Imagine a place where turquoise waves meet pink sands, hidden coves are nestled among rugged cliffs, and palm forests stand sentinel over serene shores. This is Crete—a Greek island overflowing with a diversity of beaches that charm every traveler. Each of its four regions, Chania, Rethymno, Heraklion, and Lasithi, offers its own unique flavor of seaside magic, from bustling shores to untouched coves. So grab your beach bag and a sense of adventure—let’s dive into the 20 most stunning beaches across Crete!
1. Chania Region: The Wild, Untamed Western Coastline
Chania’s beaches have a raw beauty that captivates with dramatic landscapes, azure waters, and touches of pink sand that feel almost enchanted.
1.1 Elafonissi Beach
Elafonissi is Crete’s answer to paradise—a place where fine sands blush pink and the sea stretches out in glassy, shallow pools that glisten under the sun. This beach isn’t just beautiful; it’s almost magical. The pink sands are created by crushed shells, lending a surreal touch that contrasts with the soft blue and turquoise waters. Ideal for families, Elafonissi’s shallow waters make it perfect for wading and floating.
To reach Elafonissi, drive about 1.5 hours southwest from Chania through the mountains, or take a bus for a scenic route that winds through olive groves and quaint villages. While there are sunbeds and a few snack shacks, Elafonissi remains relatively unspoiled. Bring what you need and arrive early if you want to claim your spot on this captivating, unique shore.
1.2 Balos Lagoon
The famous Balos Lagoon feels like a mirage in the heart of the Mediterranean. Here, white sands meet impossibly clear, turquoise waters in a landscape that’s equal parts serene and surreal. The shallow lagoon is ideal for families, and the surrounding hills offer one of Crete’s most stunning panoramas. Balos is as peaceful as it is popular, with gentle waves and natural pools that invite relaxation.
Visitors can reach Balos via boat from the port of Kissamos or by driving to a nearby parking area and taking a 30-minute hike down a rocky trail. There are a few sunbeds and a simple canteen on the beach, but Balos is all about the natural beauty. Pack water, sunscreen, and a camera to capture every glorious angle of this exotic gem.
1.3 Falassarna Beach
A perfect destination for beach lovers, Falassarna offers golden sands stretching out into the clear, open sea. With its wide shoreline and gentle waves, this beach is a playground for those who love sunbathing, water sports, and beach games. Falassarna is especially famous for its sunsets, which paint the sky with hues of orange, pink, and purple as day fades into night.
Located 50 km from Chania, Falassarna is easy to reach by car and has full facilities, including sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars, and nearby tavernas that serve delicious Greek cuisine. Water sports like windsurfing and paddleboarding are available, making it a lively spot perfect for families and active travelers. As the sun dips below the horizon, the beach takes on a romantic glow—ideal for unwinding after a day of fun.
1.4 Seitan Limania
Seitan Limania, a hidden inlet surrounded by steep cliffs, feels like a well-kept secret. The beach itself is small but striking, with deep turquoise waters that shimmer under the sun. This beach is known for its rugged, wild beauty and the dramatic hike down to the water, which only adds to the sense of adventure.
Just 20 km from Chania, Seitan Limania is accessible by car, followed by a steep descent on foot. It’s essential to bring good shoes and plenty of water, as there are no facilities on the beach. Once you reach the sand, you’re rewarded with a pristine, untouched bay where you can swim, sunbathe, and let the quiet surround you. It’s the perfect beach for adventurers and those seeking solitude.
1.5 Kedrodasos Beach
Nestled close to Elafonissi, Kedrodasos Beach offers a unique setting filled with juniper trees that provide natural shade and a slightly wild, bohemian feel. Known as the “Cedar Forest,” this beach is a sanctuary of soft sands, clear waters, and the comforting scent of junipers. It’s a tranquil retreat for those looking to get off the beaten path and soak in the raw beauty of Crete.
Kedrodasos is reached via a short hike from the main road, and it’s entirely unorganized, so you’ll need to bring your own supplies. The beach’s untouched charm and sense of seclusion make it popular among naturists and those seeking peace in a natural setting.
2. Rethymno Region: Where Tranquility Meets Scenic Splendor
Rethymno’s beaches are framed by mountains, palm forests, and calm waters that create a soothing atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
2.1 Preveli Beach
Preveli Beach is where the river meets the sea, surrounded by a lush forest of palm trees that create an oasis of green in the heart of Crete’s coast. The Megalopotamos River flows into the beach, forming freshwater pools and shaded spots where visitors can cool off. Preveli has an exotic charm that makes you feel like you’ve wandered into a hidden paradise.
Located 40 km south of Rethymno, Preveli is accessible by car followed by a short hike down the hill, or by boat from Plakias. Sunbeds are limited, but there’s a small snack bar. The lush landscape, with both fresh and saltwater for swimming, makes Preveli a magical escape.
2.2 Plakias Beach
Set along a wide bay with clear, shallow waters, Plakias Beach is a favorite for families and solo travelers alike. The beach’s surrounding mountains offer a scenic backdrop that adds to the peaceful vibe. With its soft sand and gentle waves, Plakias is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging with a book.
Just 35 km from Rethymno, Plakias is easily accessible by car or bus. It’s well-organized with sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars, and nearby tavernas. There are also options for water sports, so it’s a lively yet laid-back beach that has something for everyone.
2.3 Damnoni Beach
Damnoni Beach is a hidden treasure with its turquoise waters and spacious shoreline. It’s a more intimate beach, perfect for those looking for relaxation without the crowds. The calm, clear waters make it ideal for swimming, while the soft sands invite sunbathing and picnicking.
Located near Plakias, Damnoni is accessible by car and has sunbeds, umbrellas, and a few beach bars. Water sports, including paddleboarding, are also available. This beach strikes the perfect balance between organized comfort and a quieter, more natural setting.
2.4 Triopetra Beach
Triopetra, named after three massive rocks at its northern end, is a raw, untouched beach that draws sunset lovers from far and wide. With soft sands and a beautiful view of the horizon, it’s a quiet, scenic retreat that lets you fully unwind in nature’s beauty.
Located around 52 km from Rethymno, Triopetra is easily reachable by car. Though there are few facilities here, a nearby taverna offers refreshments. Bring everything you need and enjoy a peaceful day by the sea with nothing but the sound of waves and the view of the sunset.
2.5 Geropotamos Beach
Nestled in a small, scenic cove surrounded by cliffs, Geropotamos Beach has cool, deep waters perfect for a refreshing swim. The beach’s natural rock bridge and secluded setting make it a hidden gem for those looking for a quieter side of Rethymno’s coast.
Located 20 km from Rethymno, Geropotamos is accessible by car. With no facilities, it’s best suited for a brief swim or a private picnic. Bring your own supplies and enjoy this quiet spot where the sea and cliffs meet in harmony.
3. Heraklion Region: Vibrant Shores and Historical Charm
Heraklion’s beaches offer lively, organized shores as well as quiet escapes with a touch of history.
3.1 Matala Beach
Matala, famous for its cliffside caves, golden sands, and bohemian vibe, is a beach that tells a story. The caves carved into the cliffs once housed Roman tombs and later hosted the hippie community of the 1960s. Today, it’s a lively beach where history meets modern beach vibes.
Located about 70 km from Heraklion, Matala is accessible by car or bus. It’s fully organized with sunbeds, beach bars, and tavernas. Swim in the clear waters, explore the ancient caves, and soak in the free-spirited charm of this unique beach.
3.2 Agia Pelagia
Tucked into a cozy bay, Agia Pelagia offers soft sands and calm waters perfect for families and anyone looking for a peaceful day by the sea. With a scenic setting and clear, shallow waters, it’s ideal for snorkeling and wading.
Only 20 km from Heraklion, Agia Pelagia is easily reached by car or bus. The beach has sunbeds, umbrellas, and beach bars, with nearby hotels and tavernas. For those seeking a tranquil escape close to town, Agia Pelagia offers the perfect blend of beauty and convenience.
3.3 Kommos Beach
Kommos, once an ancient Minoan port, feels both historic and wild. Its long sandy shore and open view of the Paximadia islets create a sense of peaceful isolation. Kommos remains relatively quiet, a retreat for those seeking a beach less frequented by crowds.
Near Matala, Kommos is accessible by car and offers limited facilities. Bring what you need, and enjoy the wide, open sands and the gentle rhythm of the waves.
3.4 Amoudara Beach
Just a short distance from Heraklion, Amoudara is a bustling, popular beach perfect for families and groups. Its sandy shores, lively atmosphere, and proximity to the city make it one of the region’s most accessible beaches.
Located only 5 km from Heraklion, Amoudara has full amenities, including sunbeds, umbrellas, restaurants, and water sports. It’s a vibrant beach where you can spend a full day enjoying the sun, surf, and local flavors.
3.5 Lygaria Beach
A small cove with soft sands and calm waters, Lygaria feels like a hidden retreat. The sheltered bay keeps the waves gentle, making it ideal for families, snorkelers, and anyone looking to unwind in a peaceful setting.
Located 21 km from Heraklion, Lygaria has sunbeds, umbrellas, and nearby tavernas. The quiet atmosphere and clear waters make it a lovely spot for a day of swimming and relaxation.
4. Lasithi Region: Eastern Tranquility and Unspoiled Beauty
Lasithi’s beaches are tranquil and pristine, with a sense of isolation that invites you to disconnect and soak in Crete’s natural beauty.
4.1 Vai Beach
Vai is unique, with Europe’s largest natural palm forest standing guard over the sandy shores. This oasis-like beach feels almost tropical, with fine sands and calm, clear waters that beckon you to stay.
Located about 90 km from Agios Nikolaos, Vai is accessible by car and has sunbeds, umbrellas, and snack bars. The beach’s natural beauty and exotic feel make it a must-visit for any traveler to Crete’s east coast.
4.2 Istro Bay
Nestled just south of Agios Nikolaos, Istro Bay is a trio of breathtaking beaches with bright turquoise waters, soft sands, and a touch of rocky coastline. The main beach, Voulisma, is particularly stunning—its golden sand and clear waters have earned it the nickname “Golden Beach.” Istro’s waters are ideal for snorkeling, thanks to the mix of sandy and rocky sections where fish dart between underwater coves.
Accessible by car, Istro Bay is about 12 km from Agios Nikolaos, making it a convenient stop along the coast. This beach offers sunbeds, umbrellas, and a few local tavernas where you can grab a snack or drink. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find a piece of Crete’s paradise here, with natural beauty that feels a bit like a hidden gem, yet offers enough amenities for a full day of sun-soaked relaxation.
4.3 Xerokambos Beach
Xerokambos, an untouched paradise on the southeastern edge of Crete, is as remote as it is beautiful. With its fine white sands, clear blue waters, and natural salt flats, Xerokambos feels like a secret world. The beach is a series of small, sandy coves, each one inviting you to dive into its crystal-clear waters or simply unwind under the Mediterranean sun. The beach remains quiet and uncrowded, making it an ideal spot for solitude and reflection.
Reaching Xerokambos takes a bit of effort, as it’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Agios Nikolaos along a winding, scenic route. Because there are few facilities, visitors should come prepared with water, snacks, and any other essentials for the day. Once you arrive, the journey feels worth every moment—Xerokambos is a true escape, offering an authentic and serene Cretan beach experience.
4.4 Makrigialos Beach
Makrigialos is a family-friendly haven with shallow, warm waters that make it ideal for swimming and wading. Its name means “Long Shore” in Greek, and true to its name, Makrigialos stretches along a beautiful bay with fine sand and plenty of space to spread out. The beach is dotted with tamarisk trees, providing a bit of natural shade, and the atmosphere here is laid-back, welcoming families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Located about 25 km from Ierapetra, Makrigialos is easy to reach by car or bus. This beach is fully organized, with sunbeds, umbrellas, and nearby tavernas serving fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes. There are even options for paddleboarding and small boat rentals, so you can explore the calm waters further. Makrigialos is perfect for a long, relaxed day by the sea, with everything you need close at hand.
4.5 Tholos Beach
Tholos Beach is a peaceful retreat near the village of Kavousi, where dark sands meet sparkling blue waters. Surrounded by mountains and olive groves, Tholos feels tucked away from the world, offering an idyllic setting for those who seek tranquility. The beach’s unique sand color and its proximity to ancient olive trees make it feel both mysterious and inviting.
Located around 26 km from Agios Nikolaos, Tholos Beach is easy to reach by car, and its remote location keeps it blissfully uncrowded. Tholos is partially organized, with some sunbeds, umbrellas, and a nearby taverna where you can enjoy fresh local dishes. This beach is perfect for a quiet day in nature, where you can swim, relax, and lose yourself in the peaceful rhythm of the waves.
