The 10 most Βeautiful Βeaches in Crete
Do you prefer the cosmopolitan Elafonisi or the completely deserted Agiofarago?
Selecting the most beautiful beaches in Crete is most definitely a difficult task. Because, as we all know, the most beautiful beaches in Crete are more than ten. Therefore, let this just be the beginning of a list that could even expand to 20 or 50 of the most beautiful beaches in Crete.
Elafonissi Beach
In the south of the Prefecture of Chania, 78 km from Chania
The most exotic of the exotic beaches of Crete has waters that are so blue that they look fake – and the pink sand that they end up in makes it even harder to believe that the landscape in front of your eyes is real. Of course, people will tell you that the waters are so shallow and so hot that they are not suitable for swimming and that the crowds in August make the sunbeds spread out in the water – and they will not be completely wrong. Lovers of exotic landscapes and seclusion walk through the water, to the equally beautiful island opposite, with its white dunes and the right depth of water.
Falassarna Beach
In the Prefecture of Chania, 17 km from Kissamos
Wonderful, soft sand-like powder. Fantastic turquoise waters. The impressive landscape is created by the mountains that embrace it. And a huge area, so you can pretend you can’t see the sunbeds and umbrellas that are drowning her. It can’t get more perfect than that!
Preveli Beach
In the south of the prefecture of Rethymnon, about 40 kilometers from Rethymnon
At the end of the green Kourtaliotiko Gorge, hidden behind a beautiful palm forest – smaller though, less touristy than that of Vai – the most famous beach of Rethymnon has crystal clear blue waters, golden sand to swell in the sea.
Triopetra Beach
In the south of the prefecture of Rethymno, about 50 kilometers from Rethymnon
Crystal clear waters, soft sand, and a famous sunset that paints the Libyan waters orange and red are its strong features. The beach of Triopetra has umbrellas and sunbeds (just as many as to not spoil the landscape, and leave space free for those who want to feel the sand) and a nice tavern in case you are hungry, as the hours until sunset are many.
Agiofaraggo Beach
In the south of the prefecture of Heraklion, very close to Matala
Away from everyone and everything, at the end of an imposing gorge that you will need about an hour and a half to cross, the beach of Agiofaraggos is pebbly, with crystal clear waters, and without any “organization”. If you are not very athletic, you can come here by boat from Kalous Limenes, the nearest village to the beach, Kokkino Pyrgos (2 km from Tympaki) or Agia Galini.
Agios Pavlos Beach
In the south of the Prefecture of Rethymno, 50 km from Agia Galini
Probably the largest dunes you have ever seen (their height reaches 30 meters!) End gently on a sandy beach, which in turn ends in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea. A magical sunset and the umbrellas that glow in their absence complete the already perfect image.
Kedrodasos Beach
In the Prefecture of Chania, almost next to Elafonissi
A beautiful cedar forest frames its almost white sandy beach, ending in icy, crystal clear, turquoise waters. Mysteriously, she has managed to escape from the tourist hype of the neighboring Elafonissi, and this gives her some extra points on our scale.
Balos Beach
In the Prefecture of Chania, 58 km from Chania
The beach that adorns more posters of the Greek Ministry of Tourism than any other has white and pink sand, turquoise (extremely shallow) waters, and a completely exotic lagoon. You will arrive here by boat from Kissamos if you do not want to drive the relatively inaccessible road, and then walk the path.
Seitan Limania Beach
In the Prefecture of Chania, 20 km from Chania
You may also hear it called “Stefanos” beach: It is a sandy beach, at the end of a narrow strip of turquoise sea that meanders between white cliffs.
Kolokytha Bay
In the Prefecture of Lassithi, 16 km from Agios Nikolaos
Clear, emerald waters, almost white sand and a natural shade of tamarisk make up this little secluded paradise that takes a bit of walking to reach – but all the beauty does not require a little effort?
Elissos Sailing Experiences
As a little surprise for you, we want to share with you three of our private sailing experiences. The best thing about our sailing experiences is that we can completely customize them based on your preferences. So create your own beach experience here
Enjoy Sailing to the Cretan Sea in Luxury
Sailing from the Port of Heraklion on a Luxurious Beneteau Oceanis 43ft Yacht, you will have the chance to explore beautiful marine landscapes. Enjoy this beautiful Private Sailing Experience on the Cretan Sea under the pure Mediterranean sunlight, in the morning, or watch the spectacular colors of the sunset!
You will enjoy your time on the yacht while having your coffee, traditional cookies, orange juice, fruit salad, a bottle of wine, soft drinks, and mineral water, all served on board.
- Morning Option: Enjoy the Sun in a Wonderful Sailing Experience
By choosing to have your Sailing Experience in the morning, you will have the chance to lay under the Cretan sun. Moreover, you will be able to swim in the crystal clear waters of the Cretan Sea and enjoy a cold glass of wine and a fresh fruit salad.
- Afternoon Option: Enjoy the Sunset in a Wonderful Sailing Experience
By choosing to have your Sailing Experience in the afternoon, you will have the chance to enjoy the sound of the water and surrender to the grandeur of the Mediterranean Sea as the declining sun paints the sky. Feel the serenity of the sun setting and enjoy these magical moments with your loved ones!
Sail along the South Cretan Coast
This Experience will take you to the south of the Chania region. Being driven through the stunning landscapes of Chania countryside, you will reach the port of Chora Sfakion. From this picturesque and historic village, you will start your Sailing Cruise to the Libyan Sea, by the South Cretan coast.
You will have the chance to sunbathe on board, enjoying the sun and the luxury of the sailing yacht, as well as see stunning marine landscapes. The yacht will be anchored by some of the most beautiful beaches of Crete located on the South Coast, like Agia Roumeli, Agios Pavlos, Loutro, and Sweet Waters beaches, as well as the impressive Marmara caves.
During the stops, you will be able to swim in the crystal clear waters of the Libyan Sea. You will also be served onboard Cretan traditional snacks, fresh fruit, soft drinks and beverages, wine, and water. You will have a delicious lunch onboard. Your meal will be based on the local Mediterranean cuisine and recipes of Crete.
Active Sailing Experience
Love relaxing under the sun but do you want something more? Treat yourselves to a lifetime, Private, Luxurious, and Active Sailing Experience! Sailing from the Port of Heraklion on a luxurious Beneteau Oceanis 43ft Yacht, you will explore beautiful and remote bays, as well as a serene island close to Heraklion.
During your sailing cruise, you will have the chance to feel active by becoming part of the crew! You will attend a mini sailing course. As novice sailors, you will enjoy a great Experience, guided by a professional sailing instructor. You will have a professional sailing crew at your service on the yacht. So, you can participate as much or as little as you like. There will be even more great activities for you, as you can snorkel in isolated bays, enjoy fishing, play with water toys, or just lay under the sun enjoying coffee, traditional cookies, orange juice, excellent wine, and soft drinks, and mineral water.
You will have Lunch onboard, cooked on the spot on board as well! Your 3 Course Meal will include both gourmet and traditional Cretan recipes, cooked with pure and delicious seafood, fresh local vegetables, and seasonal fruit.