Best Beaches in Crete
Guest Blog Submitted by: Colt Davis
On the top of the itinerary for any Cretan holiday is a visit to a beautiful beach. Maybe you want to relax on the sand with a good book, or perhaps you want to explore the underwater scenery by snorkeling. Whatever option you choose, Crete has everything you need for a beach holiday, with plenty of options to ensure that you never get bored.
Here, we take a look at some of the top spots – make sure to pack some snacks and sunscreen because you’ll never want to leave.
ELAFONISI BEACH
The beautiful sands of Elafonisi in south-west Crete are famous for their pink tint, created by broken up seashells. You can also wade out to Elafonisi Island, as the water is only knee deep. Whilst the island is small and doesn’t have much on it. There is a lighthouse and a small chapel, and it’s pretty to explore. It also offers beautiful views looking back towards the beach and out across the Mediterranean.
The contrast of the sand to the shallow turquoise waters is much-loved by photographers worldwide, so make sure to pack your camera. Additionally, if you want to get a clear shot of the beach, make sure to visit at off-peak times, as it can become a bit of a tourist trap.
Photo by: Jim Kalligas
VAI BEACH
The scenery surrounding Vai Beach is reminiscent of the Caribbean, with a date palm tree forest hiding the entrance to the wide, sandy beach. Rumor has it that the forest was created by sailors visiting Crete, who then threw their date stones on the ground, and the palm trees that we see today are the result. The forest covers 250,000 square meters, and is the largest palm forest in Europe.
The beach is on the eastern tip of the island, and is about two and a half hours from Heraklion.
Photo by: Ashkan Foroukani
FALASSARNA
Falassarna is a wide, sandy beach, with plenty of space for the visitors that flock to see its clear waters. The beach has won the accolade of both best beach in Crete and one of the 10 best beaches in Europe in the past, making it a sure-fire crowd pleaser.
It is a great beach for travellers that want to try out watersports, as there are plenty of companies offering kayak and jet ski tours, and the wide shallow waters also make it safe for children.
Photo By: Enza Dattolo
For those who prefer to stay on land, the Falassarna area is well known for its production of tomatoes and cucumbers. Head to a local taverna and order a Greek salad, and enjoy the delicious taste of the local produce combined with feta, olives and onions.
MATALA
Matala is perhaps best known for its ‘hippie caves’ that were particularly famous in the 1960s and 70s. The hippies came to Matala and created their own community, living and sleeping in the caves, before being ejected by the government. They attracted the attention of several celebrities, including Joni Mitchell and Bob Dylan.
Today, you can visit the caves during the day, but they are closed overnight. There are also several underwater caves and wrecks, as well as ancient ruins and churches to see on land. The beach itself is well equipped with lifeguards, toilets and showers, making it a perfect day out.
Photo by: Joachim Ansog