Discover Crete's Enchanting Beaches

Crete's beaches, with their golden sands and clear waters, are among the best in Greece. The island offers a variety of pebble and sand beaches, each with its own unique charm, catering to different preferences.

North coast beaches are bustling and convenient, with amenities close by, while the south coast boasts the renowned Matala beach and other secluded spots. The east end's Vai and the west's Elafonissi with its pink sands are also must-visits. For a detailed guide, check out the best beaches on Crete.

1. Elafonissi Beach

Elafonissi is a stunning pink-sand beach near Chania, famous for its shallow lagoons and soft sands. It's a kiteboarder's paradise due to the steady winds, but check the forecast for a pleasant visit.

2. Balos Beach

Accessible by boat from Kissamos port, Balos is a wild beach known for its stunning colors and calm lagoons. It's less crowded if you drive and walk the final stretch.

3. Voulisma Beach

Near Agios Nikolaos, Voulisma Beach offers a picturesque bay with warm, shallow waters. It's undeveloped, with a restaurant providing beach service.

4. Vai Beach (Palm Beach)

Located at Crete's eastern tip, Vai Beach is home to a large palm grove and offers a secluded, undeveloped paradise.

5. Falasarna

An hour from Chania, Falasarna's sandy beaches and clear waters are less crowded and easily accessible.

6. Preveli

Preveli Beach, with its palm trees and pebble shores, offers a stunning oasis. It's accessible by boat or a steep walk from a nearby carpark.

7. Plakias Beach

Plakias Beach is a sunny south coast destination with a variety of atmospheres, from lively to tranquil.

8. Matala

Matala is a popular tourist spot known for its caves and clear snorkeling waters, just over an hour from Heraklion.

9. Seitan Limania

Seitan Limania, a stunning canyon beach, is perfect for swimming and cliff jumping, despite its colder waters.

10. The Beaches of Agios Nikolaos

Agios Nikolaos offers urban beaches like Kitroplateia and Almyros, with Voulisma Beach just a short drive away.

11. Souda Beach

Near Plakias, Souda Beach is a serene spot with clear waters, ideal for relaxation and snorkeling.

12. Georgioupolis

Georgioupolis is a lush beach town with a long sandy beach, lifeguards, and amenities close by.

13. Ammoudara Beach

Ammoudara Beach, near Heraklion, is a long sandy beach popular for wind sports and beach walking.

14. Frangokastello

Frangokastello combines history with a beautiful beach, ideal for families and those seeking tranquility.

15. Glyka Nera

Glyka Nera, or Sweetwater Beach, is an isolated beach with fresh springs, accessible by boat or a scenic hike.

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Exploring the Island of Crete: Visit Crete's main cities like Chania, Agios Nikolaos, Rethymnon, and Heraklion for a diverse experience. For more, see our guide to the Top Attractions & Best Places to Visit on Crete.