Psaromoura Beach is a small, pebbled cove in northern Crete, offering a naturally enclosed setting with calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. It is located within a rocky bay, shielding it from strong winds and creating a peaceful coastal retreat with clear, inviting waters. Psaromoura Beach attracts visitors seeking a quieter alternative to larger beaches, combining scenic surroundings with a more intimate seaside experience.
Psaromoura Beach is located 22 kilometers (14 miles) northwest of Heraklion, near the seaside village of Agia Pelagia. The beach can be reached via a 25-minute drive from Heraklion, following the E75 highway toward Rethymno before taking the exit for Agia Pelagia.
Psaromoura Beach offers various activities, including swimming in its calm, crystal-clear waters and snorkeling along a rocky seabed that supports diverse marine life. The area provides coastal footpaths for exploration, offering scenic views of Agia Pelagia’s coastline. This coastal spot features sunbeds, umbrellas, and a small beach bar, ensuring a comfortable visit for beachgoers looking to relax by the sea.
Psaromoura Beach is best visited between June and October, when sea temperatures range from 19.8°C (67.6°F) to 28°C (82.4°F), ensuring ideal conditions for swimming and snorkeling.
What is Psaromoura Beach?
Psaromoura Beach is a small, pebbled beach in northern Crete, located within a naturally sheltered bay, enclosed by rugged cliffs that protect it from strong winds. Psaromoura Beach has clear, calm waters and a rocky seabed, creating ideal conditions for swimming and snorkeling. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for guests’ relaxation, along with a small beach bar serving refreshments and light meals for daytime seaside visits.
Psaromoura Beach is located 22 kilometers (14 miles) northwest of Heraklion. It lies within a naturally protected bay in Agia Pelagia, where rugged cliffs shield it from strong winds. The exact coordinates for Psaromoura Beach are 35.4130° N, 25.0179° E. The beach is easily accessible by car, where travelers should take the E75 highway toward Rethymno, exit toward Agia Pelagia, and follow the well-maintained roads for a 25-minute drive to a designated parking area near the entrance.
The best time to visit Psaromoura Beach is between June and October, when water temperatures range from 19.8°C (67.6°F) to 28°C (82.4°F), ensuring warm conditions for prolonged underwater activities without discomfort. Psaromoura Beach is warmest from July to September, with temperatures peaking at 28°C (82.4°F) in July due to continuous sun exposure. The beach is still worth visiting in May and November, with sea temperatures ranging from 17.3°C (63.1°F) to 22.9°C (73.2°F) in May and 18.1°C (64.6°F) to 23.7°C (74.7°F) in November, remaining slightly cooler than peak summer months but still suitable for swimming.
Find below an image describing the area and perimeter of Psaromoura Beach.
What are the Activities at Psaromoura Beach?
The activities at Psaromoura Beach include swimming, snorkeling, and scenic coastal walks. This coastal destination has calm waters, making swimming an extremely popular activity. Psaromoura has a rocky seabed that supports marine life, allowing snorkelers to observe underwater species with excellent visibility. The area features coastal footpaths that wind along the cliffs, offering panoramic views of Agia Pelagia’s rugged shoreline. The beach has sunbeds, umbrellas, and a taverna, allowing guests to unwind after exploring the natural surroundings.
What Attractions are Near Psaromoura Beach?
Find below a list of the nearby attractions at Psaromoura Beach:
- Aura Fashion Shop. Aura Fashion Shop is located 1.2 kilometers (0.7 miles) southeast of Psaromoura Beach, in the village of Agia Pelagia. The boutique offers a curated collection of resort wear, handmade jewelry, and locally crafted accessories. The shop specializes in clothing and fashion items that reflect the island’s relaxed lifestyle, making it a popular stop for visitors seeking stylish souvenirs.
- Agia Pelagia Beach. Agia Pelagia Beach is located 500 meters (0.3 miles) southeast of Psaromoura Beach. The beach features a long sandy bay with shallow waters, suitable for swimming and beginner-friendly water sports. Agia Pelagia Beach offers paddle boat rentals, sunbeds, and access to seafront tavernas that serve Greek cuisine.
- Ligaria Beach. Ligaria Beach is located 3.4 kilometers (2.1 miles) east of Psaromoura Beach. The beach forms a protected cove with sand, pebbles, and calm waters ideal for families. The area takes its name from the osier plant, known locally as Ligaria. Visitors swim, snorkel near the rocks, or dine at beachfront tavernas serving fresh seafood.
- Mononaftis Beach. Mononaftis Beach is located 1.8 kilometers (1.1 miles) west of Psaromoura Beach. This pebbled bay features deep, clear waters that support snorkeling and diving. The name means “lone sailor” in Greek, tied to a local legend about a shipwreck survivor. Mononaftis beach is known for its marine biodiversity and underwater rock formations.
- Mades Beach. Mades Beach is a quiet coastal area located 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) east of Psaromoura Beach. The beach combines sand, pebbles, and rocky seabeds in a peaceful setting away from major crowds. The name “Mades” references the area’s agricultural history. Visitors in Mades Beach, can swim, snorkel among the rocks, or relax at nearby beachfront cafés.
What are the ways to get to Psaromoura Beach?
Beachgoers can get to Psaromoura Beach by car, public transportation, or boat. Each option offers different levels of convenience and accessibility. Traveling by public transportation involves taking a regular bus from Heraklion to Agia Pelagia, a journey that takes 40 minutes. A 15-minute walk along a coastal pathway, from the bus stop, leads to Psaromoura Beach.
Traveling by boat allows direct access to Psaromoura Beach through private rentals from Agia Pelagia and nearby villages. Private boat rentals allow travelers to approach Psaromoura Beach from the sea, providing views of Crete’s northern shoreline. No scheduled ferry service operates to this beach, so arrangements must be made in advance.
Traveling by car provides the most direct access and flexible option to Psaromoura Beach. The route follows the E75 highway toward Rethymno, with an exit for Agia Pelagia. Psaromoura Beach lies 22 kilometers (14 miles) northwest of Heraklion, with a 25-minute drive leading to a nearby parking area.
Car rentals are available in Heraklion and Agia Pelagia, with short-term and daily options offered by local agencies. Rental vehicles provide a convenient way to access Psaromoura Beach and explore nearby coastal areas.
Can You Rent a Car and Drive to Psaromoura Beach?
Yes, tourists can rent a car and drive to Psaromoura Beach. Crete Car rental offers flexibility, making it the most practical option for tourists exploring multiple destinations along Crete’s northern coast. Crete car hire rates vary depending on the car type, rental duration, and season. The average daily cost for an economy car ranges from €25 (£20.85, $26.05) – €30 (£25.02, $31.26), while a weekly rental starts at €175 (£148.75, $187.25). Prices may increase during peak tourist months, so booking in advance is recommended.
Popular car rental companies in Crete, including Rental Center Crete and Justrentals, offer an online reservation system, allowing travelers to secure a vehicle before arrival. Visitors must provide a valid driver’s license, identification, and a credit or debit card to complete the rental process.
The Skoda Kamiq or Suzuki Vitara are two of options if visitors desire to rent a larger car with a bigger capacity. The Skoda Kamiq is great for families or groups of visitors with 4 to 5 persons. It still depends on the body size of each passenger. The car rental cost for a Suzuki Vitara is around 55,6 € ($60,45, £48,30) if the tourists wish to rent it for a day, but if they want a 7-day Crete car rental, they need at least 389 € ($423,00, £337,80).
There is a Peugeot Rifter if the tourists are in a much larger group and are not satisfied with the capacity of the Skoda Kamiq. The Peugeot Rifter has the capacity to accommodate between 5 to 7 passengers. The price to rent the Peugeot Rifter starts from 49 € ($53.16, £42.12) to 89 € ($96.55, £76.54) if rented for a day and 343 € ($372.06, £295.40) for a week. The location and itinerary of the car rental companies in Crete are differing from each other and are influenced directly by the desired destinations of the tourists. There are multiple options of locations and itineraries offered by Rental Center Crete, especially if the tourists chose to rent through online transactions.
Where to Stay Near Psaromoura Beach?
Find below a list of places to stay near Psaromoura Beach:
- Eva Mare Hotel & Suites. Eva Mare Hotel & Suites is located 300 meters (0.2 miles) from Psaromoura Beach in the village of Agia Pelagia. The hotel offers a swimming pool, gym, sun terrace, and rooms with private balconies overlooking the sea. The on-site restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine, including fresh seafood, grilled meats, and local specialties. Guests highlight the peaceful setting, sea views, and attentive service as key advantages.
- Villa Psaromoura. Villa Psaromoura is a private beachfront property located 100 meters (0.06 miles) from the shoreline in Agia Pelagia. The property features a fully equipped kitchen, spacious living area, outdoor terrace, and private garden. Guests enjoy direct beach access, privacy, and proximity to local tavernas offering Cretan dishes and seafood specialties. Reviews often mention the villa’s modern amenities and quiet location.
- Psaromoura Residence. Psaromoura Residence is located 150 meters (0.09 miles) from the beach and offers luxury villas with private pools, furnished terraces, and full kitchens. The complex is located in Agia Pelagia and provides both self-catering options and access to nearby restaurants serving Cretan and Mediterranean meals. Guests value the upscale facilities, spacious interiors, and quiet surroundings.
- Evita Apartments. Evita Apartments is a self-catering, budget-friendly accommodation located 400 meters (0.25 miles) from Psaromoura Beach. Each unit includes a kitchenette, private balcony, air conditioning, and access to a shared garden. Guests walk to local tavernas offering seafood, Greek specialties, and international meals. Reviews highlight the cleanliness, affordability, and welcoming atmosphere.
- Peninsula Resort & Spa. Peninsula Resort & Spa is a beachfront hotel perched on a rocky peninsula in Agia Pelagia, located 500 meters (0.31 miles) from Psaromoura Beach. The resort features multiple swimming pools, a spa, fitness center, and direct beach access. On-site restaurants serve Greek, Mediterranean, and international cuisine through buffet and à la carte service. Visitors commend the resort’s panoramic sea views, all-inclusive offerings, and premium amenities.
Where to Eat Near Psaromoura Beach?
Find below a list of places to eat near Psaromoura Beach:
- Taverna O Nikolas. Taverna O Nikolas is located 0.8 kilometers (0.5 miles) from Psaromoura Beach, in the village of Agia Pelagia. The taverna offers a traditional and welcoming setting with rustic décor and warm Cretan hospitality. The menu focuses on Mediterranean and Cretan cuisine, featuring fresh seafood, grilled meats, and seasonal vegetables. Grilled sardines served with homemade white wine are a recommended choice.
- Taverna Mezedofolia. Taverna Mezedofolia is a small family-run restaurant located 1.2 kilometers (0.7 miles) from Psaromoura Beach in the center of Agia Pelagia. The atmosphere is casual and lively, often accompanied by live Greek music. The restaurant specializes in Greek meze and traditional Cretan dishes. Recommended menu items include shrimp saganaki, halloumi, and Crete salad.
- Grill Our Angel House. Grill Our Angel House is located 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) from Psaromoura Beach and offers a relaxed dining experience focused on grilled favorites. The eatery serves freshly prepared dishes, with an emphasis on souvlaki, gyros, and Greek comfort food. Guests often order the Cretan cheese croquettes, meatballs, and a glass of rakia to complete the meal.
Is Psaromoura Beach Worth Visiting?
Yes, Psaromoura Beach is certainly worth visiting for travelers seeking a quiet alternative to Crete’s larger resort beaches. Psaromoura Beach has clear waters and a view of the bay. It is surrounded by a palm tree forest and a rocky landscape that creates a unique scenery. The beach is part of the Natura 2000 network, which is a European Union initiative that aims to protect the most valuable and threatened habitats and species in Europe. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing and relaxing at this beach and exploring the nearby attractions, such as the ancient Apollonia, the Kladissos beach and the Agia Pelagia monastery. Psaromoura is considered on of the best beaches to visit in Heraklion.
The beach features deep, clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling, along with a pebbled shore backed by cliffs that provide a sense of enclosure and calm. The organized section includes sunbeds and umbrellas, while the surrounding area remains peaceful and lightly developed. Psaromoura Beach is close to nearby villages and attractions, making it a practical stop for day trips.
Psaromoura Beach is absolutely safe for beachgoers, as its enclosed cove shields the waters from strong currents, creating a calm environment for swimming and snorkeling. The gentle conditions make it accessible for both experienced swimmers and casual beachgoers. Visitors should remain cautious of the rocky seabed when entering the water and consider wearing water shoes for added comfort. Psaromoura Beach can attract crowds during peak hours, so securing personal belongings and staying aware of the surroundings is advisable.
Psaromoura Beach is free to enter, as it is a public beach with no admission fee. Tourists can enjoy the natural surroundings without cost, though amenities like sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent. Advance booking is not required to visit Psaromoura Beach but securing nearby accommodations in Agia Pelagia ahead of time is recommended during peak season. Renting a car or checking public transportation schedules in advance can help ensure a smooth visit.
Children and pets are allowed at Psaromoura Beach, making it a family-friendly destination. Psaromoura Beach features calm waters within its sheltered cove, creating a safe swimming environment for children, though adult supervision remains necessary due to the pebbled shoreline and varying water depths. Pet owners should follow local regulations, keep their pets on a leash, and clean up after them to maintain the beach’s cleanliness.
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