Category Archives: Beaches

Skinaria Beach: All you need to know by Locals!

Skinaria beach is among the 477 beaches in the region of Crete. Skinaria Beach is among the beaches of the Damnoni settlement. Skinaria is quite a secluded beach popular with naturists. It is a small beach lying in a natural bay formed by two rock formations on each side. What sets Skinaria Beach apart is its crystal-clear waters, frequented by professional divers. Many compared its underwater to swimming inside an aquarium. Several fishes are prominent in the area. The Skinaria beach is slightly organised with few amenities enough for a day tour. There are no massive infrastructures like resorts in the area. The beach is surrounded by rocky cliffs and is accessible by a small footpath from the main road. It is known for its crystal clear waters and peaceful, serene atmosphere. The beach is relatively small, with fine, white sand and a shallow, gently sloping seabed, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The surrounding area is characterised by rugged, rocky terrain. The number of tourists visiting the beach varies from year to year and depends on various factors such as the weather, the season, and the availability of accommodations in the area. Crete is a popular tourist destination in Greece, attracting millions of visitors annually. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, ancient history, and cultural attractions.  Read article

Marathi Beach: All you need to know by Locals!

Marathi Beach is a breathtaking beach located on the island of Crete in Greece. The natives in the area refer to it as "Marathi" or "Old Souda". The purpose of Marathi beach is to provide visitors with a place to relax, swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the natural surroundings. It is known for its breathtaking views and scenic beauty. The climate in Crete is Mediterranean, with warm summers and mild winters. Crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and rocky cliffs characterise the geography of Marathi beach. Marathi beach is prominent for the economy as it is a popular tourist destination. And many local businesses, such as restaurants, cafes, and shops, depend on tourism for their livelihoods. The beach stretches on the coast of Crete island; within the confines of the inhabited area, it is easy to reach the location in question. It is easily accessible and therefore popular among travellers. During the peak tourist season, it is an annoyance because of the many visitors there. In case the stay is close to the beach, walking is the way to reach it. It eliminates the need for finding parking or adhering to the public transport schedule.

What is Marathi Beach?

Marathi Beach is known for its crystal clear waters, beautiful scenery, and proximity to the small traditional village of Marathi. It is situated in the Chania region, on the island's north-western coast. Marathi beach is a long, comprehensive, sandy beach surrounded by cliffs that form natural protection. The sea is usually calm and crystal clear and is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beach is known for its water sports and other recreational activities. The beach has good infrastructure, with many sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and toilets. There are a few traditional taverns, cafes and mini-markets. The name Marathi is of unknown origin and history. The beach is situated near the small traditional village of Marathi, which has been named after the beach, or vice versa. The town of Marathi is located on a hillside overlooking the beach. It is a peaceful and charming place with a few permanent residents, traditional taverns, and a small church. Marathi beach is a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty and proximity to the village of Marathi. Crete's economy, and Greece's economy as a whole, is significantly boosted by the country's robust tourism sector. The revenue generated by tourism in Crete and the surrounding region helps to support local businesses, create jobs, and drive economic growth.

Where is Marathi Beach located?

Marathi Beach is located on the southeastern shore of the Akrotiri peninsula in Crete, approximately 17 km (10.5 miles) east of Chania city, overlooking the Souda bay. Marathi Beach is about 0.1 kilometers away from the heart of the Marathi settlement. The GPS coordinates of Marathi Beach are 35.4339° N and 23.7381° E.The beach is easily accessible from nearby urban areas and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, close to Loutraki Beach, another popular beach in the area.

How does the Marathi Beach Map look?

Find below an image map of Marathi Beach.

What are the activities in Marathi Beach?

There are a variety of activities on Marathi Beach, including swimming, snorkelling, and hiking. It features crystal clear waters, making it ideal for swimming. The water is relatively shallow, making it perfect for children. The beach is protected from strong winds and waves, making it a safe swimming spot. It is surrounded by a rich underwater ecosystem, making it an ideal place for snorkelling. The shallow waters and clear visibility make it easy to spot marine life, including fish, octopuses, and sea urchins. The area around Marathi beach offers several hiking trails, which take visitors through the nearby hills and mountains. These trails offer stunning views of the coast and the surrounding countryside. Provide an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the island of Crete. Several camping sites near Marathi Beach where visitors pitch a tent and enjoy the natural surroundings. Some camping sites offer basic amenities like toilets and showers, while others are more rustic, providing a more authentic outdoor experience.

When is the best time to visit Marathi Beach?

The best time to visit Marathi Beach depends on your preferences. June, July, and August offer warm, sunny weather and the highest water temperatures, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, but the beach is crowded. For a quieter experience, the shoulder seasons of Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) are ideal, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds. These months are also better for cooler, more comfortable hiking. Crete's weather is mild year-round, making Marathi Beach a worthwhile destination even in the colder months for a peaceful visit. Activities include beach volleyball, soccer, scuba diving, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and boat trips.

How to get to Marathi Beach?

Traveling from Heraklion to Marathi Beach by car is most convenient, covering 146.6 km in about 2 hours and 16 minutes. Renting a car allows for flexible exploration.There's no direct bus from Heraklion to Marathi Beach. You can take a KTEL bus from Heraklion to Chania, then a local bus to Marathi Beach. In summer, the "Chania—Loutraki—Marathi" route operates from Chania Bus Station to Marathi Beach. This option is slower and involves waiting between connections. Alternatively, a more expensive taxi offers direct service from Heraklion Airport to Marathi Beach.

How far is Chania from Marathi beach?

The distance between Chania and Marathi Beach is approximately 17 km (10.5 miles). The road distance is slightly shorter, at about 16.3 km. It takes about 27 minutes to travel from Chania to Marathi Beach by car. For those using public transportation, local KTEL buses travel between Chania and Marathi Beach. Taxis are also available, with the cost from Chania to Marathi Beach being around 23€.

What are nearby attractions in Marathi Beach?

Nearby attractions to Marathi Beach include The Monastery of Arkadi, Preveli Beach, The Rethymnon Old Town, The Spili village, The Eleftherna archaeological site, and Elafonissi Beach. Some of these include the list below:

• Arkadi Monastery: The Arkadi Monastery is a historic monastery about 10 km from Marathi Beach. It is known for its role in the Cretan resistance against the Ottoman Empire. Arkadi Monastery is considered one of the most important monasteries in Crete.
• Preveli Beach: it is a beautiful palm-lined beach about 15 km from Marathi Beach. It is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing and offers excellent views of the Libyan Sea.
• The Rethymnon Old Town: Rethymnon Old Town is the historic centre of the city of Rethymnon, about 25 km from Marathi Beach. It is known for its Venetian architecture, charming narrow streets, and picturesque Venetian harbour.
• Spili village: The Spili village is a traditional mountain village about 25 km from Marathi Beach. It is known for its charming stone houses, water fountains, and it's the beautiful Byzantine church.
• Eleftherna Ancient city: The Eleftherna Ancient city is an important archaeological site about 30 km from Marathi Beach. It is known for its well-pristine Roman and ancient Greek remains, including a Roman theatre and an old cemetery.
• Elafonissi Beach: Elafonissi Beach is a stunning beach about 50 km from Marathi Beach, known for its crystal clear turquoise waters and pink sand.

What are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete?

Crete is a beautiful Greek island with a rich culture and a long history that everyone sees at least once. There are many ways to see the beautiful island, but renting a car is one of the best. Learning how to choose the best rental car in Crete maximises one's time spent enjoying the island's wonderful tourist attractions.Listed below are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete.

• Insurance. Collision Damage Waiver insurance is included in car rentals in Crete, and a driver's credit card is needed as a guarantee. When someone rents a car, rental car insurance protects them against the cost of damage.
• Driver’s age. On Crete, the minimum driving age is between 18 years old. A driver's licence is required.
• Driver’s gender. In Crete, both sexes have equal access to driving privileges. As long as they are at least 18 years old, drivers of any gender are allowed on the roads of Crete.
• Car type. The number of passengers determines the type of vehicle needed for transportation on Crete. Taking the whole family on the road trip, needs a vehicle with more room. While driving on the island of Crete, it is recommended to use a more compact vehicle. The primary cause of this is the limited width of Greek roadways. These days, spot a lot of noticeably smaller cars driving about.
• Documents needed for renting a car. Driver's licence is the sole paperwork required to rent a vehicle. A credit or debit card in the driver's name must be shown, though. It is one of the prerequisites for renting a car in Crete.

How much does a car rental in Crete cost?

Many stunning tourist destinations on the island of Crete are accessible by rented automobile. The cost of a Crete car rental varies with the number of passengers, travel plans, kind of vehicle, location, and time frame. In Crete, hiring a car typically costs between €30 and €40 per day. A week's worth of car rental often costs €250, whereas a weekend rental typically costs €78. Depending on the vehicle, Crete offers a range of affordable car rentals.

How much does it cost to get to Marathi Beach?

There is no entrance fee to enter Marathi Beach. To reach the beach, tickets for public transportation cost between €1 to €3 and take around 25 minutes from Chania town. A taxi ride to the beach costs between €20 to €30, depending on the company and time of day. There is a nearby car park that costs €3 per day.

Where to stay near Marathi Beach?

Several hotels near Marathi Beach offer comfortable accommodations for visitors. Here are three options:

• Marathi Apartments: Marathi Apartments is a practical and convenient establishment, provides air-conditioned rooms in Marathi. This beachfront property offers direct access to a balcony, free private parking, and complimentary Wifi. It features a picnic area, a barbecue spot, and breathtaking views of the mountain and garden. Each apartment is equipped with a terrace, sea views, a seating area, a flat-screen TV, a fully-fitted kitchen, and a private bathroom. Moreover, every unit at the apartment complex has bed linen and towels. There's also an on-site coffee shop. Activities like cycling can be enjoyed around Marathi. The Holy Monastery of Agia Triada is 8 km away, while Chania International Airport is a short 4 km drive from Marathi Apartments.
• Marathi Panorama Rooms: Marathi Panorama Rooms, nestled in the Marathi Village of Crete, offer a tranquil garden and apartments that provide captivating Cretan Sea views. It's situated just 300 m from the beach and a similar distance from local restaurants and cafes. Each apartment features marble floors, a kitchenette, and a TV, complemented by a bathroom equipped with a shower. The bustling Chania Town is 9.3 miles away from Panorama. Chania International Airport is conveniently located 2.5 miles away. The location has been particularly praised by families, with a high rating of 9.5 for family stays.
• Psamathi Living & Taste: Psamathi Living & Taste is a charming accommodation option in Marathi, offers a peaceful garden. This beachfront property provides access to a terrace, free private parking, and complimentary Wifi. The apartments boast a balcony, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom. Each unit is fitted with bed linen and towels. An à la carte or a continental breakfast can be enjoyed at Psamathi Living & Taste, which also features an on-site restaurant, coffee shop, and bar for guests' convenience.

Where to eat near Marathi Beach?

Several great restaurants in and around Marathi Beach offer delicious food and a great atmosphere. Here are three options:

• Patrelantonis Fish Taverna: Patrelantonis Fish Taverna, a family-run restaurant nestled in the small village of Marathi on the north coast of Crete, has been serving patrons for over 40 years. Known for its fresh seafood and traditional Cretan cuisine, this rustic eatery boasts a charming garden overlooking the sea. The ambiance is relaxed, informal, and inviting, while the menu features a wide range of fresh seafood dishes, such as grilled fish, seafood pasta, and risotto. Traditional Cretan dishes, like dakos salad, gamopilafo, and kalitsounia, are also on offer. With excellent food, friendly service, and a relaxed atmosphere, Patrelantonis Fish Taverna comes highly recommended for anyone visiting Crete.
• Veranda Coffee & Food by the Beach: Veranda Coffee & Food by the Beach, a casual eatery in the seaside village of Marathi, offers a diverse menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Set on a large terrace with stunning views of the Aegean Sea, this restaurant provides a bright and airy dining experience. The friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere complement the varied menu featuring breakfast items like pancakes and eggs Benedict, lunch offerings such as salads and sandwiches, and dinner dishes including fish, pasta, and steak. A wide selection of beverages is also available. Veranda Coffee & Food by the Beach is an excellent choice for a delicious meal in a relaxing seaside setting.
• Loukoulos: Loukoulos, a traditional Cretan taverna in Marathi, has been delighting diners with fresh seafood and Cretan cuisine for over 30 years. Set in a beautiful garden with sea views, the restaurant's interior is simple and rustic, featuring wooden furniture and a large fireplace. The menu offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes and traditional Cretan fare, such as dakos salad, gamopilafo, and kalitsounia. Known for its excellent food, friendly service, and relaxed atmosphere, Loukoulos is another highly recommended option for anyone visiting Marathi.

Is Marathi Beach worth visiting?

Yes, Marathi Beach is worth visiting. The spotless waters and perfect scenery at Marathi Beach, on the northern coast of Crete, have earned it a reputation as one of the best beaches in Crete. Because the Beach is encircled by verdant vegetation and provides a peaceful atmosphere, it is an excellent location for unwinding and taking in Crete's natural beauty. The Beach is available for guests to use, sunbathe, and explore the nearby hiking trails and traditional villages. The Beach is home to several different watermarks, including kayaking and snorkelling. In addition, there are many fantastic restaurants and hotels in the area, providing guests with a diverse selection of options.

Is Marathi Beach safe?

Marathi Beach is considered safe, with clean, clear water suitable for swimming and lifeguards on duty during summer. The beach facilities, including toilets and showers, are well-maintained. The surrounding area is safe for exploring. However, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, keep an eye on belongings, watch for potential hazards like strong currents or underwater obstacles, and follow lifeguard instructions.

Do you need to book in advance to visit Marathi Beach?

No advance booking is necessary to visit Marathi Beach. It’s a public beach, open to everyone. During peak season, the beach can get crowded, so checking the weather forecast and planning accordingly is advised. If you plan to stay overnight at nearby hotels or restaurants, booking in advance is recommended, as these places fill up quickly during peak times.

Are children permitted at the Marathi Beach?

Children are permitted at Marathi Beach, which is family-friendly and open to all ages. The beach offers safe swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking for children, with facilities like toilets and showers available. Nearby hotels and restaurants cater to families. Parents should supervise children and be mindful of potential hazards like strong currents or underwater obstacles. Read article

Kalamaki Beach: All You Need to Know by Locals!

Kalamaki Beach is a sandy beach located in the seaside village of Kalamaki on the southern coast of Crete, Greece. The beach stretches for 2.5 kilometres (1.55 miles) and is part of the larger Messara Bay. Kalamaki Beach features fine golden sand, though the seabed has some flat, slippery rocks. The beach is well-organised near the village, with sunbeds, umbrellas, taverns, lifeguards, a playground, and water sports facilities available. Kalamaki village is relatively new, with development starting in the 1970s. Before then, no settlement existed in that location. The area surrounding Kalamaki Beach dates back to ancient times, with the Minoan port of Kommos located nearby, but Kalamaki as a tourist resort has a much more recent history, catering to visitors seeking a quieter destination in southern Crete. Read article

Glyka Nera Beach (Sweet Water): All You Need to Know by Locals!

Glyka Nera Beach, often called SweetWater, is a distinctive beach on the island of Crete, Greece. It is famous for its deep blue waters, white pebbles, and dramatic cliffs, some reaching heights of 500 meters (0.3 miles). Visitors can access Glyka Nera via several boat tours primarily departing from Chora Sfakion or through guided hikes along the scenic coastal trails. The climate at Glyka Nera Beach is Mediterranean, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Glyka Nera is surrounded by high cliffs and accessed either by sea or through rugged hiking trails. This beach was recognized internationally in 2003 when it was ranked among Europe's top 20 beaches by The Times of London. Glyka Nera Beach attracts numerous tourists who are drawn to its unspoiled natural beauty and the opportunity for adventure, with activities like hiking, snorkeling, and camping. The preservation efforts are supported by managed tourist facilities and the involvement of local communities in maintaining its cleanliness and natural beauty. Read article

Sougia Beach: All You Need to Know by Locals!

Sougia Beach is a 1.08 kilometer long (0.67 mile) pebble beach located in the village of Sougia, 75 kilometers (46.6 miles) southwest of Chania on Crete, Greece. The beach is a relaxing destination for tourists seeking a less crowded and developed area than other resort towns. Visitors can engage in activities such as swimming, snorkeling, hiking the nearby Agia Irini Gorge, and exploring the ancient city of Lissos. The climate in Sougia is pleasant during the shoulder seasons of May to June and September to October, with temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F). The beach is located at the exit of the Agia Irini Gorge and faces the Libyan Sea. The seabed drops off quickly, resulting in profound and transparent waters. Tourism plays a significant role in the local economy, with the village offering accommodations, tavernas, and mini-markets. Archaeological preservation measures limit extensive construction in the area. Sougia Beach attracts tourists primarily during the summer months, and its proximity to hiking trails and historical sites contributes to its appeal as a travel destination on the southern coast of Crete. Read article

Frangokastello Beach: All You Need to Know by Locals!

Frangokastello is a sandy beach on the southwest coast of Crete, Greece. It stretches for 492 metres (0.31 miles) along the coast, featuring fine golden sand and clear waters, making it an ideal destination for families with children. The beach takes its name from the famous 14th-century Venetian castle of Frangokastello. Read article

Agiofarago Beach: All You Need to Know by Locals!

Agiofarago Beach is a remote beach located at the end of the Agiofarago Gorge, 74.2 kilometers (46.12 miles) south of Heraklion on the Greek island of Crete. The beach is accessible by hiking through the gorge, which takes 30 to 50 minutes, or by catching a boat from nearby ports like Matala, Agia Galini, or Kali Limenes. The area has a rich history dating back to early Christian times when it served as a center of ascetic life, with around 300 hermits living in isolation within the gorge's caves. In the 14th century, the church of Agios Antonios (St. Anthony) was built, and it remains standing today, along with a well that once supplied water to the hermits. Read article

Ammoudara Beach: All You Need to Know by Locals!

Ammoudara Beach is a long, sandy beach on the northern coast of Crete, near Heraklion. It extends 7 kilometres (4.3 miles), making it one of the longest beaches on the island. The purpose of Ammoudara Beach is tourism and recreation. It is a popular destination for locals and visitors, offering various amenities and activities. Hotels, resorts, restaurants, and beach bars line the coastline, catering to the needs of tourists. The beach is well-organized, with sunbeds, umbrellas, lifeguards, showers, and changing rooms. The beach's proximity to Heraklion, the capital of Crete, and its international airport makes it easily accessible, contributing to its popularity as a tourist attraction and a significant contributor to the local economy. Read article

Platanias Beach: Breathtaking Beach in Crete

Platanias Beach is a beautiful and crowded seaside destination with considerable tourism development. It was once a quiet seaside village which transformed into a vibrant suburb of Chania. Platanias beach is mainly known for its long, sandy shoreline, clear blue waters and stunning views of the nearby Thodorou islet. The frequent bus services from Chania City and its accessibility make Platanias Beach an attractive and convenient destination for local and international tourists. Platanias Beach has many amenities to enhance visitors' experience, including beach bars, restaurants, umbrellas, sunbeds, showers and various water sports options. The Blue Flag status has been awarded, signifying its cleanliness, high environmental standards and well-managed facilities. Platanias Beach also hosts a lively nightlife scene, with several nightclubs and bars that attract locals and tourists, who dance and enjoy themselves until the early hours. Read article

Sarantaris Beach Hersonissos: A family friendly beach near Hersonissos!

Sarantaris Beach is a beautiful coastal spot in Hersonissos. Sarantaris Beach offers a stunning backdrop for a relaxing day out, featuring incredible ochre-hued cliffs and exceptionally clear and shallow waters. Unlike the crowded beaches in Hersonissos town centre, Sarantaris Beach is considerably quieter, providing a peaceful atmosphere that appeals to those seeking serenity and relaxation. Sarantaris Beach is protected from strong north-westerly winds by Cape Sarantaris, creating a safe and calm environment ideal for families with small children. The clear and calm waters of the beach are perfect for swimming, offering a refreshing escape on a hot summer day. Sarantaris Beach also provides excellent conditions for snorkelling, with its clear waters allowing visitors to explore the rich marine life that thrives in this area. For those who prefer to stay on land, the cliffs surrounding the beach offer a wonderful opportunity for hiking and exploring the beautiful coastline. Read article

Kalypso Beach: All you need to know by Locals!

Kalypso Beach, also known as Pirates' Fjord Beach,  is located on the southern coast of Crete. Kalypso Beach, pronounced as "kuh-lip-soh", offers a relaxing environment that attracts visitors seeking a peaceful escape. It is blessed with an abundant geography, having rocky shores and waters that gently kiss the shoreline. Kalypso Beach is set against a background of rugged coastal terrain, it provides a perfect spot for recreational activities. The climate in Crete is characterised by warm summers and mild winters, making it an attractive destination year-round. It enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with summer temperatures reaching 30°C (86°F) and mild winters averaging 15°C (59°F). Read article

Gialiskari Beach: A remote beach near Paleochora Crete!

Gialiskari Beach is located in Crete's southwestern coast near Paleochora, Crete. The beach is known for its 3 adjacent pebble and sandy coves, offering a mix of rugged natural landscapes, turquoise waters and a tranquil ambiance. Gialiskari Beach lies within the Chania regional unit, around 4 km (2.48 miles) east of Paleochora. The coordinates are 35°11′N latitude and 23°43′E longitude, with Chania city approximately 70 km (43.49 miles) away. Travellers can enjoy swimming, snorkelling, cliff diving, beach lounging and hiking. The beach also has a clothing-optional section and is ideal for stargazing. Gialiskari Beach has avoided overdevelopment and commercialization, maintaining its natural state within the Natura 2000 protected area. Facilities are minimal, focusing on environmental sustainability. Read article

Mononaftis Beach: A pebbly beach near Agia Pelagia Crete!

Mononaftis Beach, on Crete's northern coast near Heraklion, Greece, is approximately 24 kilometres (15 miles) northwest of the city. Its name, translating to “one sailor” in Greek, stems from a shipwreck legend where only one sailor survived. The beach, in a small bay on the Agia Pelagia peninsula, is protected from Crete’s northerly winds, facing east. Read article

12 Best Chania Beaches to visit in West Crete!

Chania is located on the northwest coast of Crete and is home to some of Crete's most beautiful beaches. The remote and secluded Balos Beach, known for its soft sand and lack of crowds, can only be reached by car. Elafonissi Beach is known for its clear turquoise waters and pink-hued sands created by crushed seashells. Just east of the city, quiet Marathi Beach offers relaxing pebbled shores and crystal clear waters perfect for unwinding. Chrissi Akti or "Golden Beach" right in Chania has soft golden sand, beach clubs and views of the old harbor. Further from the city, options like the hidden cove of Seitan Limania, the famed Stavros Beach, the picturesque Kalypso Beach south of Rethymno and family-friendly Loutraki Beach provide beautiful settings with fewer tourists.  The beaches around Chania have their own unique charm as they share pristine natural beauty, serene atmospheres and easy accessibility whether by car, bus or foot, making them prime coastal destinations on Crete's northwest coast. Read article

10 Amazing Beaches in Heraklion for Crete Travelers

Heraklion serves as the capital and is the most populous city on Crete, positioned on the island's northern coast. The city's population exceeds 200,000, ranking it as Greece's fifth most populous city. Heraklion's history spans thousands of years, with habitation evidence tracing far back. The palace at Knossos, a pivotal site of the Minoan civilization, is located to the city's south. Successive eras of Roman, Byzantine, Arab, Venetian, and Ottoman rule followed the Minoan decline. The city's architecture and landmarks reflect this complex history. Heraklion assumed the role of Crete's capital in 1971. It currently stands as a dynamic center for the economy and tourism. As the capital, Heraklion hosts museums, historic sites and beaches that draw visitors. Its coastal setting, active port, and nearby beaches contribute to its significance as a vacation destination. Read article

Maridaki Beach: A lesser-known Secluded beach in South Crete!

Maridaki Beach, a lesser-known beach in Crete, is a natural attraction that blends untouched beauty. Maridaki Beach is a small village approximately 65 kilometres (40 miles) south of Heraklion. Maridaki Beach’s location is perfect for tourists seeking an escape from bustling city life or crowded tourist destinations. A popular spot among locals, Maridaki Beach is less frequented by tourists, adding to its peacefulness. Maridaki Beach features a wide pebble landscape with rocks and caves where one can find shelter and shade. At the back of the village, you'll find old plane trees and a small tavern, encapsulating a traditional Greek lifestyle. Read article

21 Best Beaches in Crete for Kids and Toddlers

May and June are colder months and ideal for kids, but warm enough for beach activities. There are fewer tourists, which is perfect for avoiding crowds and lineups. The beaches of Crete are ideal for children due to the wonderful blend of clear blue waters, smooth sandy coasts and a variety of family-friendly activities. The beaches provide a secure and attractive environment for children to create sandcastles, splash in the mild waves of the sea and explore the tidal pools. Read article

Kouremenos Beach: A Windsurfing Paradise Beach in East Crete!

Kouremenos Beach is a long sandy beach on the eastern coast of Crete that offers natural beauty, crystal clear waters and excellent conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Kouremenos Beach is located on the eastern coast of Crete, about 21 kilometres (13 miles) east of Sitia and 1 kilometre (0.6 miles) east of Palekastro. It is the longest beach in the area, with a length of more than 1.5 kilometres (0.9 miles) and it is surrounded by tamarisk trees that offer shade and greenery. Read article

Ilingas Beach: A Secluded Beach near Sfakia in South Crete!

Ilingas Beach is a small, secluded beach located 1 kilometre (0.6 miles) west of Chora Sfakion in the southern part of Chania, western Crete. Nestled at the end of Kavi Gorge, Ilingas Beach features crystal-clear turquoise waters that create a soothing ambience, perfect for relaxation and water activities. One of the remarkable aspects of Ilingas Beach is its natural beauty and surroundings. Surrounded by big mountains and with a backdrop of scenic landscapes, Ilingas Beach offers breathtaking views that captivate visitors. Read article

Kato Zakros: Location, Attractions, Hiking and Car Rental

Kato Zakros beach is part of the village of Kato Zakros. Kato Zakros beach provides a safe environment for leisurely swimming and snorkelling with its wonderful bay and crystal-clear waters. The beach's remote location ensures a sense of privacy, making it an ideal destination for those who seek solitude. One of the main attractions near Kato Zakros beach is the Zakros Gorge, also known as the "Gorge of the Dead". This geological wonder makes a spot for an adventurous hiking experience through unique rock formations and rich vegetation. The hike takes approximately two hours and leads to the ancient Minoan Palace of Kato Zakros, providing an enriching glimpse into Crete's distant past. Read article