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The best of Crete’s beaches Where scenic coastlines meet hidden coves
More than 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) of coastline wrap around Crete, and the variety of beaches is hard to match anywhere else in Greece. You'll find white stretches of sand with turquoise water, wide open shores, and secluded coves tucked into rocky headlands, all somewhere on the largest island in the country. Elafonissi and Vai get most of the attention, but the best beaches in Crete aren't necessarily the most famous ones. Head south and west, away from the main resorts, and you'll come across untouched wild beaches that are only reachable on foot or by boat.
Up north, you'll find gentle, gradually sloping beaches. Go south and the coast turns wild and rugged, with rocky bays that reward a bit of scrambling. That contrast is part of what makes a coastal hike in Crete so rewarding, oftentimes turning up hidden beaches that you’ll struggle to find in a guidebook. Whether you're chasing family-friendly shores or a quiet cove to yourself, a beach vacation in Crete mixes relaxation and discovery every day you're out exploring.
Book your Crete beach vacation now on discover-airlines.com and discover some of Greece’s most beautiful coastlines.
Everything you need to know about a beach vacation in Crete
You won't find much more variety anywhere else in the Mediterranean than among Crete’s beaches. Rugged rock formations sit next to gentle sandy bays, long waterfront promenades give way to secluded bathing spots, and the contrast between north and south couldn't be more distinct. Gently sloping sandy beaches dominate the north, while the south turns wild, with steep cliffs, secluded coves, and landscape that's still largely untouched. Some of the best hidden gem beaches here are only reachable via gravel roads or after a hike. Head west for lagoons like Balos, with sand so fine it's nearly white, or east for untouched stretches of rock, pine groves and turquoise-blue bays. However you want to spend your beach vacation in Crete, whether that's sunbathing, snorkeling, or on a coastal hike, Crete's coastline gives you plenty of ground to cover.
Crete has plenty to offer besides beautiful sandy beaches, though. The island's history stretches back thousands of years and it's considered the birthplace of Minoan civilization, one of the oldest advanced cultures in Europe. Palaces like Knossos, Venetian-era fortresses, and Byzantine churches are woven into daily life here, and the culture alone is a good enough reason to visit. Many of the best beaches also happen to sit inside protected nature reserves or near traditional villages, so it's easy to combine sun, sea and history on the same day.
The climate is Mediterranean year-round, which is part of why a visit to Crete is worthwhile in any season. Summers are hot and dry; winters are mild though a bit wetter. Crete’s coast also gets more than 300 days of sunshine a year, ideal conditions no matter when you're planning to go. Summer temperatures often climb past 30°C (86°F), though a steady sea breeze keeps things comfortable even at the height of the season. Spring and fall bring warm days and water still mild enough for swimming, along with fewer crowds, so they're a great window for pairing time on the beach with exploring the island or enjoying a hike along the coast.
The most beautiful Crete beaches for combining relaxation and hiking
Travel tips for your beach vacation to Crete
Start planning your Crete beach vacation with a few basics in mind. Getting there is easy: the island has two international airports, in Heraklion and Chania, and both are served by direct flights from across Europe. If you want the flexibility to reach more remote beaches or hard-to-find coves, renting a car is generally a good idea. Traffic is generally light on most routes, though mountain roads get winding and narrow in places. GPS apps also hold up fine since most roads are well developed and in good condition.
Public transportation connects the larger towns, especially along the north coast, though service thins out in rural areas. Book taxis ahead of time or through your accommodation rather than trying to flag one down. If you're driving into the mountains, fill up before you go. Gas stations get scarce once you're inland.
Supermarkets in tourist areas are often open on Sundays, but smaller shops, pharmacies, and bakeries usually close for a long break during the day, typically from 2 to 5 p.m. Plan your errands for the morning and you'll be fine. In bigger towns and resort areas, you'll often find supermarkets open throughout the day and often until late at night.
Don’t forget to pack sun protection, especially in summer when the Cretan sun can be pretty intense. Wear sunscreen with a high enough SPF and take a hat and plenty of water with you, particularly if you're planning longer coastal hikes that day. Many beaches in Crete are pebbly rather than sandy, so water shoes are also worth packing. Light, breathable clothing is all you need in summer but bring a light jacket for evenings in fall or spring. If you're planning to visit a church or monastery, dress modestly, with your shoulders and knees covered.
Whether you’re after a hidden gem or a postcard perfect beach, Crete's coastline makes it worth the trip. Start planning now and book at discover-airlines.com.
January
Avg. Temperature:
9°C/9°C
Rainy days per month:
40-80
February
Avg. Temperature:
9°C/9°C
Rainy days per month:
30-70
March
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10°C/10°C
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30-60
April
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12°C/12°C
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20-50
May
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15°C/15°C
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5-20
June
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19°C/19°C
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0-5
July
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21°C/21°C
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0-5
August
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22°C/22°C
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0-10
September
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19°C/19°C
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5-40
October
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16°C/16°C
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40-90
November
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14°C/14°C
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50-100
December
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11°C/11°C
Rainy days per month:
40-80