• How large is Crete compared to other Mediterranean islands?
    • As one of the largest islands in the Mediterranean Sea, Crete has an extensive coastline with many beautiful beaches to explore.
  • Why do many travelers visit Crete?
    • A major reason people visit Crete is to experience the island’s stunning beaches and coastal beauty.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy on Crete’s beaches?
    • Travelers love spending time on the sand, soaking up the sun, and dipping their feet in the warm waters of the Mediterranean.

Best Time to Visit Crete Beaches

  • May to October – Best overall time with warm weather, clear skies, and perfect conditions for swimming and sunbathing.
  • June to September – Peak beach season with hot temps, lively coastal towns, and vibrant Mediterranean energy.
  • May & October – Pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and ideal for relaxed beach days and exploring.
  • March & April – Cooler but scenic, with blooming landscapes and quiet shores.
  • November to February – Off-season with mild winters, fewer crowds, and peaceful seaside views.

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1. Balos Lagoon


Balos Lagoon

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  • What makes Balos Lagoon so special?
    • Balos Lagoon is an unbelievably beautiful and famous spot in Crete.
    • It is one of those beaches that make you stop and take in the breathtaking scenery in every direction.
  • What is the experience like at Balos Lagoon?
    • The views are truly captivating, and once you step onto the soft sands, you may never want to leave.
  • Why is Balos Lagoon so popular among photographers?
    • Due to its unique beauty, Balos Lagoon is one of the most photographed beaches on the island of Crete.
  • How far is Balos Lagoon from Kissamos?
    • This stunning beach is conveniently located only 10-15 minutes from Kissamos.
  • Does Balos Lagoon have any historical significance?
    • Yes! This beach has an interesting history, as Princess Diana and Prince Charles once stopped here to admire the breathtaking scenery.

2. Vai Beach


Vai Beach

© Pitcher/stock.adobe.com

  • Where is Vai Beach located?
    • Vai Beach is situated on the northern shores of Crete in the Lassithi area.
  • What makes Vai Beach a great spot for swimming?
    • The beach has a gently curving shape, which helps keep the waters calm and gentle.
    • It is ideal for young or inexperienced swimmers to splash and paddle safely.
  • Why is Vai Beach considered one of the best family beaches?
    • Vai Beach is one of the best family-friendly beaches on Crete due to its safe waters and beautiful surroundings.
  • What unique natural feature surrounds Vai Beach?
    • The beach is surrounded on almost all sides by an enormous palm tree forest.
    • This gives it a private island feel, making it a stunning and peaceful retreat.
  • Do visitors enjoy returning to Vai Beach?
    • Yes! Many visitors instantly fall in love with Vai Beach and want to return again and again, just like with many of Crete's other best beaches.

3. Falassarna Beach


Falassarna Beach

© milda79/stock.adobe.com

  • Where is Falassarna Beach located?
    • Falassarna Beach is situated on the western end of Cape Gramvousa, offering a vast sandy expanse.
  • What makes Falassarna Beach unique?
    • One of its most distinctive features is the presence of old Roman ruins at the northern end of the beach.
    • This makes it an ideal spot for visitors with an adventurous spirit who want to explore and learn more about the island’s history.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy at Falassarna Beach?
    • The wide sandy spaces are perfect for beach games and picnics, making it a great destination for families and groups.
  • What kind of scenery can visitors expect?
    • The views at Falassarna Beach are truly phenomenal, offering breathtaking coastal landscapes.
  • Should visitors bring a camera to Falassarna Beach?
    • Absolutely! You’ll definitely want to snap some vacation photos to share with family and friends when you return home.

4. Elafonissi Beach


Elafonissi Beach

© kwasny221/stock.adobe.com

  • Where is Elafonissi Beach located?
    • Elafonissi Beach is situated on the southwestern shores of Crete.
  • What makes Elafonissi Beach special?
    • It is one of the longest and prettiest beaches on the island.
    • The beach has an almost Caribbean-like atmosphere, with stunning waters and soft sands.
  • What are the colors of the sand and water at Elafonissi Beach?
    • The waters are a perfect shade of turquoise, creating a breathtaking view.
    • The sands are soft and white, with a faint tinge of pink, making them truly unique.
  • Are there facilities at Elafonissi Beach?
    • Yes! A large section of the beach is equipped with sun loungers and umbrellas for visitors to relax.
    • It is recommended to arrive early to secure a good spot before the crowds gather.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy at Elafonissi Beach?
    • Popular activities at this beach include:
    • Swimming
    • Sunbathing
    • Snorkeling

5. Kedrodasos Beach


Kedrodasos Beach

© luxerendering/stock.adobe.com

  • Where is Kedrodasos Beach located?
    • Kedrodasos Beach is situated among an astonishing juniper forest, right by the turquoise waters of Elafonissi Lagoon.
  • What makes Kedrodasos Beach special?
    • This pristine location is untouched by the tourism industry, making it one of the best beaches on the island.
  • What type of terrain does Kedrodasos Beach have?
    • The beach features a mix of sandy and rocky spots, adding to its unique and rugged charm.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy at Kedrodasos Beach?
    • The surrounding juniper forests provide a stunning backdrop for:
    • Photography
    • Picnics
    • Romantic strolls with someone special

6. Crete, Greece Map


Crete, Greece Map

© miobuono/stock.adobe.com

The biggest and most populous of all the Greek Islands, Crete is a highly popular tourist destination and is seen as one of the main cultural and historical centers of Greece, as well as having its own unique idiosyncrasies to separate it from other parts of the country. Several million visitors are drawn to Crete each year and the island is well-known for appealing to a broad range of tourists, having activities and ideas to please people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you're looking to kick back and relax on the beaches and by the pools or enjoy a more active break exploring Crete's museums and archaeological sites, you'll find a lot to love on this island.

The weather on Crete is also another big bonus, with hot temperatures in the summer and warm to mild temperatures for the rest of the year, and these conditions are just right for spending time down on the beach, working on your tan or splashing around in the sea. Crete’s beaches have a lot to offer and vary quite a lot, from tourist-laden stretches of soft sand with lots of resorts and restaurants right nearby to more secluded, intimate spots to watch the sun go down with a loved one by your side.


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Summer (June-August) – Hot and perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Domes Noruz Chania – A luxury beachfront resort for adults. Visit Elafonissi Beach Early – Beat the crowds and enjoy the pink sand in peace.
Fall (September-November) – Warm waters and fewer tourists. Stella Island Resort & Spa – A stunning overwater bungalow experience. Explore Balos Lagoon – A breathtaking mix of turquoise waters and white sand.
Winter (December-February) – Mild weather, great for hiking and sightseeing. Casa Delfino Hotel & Spa – A charming boutique stay in Chania. Walk Along Falassarna Beach – Enjoy stunning views without the summer crowds.
Spring (March-May) – Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes. Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort – Overlooks the beautiful Elounda Bay. Take a Boat Trip to Chrissi Island – Discover golden beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Plan Your Trip


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