Crete is an island in Greece that is teeming with beautiful beaches. There’s something for everyone, from sheltered coves to long stretches of sand. And with crystal-clear water and plenty of opportunities for watersports, you’ll never get bored!
If you’re planning a trip to Crete, be sure to check out our list of the 10 most beautiful beaches. From the world-famous Elafonisi Beach to the lesser-known but equally stunning Balos Beach, you will find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the sun. I will explain why to visit each one of these beaches and what to expect there. So let us begin!
1
Elafonisi Beach
- Chania
- Parasol
- Restaurants
This beach is world-famous for its pink sand and turquoise waters. It’s a great place to relax and soak up the sun. There are plenty of restaurants and bars nearby if you get hungry, as well as a few sun loungers and umbrellas for rent. It’s also one of the busiest beaches on the island, so if you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax, you may visit it in the morning when it is less crowded. Elafonissi is a perfect beach to visit with your family and little ones; here, you can buy snacks from the taverns and then enjoy them with a view. It’s also a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling, so be sure to bring your gear!
2
Balos Beach
- Chania
- Parasol
Balos Beach is a great option if you’re looking for a breathtaking beach that’s relatively untouched by tourism. This beach is located northwest of Crete and is only accessible by boat. It’s well worth the effort to get there, and the ride itself is quite scenic as you pass by the nearby island of Gavdos. Once you arrive at Balos, you’ll be greeted by its stunning white sand and warm waters. You can see plenty of intriguing species of plants, flowers, and marine birds here. There are also some great cliffs to explore and plenty of opportunities for swimming and snorkeling.
3
Falassarna Beach
- Chania
- Parasol
- Restaurants
Falassarna Beach is another exotic option if you’re looking for a less touristy spot. It’s located on the western side of Crete and gets its name from the nearby archaeological site of Falassarna. The beach itself is quite long and has beautiful whitish sand and crystal-clear water. There are also several snack bars, restaurants, and a few sun loungers and umbrellas for rent. If you’re visiting with your partner, there could be no better place than Falassarna beach to enjoy a romantic sunset in the entire Crete!
4
Vai Beach
- East Coast
- Parasol
- Restaurants
Vai is one of the most popular beaches on Crete. It’s located on the island’s east coast and is known for its beautiful date palm tree forest, the largest in Europe. The beach itself is quite long and has crystal-clear water. There are also several beach bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops to enjoy snacks and lavish meals.
5
Epsikopi Beach
- Rethymno
- Parasol
- Restaurants
Episkopi beach is a hidden gem in Crete that not many tourists know about. It’s a long, sandy beach situated on the island’s north coast. It is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and windsurfing. There are no hotels or resorts on this beach, so it is usually not crowded. This beach is an excellent choice for those looking for a peaceful and quiet beach vacation. This beach has a wonderful tavern called “La Playa Taverna Beach Bar” for food and drinks.
6
Kedrodasos Beach
- Kissamos
- Restaurants
Kedrodasos beach is situated northwest of Crete, close to the village of Kissamos. It’s a small, untouched, tranquil beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. This beach is not crowded because there are no hotels or resorts nearby. The only thing you’ll find here is a few restaurants and tavernas. You can enjoy a tranquil time here with a lot of fascinating natural landscapes.
7
Plakias Beach
- Plakias
- Parasol
This beach is located in the town of Plakias in the south of Crete. It’s a great relaxing place, with plenty of sun loungers and parasols available for rent. The water is clean and perfect for swimming, with a gently sloping shelf making it ideal for families with young children.
8
Kaminaki Beach
- South Crete
Kaminaki Beach is a relatively small and secluded beach located east of Crete. It’s known for its dramatic cliffs, which make for a stunning backdrop. The beach is pretty rocky, so it’s not ideal for swimming, but it’s perfect for sunbathing and relaxing. Bathing shoes are recommended.
9
Chrissi Island - Golden Beach
- South Crete
- Restaurant
Chrissi island is one of the most popular beaches in Crete, and it’s easy to see why. The water is gorgeous turquoise, and the sand is incredibly soft and powdery. However, it is recommended not to visit this beach during peak season when it is overly crowded. It’s also worth noting that the island is home to a turtle sanctuary, so you may even have a chance to spot one of these creatures while you’re there!
10
Preveli Beach
- Rethymno
Preveli Beach is another busy spot in Crete. It’s known for its palm trees, which grow right down to the beach. The water here is also incredibly clear, making it perfect for swimming and snorkeling. There are also several restaurants and cafes located nearby, so you can enjoy a bite to eat while you soak up the incredible views.
Crete is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. These beaches are perfect for a relaxing vacation with crystal-clear water and soft sand. The beaches on this list are not to be missed. So, pack your bags and head to Crete for a beach vacation you’ll never forget!
