Some swim-up rooms are available. Most of the beach is lined with tavernas, cafes and bars, but with easy acces to the city. If you have a car then you might also want to consider accommodation up in Mirtios village above the bay. See More, Set in an out-of-this-world location right on the Cretan seafront. Both a beautiful and quiet place to visit in Crete. "The location is perfect as is one of the best beaches on the island, being quiet yet with locals around, and close enough to the Venetian Harbour for day or evening trips.". Heading to the beautiful Greek island of Crete this year? It attracts independent travellers and plenty of returners and is a popular base for hiking in the area. Set in landscaped gardens, the freshly reinvented Radisson Blu Beach Resort has seven pools, direct beach acces, and is popular with families. There are numerous beaches to visit, and if they are a bit far or you want to go further afield, as a bigger resort you can find hire cars for the standard rate. La Maison Ottomane brings a touch of Ottoman decadence meets modern style. ". ; EAST: The beaches past Elia are beyond the reach of the bus and water taxi network so things calm down considerably. The Spinalonga peninsula is connected to the town by a causeway the peninsula curves right around and the UNESCO-listed island sits at its tip, creating a natural harbour sheltered from the elements. Theres plenty to keep older children entertained, including watersports and boat trips. Despite its proximity to larger resorts, the bus service to Sissi is limited, so its better suited to couples looking for a quiet place to stay in Crete or those wanting to explore the wild Agios Ioannis peninsula by car. of the rooms, the quality of the beach. Most likely, it will only be you, the sound of the lapping water, the bristling sun and the rustle of the pine trees. Paleochora is the main resort town on the south-west coast. Highly discreet, with striking designs, each hotel is different. There is an increasing number of upmarket resorts in Sissi. Visitors here can simply detox from life and tackle long-awaited books, take walks along the stunning scenery or simply eat, drink and be merry. Visitors to the area might be shocked to find that it retains its snowcaps until the middle of spring and offers innumerable hiking opportunities from the Samaria Gorge to the Askifou plateau to Mount Ida herself. 9 Theofanus Street, Chania, Crete Island, 731 00. But what you will find is a collection of properly local eateries, a few small and sandy beaches, and crystal clear water if you want to go for a dip. Sissi is a small resort thats on the coast between Malia and Plaka, known for its pretty harbour and seafood tavernas. You are properly in the land of Greek mythology, I expected Jason and his argonauts to pop over the horizon at any moment whilst we sat on the beach. The prices in Hersonissos are very competitive, partially to lure customers out of the many all-inclusive hotels in the area. Its deliciously quiet in shoulder season. It is home to a substantial palm date forest, which is accessible by foot or by car. Did somebody say wine? But there is also an ecological interest Falassarna is part of the Natura 2000 network due to the extensive array of flora and fauna the area has to offer. #3 Best Value of 119 Crete Resorts "The mini water park within the hotel is excellent, with plenty of slides for younger and older kids. The beach of Myrtos is a hidden treasure which, rarely gets crowded and provides a real opportunity to take a load off and truly relax. However, Balos Beach caught our eye for its clean waters and beautiful offshore reefs. But the lagoon beach is known to many island regulars, and gets busy on a summer weekend. What was once a small Greek village has now become a cosmopolitan town, with bars, restaurants and hotels surrounding picturesque Lake Voulismeni. Chanias maze of old town streets have been prettied up for the tourists, but they still retain a charming atmosphere especially if you can catch them in spring before the masses arrive. A classy, modern hotel. Sissi is located on the north coast of Crete a 40-minute drive from Heraklion Airport. The harbourfront is lined with restaurants and smart boutiques, and the narrow alleys filled with souvenir shops, and the colourful tables and twinkly lights of tavernas vying for your trade. There are seven restaurants to choose from, a kids' club, and a wide range of activities - a real crowd pleaser. Parts of it are organised in the summer months though, and it does attract daytrippers. The Troulis Apart-hotel is excellent value. Agios Nikolaos is located on the east side of the island around a 50-minute drive from Heraklion Airport. Top things to see and do in Rethymno include: And possible day trips in the area include: Rethymnon Beach is Cretes longest sandy beach at 12km long, and as it extends east from the city it swallows up villages that have long since morphed into suburban beach resorts. #1 Best Value of 1,305 Crete Beach Hotels "Beach - Currently sitting on the beach I can tell you it is a little sun trap! It has a quiet and authentic atmosphere and a well-sheltered beach its one of the best places in Crete for families with small children. Triopetra Beach is located on the south of the island around a 2 hour drive from Heraklion airport. Bored of sunning yourself? Top things to see and do in Agios Nikolaos include: Porto Maltese Boutique Estate is Ag Niks most stylish des res, with a waterfront location, courtyard, and sympathetic restoration. . Mythology aside you can visit the ruins of the Minoan Zakros palace, which is a genuine archaeological site. The older part of town (Ano Hersonissos or Palia Hersonissos) is set back from the coast and has lots of little family-run tavernas. Malia can be a great option for cheap last minute packages keep an eye on Lastminute.com for deals. Located to the eastern side of the island of Crete, Kato Zakros is a bit out of the way, but well worth the visit. Very good. Here, you can available of the offerings from the nearby tavernas and umbrellas are available. There's a gorgeous lagoon-style pool, a small spa, and a restaurant. An adults-only hotel in a converted historic mansion, it has been elegantly restored and has its own hammam. But most options are traditional apartment complexes such as Petritos Rooms or small houses like Arodamos Sea House. 1,438 reviews. Youll find the standard Greek beachside fare if you want to have a halftime break, and nestled in its backstreets are a multitude of boutique-style shops selling some handmade, and some not-so-handmade trinkets. Palm-fringed Preveli is one of the most unique and beautiful beaches on Crete. #26 Best Value of 502 Quiet Hotels in Crete. As about as non-commercial as it gets, Sissi is everything you want from a pretty Mediterranean fishing village. Aside from the peacefulness of the region, it is hard not to be astounded by the artwork the elements left behind- a series of terraces in the rock face which, will undoubtedly leave you awestruck. Top choice is the IG-friendly swim-up rooms at Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa. With a summer season lasting well into October September is still considered high season and almost tropical-warmth seas at the height of summer, Crete has one of Europe's longest beach-holiday seasons. The smaller of the two beaches, Small Triopetra (or Koumado), is more an enclosed, sandy, and rocky bay. It has a pretty setting in the Gulf of Mirabello with waterfront bars encircling a small lake its made for people watching, and there is a cosmopolitan cafe-bar scene. Plakias is one of the nicest small resorts on Crete. The beach is sandy and the sea is calm, though the south coast does get fierce winds at times. The Greek islands with the best beaches are Crete, Naxos, Paros, Ios, Milos, Mykonos, and Rhodes. Slap bang in the middle of the northern coastline, the city of Heraklion (also spelt Iraklio or Iraklion) is the capital and its surrounding coastline is some of the busiest and most developed on Crete. Whether you are planning a getaway with the family, a couples' escape or a luxury break there is something to suit most tastes and budgets here. Transfer time: 20 minutes from Heraklion International airport. Astoria Hotel is a small family-run hotel with sea views and coastal decor. It has a slightly scruffy feel but there are two town beaches, an archaeological museum and some excellent restaurants to entertain you. Panormos a small and charming traditional Cretan fishing village located on the northern coast has a few little extra bits that make it attractive, and a winery, it also has guided tours and tasting as well making it an attractive proposition indeed. 1. It attracts a younger crowd than Agia Galini, more families and independent travellers. Accommodation is spacious and secluded, the best options have heated seawater pools, but all are utterly indulgent. It has a sand-and-pebble beach and a handful of good tavernas to choose from. Return to simpler times at this beautiful hideaway on Crete. window.mc4wp.listeners.push( Heraklion is Cretes capital and the largest city on the island. The surrounding hillsides are home to a swathe of lovely resort hotels and a few minor beaches. Kissamos is a working port town on the northwestern edge of Crete. Agia Roumeli: Lots of budget rooms all around the same price point thanks to the proliferation of walkers tryAgia Roumeli Hotel or Gigilos which are both right on the beach. The LATO Boutique Hotel is more modern and has harbour views. Concur with these, we love Crete. If youve braved the paddle (or walked over the sandbar leading to the island) youll be rewarded with water that is the temperature of bathwater, soft pink sand (particular to this area only), and pictures that youll treasurePrizes awarded for spotting a sea turtleand deducted for duckface Instagram postsenjoy! Transfer time: 25 minutes from Heraklion International airport. But almost every island has at least a few great swimming beaches. { South coast Agia Galini is a small harbour town that was once the biggest resort town in the Rethymno region. In certain lights as well, Balos Beach has a hint of pink sand. Packages to Stalis are available through TUI. As Chania is a regional capital and in close proximity to so many beach resorts, it makes a great base to explore the west of the island. Options are spread out along the vast beach so check the location before booking if you want to be closer to the castle for proximity to the few tavernas and cafes. The majority of Bahamian beaches are safely in "paradise on Earth" territory. On the beach itself, there is a tavern that sells local nibbles and drinks as well as sunbeds. Elounda Gulf Villas provide a free transfer to a private beach club. Wonderful! The only parking is on the street which is very limited. Transfer time: 2hrs from Heraklion International airport, 10 minutes from Sitia Public Airport. NORTH: Rugged and unpopulated, with quiet but windy beaches. Outside this, its a large resort town with an excellent (though busy) beach, an unashamedly commercial centre, and a charming old quarter (Old Malia), where youll find traditional houses and tavernas. Agia Pelagia is halfway between Bali and Heraklion and is the only real beach resort to the west of the capital, to which it is connected by a regular bus service which takes about 1 hr. The beach is in a protected park and no development is allowed with 1km. The hotel is all-inclusive but the food was of excellent quality." Breakfast included 2022 4. Transfer time: 1hr 10 minutes from Chania International airport. The resort boasts an outdoor hot tub. Located in the south-eastern corner of the island is this tranquil, pristine, white-washed village full of traditional charm. There are still many quieter, less commercialized resorts, villages, and secluded coves to explore and more hidden locations that are barely touched by tourism. 9.8/5 (157 reviews) "The bed was so comfortable. The nearest rooms are a few miles away try the sereneGlykeria Hoteland Elafonisi Resort. The walk can take upwards of two hours depending on ability and speed, but also inclination, make sure you take your time to soak up the beautiful views and atmosphere. The beaches in this area are all sandy, clean and stretch as far as the eye can see! Just dont expect to find authentic Crete here. A typical routine is to eat dinner in the old village and then head down towards the waterfront for evening drinks. That said, they are exposed to the northwesterly Meltemi wind which blasts Greece throughout the summer beware big waves and undercurrents when the wind is blowing, pay attention to local advice. These hikes can be strenuous and at some moments, hair-raising but they are well maintained. If you want to be closer to the beaches, Nostos Beach Boutique Hotel is freshly renovated and has a pool, beach bar and day beds. Its a perfect romantic destination for couples. Rooms with floaty linen curtains have excellent sea views from their large glass windows. My must-do highlights of Falassarna Experience a paragliding ride overlooking the coast to admire the island from a different perspective. On a budget? Sougia is located on the South West coast of the island around a 3 hour 20 minute drive from Heraklion airport. Minoa Palace Resort & Spa is another beachfront blockbuster with private pools and daybeds. There are a few tavernas and perhaps the occasional cafe bordering the shallow rocky beach. Glyka Nera is located on the south coast of Crete a 2 hour 30 minutes drive from Heraklion Airport. Crete Beach Resorts: Find 55281 traveller reviews, candid photos, and the top ranked Oceanfront Hotels in Crete on Tripadvisor. Interiors are chic, contemporary and comfortable. There are lots of lovely places to stay in Rethymnon. See More, Experience luxury in abundance at this peninsula hotel with contemporary, stylish decor and sea views. Royal Marmin Bay Boutique & Art Hotel 4. A spoiling beach treat! The village itself is loaded with a rich history, including a museum which houses finds of Minoan archaeological importance found nearby and you can hear tales about the towns colourful past and folklore in the many local tavernas. Offering plenty of five-star luxury, Elounda is stuffed with beautiful resorts and classy hotels. In addition to 14 freshwater outdoor and indoor pools, it has a 350-meter beach with umbrellas, beach chairs, water sports (for a fee), beach volleyball, and beach parties hosted by the entertainment team. See More, A stylish modern hotel with spacious one-bedroom suites with a separate living room and great views over the ocean. 26. Crossing the south of the island is difficult. Falassarna is located on the west coast of the island around a 2 hour 40 minute drive from Heraklion airport. Mykonos is relatively small and you can easily drive around in a day. The five restaurants serve a range of food from sushi to Greek and there's a fabulous spa too. There is a small airport serving flights to and from Athens. There is a smart restaurant and bar and an outdoor pool area with a terrace. A good selection of bars and restaurants. Enjoy the many dining options, good spa and lots of activities - tennis, water sports and nearby nightlife. I loved Ligaria a small and charming seaside village located on the north side of Crete especially its lovely beach which has the same name. If you are staying one or more nights, you dont need to worry about thumping music or all-night parties. Show Prices. St Nicholas Bay Resort Hotels & Villas is a large 5* complex with direct beach access. If you want a bit of light culture there is a church (Agios Panteleimon) on the Western side of the village, it has a gorgeous mosaic floor and is not commercial in any way (if you want to see it youll have to go to the kiosk on Sougia beach and ask for the key yourselfseriously)! Good value rooms and family-run studios abound check rooms and availability on Booking.com. Its friendly and authentic if you want to get away from mass tourism then this easternmost part of Crete is a good bet. Plakias is located along the south coast of the island around an hour and 40 min drive from Heraklion Airport. Its an easy and cheap bus ride to Knoss from Heraklion. Balos Beach is one of the best beaches in Greece if you want that fine white sand aesthetic. One of the most beautiful cities in all of Greece, Chania is unsurprisingly a popular tourist destination. Other options include Hotel Loutro Bay,SifisandDaskalogiannis Hotel. Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection Show prices Enter dates to see prices It is an absolute must for visitors to Crete is to complete the walk down the gorge from the Omalos plateau to Agia Roumeli on the Libyan Sea, at which point tourists sail to the nearby village of Sougia or Hora Sfakion, where they could spend a night or they could catch a coach back to Chania. BEST PLACES TO STAY IN CRETE IN AGIOS NIKOLAOS ($$$) Minos Beach Art Hotel ($$) Miramare Resort & Spa ($) Ikaros Art Hotel FIND AGIOS NIKOLAOS HOTEL DEALS 5. Some of the most beautiful and unique beaches are in the area nearby Damnoni is sandy with shallow clear waters, perfect for kids. There are a number of hotels right on the beach such as the modern and comfortable Sofia Hotel. 2,101 reviews. A small town located on a small peninsula in southwest Crete, Paleochora is ideal if you want a bit of both. 5* resort Domes of Elounda is one of Cretes most exclusive hotels and has access to a private sandy beach, VIP services, and a champagne bar. Show Prices. On a budget? Therefore it can be easier to decide on arrival airport/port first, or any attractions that you particularly want to visit, in order to narrow down where to stay. It's quiet not only because the village is quiet and the people who go there are quiet, but because it's so big: 1.3 km long, and very wide, so that even in high season you can feel that you've got it almost to yourself. See More, A great getaway to an idyllic blue bay in a car-free village, right on the beach. There are no luxury hotels in the area, but an excellent selection of traditional family-run hotels and pensions, many with sea views. Mar 20 - Mar 21. The town isnt strictly a beach resort, so theres plenty to see and do besides basking. There are some bars, but they are more likely to be full of civilised locals than your standard 18-30 gangs. There is also a domestic airport in Sitia with flights from Athens. Agios Nikolaos Best for families A favourite of package holiday companies, Agios Nikolaos is one of Crete's biggest but most charming resorts, making it a great choice for families. These vary greatly depending on the region and location: Snow white sand alternates with shell sand and fine gravel. The resorts spread out in either direction along the coast. Up until fairly recently, Elafonisi was one of Cretes best-kept secrets, sadly social media selfie-lovers got a firm grasp of it, so it can get seriously busy in the high seasons. } But at the end of the day, Mexico will always be known as a beach destination - and for good reason. To the west of Sitia is the small coastal village of Mochlos which sports two islets with Minoan excavations. . If you can get beyond immediate appearances, it has a likeable vibe there are some excellent museums and a good bar and music scene propped up by the local student population. If it tickles your fancy there is a naturist beach off to the east. There are two routes to the beach by boat or for the most extreme, there is a path from Chora Sfakion and another from Loutro. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED The main attraction in Stalis (or Stalida) is its 6km golden crescent of beach, and its proximity to party capital Malia (just a 30-minute walk). Ranked as a top Travel Authority in the UK by Agility PR Solutions, Nominated as the best female travel blogger in the Teletext Holiday Awards 2019, British Annual Canada Travel Awards Finalist 2018, Nominated for the Best UK Travel Blog 2018, Cheapflights Travel Blog Awards Nominee 2017, GLOBAL GRASSHOPPER. Transfer time: 30 minutes from Heraklion airport. Ierapetra is known as the capital of the south coast as its the biggest town along the coast, and one of the southernmost towns in Europe. Belvedere Apartments are box fresh and have spa access. Something of the original working fishing harbour feel remains, and traditional domatia and cheap cafes sit alongside bijou boutiques and expensive seafood restaurants.

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