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.
Pera Galini beach 
The secluded bay of Pera Galini is located 48km east of Rethymno and 39km west of Heraklion, near the village Sises. The name “Pera Galini” is known to all Cretans because of the local disposal center, which accepts the garbage of the city of Heraklion. Almost nobody knows that there is a beach nearby, however severely degraded by pollution.
Katharades beach 
Shortly after the suburb Peristeras of Ierapetra starts the area of Katharades. This is a series of small beaches just before the famous shores of the village Koutsounari. This is a rugged place with strong winds, ranked among the 2-3 places with strongest wind blasts on Crete.
Klimata is a big bay in which there are three adjacent beaches. On the west side of the bay, there is the small harbor of Rodakino, accessed through a cement-paved road from Korakas. From there you can easily reach the first beach, situated next to the harbor.
Faflagos beach 
Faflagos is located 89km southeast of Iraklion, near the village Arvi. It is a small seaside settlement at the exit of a small valley, which is crossed by the river Blavaris or Blavopotamos, which has no water in summer and starts from Kato Symi. In front of the village, stretches a very long shore with beautiful and tranquil beaches. Nearby, there are many greenhouses with crops of bananas and fresh vegetables.
Vatalos beaches 
Vatalos is located 80km southeast of Chania, 1.5km west of Fragokastelo beach. Most of Fragokastelo hotels and rooms to let are located in the area of Vatalos, which is a flat area with fertile fileds and amazing views to the south slopes of White Mountains.
Keratides is located about 1km west of Paleochora harbor, 79km south of Chania city, just after the exit of Azogirianos river and the beach Halikia. It has coarse pebbles and stones and is preferred by those who seek peace and avoid crowds.
Stena is located 75km southwest of Heraklion, just 500m west of Kali Limenes harbor. It is situated in a secluded bay, which is hidden beyond the hill with the church and the cave of St. Paul. According to the legend, the Apostle lived inside this cave for 2 years. Stena can be accessed via a downhill dirt road, 400m long, starting in Kali Limenes. The route, of course, can be easily walked.
West of Lendas you'll meet the small village of Tsigounas with the small beach of Limanaki (harbor) used as a local harbour, due to its protected orientation. Tsigounas name derives from the word tsigounis (stingy) referring to a local spring with a small quantity of water.
