The 11 Best Beaches in Crete
Do you love exploring beaches? If yes, this blog is for you. There is a famous Crete Island in Greece, which is renowned worldwide for its beaches. According to reports, millions of visitors visit Greece to explore this beautiful island. The beaches on Crete Island are unique and special. You will get to know in the blog what makes the beaches of Crete different from the others. One problem I faced during my visit to Crete Island was countless beaches. Due to the diverse options, I got confused about choosing the best beaches during my travels. I will not let our readers face this issue. So, with my experience and research, I am providing the 11 best beaches in Crete that will impress you.
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11 Best Beaches in Crete
Planning to visit Crete Island? Just relax on the couch and make your itinerary. Along with the names, you can check all kinds of fun activities, water sports, food, restaurants, and various other things available on these best beaches in Crete. I covered the interests of people of all ages.
1. Vai Beach
Located at the eastern tip of Crete Island, the beach offers crystal-clean water, fine sand, pebbles, and various sports like snorkelling. The amazing thing about the beach is that it is less crowded than others. You can relax under the sun peacefully. There is no nearby accommodation on the beach. To enjoy, you can take beach chairs and umbrellas on rent. For foodies, there are restaurants to taste the delicious Greek food.
2. Matala Beach
One of the most popular tourist destinations of Crete, Matala, is located 68 km southwest of Heraklion. The peculiar thing about the beach is the carved caves in the rocks.
This beautiful beach is 300 m long. On the beach, you will find fine gravel and crystal-clear deep water. There is a cave in the north part of the beach. Those who love doing adventure activities can dive from the top of the cave.
Matala Beach is well organised with washrooms, first aid, water sports, camping site, beach sports, etc. One of the best times to visit Matala Beach is in June when most festivals are celebrated here.
3. Seitan Limania
This beach on the Crete is surrounded by rocky hills, in addition to its beauty. You need to do steep climbing to reach it. There are no amenities available, so it is better to bring your own food and drinks. It is easy to explore the Seitan Limania beach in shoes due to the steep climb up.
The swimming spots on the beaches are fabulous that you can’t miss. Strong waves might challenge you. Overall, my experience at this beach was amazing.
4. Preveli Beach
The beach is mesmerising, surrounded by lush forests and cliffs. You have three different paths to reach Preveli Beach. If you consider my opinion, arriving by boat is the best. The other two paths include a hike and across the river.
You can capture beautiful photographs on the beach. There is a heart-shaped rock at the mouth of a river, which is famous for photography. In the evening, you can enjoy beautiful sunsets with your loved ones.
5. Balos Beach
This beach is heaven for those who are seeking spots for beautiful photographs. I found Balon Beach best for the photographs on Crete Island due to its turquoise waters and breathtaking landscapes. On the beach, you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas. Anyone who is going to Balos Beach by car or bike must need to carry proper footwear. The path from parking to the beach is like a trek. The best time to experience the beauty of the beach is in the morning.
6. Elafonissi Beach
The beach is famous for the Pink Sand. However, it depends on the season and weather conditions. So don’t get disappointed if you do not find Pink Sand during your visit. Located on the southwest coast of Crete, this beach is a famous summer vacation spot. You can also enjoy sunbathing and water sports at Elafonissi Beach.
7. Glyka Nera Beach
You should visit this beach on Crete Island if you love swimming. The water is crystal clear and feasible for swimming enthusiasts. You can also enjoy delicious food in the nearby cafes on the beach. One more thing visitors admire about glyka nera beach is the peaceful and quiet ambiance. Compared to other beaches on Crete Island, it is less crowded.
8. Falassarna Beach
You need to take a short drive from the Kissamos to reach Falassarna beach. It is a public beach on the western coast of Crete, famous among tourists for its white and pink sand. The beach is a protective nature reserve and home to the diverse flora and fauna. For food lovers, there are restaurants and cafes along the coast of the beach. You can enjoy Greek seafood there. Lounge chairs and umbrellas are easily available for rent and are where you can relax under the sun.
9. Mazida Ammos Beach
The Mazida Ammos Beach has crystal clear water and white powdery sand. It is easily accessible and family-friendly. Although it is less crowded now, visitors are increasing each year due to its growing popularity. The pure nature view from the beach never fails to impress any visitor. You can rent umbrellas and sunbeds on the beach for relaxation.
Also Read : Diamond Beach Nusa Penida (Bali Beach & Swing)
10. Voulisma Beach
It is one of the most popular beaches on Crete Island. You need to park your vehicle at the seafront cliffs and use downstairs to reach the beach. Located in Eastern Crete, the beach has soft sand and pristine water. The beach is also known as “Half Moon Shaped Blue Flag Beach”. Those who love water sports can enjoy Jet Skiing. Also, you can spend your lazy day renting a lounge chair and umbrella.
11. Kedrodasos Beach
Anyone seeking a less explored or peaceful beach, go to the Kedrodasos beach. It is also the best beach for those who love camping. There is a cedar forest near the beach. For nature lovers, Kedrodasos Beach is heaven. A parking facility is also available if you are travelling in your vehicle. You need to take a 15 – 20-minute walking path to reach the main beach area. Kedrodasos Beach is one of the best beaches on Crete Island to explore.