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.
![Tripiti beach](/media/k2/items/cache/bfef6034dab7e57f223e48f4dcf3e90d_M.jpg)
Tripiti (or Trypiti) is located 73km south of Heraklion and 12km east of Lendas, in a small plain at the exit of the gorge of Tripiti (not the homonym gorge of Sfakia area). The name is taken after the church of Panagia Tripiti, which is built inside a cave at the base of the canyon.
![Agia Galini beach](/media/k2/items/cache/f60a47f7792630a3a86bc14c0657e89c_M.jpg)
Agia Galini is one of the most popular seaside resorts of southern Rethymnon, situated next to the exit of the Amarianos River, 61km south of Rethymno city and 68km southwest of Heraklion. This small town is bustling with life during the summer months and provides all the necessary touristic amenities.
![Martsalo beach](/media/k2/items/cache/4fcf9d660236ddb62c8456017158615a_M.jpg)
Martsalo is a secluded beach in the west Asterousia Mountains, one of the most inaccessible areas of Heraklion. It is located just a few kilometers from the “horn” of Messara Plain, the Cape Lithino, and 80km southwest of Heraklion.
![Mavros Molos beach](/media/k2/items/cache/267b1948fa84309bc99f9c0289cabe44_M.jpg)
Mavros Molos (i.e. black jetty) beach is located just in front of Kissamos town, 36km west of Chania. Mavros Molos is a long gulf, on which remains of the ancient port of Kissamos have been found.
![Agiannis beach in Gavdos](/media/k2/items/cache/474f4cdd4383ff91fd1d98bcb039d93b_M.jpg)
The beauty of the beach and the surrounding region cannot be reflected within the lines of this text. It is not surprising that the Discovery Channel has declared Agiannis as the second best beach in the world after one beach in Hawaii. Indeed, Agiannis is a stunning secluded sandy beach, in a wild African landscape.
![Hiona beach](/media/k2/items/cache/f5ddf7bd97d01d87f4a7985398aea709_M.jpg)
Chiona means carob storehouse in the Cretan dialect and is taken after the storehouses that were usually built next to the shore in order to transfer carobs with ships. Indeed the area was known for trading carobs. Here you can have a perfect day, especially if you combine your visit to Chiona with eating at the famous local fish taverns of Batis and Amanakis.
![Fotinari beach](/media/k2/items/cache/f7abac252ae5ed68121b92ba7a669d87_M.jpg)
Fotinari (or Foteinari) is located 37km south of Rethymno, between Plakias and the beach of Souda. There are two beautiful quiet beaches, which are formed in the hug of two small coves with lush vegetation. The rocky seabed is ideal for fishing and snorkeling.
![Potamos beach in Gavdos](/media/k2/items/cache/d9b208614500b6f80739755fd29fad52_M.jpg)
The beach is surrounded by pines and cedars, making it a favorite destination for campers for those who love hiking. If you come to the river it is worth observing the fossils on the rocks or have some spa with the clay!