- this is the largest Greek island with an area of ​​​​about 8500 square kilometers, which has an amazing four thousand years of history, this is the birthplace of the great Zeus, this is an island that you want to return to again and again.

Unfortunately, it is simply impossible to get acquainted with all the variety of historical and cultural property, see all the sights, relax on all the beaches of the island.

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Today we will present a list of the seven most beautiful beaches in Crete.

1. Falasarna

This is a large sandy beach in the western part of Crete, 75 km from Chania. On the beach you can rent a sunbed and an umbrella, eat in a tavern.

Despite the large number of tourists, Falasarna Beach will delight you with cleanliness, well-groomed and, of course, the pristine beauty of nature.

Unfortunately, visiting some places on this beach cannot be recommended for families with small children, because. The seashore is quite steep and quickly goes into the depths.

2. Elafonisi

About 40 kilometers from Chania is one of the most interesting and most frequently mentioned beaches in the media - Elafonisi.

Thanks to the white sand, the sea water acquires the turquoise color characteristic of the beaches of the Caribbean.

In addition, in some parts of the beach, the sand has a pink tint, which makes it special not only for Crete, but for the whole of Greece.

3. Balos

Getting to Balos is not easy: first you need to move either by sea or along a dirt mountainous winding road in a rented car, and then overcome a fair distance along a hiking trail. But it's worth it!

Taking into account the fact that there are no cafes and restaurants on Balos, take a sufficient supply of food and water with you.

We are sure you won't regret it!

4. Kedrodasos

Just a kilometer from the famous Elafonisi lies the fabulous beach of Kedrodasos.

Fine sand, turquoise sea, olive and juniper groves will create a cozy and magical atmosphere.

5. Preveli

Preveli is one of the beach symbols of Crete. It is not located in the most popular place for tourists: south of, at the entrance to the Kourtaliot Gorge, at the mouth of the Kourtaliotis River. Picturesque date palms, proximity to the monastery of Preveli, but at the same time, seclusion made this sandy beach famous and a must to visit.

But a few years ago this beach was visited only by nudists.

6. Matala

South of Heraklion, in the Gulf of Matala on the coast of the Libyan Sea, there is another beach that is worth a visit during your trip to Crete. 10,000 years ago, locals began to use the coastal cliffs as housing, gouging caves in the soft rock.

In the middle of the 20th century, these caves were chosen by hippies who came here from all over the world. Among them were celebrities: Bob Dylan and Janis Joplin.

Today Matala is an ideal place for a family holiday. The seashore is also suitable for small children.

7. Triopetra

A little over 50 kilometers south of Rethymnon - and you are on the beautiful sand and pebble beach of Triopetra. The name comes from the Greek Τριόπετρα, which means "three stones" - three rocks protruding from the sea. The beach can be divided into three parts: eastern, central and western. In the eastern part you can find all the benefits of civilization - a parking lot, a hotel, a tavern, sun loungers, umbrellas. But the central and western parts will appeal to people who prefer to relax in solitude.

If you decide to spend your holidays in Greece and are looking for a suitable place for a carefree beach holiday, then it is better to go to Crete. On this large island, everyone will find a place to their liking. This article will describe the best beaches in Crete.

Rich choice

There are more than forty different beaches on the coast of Crete. Depending on the location, they can be pebbly and sandy, wild and equipped, remote and located in close proximity to noisy resort areas. In the southern part of the island there are mostly pebble beaches. They are surrounded by picturesque cliffs, which offer a breathtaking view of the sea. On the north coast are the sandy beaches of Crete. Rest in these places involves a series of clear sunny days spent by the calm and gentle sea, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

frangocastello

The best beaches of Crete have their own history. For example, in the southwestern part of Crete, thirteen kilometers west of the city of Sfakia, there is the beach of Frangokastello. It got its name from the Venetian castle located nearby. Naturally, a medieval building cannot do without ghosts. And local residents claim that every year, in the month of May, they observe high in the predawn sky above the castle "drosulites" - the ghosts of soldiers who died in the war.

In general, Frangokastello, despite the gloomy medieval legend, is a very positive and sunny place. This is a beach of sand, leaving in the purest sea waters. There is a very smooth descent into the sea, so swimming with children is pleasant and safe. Frangokastello is equipped with everything you need: sun loungers and umbrellas, showers and more. Near the beach there is a fish tavern that serves delicious local dishes: fish baked with zucchini and cheese sweet pies. In the vicinity of the beach, there are a lot of hotels that are ready to offer apartments for every budget and taste. Visitors speak of this place with great warmth. There are no large crowds of people here, the water is very warm and clear, and the places are very picturesque and memorable.

Elafonisi

The beaches of Crete, with their diversity, resemble the sea that washes them. Elafonisi beach is an amazing place, famous, first of all, for its unusual sand. It is white with pink dots, which give it the smallest fragments of sea corals and shells. Under different lighting conditions, the sand acquires the most unthinkable shades, which, combined with the reflections of turquoise water, is an incredibly beautiful sight. Elafonisi is located on the island of the same name, separated from Crete by a hundred meters of sea waves. This distance is easy to ford. The waters here are quite shallow, comfortable for swimming in any weather, even in a storm.

Vacationers speak of this place as unusually romantic and magnificently beautiful. However, they note that the sunbeds here are the most expensive in Crete and cost 7 euros. There is one more note - Elafonisi is almost always windy. Some of this fact even pleases, others - annoying. But the extraordinary picturesqueness of local landscapes makes you forget about minor inconveniences.

Georgioupolis

The beaches of Crete are often located next to some iconic place. Such is Georgioupolis. It is located next to a small white church, which stands, surrounded by the sea, at the very end of the breakwater. This is one of the most visited attractions in Crete. The picturesque resort of Georgioupolis was built here with a two-kilometer long sandy beach. A large number of dunes and shallow water make this part of the coast suitable for families with small children. The beach has everything you need: umbrellas, sun loungers, showers, bars and cafes. Here you can do various types sports on the water, as well as to acquire riding skills.

Visitors speak of this beach as a place with a developed infrastructure where you can spend time comfortably.

Malia

The best beaches of Crete have their own unique atmosphere. Malia is a place where it's always fun. Clockwork music is constantly playing here, because the beach has its own DJ. Foam parties are held on the beach in the evenings. And during the day, guests are offered everything they need for a good holiday by the sea: umbrellas, beach towels, sun loungers. Visitors can take their leisure time with sports games: volleyball, beach tennis. Various water attractions are also offered here. There is also a stunning water park, so you should come to Malia with your children.

Those who have visited this beach speak of it as a paradise. Nothing more and nothing less.

Wai

The sandy beaches of Crete are incredibly beautiful. Wai is an unusually picturesque place surrounded by a palm grove. It is recognized as one of the most delightful resorts in Europe. People come here to take a break from annoying civilization, but this beach cannot be called “wild”. There are all necessary amenities here - sun loungers, changing cabins, etc. Magnificent views and the warm Mediterranean Sea attract thousands of travelers to Vai every year. A spectacular combination of slender green palm trees, white sand and azure sea made this beach an excellent backdrop for filming commercials about paradise life. In addition, this place has special sign distinctions for cleanliness and environmental friendliness - the Blue Flag of the EEC.

Most of those who visited Vai Beach appreciated the magnificence of these places. Not only the coast is beautiful, but also the mountain serpentine, along which you have to get to it. Sunbeds here are relatively cheap - 4 euros, but many prefer to choose a suitable place under a palm tree and get there completely free of charge. The entrance to the water is quite deep. The beach has an observation deck with stunning views.

Loutro

Not all beaches of Crete are located in crowded resort areas. Loutro is a small fishing village hidden in the mountains. It can be reached on foot or by sea. Those who want to take a break from annoying civilization and spend time alone with nature seek here. The atmosphere of appeasement captivates from the first minutes of your stay in Loutro. The village is located in a bay, well protected from the wind. The sea here is amazingly calm. The waters of the Libyan Sea, washing the stone coast, amaze with their crystal transparency. The local pebble beach is equipped with all the necessary attributes of a holiday on the sea coast: sunbeds, umbrellas, places for changing clothes. There are taverns and cafes where you can eat freshly prepared fish and enjoy other Mediterranean dishes.

According to tourists, Loutro is just an oasis of peace and tranquility. Many are struck by the fact that there is absolutely no road transport here. Almost all travelers admit that the beach here is one of the cleanest in the world, and the people are very friendly and welcoming.

Plakias

According to one seasoned traveler, the entire northern coast is one magnificent sandy beach on the island of Crete. The town of Plakias is a direct confirmation of this. Here is one of the longest beaches on the island. A feeling of extraordinary freedom and spaciousness, which can satisfy absolutely any taste, reigns on the coast of this resort. The eastern part of Plakias was chosen by nudists.

The island of Crete, whose beaches are described in this article, can offer both active and relaxing holidays away from noisy entertainment. Plakias will appeal to those who are looking for solitude and harmonious merging with nature.

Preveli

The southern beaches of Crete greet guests with a coating of large pebbles and refreshing sea waters. On the map of the island, you can see that Preveli is located south of Rethymnon. This beach is located on the edge of the Kourtallotiko gorge, among picturesque rocks. This is a fairly quiet place, away from noisy resort areas and entertainment centers.

All popular places for recreation on the coast have their own zest - such is cloudless Greece. Crete, whose beaches are considered the best in the country, never ceases to amaze with the diversity of its landscapes. A feature of Preveli are waterfalls that carry their foamy waters into the sea, and slender palm trees. You can get to this quiet beach by car, which you then have to leave in the parking lot near the local monastery. Then you have to go down on your own. It's not bad. The best way to discover the true beauty of this region is to go hiking or mountain biking. The beauty of Lake Preveli is one of the most attractive sights of Crete.

According to traveler reviews, this rocky beach is good for sunbathing and swimming. Not everyone likes a rather difficult descent to the coast, but this disadvantage is compensated by magnificent panoramic views of the sea. Many advise taking a small supply of food with you to Preveli, since the assortment in the local cafe is rather monotonous.

Makryialos

It's another one sunny place on the seashore, which Crete can offer for relaxation to its visitors. The photos of the beaches presented in this article give an idea of ​​how heavenly pastime in these beautiful places can be. Makryialos is located 30 kilometers east of Ierapetra. This is a long sandy beach with a well-organized infrastructure. The water on the beach is quite clear and shallow, so it is perfect for a comfortable family holiday with small children. In the local village of Makryialos there are cafes, taverns and hotels where you can have a good time.

Crete hotels with sandy beaches

If you are interested in Crete apartments with private beaches, then finding the right option will be easy. Almost any hotel of the highest category (four- or five-star) has a territory adjacent to the coastline. Ayia Napa has several hotels with comfortable beaches: Alion Beach 5 *, Grecian Bay Hotel 5 *, Adams Beach 5 *. In the space of the latter, according to the reviews of those who have visited, there is the best sandy beach in the resort.

Four-star hotels: MELISSI BEACH HOTEL 4 * and Nissi Beach 4 * are also good for relaxation. They have their own access to the sea and boast incredibly beautiful green spaces. Nissi Beach 4 * apartments are surrounded by a delightful tropical park with magnificent vegetation.

Among hotels of a lower category, Atlantica Sancta Napa Hotel 3 * has its own beach. The hotel is located near the picturesque harbor. There is an entertainment center within walking distance. Experienced travelers recommend paying attention to the five-star Evalena Beach 5 * hotel in Protaras. It is located two hundred meters from the very center of tourist entertainment, where there are many shops, restaurants, bars, discos, etc. In the same resort there is a wonderful hotel Vrissiana Beach 4 *. According to the reviews of vacationers, it maintains an optimal balance of the quality of services provided and payment for them.

Three-star hotels in Crete with sandy beaches provide inexpensive but decent apartments for living. Among them are "Nestor 3*" and "Flamingo Beach 3*" (Ayia Napa), "Avenida Beach 3*" and "Navarria 3*" (Limassol). Kastro Beach Apartments (Malya) deserved rave reviews. Despite the low star rating (2.5 *), this hotel conquers its guests with a family atmosphere, excellent cuisine and beautiful apartments. In addition, it is located a stone's throw from a wonderful clean sandy beach.

Conclusion

This article lists the most popular beaches on Greece's most famous island. Frangokastello, Vai, Elafonisi, Georgioupolis, Malia, Plakias, Makryialos are the best beaches of Crete with hotels for every taste. Guided by your own preferences, you can choose the most the best way beach holiday. Go to Greece, and you will want to return to the shores of this beautiful and sunny country more than once.

So, you are going to Crete - the most popular island of Greece. Magnificent pictures are already flashing in your head: you are sunbathing on a clean coast, and then again swimming in the warm sea. Do you want your vacation to be a success? Plan your trip to the best sandy beaches of Crete in advance!

Sandy beaches in Crete are impressive.

A small digression - the climate of the Greek island of Crete

The island of Crete is washed by the seas:

• in the east - Cyprus;
• in the west - Ionian;
• in the north - Aegean;
• in the south - the Libyan Sea.

All of them are part of the Mediterranean Sea.

The climate is Mediterranean with hot, dry summers and rainy winters. The average water and air temperature in summer is 25 degrees.

The length of the island is more than 250 km from east to west. To say that there are many sandy beaches in Crete is to say nothing.

Are you traveling by car? Do you have the desire, time and finances to inspect best places? We will advise you where you should definitely go. Our list includes well-equipped beaches, where there is everything you need for a pleasant stay, Crete hotels with their own beach, as well as simply beautiful coastal places that not every tourist knows about.

Rent a car to see all the beauties of the island.

Balos. The best don't come easy!

This is perhaps the most inaccessible coast of the island. Public transport it does not reach, there is no normal entrance. The road is dirt, with steep ascents and descents.

Balos is a small bay located on the western coast of the Gramvousa peninsula, 50 km northwest of Chania. This is where the Libyan, Aegean and ionian sea. That is why tourists count dozens of shades of water in them - from pale blue to deep jade.

In a small bay, children can safely splash around. It will also be interesting for them to go hunting for shells on white sand.

This is a wild place. There are no settlements in the immediate vicinity. They do not provide water equipment for rent, there are no cafes, souvenir shops. There are umbrellas and sun loungers. Renting one deck chair will cost 3 euros, a set (one umbrella and two deck chairs) - twice as expensive.

Balos Bay is very popular with tourists. Despite this, she managed to maintain her natural uniqueness.

Wai is a classic example of a well-equipped beach holiday destination.

Vai is located on Cape Sidero, in the area of ​​​​the eastern region of Lassithi, 6 km from the beach of Paleakastro. A magnificent landmark can be the only palm forest in Europe, it is nearby. Be sure to take a photo against the backdrop of the sea and greenery!

The water is of the purest turquoise color, the entrance is gentle. Great place for snorkellers! Any equipment can be rented right on the beach. Besides:

• there is private parking - it costs 3.5 euros per day;
• rent of two sunbeds and one umbrella will cost 9 euros;
• the coast is full of shops, cafes where you can have a quick bite to eat or buy the necessary little things;
• there is a toilet, changing cabins, showers (free of charge).

The white palm beach is reminiscent of African and Caribbean landscapes.
Photo: flickr.com/chripell

Elafonisi - a beach in a protected area

One of the most beautiful places in Crete bears the corresponding name - Elafonisi, which is translated from Greek as "deer island". He located in the southeastern part of Crete, 75 km from the resort of Chania.

Distinctive features:

• pink sand;
• azure water;
• surprisingly pleasant smell (cedars grow nearby).

The sandy shore of Elafonisi beach with boulders standing here and there in shallow water and forming blue lagoons.

The water is crystal clear. The beach itself is well equipped. There are toilets and showers (0.5 euro each), free parking and changing cabins. Renting an umbrella and two sun loungers will cost 7 euros.

The area itself is a nature reserve, so it is forbidden to make fires and camp here.

In this district there are often strong winds. This can ruin your vacation a bit, so check the weather forecast before you travel.

Another detail - there are always a lot of people on Elafonisi! For those who prefer privacy, not the best place.

Elafonisi is not a nudist beach, but everyone will find some beautiful erotica for themselves here.

Matala and the well-deserved Blue Flag Award

This beach on the map can be found near the village of the same name - Matala, which is 70 km north of Heraklion. For many years in a row, he has received the Blue Flag of Europe award. There are many trees near the beach, under which vacationers hide from the scorching sun.

The 300 m long white sandy coast is well equipped. Several volleyball courts have been built here, there are showers and toilets (price - 1 euro), changing cabins (free of charge), a medical aid station and a rescue tower. Renting a sunbed and umbrella will cost 4 euros. In the cafe, if desired, you can order soft drinks and light dishes of Greek cuisine.

Matala is surrounded by rocks with caves. In ancient times, the dead were buried in them, in the 60s. In the 20th century, they served as a haven for hippies. Now these caves are visited by tourists from all over the world, admission is free.

Near the sandy shore of Matala is a rock with many caves.
They can be visited for a small fee.
Photo: flickr.com/ [email protected]

Hotels with private sandy beach

If you are traveling with a child, the best solution would be to stay in a hotel that has access to a sandy beach. There are many such hotels in Crete. Let's highlight the most interesting of them.

Beaches for those who like it hot - nude beaches

Nudism in Greece is condemned by society, but not prohibited by law. Most of the nudist beaches are located in the south of the island. The most interesting among them:

1. Psili Ammos, or rather its southern part. For many years, unofficially "belongs" to lovers of swimming naked. The place is located 10 km from the town of Chora, in a small bay. There are no sun loungers, umbrellas, changing cabins. But there is a small tavern nearby. Tamarisks - dwarf trees will protect from the scorching sun. The easiest way to get to the beach is from the port of Skala (a boat trip takes half an hour).
2. Paten. Located just one kilometer from the village of Lendas. In the western part of the beach, nudists like to relax. Trees grow along the coast, in the shade of which you can hide from direct sunlight. From here you have a magnificent view of Cape Ledari. There are no familiar amenities - sun loungers, showers and toilets - on the beach. Diskos is a quiet and secluded place, an excellent solution for a romantic getaway for two.
3. Kokkini Honey what 12 km from Heraklion- a huge sandy coast, more than 30 km long. Along the main road there are umbrellas and sun loungers, the rental price is 6 euros per set.

Most of the beaches are in front of the hotels in Kokkini, but they are open to everyone.

The central part is noisy parties and fun until the morning. But if you go 3-4 km to the north, a completely different picture opens up: the cleanest sea, white sand and silence. The northeastern part has long been “appropriated” by nudists.

More about Crete hotels with their own sandy beach →

The name "Crete" alone evokes exciting feelings in the soul, vivid ideas about this legendary island, fanned by many stories from ancient Greek myths and real legends from the past of Hellas. Now Crete is a favorite place for a beach holiday, which successfully combines sea pleasures with interesting excursions to amazing sights. On the coast of 3 seas (Ionian, Aegean or Cretan and Libyan) are the best beaches of Crete.

One of the most romantic and unusual beaches of Crete - Balos is located in a unique place on the island, where the waters of 3 seas merge without mixing, forming a kaleidoscope of shades of blue on the surface. Splashing in a cozy bay with crystal clear water is an undoubted pleasure for children and adults. A walk along the pirate island of Gramvousa, where wild rabbits literally jump out from under your feet, creates an indescribable feeling of original originality. This feeling is enhanced when you climb to the top of the island, where the ruins of an ancient Venetian fortress (130 m above sea level) are located.

In May, incredibly beautiful endemic plants bloom here, and in summer the island becomes deserted. From a height, a stunning picture of the color overflows of sea water opens up - from dark blue to pale turquoise shades. This spectacle fascinates with its magical and mysterious beauty. But it is impossible to get to the unique beach by land, you can only sail by sea on a pleasure boat. Hours spent in an amazing corner of the Mediterranean, a real natural miracle, will be remembered for a lifetime!

Elafonisi beach

An incredibly beautiful virgin stretch of the Mediterranean coast, almost untouched by infrastructure civilization - Elafonisi beach is located in the southwest of Chania. The name "Elafonisi" in Greek means "deer island", about which there is still no unambiguous interpretation. The natural uniqueness of this place is so great that the construction of hotels is prohibited here in order to preserve the environment.

Despite this, the beach is very popular with tourists, so sunbeds and umbrellas are installed here, and parking is equipped. They are attracted here by the shallow depth of the sea, the opportunity to swim even in stormy weather and the bewitching beauty of the surrounding landscapes of the nature reserve. Unusually pink sand, formed from corals and shells, turned into powder, aquamarine water, exotic flowers in the complex create a uniquely beautiful picture.

Palm Beach Vai

One of the most popular beaches of Crete, Palm Beach, was not accidentally chosen as the location for filming the first advertisement for the Bounty chocolate bar - here, indeed, is a real tropical paradise, where rest is a heavenly delight. There are many legends about the origin of date palms, which occupy 200 hectares, which makes this place even more popular. Today, the sandy beach strip is equipped with the necessary infrastructure: sun loungers, toilets, cafes. Palm - the beach of daytime visits - there is nowhere to spend the night here. People come here by car, for which parking is equipped.

The time spent against the backdrop of incredibly beautiful views will probably be the most romantic episode of your stay in Crete. The azure sea, white sand, low caps of the surrounding mountains, exotic crown-tents of date palms create a tropical landscape worthy of admiration. Convenient entry into the crystal clear water of the sea, the ability to choose a place for sunbathing (in the shade of palm trees or in the sun), a light breeze, generous sun - excellent conditions for beach pleasure.

Preveli beach

For those who like to relax against the backdrop of virgin nature, the beach of Preveli (Finikas), located in the south of the island, 2 km from the ancient monastery of the same name, is very suitable. Sand and pebble coastal strip, surrounded on one side by rocks with light forests, on the other - by a palm forest growing along the banks of the river. Kourtaliotis, sheltered from the winds. It is always cozy and comfortable here, but you need to go down the stairs. Despite the fire in 2010, date palms begin to grow actively, restoring the floristic framing of the beach. There are no changing rooms, sunbeds and umbrellas on it, but this does not lose the charm of a truly unique place.

Against the backdrop of amazing landscapes, you can spend wonderful minutes and hours of complete unity with divine nature, enjoy swimming in the warm sea, the velvet touches of sand, and feel the special atmosphere of Greece. After salty sea “baths”, you can splash in the fresh water of the river, relax in the shade of palm trees and return with a baggage of pleasant experiences. Excursion boats with tourists moor here, many come by car, despite the rather difficult path through the mountainous terrain.

Georgioupolis beach

In the north of Crete there is a historical province named after Prince George of Greece, who constantly came here to hunt. He was attracted by the virgin forests that covered the sloping mountain peaks and abounded in various fauna; rivers rich in fish, azure sea distances. The past century has not adversely affected the ecology of these authentic places, and the opportunity to engage in outdoor activities attracts many tourists here.

Near the small fishing town of Georgioupolis, one of the longest beaches (10 km) of Crete is located. There are excellent conditions for swimming here: a smooth, even bottom, a mixture of warm currents, a quiet cozy harbor without big waves. Eucalyptus thickets saturate the air with phytoncides, creating a healing microclimate. Fishing enthusiasts have a place to sit with a fishing rod - local rivers are generously endowed with fish. Pleasant impressions remain from hiking in the picturesque surroundings, horseback riding and, in general, from the whole stay in a blessed corner of the island.

red beach

One of the most exotic and unusual beaches - Red (Red beach) is located half a kilometer from the village of Matala. This amazing corner of red sand among the rocky shores was discovered by hippies who promoted the merger with wildlife, in the 1960s. Despite the rather difficult way to get to it along the "goat trails", Red Beach is very popular with tourists. Traveling through a mountain pass adds adventure romance and physical training.

Tourists are attracted by the unique beauty of the surrounding landscapes: terracotta-red sand, yellow and gray rocks with green caps of bushes, turquoise-aquamarine sea, white foam lace of the surf create a truly magical picture. The beach strip is equipped with the necessary infrastructure - there are sun loungers, umbrellas, a snack bar, a dressing room. Probably, because the place is quite secluded, nudists also prefer to sunbathe here.

Matala beach

It is hardly possible to find a more famous place in Crete than the Matala beach, located in the vicinity of Heraklion. In the 70s, hippies from all over the world lived here in rocky caves, feature films were shot (“My Aunt Hipissa”). A 300-meter strip of fine gravel is located at the base of a voluminous bay, fenced on 2 sides by rocky spurs. Clear water, the absence of big waves (they happen only with a westerly wind), bizarre heaps of rocks, many caves and grottoes make these places very attractive for a romantic getaway.

Given the huge interest of tourists, a good infrastructure was created here, equipping the beach with sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, and volleyball courts. Around open bars, rental equipment for water sports, sightseeing boats, there is a rescue service, beach volleyball competitions are held. You can also hide from the sun under the lush crowns of trees growing right on the beach strip, so staying among such exotics will not seem tiring. There are no problems with accommodation and food - no one will be left homeless and hungry.

Plakias beach

Those who want to forget the city noise for a while, take a break from the hustle and bustle, unrest, hard work, the beaches of Plakias, a small charming village located directly by the sea, are perfect for that. Around low mountains, overgrown with small forests, pebble beaches on the shores of the bay, endless sea surface with white lambs of waves. The calm, peaceful atmosphere attracts mainly the elderly, for whom this is a real paradise. In cozy taverns, picturesquely decorated by the owners with bright exotic flora, tourists are met with extraordinary cordiality, delicious Greek dishes and inexpensive prices.

There is a good hotel here, but you can rent a cheap apartment a few steps from the beaches. It is especially comfortable to swim in calm weather when there is calm. Extreme lovers can splash among the waves when there is a wind. All parts of the beach are equipped with wooden flooring (leg protection from pebbles), sun loungers, large umbrellas. In some places, there are cafe tables and chairs right at the water's edge for romantic breakfasts. Ten meters from the beaches stretches a cozy walking path for the promenade.

Frangokastello beach

Frangokastello, one of the ten cleanest beaches in Crete, is located next to a small village of the same name, which has everything you need for tourists: hotels, taverns, shops. Near the beach is the main ancient attraction - the ancient Venetian fortress, which gave the name to the beach and the village. Crystal clearness of the warm Libyan Sea, golden sand, turning into gray; gently sloping shores, convenient entry into the water, a flat bottom have gained popularity among beach lovers.

There are almost never waves here, except in August, when a strong wind blows for several days. The coastal strip is quite well landscaped: there are showers, sunbeds, umbrellas (for rent). You can get to Frangokastello by bus from Chania with a change in Sfakion by taxi or by your own or rented car.

Platanias beach

The tourist village of Platanias, next to which is the beach of the same name, is surrounded not only by picturesque nature, but also by legendary historical sites. Located in front of the beach island of St. Fedor with the ruins of an ancient fortress and the protected kri-kri goats that live here. Boats with tourists come here every day, interesting excursions are held. Diving enthusiasts scuba dive and amateur photographers find plenty of stunning shots to take.

A spacious, highly civilized beach (length - 4 km) has a sandy, and in some places pebble coating and a highly developed infrastructure that provides water sports and all kinds of entertainment. Riding on scooters, "bananas", pleasure boats is available to everyone. Prepared tourists can go parasailing, snorkeling, diving. Platanias beach (according to legend, named because of the plane trees growing here) has been repeatedly awarded the "blue flag".

Stavros beach

In the northern part of Crete, not far from the city of Chania, there is Cape Akrotiri, famous for its two wonderful beaches, outlandish mountain landscapes and the unusually turquoise color of the sea. Until the mid 60s of the 20th century. there was only a fishing village, but when the local high mountain became the subject of filming feature film, these places have gained extraordinary popularity. Now former village Stavros has become a tourist Mecca with modern infrastructure that provides tourists with top-notch recreation. The central white sand beach is located on the shores of a quiet lagoon, protected from the winds by a mountain.

Turquoise expanse of water with a shallow bottom - a great place safe swimming children, the maximum equipment of the beach allows you to enjoy the pleasures of the beach carefree. The second sandy-rocky beach is chosen by those who like to splash in the waves: it is open to the winds, less civilized. But you can also have a great time on it, especially in calm. Buses from Chania often run here. In Stavros, you can easily rent a house, stay in a hotel. Many taverns offer delicious menus at reasonable prices.

Anissaras beaches

In the suburbs of Hersonissos, in an unusually beautiful region of the Aegean coast, there is a fashionable resort of Anissaras, with many hotels, clear sea and great beaches. This place is designed for a quiet, peaceful holiday with the whole family. There are no noisy nightclubs, bars and other entertainment facilities, but the pebble and sandy beaches are simply excellent.

Impeccable cleanliness and well-groomed, excellent equipment, conditions for a variety of water activities attract many tourists here, including divers, lovers of underwater depths, water skiing. Almost everywhere there is a rocky bottom of rocky deposits, without sharp stones that injure the legs - swimming is quite comfortable. Staying in Anissaras is heavenly beach bliss.

Today we will talk about the best beaches of the Greek island of Crete, many of which can be called not only its decoration, but also the pride of the entire Mediterranean. Some of them are even among the twenty best beaches in the world.

Crete is the largest and most popular Greek island among tourists, the width of which varies from fourteen to thirty-seven kilometers, and the length is two hundred and fifty kilometers. Any traveler will find a resort and a beach to his liking in Crete. It is worth remembering that in the southern part of the island there are mainly pebble beaches, high cliffs and stunning views. And the sandy beaches so beloved by travelers with children are located on the north side of Crete. In addition to sandy and pebble beaches, shell beaches are often found on the island of Crete. So, let's move on to the list of the best beaches in Crete.

1. Elafonisi Beach- this amazing beach is located on a small island in the southwestern part of Crete, seventy-five kilometers from the city of Chania. To get to this beach, you need to wade a hundred meters through shallow water. Approaching it, you will realize that the sand is not pink, but white, and such a shade from a distance is obtained due to the numerous small pink shells on its surface. Due to the shallow depth, the water on this beach warms up perfectly. Even in a storm, you can safely swim here. That is why, the beach is incredibly popular with families with children. Not far from the island there is a picturesque cedar forest, where you can take a walk, tired of the hot sun.

2. Balos Beach- a wild beach, which can be safely reached only by water transport, but breathtakingly beautiful, and this attracts many tourists. There is white sand, the bottom smoothly sinking into the water, clear sea water, and this idyll is complemented by an ancient fortress towering above them on the mountain. Previously, there was a pirate harbor, which gave shelter to numerous ships with the flag of the Jolly Roger. By the way, one of these ships sank near Balos, and divers can see it. The Cretan lagoon Balos is a place where the waters of three seas meet: the Aegean, the Ionian, the Libyan, which causes a constant change in the color of the water during the day: the water changes shades of turquoise up to twenty times a day. Since this lagoon is quite closed, the sea on Balos beach is always quiet and calm. As already mentioned above, it is possible to get to this beach on a ship sailing with excursions from the port of Kissamoss, along the way it will take you to admire the beautiful Venetian fortress on the island of Gramvousa.

3. Matala Beach- is located on the southern coast of Crete, in the village of the same name. He is very popular beautiful nature, its main attraction is a powerful rock with a layered structure, mysterious caves, picturesque natural balconies. Matala Beach has been receiving the "Blue Flag of Europe" for many years - a symbol of the purity of the water. There is a fairly developed infrastructure: there are sun loungers, umbrellas, a rescue point, showers, a toilet, a cafe. There are many small but very cozy family hotels nearby. Numerous taverns, cafes and bars stretch right along the coast of this fishing village, where you can taste the national Greek food. The beach of Matala is always quiet and windless, due to the rocks surrounding it, but the water, due to the fact that it is located in the southern part of Crete, is a little colder.

4. Vai Beach- very popular among holidaymakers on the island of Crete because of the magnificent date grove that grows right on the seashore. By the way, this is the largest palm forest in Europe, covering an area of ​​two hundred and fifty hectares. The beach is located thirty kilometers east of the city of Sitia. It is equipped with everything you need to relax, but there are no hotels nearby, so if you plan to stay here for a few days, bring a tent with you or look for a hotel in the village of Palekastro, located ten kilometers from Vai beach, you will not find accommodation closer. Vai Beach has the "Blue Flag of the European Union" for its cleanliness and well-groomed territory. It is considered the most beautiful beach in Crete. And the sea water here is so clean that for tens of meters you can see numerous colorful fish in it.

5. Malia Beach– a wild, sandy beach is a great place for a family vacation, located on the northern coast of Crete, next to the resort town of the same name. Not far from the beach are the majestic ruins of the Minoan palace, which archaeologists are excavating to this day. The beach is popular not only among families with children, but also among young people, due to its proximity to the city of Hersonissos, famous for its nightclubs. Malia also attracts tourists with the fact that the weather is always good here, there is no sweltering heat and a mild climate reigns. And despite the lack of sun loungers, umbrellas and other signs of a developed infrastructure, there are always a lot of vacationers.

6. Elounda Beach- located in the picturesque Mirabello Bay, near the town of Agios Nikolaos, is the pride and decoration of the island of Crete, as well as one of the best beaches in Greece, where far from the poor people of the world come to rest. There is fine white sand, warm and clear sea, which remains calm even with the wind, many luxury hotels and villas, elite restaurants serving amazing local Greek cuisine.

7. Platanias Beach- located on the northern coast of Crete, next to the village of the same name. It stretches for four kilometers, being a popular place for water activities: banana riding, scootering, parasailing and so on. For its cleanliness, it annually receives the "European Blue Flag". Vacationers on this beach can take a boat trip to the island of St. Fedor located opposite. The village of Platanias is adjacent to the famous orange groves of Crete. But the village itself is not boring, as there are many discos, bars, cafes, entertainment centers, shops. And you can settle in one of the many hotels, for every taste and budget.

8. Rethymno Beach- the longest sixteen-kilometer sandy beach of Crete, located in the city of the same name. Hotels of different stars, cafes and taverns, shops, disco bars stretch along the beach. Despite the fact that the water here is not as clean and transparent as on other beaches of Crete, due to the proximity of a large city, there are always a lot of tourists. Someone does not want to leave all the benefits of the metropolis, so they stay in Rethymnon. But there are many interesting historical places that you can visit when you are tired of passive recreation near the water: the beautiful Venetian fortress of Fortezza, the authentic old port, the monastery of Arcadia, the Rimondi fountain, the seventeenth century, many interesting museums and ancient monuments.

9. Georgioupoli Beach- a great place in Crete for families with children, located at an equidistant distance from the resort of Chania and Rethymno. There is a smooth entry into the sea, many meters of shallow water, so letting the children go into the water alone is not scary. Opposite this beach, on a small island in the middle of the sea, there is a small church. Georgioupoli Beach is very fond of visiting the Greeks themselves.

10. Agia Marina Beach- the most popular sandy beach of Crete in the resort of the same name, located eight kilometers from the resort of Chania. Here you will find the purest golden sand, clear sea, with a smooth entrance and gradually increasing depth and developed infrastructure. Endless taverns, nightclubs, hotels, restaurants stretch along the beach. Every year this beach receives the "Blue Flag of Europe" for the ideal purity of the water and the coast. Holidays with children are ideal here: parents can safely watch their offspring building sand castles on the shore, collecting shells thrown by the oncoming wave or splashing in shallow water. Outside the beach, children can enjoy riding small trains. Karting, mini-golf, interesting excursions are waiting for adults. From the beach of Agia Marina, as well as from the beach of Platanias, you can see the island of St. Theodore, which can be reached by boat. If you wish, you can walk through the orange groves, located just south of the village.

The island of Crete is not limited to the beaches we have listed, there are a lot of them here and for every taste, we only talked about the most popular of them among tourists. But the beach of your dreams on the island of Crete - we present you to find it yourself.