is actually a small fishing village. It is known as a paradise for hippies. We are not surprised why they chose this place to enjoy. The water is crystal clear, the sand is white and warm. There are cliffs around that protect visitors from winds and unwanted views.

Quite enough reasons to visit this beach. There are also several caves here that you can visit if you are adventurous. If you are more in the mood for a vacation in the sun, this is the beach for you. There is no doubt that you will find here all the content that will allow you to do that.

Vai – one of the biggest attractions on Crete

Best beach in Crete
Vai Beach | Photo Credit – alljengi

If you have read our guide to staying in Crete, then you will surely remember that we mentioned Vai Beach. We talked about where you can stay during your visit to Crete. We also introduced you to a lot of activities and things to do on Crete. What makes this beach special then when we write about it again?

We decided to include it on our list of the best beaches in Crete because it is the largest natural palm forest in Europe. At the beginning of the 1980s, Vai was full of backpacker tourists from the whole world. Today is a place where you will enjoy the fresh air and clean, soothing sea.

Chrissi island

Best beaches in Crete
Chrissi Island | Photo Credit – Spiros Vathis

You may be wondering why we suggest you visit the island when we write about the most beautiful beaches in Crete? This is an island located near Crete, less than 15 km away. The reason why we mention it is quite simple – here are a few magical beaches covered with golden and white sand.

There are olive trees all around, and a cedar forest has been planted along the entire island. Some trees are hundreds of years old and you will feel that the air is different than in other parts of Crete. In the north of the island are beaches where you can rent deck chairs and everything you need to stay. To the south are wild beaches, but they are smaller.

Bali Beach

Bali Beach | Photo Credit – Madalina Ungur

Now you must think we were wrong and wandered away, at least in thought. Don’t worry, we weren’t wrong. We are not writing about Bali, a well-known island where many dream of spending their vacation. There is a beach in Crete that has the same name. Bali is a small village between Heraklion and Rethymno. It is generally considered a fishing village that has its own charm.

You can hear various stories and legends about Crete. We recommend that you visit this beach if you find yourself in Crete. It is one of the quieter and you can have fun with various water sports. It is well equipped and you can rent deck chairs and parasols.

Agia Pelagia

Agia Pelagia | Photo Credit – Karel Macalik

Agia Pelagia was once a traditional fishing village, and today is known as a port and resort. The beach is narrow, but protected because it is located in the bay. You can often see long rows of deck chairs in the photos, but don’t worry. There are no crowds here and there is just enough space for everyone who wants to spend time here.

You will love this beach if you love water skiing or scuba diving. It’s popular here and we suggest you try it if you haven’t already. There are small souvenir shops along the coast, and you can try the most delicious seafood specialties in one of the nearby restaurants.

Agiofarago Beach

Best beaches in Crete
Agiofargo Beach | Photo Credit – Matteo Martinello

This is one of the suggestions that you will not read often. But not because this beach is bad but because it is not one of the popular tourist destinations. She is not known to a large number of people, and those who know about her jealously guard the secret. It is located about 80km from Heraklion.

To get to this beach, you need to go through the canyon. If you are not a fan of hiking, there is an easier way. You can use a boat, but we recommend the first option because nature is magnificent. Also, if you come by car, we do not recommend that you park it under trees while resting. The goats will use it to climb up and reach for the leaves.

Frangokastello Beach

Frangokastello Beach | Photo Credit – Georg Holderied

Are you also a fan of history and old buildings? There is one castle from the Venetian era when Frangokastello Beach became famous. Tourism began to develop here. Some say that it was greatly influenced by the fact that the castle is in the immediate vicinity, and others that it was only a matter of time before this beauty was discovered.

Below the castle, there is a sandy beach and it is ideal for small children. If you are looking for the best beaches in Crete for families, we recommend Frangokastello Beach. Even for those who are not skilled swimmers, it will be suitable due to the depth of the water. It is shallow at the beginning, and the depth of the water gradually increases so you don’t have to worry.

Plakias Beach

Plakis Beach | Photo Credit – Guido Sorarù

About 40 km from Rethymno is Plakias Beach. The beach is sandy and very long so there is enough space for all visitors. You can find your rest and relaxation corner at any time of the day. It has all the necessary furniture and there is no need to wear anything but a good mood.

There are restaurants and bars nearby, so you can refresh yourself after a long day at the beach. Here are great opportunities to engage in various activities, so we suggest you try some of the water sports. This beach is popular among nudists, so there is no need to hesitate, it is allowed here.

Rodakino Beach

Rodaniko Beach | Photo Credit – Johan Wieland

Not far from Plakias beach is Rodakino. We gladly recommend this beach. You must be wondering who would like it? To all lovers of a good holiday, and especially to those who want to spend time in peace with loved ones. It is especially attractive among families with small children, but there are also other visitors.

It is ideal for all those who are looking for peaceful moments. A large sandy beach, covered with soft sand that slides under your fingers. Just imagine the smell of the sea, the sound of the waves, and yourself lying under an umbrella. It is blue in front of you and nothing can disturb the happiness you feel at that moment. All this awaits you if you visit Rodakino Beach.

Tymbaki Beach

Tymbaki Beach | Photo Credit – VV Nincic

Tymbaki is located on the southern side of Heraklion and is one of our favorites. At first glance, it looks like any other beach in Greece, but don’t let that fool you. You know that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. And that the simplest things are always the most beautiful. This is also the case with Tymbaki Beach, it simply captivates with its beauty.

Its location is ideal and from here you can go on excursions, but you always return to your safe harbor. There are several taverns nearby where you can try delicious local specialties. This is an opportunity you should not miss since the cuisine of Crete is known around the world for its recipes.

Glyka Nera Beach

Glyka Nera Beach | Photo Credit – Panegyrics of Granovetter

Finally, we decided to present to you one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete. Everyone who has visited this island has heard of Glyka Nera beach. This is a beach with deep blue watercolor and nice pebbles. If you translate the name, it means ‘sweet water’.

The beach is called this because when someone digs a hole in the sand, freshwater appears from the ground. Moments spent on Glyka Nera are remembered for a lifetime. If you like to swim when there is no crowd, then we recommend that you come in the morning. Numerous tourists arrive around noon and look for their place on the beach.

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