Your Guide to the Best Crete Beaches

Nestled at Greece's southernmost edge, Crete—the archipelago's grandest isle—remains a treasure waiting to be fully unveiled. Beyond the well-trodden paths of typical Greek island escapes, Crete whispers promises of unrivaled beaches and a culinary legacy that ignites the senses. To truly experience its soul, we urge you: settle into the charming embrace of Chania, and let the open road guide you. Yes, some of Crete's most breathtaking shores lie a scenic two-hour drive away, but trust us, with a playlist and a basket of local delights, the journey itself becomes a cherished memory, a prelude to the unforgettable spectacle of its legendary pink sands.

Chania Old Town

We fell in love with Chania's old town, its charming, winding streets leading us to the bustling Venetian port. The air there vibrated with life: the gleam of handmade jewelry and clothing, the strumming of street musicians, and the lively chatter of locals and travelers. Crete's reputation as a culinary capital was well-deserved, and we savored meals at Mikrolimano Psarotaverna and The Well of the Turk. Mikrolimano, a 'fish tavern' by the Aegean, offered the freshest seafood, and we were even invited to choose our dinner from the day's catch—a truly special experience. For a fantastic, affordable meal, The Well of the Turk delivered with its rich blend of Mediterranean, Turkish, and Middle Eastern cuisine, especially its slow-cooked lamb and excellent wines. We enjoyed it so much, we returned twice! To cap off our nights, we explored the old town's bars, enjoying traditional Cretan rakhi.

Seitan Limania

Seitan Limania, a mere 30-minute drive from Chania's old town, presented the shortest journey to any beach we found on Crete. We learned, rather quickly, that flip-flops are ill-suited for the rocky cliffs that descend to this hidden cove. However, the effort is richly rewarded, as you'll discover a nearly private beach. During our visit, only a handful of other groups shared this secluded paradise, along with the iconic goats, those friendly creatures that lend a unique charm. For the adventurous, a cliffside hike offers the chance to plunge into waters of the most vibrant blue imaginable.

Preveli Beach

Preveli emanates a bohemian vibe, marked by its antique sailing decor, beachfront diner, and a hidden palm-tree oasis just steps away. Another rocky, lengthy descent awaits, but it’s an effort well worth it. We spent the day lounging here, indulging in Greek salads and soaking up the sun. After a day of sunbathing, we embarked on the Preveli Beach Trailhead to the left of the ocean. It was like stepping into another world! The hour-and-a-half trek from Chania was a no-brainer for exploring this one-of-a-kind beach all day.

Elafonissi Beach

Elafonissi Beach is a transformative encounter, a place where dreams of pink-sand shores become tangible. If you seek one of the world's rare coastal wonders, look no further. While the sand's subtle shades may evolve throughout the year, its beauty remains profoundly captivating. Immerse yourself in the exploration of the small islands, indulge in the tranquility of private beach chairs, and witness the thrilling ballet of windsurfers against the sea. This is a must-experience

Kourtaliotiko Gorge

Kourtaliotiko Gorge, though not a beach, is a Cretan gem. Just over an hour from Chania's Old Town, you'll know you're approaching the gorge when you spot a church carved into the cliffside. The descent to the gorge floor is lengthy, but the reward is a refreshing plunge into the cool waters. This might've been one of the coldest swims we've experienced, but the short trek to the waterfall deep within the gorge is worth it. Once you're under the cascading water, you'll forget the chill and be captivated by the stunning natural beauty. It's a truly magical experience that everyone should have at least once in their life; it feels like stepping into another world.

While we couldn’t explore every Cretan beach, we were thoroughly impressed by the ones we did visit. To truly experience all the island has to offer, we recommend staying for a week or more. With countless activities, dining options, and breathtaking beaches, Crete is a destination that won’t disappoint. Book a trip with one of our luxury travel designers to discover these exceptional shores firsthand.