The beaches of Crete
Crete is a poular vacation spot and so we thought we would review the beaches for you.
Starting in the west of the island Balos beach on the Gramvoussa peninsula has a very sheltered lagoon and beautiful fine white sand, but with no roads, can really only be reached by boat and is therefore a bit of a hidden gem.
Heading east along the northwest coast, Kaliviani has a small beach of no real interest, but neighbouring Kissamos has a long beach which is reasonably sheltered.
On the east of the Rodopos peninsula Kolimbari has a small beach that is quite pebbly. Between undeveloped Meleme and bustling Chania the sandy beach seems to go on forever. There are more fascilities the further east you travel along this great stretch of inviting sand. There are two good beaches within the town of Chania itself.
On the east of the Akrotiri peninsula kalathas beach can suffer from westerly winds, but a little to the north, Tersanas beach is sheltered. Both are fine sandy beaches, popular with local families and both beaches have sunbeds for hire. Stavros beach on the top of Crete's akrotiri peninsula is another local favourite.
Moving round into sheltered Souda bay, Kalives beach is pretty and sandy. Close by is Almirida where the beach was awarded European Blue Flag status.
At Georgioupoli the long fine sand begins again, stretching eastward for many miles.
The long beach east of Rethymnon is sandy but quite dull.
Panormo beach is sandy but for those seeking a bit of seclusion there are some rocky coves out past the Marine Grecotel Hotel.
Bali has some lovely beaches but in high season they are all too crowded with a young european party scene.
Agia Pelagia beach 16 km west of Heraklion is again an extention of this party town.
Florida beach is great for airplane spotters who come to Crete but too close to the runway of Heraklion airport to rate as a beach worth visiting.
Crete's Hersonissos beach is best avoided.
Plaka beach is pebbly but has a nice view of Spinalonga island which was formerly a lepper colony.
Driros beach The heady scent of the tamarisk trees wafts over Diros beach with its mix of sand and shingle.
