The Ultimate Top 10 Beaches Of Crete

Crete has always been a favorite travel destination all year round. In summer, however, due to its stunning beaches, it becomes an excellent destination for tourists worldwide. The beaches of Crete are throughout the whole island, and there is one ideal for every taste. Deserted or bustling, with golden sand or pebbles, with lush vegetation around or under massive rocks, surely one will be ideal for you. Below, we will see the most beautiful beaches of Crete, depending on the prefecture in which they are located. Get ready for endless dives.

Chania Prefecture

• Elafonisi 

  This is one of the most picturesque beaches of Crete at the southwestern end of the prefecture of Chania. It took its name from the islet opposite, which can be reached on foot due to the shallow waters. The crushed shells often create a pink color in the golden sand, making the landscape even more impressive. There are umbrellas and sunbeds. 

• Balos 

  It is the most popular beach in Chania for all ages. Balos is located opposite Gramvousa Island, and access is by boat or via a small road. The waters are blue and shallow, and the sand fine and white. On the beach, there are umbrellas, but you can set up your own if you want. The combination of shallow turquoise waters and rocks surrounding the beach makes the landscape exotic. 

• Loutro Sfakion 

  This beach is reminiscent of an exotic paradise taken from a fairy tale. Loutro Sfakion is in the southern part of the county. It is small in size, but it gathers many tourists. The white umbrellas are placed on the beach with colorful pebbles, and the small sheltered harbor is ideal for endless swimming. It is a good option for families and groups with the background of the traditional white houses and the boats that anchor around there.

Rethymno Prefecture

• Preveli 

  It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete. It is unorganized and has taken its name from the Monastery of Preveli, within a 20-minute walk. Another way of access, apart from the monastery, is by boat from Plakias and Agia Galini. The main feature of the beach is the palm forest at its back and the river Kourtaliotis that flows into the beach, forming a beautiful lagoon. 

• Bali 

  In the northern part of Rethymno, there is Bali, and it is the ideal choice for families and those looking for organized beaches with amenities. The waters are shallow, the sand is fine and golden, and the sea is almost always peaceful. Here you can enjoy most water sports. The area has several taverns, cafes, and souvenir shops since it is pretty developed touristically.

Heraklion Prefecture

• Agiofarago 

  In the southern part of the prefecture of Heraklion is this excellent beach away from all the hustle and bustle. The access is by boat or hiking for 30 minutes through a verdant path, and what one sees as soon as they arrive compensates for them—fine pebbles, crystal clear waters in turquoise shades, imposing rocks, and tranquility. The most impressive beach of Crete is worth seeing while on the island. Be sure to bring water and supplies because the beach is secluded, and there is no shop in the surrounding area. 

• Matala 

  Also known as hippies beach in the past, Matala today is one of the most picturesque beaches with beautiful natural scenery. On its right side, there are imposing rocks with small caves where the hippies lived. The waters are deep and blue, and the sand is mixed with fine pebbles. Next to the beach is a small village with taverns, shops with handmade souvenirs, and streets painted with colorful paints. In the summer, there is also a music festival with various artists and small shops with handmade creations.

Lassithi Prefecture

• Plaka 

  Near Elounda, there is a beautiful small village called Plaka, to which the homonymous beach belongs. It is full of thick Pebbles, and the natural landscape is exceptional. What most enchants swimmers is the islet of Spinalonga, located directly opposite the historical aura of the atmosphere. After swimming, you can wander the village streets or enjoy fish ”meze” next to the beach. 

• Vai 

  Vai is one of the most popular beaches of Crete in the northeastern part of the prefecture of Lasithi. At the back of the beach extends a beautiful palm forest, which you can cross to finally find yourself in front of the golden sand and the blue waters. The beach is organized with umbrellas and has a snack bar. During the summer, it gathers thousands of visitors who enjoy swimming in front of the exotic palm forest. 

• Sissi 

  Sissi is a small fishing village in the northern part of the prefecture. It has many small beaches and a beautiful natural harbor where one can swim. Its beaches are all within walking distance and are mostly rocky with little sand. The best spot for swimming is the small harbor, where small boats and palm trees surround it, creating an idyllic background for your dives.

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