Crete is one of the most popular destinations in Greece, and for those who are looking for great beaches, there are plenty of choices. The majority of the real paradise beaches, however, is a bit outside the most common tourist destinations, and unfortunately, many tourists miss out on these lovely beaches, simply because they go only to the beach which is near their hotel.
Although the beaches of Chania and Rethymnon are beautiful, they really can’t compare with the best beaches on Crete. In this article, I will, therefore, share my favorites when it comes to beaches on Crete.
Balos
This beach is amazing and almost a must to visit when you travel to Crete. Balos is a picture perfect lagoon with the finest sand and turquoise crystal clear water. But it’s not just the water, and the sand that’s beautiful, it’s also the landscape that surrounds the lagoon.
I heartily recommend a visit to the Balos Beach, whether you are traveling with or without children. The easiest way to get here is via boat.
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Elafonissi
This beach is undoubtedly one of Europe’s best beaches. Elafonissi is a real paradise beach in the same class as the Maldives paradise beaches. The sand is excellent and shimmers in pink. The water is shallow and crystal clear.
Despite this, there are not many tourists who find their way here during their trip to Crete. Perhaps because the beach is a bit far on the southwest coast. Elafonissi is about 80 km outside Chania, and the best way to get here is by car or via a day trip arranged by the tour operators and travel agents.
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Kedrodasos beach
Nearby Elafonissi is another beautiful beach that has even more wild nature and virtually no tourists at all. The beach is called Kedrodasos Beach and don’t even have any facilities to offer, but it is also that which is part of the charm. Here you travel for calmness and to enjoy an unspoiled beach in its real beauty.
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Elounda
Elounda Located near the cozy resort of Agios Nikolaos and is ideal if you want to snorkel and swim. The sand is nice, and the water is crystal clear with a lovely turquoise color.
Vai beach
Do you long for a serene beach with palm trees? Then Vai is the beach you should go to. Here awaits fine-grained sand with crystalline waters dotted with swaying palm trees. The beach can be found in the northeastern part of Crete.
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Agii Apostoli
Are you traveling to Crete with kids? Then Agii Apostoli is an excellent place to go. Here are three beaches that are ideal for anyone traveling with children. The beaches here are shallow and calm water without currents. Agii Apostoli is located near Chania, so it’s easy to get here by bus or car.
Stefanou beach
Stefanou beach is yet another beautiful beach on Crete, which is located about 2 kilometers outside the small village Chordak. The surrounding bay protects it against the wind and strong currents.
Stefanou Beach is a perfect beach if you don’t want to share the beach with hundreds of other tourists. The easiest way to get here is via boat. One could also travel here by car, but be prepared to walk down a 20-minute steep and narrow path from the parking lot.
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Falassarna beach
Another great beach on Crete, which could easily classify as one of the very best. Falassarna consists of five different beaches, so there is plenty of room for everyone even though there are many people who visit the beach.
The easiest way to get here is by bus from Chania or Kissamos, and by rental car or moped. However, one should be aware that it can get pretty windy on Falassarna Beach.
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Matala Beach
Matala Beach has been particularly popular with the hippies in the ’60s, and today there is still a relaxed hippie feeling left on the beach. A lovely beach which is perfect if you want a pleasant and comfy day on the beach.
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