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.
Voulolimni (i.e. sunk lake) is located 70km southeast of Chania and 500m northwest of Chrysoskalitissa monastery. It is actually a small crater, surrounded by rocks, forming a small salt lake. Voulolimni is not actually a beach, but the rocky "pool" for the residents of Chrysoskalitissa.
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 considerable development, mainly because the surrounding beaches are a magnet for visitors.
The beach of Drapanias is located 5km east of Kissamos and 32km west of Chania, between Korfalonas and the Nopigia. It is named after the homonym village, situated 1km south of the beach. It's east part is also called Kokkino Metohi.
The rocky beach of Tripiti is located 5km east of Sougia and 68km south of Chania, at the ending point of the rough gorge of Trypiti. It has crystal blue water and is pebbly. It is absolutely secluded, as all the beaches of the wider Sfakia area.
One of the best beaches in Agia Roumeli is located on the east side of the settlement, beyond the river of Samaria gorge and below the ruins of ancient Tarra. Here beautiful rocky formations and cavities are formed at position Zeromouri, which have beautiful pebbly beaches in front of them.
Koumbes is located 2km west of the center of Rethymnon and is actually the only beach in the west part of the city. It has wonderful views to the imposing fortress of Fortezza, which is located a few hundred meters on the east. It is named after the Turkish word Kubbe that means “dome”.
In front of the cove lies a beautiful beach with coarse sand and vivid blue water. The beach is slightly developed with some umbrellas, water sports and some rooms, mini markets and taverns closeby. There are many tamarisk trees around offering shade to the visitors and the sea is almost always flat. The area is ideal for peaceful holidays and for families.
Lagoufa is located right after the east end of Makrigialos main beach, around 59km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and 24km east of Ierapetra. It consists of two adjacent protected coves, which are formed near the big hotels of Makrigialos.