From the dunes of Lafonissi and Xerokambos to the tropical shores of Kedrodasos and Chrissi, from the hidden beaches in the wild gorges of Sfakia and Asteroussia to the emerald bays of Triopetra and Plakias, from Balos and Elounda lagoons to the palm groves of Preveli and Vai, from piney beaches of Ierapetra to the long organized strands of the northern coasts, Crete offers the ultimate combination of carefree holidays and natural beauty, which can be finely reflected on its beaches.
Atherina beach is located about 70 km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and 34 km east of Ierapetra, shortly before we reach the seaside village of Goudouras. To approach it from the shore, from the main road walk along the narrow and deep dry stream, which drains the Vigla region.
Xotikospilio (i.e. the cave of elfs) is located 70km southwest of Chania, 30km south of Kissamos and 1.5 km northwest of Keramoti village. It is named after the small cave next to it where locals have seen elfs!
Agios Nikolaos beach is located in a remote area just west of Bali, province Mylopotamos. The name comes after the Byzantine double-nave church of Saint Nicholas, which is located in a green creek that leads to a beautiful cove.
About 1km west of Arvi we meet the stream of Bouboulis. If we cross the stream and walk about 5' minutes we reach the remote sandy beach of Meakis, also known as Vahoudianos Xerokambos. The beach is located in a secluded bay with fine sand and clear water, which is never busy.
Bonda beach (or Grias Pidima) is located 49km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and 14km east of Ierapetra, in the territory of the village Schinokapsala, between the seaside settlements of Agios Panteleimonas and Ahlia. Just below the main road connecting Ierapetra to Makrygialos, you will meet this small beach with rocks in places, totally secluded and ideal for isolation, compared to other beaches of the area. The is accessed through a small plateau near the main road.
Thousands of visitors, descending the Samaria gorge, reach Agia Roumeli every day and enjoy their bath in the main beach, Gialos, stretching in front of the taverns. However, there are some very nice and quiet beaches around, one could explore. One of these beaches is Mashali and is actually the west part of the bay of Agia Roumeli.
Kastri is located 72km southeast of Heraklion, in the sheltered bay of Keratokambos. It is the biggest of the two settlements of the region (the second is Keratokambos), which are now united. In recent years Kastri has faced a considerable development, mainly because the surrounding beaches are a magnet for visitors.
Giorgakis is one of the many beaches in Ferma area, formed below very steep cliffs, but it can be accessed by stairs. The short descent leads to one of the most beautiful beaches of East Crete, with fine pebbles and rocks that form caves.