10 Best Beaches in Crete

Famous for its pink-tinged sand and shallow, turquoise lagoon, Elafonissi feels more Caribbean than Mediterranean. The unique colour comes from crushed seashells mixed with white sand. Walk across the shallow water to reach the small island that gives the beach its name. Very popular in July and August — arrive early or visit in shoulder season.

Perhaps the most photographed beach in Crete, Balos is a stunning lagoon at the northwestern tip of the island. The shallow waters create incredible shades of turquoise, while the wild surrounding landscape adds drama. Accessible by boat from Kissamos or via a rough track from the Gramvousa peninsula road — either way, getting there is part of the experience.

A wide sandy beach beneath a 14th-century Venetian fortress, Frangokastello combines history with excellent swimming. The shallow, warm water and gentle waves make it one of the better family beaches on the south coast. Legend holds that ghost soldiers — the Drosoulites — appear above the fortress at dawn in late May.

Where a river lined with palm trees meets the Libyan Sea, Preveli creates a landscape unlike any other in Europe. The palm forest, freshwater pools, and Mediterranean beach combine to produce something almost tropical. Access requires a steep descent on steps or a short boat journey from Plakias — the reward is worth it.

A dramatic zigzag cove carved between towering white and pink cliffs on the Akrotiri peninsula, Seitan Limania is one of Crete's most visually striking beaches. The narrow, winding descent is steep and challenging — not suitable for children or anyone with mobility difficulties — but the turquoise water below justifies the effort for those who make it.

Home to Europe's largest natural palm forest, Vai offers an exotic backdrop to a sandy beach at the far northeast of Crete. The palms are native Phoenix theophrastii, found almost nowhere else. The beach is well-organised with sunbeds and facilities. Worth the two-hour drive from Heraklion, ideally combined with the Kato Zakros Minoan site nearby.