Naxos has the best beaches (but little nightlife). You cant miss it, its called Youth Hostel Plakias. Chora Sfakion: A few upmarket options here such as the No Problem Luxury Suite (it has a bathtub), and the excellent value Livikon Hotel and Samaria Hotel which both have fresh white and blue decor and seaview balconies. If you are staying one or more nights, you dont need to worry about thumping music or all-night parties. But what you will find is a collection of properly local eateries, a few small and sandy beaches, and crystal clear water if you want to go for a dip. Discover our best beaches of Crete: Balos, Elafonissi, and Falassarna in Chania, Preveli in Rethymno, Vai in Lassithi, and more. Fantastic food served up and two bars for you to try out. 1. The lazy river was a particular highlight. Agios Nikolaos is located on the east side of the island around a 50-minute drive from Heraklion Airport. Transfer time: 15 minutes from Heraklion International airport. See More, Blue Palace, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, A holistic approach to wellbeing underlies the luxury, Equally swish and perhaps just that little bit smarter the. #7 Best Value of 66 Quiet Resorts in Crete "The resort location gives quiet seclusion and comfort with its own small beach, sun terraces and infinity pool all with beautiful views over Mirabello Bay." "Secluded enough to be quiet and relaxing but also close enough to the picturesque town of Agios St Nikolas." Special offer 2022 8. Fortunately, the prices in Elounda dont have a Hollywood price tag. The one we are talking about is ideal if youve decided to stay in or near Agios, as its just around the bay. The Spinalonga peninsula is connected to the town by a causeway the peninsula curves right around and the UNESCO-listed island sits at its tip, creating a natural harbour sheltered from the elements. Nearby is the Palace of Malia, one of the best Minoan ruins on the island. Paleochora is located on a small peninsula with beaches on either side perfect for windsurfing as one of them will always be catching the wind. window.mc4wp = window.mc4wp || { Balos Beach is one of the best beaches in Greece if you want that fine white sand aesthetic. This is tucked away in a remote pocket of Crete's south-western corner, so you could be forgiven for thinking you might have it all to yourself. This is Crete off-the-beaten-track. Elegant, with a private beach, fine dining restaurants and an award-winning spa. There are so many luxury hotels in Elounda that its impossible to list them all. One of the best beaches in the south coast of Crete, You can actually park the car by the beach, there are a couple o. The scenery as you traverse the coast road with steep hills and lush greenery gives views that will take your breath away. There are many dining options from Greek to Italian and the four bars serve up wonderful cocktails. There is a small airport serving flights to and from Athens. Agia Roumeli is the most visited village in the area as it forms the exit point for the popular Samaria Gorge hike every day in the summer hundreds pop out of the gorge and onto a ferry to X where they can reconnect with the road system. The upmarket vibe of Elounda is rubbing off on the small nearby village of Plaka, which is ideal with those looking for a quiet and peaceful holiday. Crete Beach Resorts: Find 55281 traveller reviews, candid photos, and the top ranked Oceanfront Hotels in Crete on Tripadvisor. A perfect miniature island-hopping adventure. If you think of a sleepy Greek fishing village, you probably have images of small boats bobbing in quartz waters, piles of multicoloured nets, and fishermen unloading their catch before nipping off to the Taverna for a cheeky ouzo. 5km south of Plaka is the small beach town of Elounda, one of Cretes most characterful resorts and home to some of its premier luxury hotels. There are numerous beaches dotted about, and if you are staying for more than a few days it can be good fun to try a different one each day. . Outside Heraklion centre is the vast and swanky kid-friendly resort Amirandes Hotel. Panormos is located on the North Coast of the island around a 50-minute drive from Heraklion Airport. Panormos is the first beach resort that you hit east of Rethymnon that has a proper village feel and isnt just an outpost of the city. Monastery Estate is a beautiful new conversion with Turkish hammam. Explore the surrounding islands or simply lie back and relax. Its known for its calm waters, and for being a nesting site for endangered loggerhead sea turtles. The one thing I would highly recommend is getting sea shoes as there are sea urchins on the rocks!! Very good. What was once a small Greek village has now become a cosmopolitan town, with bars, restaurants and hotels surrounding picturesque Lake Voulismeni. (function() { Aside from the peacefulness of the region, it is hard not to be astounded by the artwork the elements left behind- a series of terraces in the rock face which, will undoubtedly leave you awestruck. Set in landscaped gardens, the freshly reinvented Radisson Blu Beach Resort has seven pools, direct beach acces, and is popular with families. Big Sur's craggy cliffs are breathtaking, but for an equally beautiful and less crowded California alternative, try this quiet spot tucked between Monterey and Carmel. Falassarna Beach has won prizes for being the most beautiful beach in Crete and is always one of the top ten beaches in Europe, with its wonderful, fine white sand and warm, crystal-clear water. Its a popular day-trip destination and the crowds somewhat marr the incredible natural landscape with its towering rock formations. Transfer time: 15-45 minutes from Chania International airport. The only parking is on the street which is very limited. If you have a car then you might also want to consider accommodation up in Mirtios village above the bay. Follow us on Facebook or Twitter. There are some bars, but they are more likely to be full of civilised locals than your standard 18-30 gangs. Whether you are planning a getaway with the family, a couples' escape or a luxury break there is something to suit most tastes and budgets here. But the rowdy bars are largely confined to one strip the Malia Mile, and the party doesnt start until later in the evening. Koutouloufari is awash with luxury adults-only complexes. Agios Nikolaos has four sandy beaches though theyre all a little way out of the city Kitroplateira is the most central, Almiros is the nicest. The beaches in this area are all sandy, clean and stretch as far as the eye can see! Stay in Ierapetra: The Cretan Villa Hotel is a handsome restored 18th century building, or try apartments like the Big Blue Suites. The surrounding hillsides are home to a swathe of lovely resort hotels and a few minor beaches. Transfer time: 1hr from Heraklion International airport. Blue Palace Elounda 9. Theres plenty to keep older children entertained, including watersports and boat trips. A collection of understated luxury rooms and bungalows are elegantly decorated with simple white walls and minimalist artworks. Show Prices. Crete is a large island the fifth largest in the Mediterranean and you can find whatever youre looking for in each region. Ideal for totally relaxing. There are several beaches that you can reach by foot, and as the crowds thin out you can still find a few nudist beaches. event : evt, Therefore it can be easier to decide on arrival airport/port first, or any attractions that you particularly want to visit, in order to narrow down where to stay. See More, Domes Noruz Chania boasts a spectacular location on the coast of Crete. Interiors are chic, contemporary and comfortable. Its a busy tourist town dominated by resort hotels, with a small harbour and 4 organised beaches, and is packed with pretty bougainvillaea and colourful sun loungers. Honeymoons - This is . The hotel is all-inclusive but the food was of excellent quality." Breakfast included 2022 4. Its a windswept and low-key kind of place, with remnants of a hippie vibe. Chania Flair Deluxe Boutique Hotel Show prices Enter dates to see prices 202 reviews Its friendly and authentic if you want to get away from mass tourism then this easternmost part of Crete is a good bet. With all these unique and unforgettable experiences lying across the island of Crete, it is hard not to feel guilty for so easily dismissing it into the realm of partying, disco balls, and all-nighters. Its a relaxed resort town (well compared to its busier neighbours) and if you want a no-nonsense turn-up and relax on the beach holiday then this is a good choice. Also along the main harbour, youll find the stylish Elia Zampeliou Boutique Hotel and the funky Alcanea Boutique Hotel. 1,438 reviews. BEST HOTELS RIGHT ON THE BEACH: Domes Noruz, Caramel Grecotel Boutique Resort, Domes of Elounda. The other top choice in Rethymnon is Rimondi Estate whose courtyard swimming pool is becoming an Instagram star in its own right. Located 80km southwest of the town of Heraklion, it is much more secluded than your average beach, since it's just off the edge of (and sheltered by) a large gorge. Isolated, authentic, and very tranquil, Lentas isnt for Crete thrill-seekers or partygoers. Whitewashed and chic Cyano Hotel is the best place to stay in Plakias rooms are spotless, the beds are comfy, and its a short walk to the shops and beach. The resort boasts an outdoor hot tub. Transfer time: 25 minutes to the main harbour from Chania International airport. It has a sand-and-pebble beach and a handful of good tavernas to choose from. #3 Best Value of 119 Crete Resorts "The mini water park within the hotel is excellent, with plenty of slides for younger and older kids. There's a gorgeous lagoon-style pool, a small spa, and a restaurant. If it tickles your fancy there is a naturist beach off to the east. The outskirts of Hersonissos are home to some of Cretes swankiest 5* resort hotels. There are enough family-run tavernas and seafood restaurants that you can eat out somewhere different every night for a fortnight. Once youve driven (carefully) to the town youll find a laid-back vibe and easy-going atmosphere that is synonymous with most of the lesser-known spots on the island. Sifaka & Gavaladon 5, Old Town, Chania, Crete Island, 73101. The wonderful White Mountains are located in Western Crete, and their gleaming shine is the dominant feature of the region. Few make it out this far, despite its calling card the impressive (but empty) Venetian castle on its shore. Wonderful! })(); For all the legal bits go to myDisclaimer and Privacy Policy, Cretan cooking experience in the mountains, check rooms and availability on Booking.com, 10 Perfect Gifts for Foodies Who Love Greece (Ideal for a Hamper), 10 Best Places for a Sunny Winter City Break in Europe. As about as non-commercial as it gets, Sissi is everything you want from a pretty Mediterranean fishing village. However, dont let that put you off. For a mix of the two - great beaches and some nightlife - Paros is perfect. Agios Nikolaos, Or just Agios if you prefer, is a bustling town and working port. Bozzali. Sissi is a small resort thats on the coast between Malia and Plaka, known for its pretty harbour and seafood tavernas. Transfer time: 1hr 10 minutes from Chania International airport, 1 hr 10 minutes from Heraklion International Airport book a transfer. Accommodation in Kissamos tends to look a bit dated but you can find good value in the surrounding beaches such as resort-style Balos Beach Hotel, Galini Beach Hotel, and the simpler Maria Beach Hotel. See More, Experience luxury in abundance at this peninsula hotel with contemporary, stylish decor and sea views. Many boat trips, excursions, and day tours are available, and its possible to make some journeys (such as hiking the Samaria Gorge) yourself by bus. It has a pretty setting in the Gulf of Mirabello with waterfront bars encircling a small lake its made for people watching, and there is a cosmopolitan cafe-bar scene. BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CRETE IN AGIOS NIKOLAOS ($$$) Minos Beach Art Hotel ($$) Miramare Resort & Spa ($) Ikaros Art Hotel FIND AGIOS NIKOLAOS HOTEL DEALS 5. Kalamaki is located on the south coast of the island around an hours drive from Heraklion airport. Enjoy the many dining options, good spa and lots of activities - tennis, water sports and nearby nightlife. Mykonos is relatively small and you can easily drive around in a day. A network of small ferries connects Paleochora and Sfakia at either end, with the villages of Sougia, Agia Roumeli, and Loutro, and the island of Gavdos to the south. Tourism here peaked in the 90s and as such it has a slightly careworn feel and is friendly but not busy. I loved Ligaria a small and charming seaside village located on the north side of Crete especially its lovely beach which has the same name. With a summer season lasting well into October September is still considered high season and almost tropical-warmth seas at the height of summer, Crete has one of Europe's longest beach-holiday seasons. Outside this, its a large resort town with an excellent (though busy) beach, an unashamedly commercial centre, and a charming old quarter (Old Malia), where youll find traditional houses and tavernas. ; EAST: The beaches past Elia are beyond the reach of the bus and water taxi network so things calm down considerably. Hailing from the Emerald Isle she calls a small coastal town near Dublin home, but has lived in a few countries including Saigon, Vietnam where she resided for over a year. Despite its size, Pacific Grove has more B&Bs than any other coastal . South of the Lasithi Peninsula, this part of Crete has its own climate its drier, hotter, and more barren than the rest of the island. Rooms with floaty linen curtains have excellent sea views from their large glass windows. Packages to Stalis are available through TUI. See More, A stylish modern hotel with spacious one-bedroom suites with a separate living room and great views over the ocean. In the small grid of streets behind the main beach, you will find souvenir shops, mini-markets, and small hotels/rooms to let. Youll find the standard Greek beachside fare if you want to have a halftime break, and nestled in its backstreets are a multitude of boutique-style shops selling some handmade, and some not-so-handmade trinkets. { Agiofaraggo beach Pebbled, Secluded, Non-Organized, Nudism-Friendly View on map Location: 80 km south west of Heraklion Town With the exception of Paleochora, that is. See More, Impressive luxury resort, totally insulated from the outside world in semi-tropical gardens. "If you are looking for delicious food, spacious luxury rooms, a marvellous location directly on the beach and an excellent service, Mitsis Laguna is the answer.". Its a year-round Greek town that attracts tourists and expats, rather than a purpose-built tourist town. Visitors here can simply detox from life and tackle long-awaited books, take walks along the stunning scenery or simply eat, drink and be merry. Private sandy beach, and fantastic facilties for all the family including a luxury spa and kids club. Bored of sunning yourself? Set on an unspoiled beach, the resort offers bespoke suites and private bungalows with custom-made furniture and natural accents inspired by the landscape. The smaller of the two beaches, Small Triopetra (or Koumado), is more an enclosed, sandy, and rocky bay. Blue Palace Luxury Collection has views across to Spinalonga, an extensive spa, and direct access to a pebble beach. It gets very popular and usually attracts people who go there for clubbing. The main tourist street is Odos Halidon, which divides the old and new city. The beaches arent huge so they do get busy; Bali is larger than it looks and popular with the package tourism crowd and daytrippers from the wider area. On a budget? Glyka Nera is one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete and definitely one of the most unspoiled places to visit on the island, with deep blue water and fine white sands. These vary greatly depending on the region and location: Snow white sand alternates with shell sand and fine gravel. Karavostasi Beach 432 Beaches By selsfield2003 Worth the walk ( or the ride on the mini train) Great beach - lovely clear water and 2 amazing tavernas. The Greek islands with the best beaches are Crete, Naxos, Paros, Ios, Milos, Mykonos, and Rhodes. Most hotels and rooms in Matala are simple and value. Most accommodation is in Paleokastro village which is a short drive from several excellent beaches including Kouremenos, Hiona, and Mandati. Mexico is one of those well-rounded countries that offer a little bit of everything: food, culture, gorgeous landscapes, and some of the best hotels and resorts in the entire world. #1 Best Value of 80 Beach Resorts in Crete "Highlights were Excellent, clean sandy beach and lot of sun beds on beach, around pools etc. #8 Best Value of 35 Exclusive Resorts in Crete. Its a perfect romantic destination for couples. Luxurious rooms, suites and villas - most with private heated pools - boast stunning views and top notch amenities. Plaka has a lovely beach, especially lovely if you dont like sand getting everywhere, as its made from pebbles. Accommodation in Frangokastello is all self-catered and around the same price point. Mitsis Laguna Resort & Spa. But at the end of the day, Mexico will always be known as a beach destination - and for good reason. Located to the eastern side of the island of Crete, Kato Zakros is a bit out of the way, but well worth the visit. But its also possible to use Plakias as a base for walking and hiking. Stavros Bay aerial: Mike Drosos / Shutterstock, Matala rocks: Georgios Tsichlis / Shutterstock, Map of Crete: The Mediterranean Traveller, Map of Chania region The Mediterranean Traveller, Elafonissi: Zakhar Marunov / Adobe Stock, Paleochora: Vladimir1984 / Shutterstock, Map of Rethymnon region The Mediterranean Traveller, Panormo: Jaroslav Moravcik / Shutterstock, Agia Galini: Georgios Kritsotakis / Shutterstock, Map of Heraklion region The Mediterranean Traveller, Agia Pelagia: Kiev.Victor / Shutterstock, Map of Lasithi region The Mediterranean Traveller, Agios Nikolaos: olgaarkhipenko / Adobe Stock, Elounda: Georgios Tsichlis / Shutterstock. For those on a smaller budget, have a look at the small and friendly Nostos Hotel which is a few minutes from the main harbour. Boat trips to Balos leave from the harbour. Some beaches are considered 'insider tips' among locals and tourists and can only be reached on foot, while other beach areas regularly host large numbers of sun-hungry visitors. Atlantica Kalliston Resort. As Chania is a regional capital and in close proximity to so many beach resorts, it makes a great base to explore the west of the island. A wonderful place to visit and stay in Crete! Top attractions and things to do in Chania include: Head west from the main harbour to hit the town beaches Nea Chora is the closest and a 15-minute walk, Chryssi Akti is the nicest. FalassarnaBeachhas won prizes for being the most beautiful beach in Crete and is always one of the top ten beaches in Europe, with its wonderful, fine white sand and warm, crystal-clear water. What delights visitors the most about the White Mountains is the central and southern part of the Lefka Ori which, due to the high altitude, resembles a lunar landscape and offers visiting hikers a surreal experience of walking on the moon which, is wholly unique to the northern hemisphere. Top things to see and do in Rethymno include: And possible day trips in the area include: Rethymnon Beach is Cretes longest sandy beach at 12km long, and as it extends east from the city it swallows up villages that have long since morphed into suburban beach resorts.