Agia Roumeli is a small traditional village, located 56 km south of Chania, at the bay where the path from the Samaria Gorge ends. The village remains quite peaceful throughout the day, except for the hours between noon and afternoon when hikers from the gorge and tourists arriving by boat come in. This is because you can only reach the village either through the gorge or by ferry. The beaches of Agia Roumeli stretch for 3 km and are mostly pebbly and rocky. The main beach in front of the village tavernas is very well organized with showers, boats, etc. However, if you prefer tranquility and enjoy naturism, you should try the western side of the beach where there is a taverna and some large rocks that provide shade.

Agia Galini beach won’t disappoint those who will drive a little longer to reach it. It is nestled among steep cliffs and has crystal clear waters. Although you will find some quite spots, the beach is fully organized and will provide you with everything you might want: from water sports and scuba diving, to good food and night life at the nearby village.

Hora Sfakion is located 75 km from Chania, far from the mass tourist attractions of the north, and combines the wild beauty of the White Mountains with the warmth of the open Libyan Sea. Hora Sfakion is a small traditional village with many available amenities and is ideally located for day trips to the nearby mountains or along the coast by boat. The most popular beaches in the area are the western exit of the village and Ilingas Beach, located 1 km west of Hora Sfakion. The people of Sfakia are known for their hospitality and free spirit.

Damnoni attracts a crowd every summer! Just 3 km from Plakias, its beach is located at the end of a valley surrounded by mountains and hills. The beach is sandy with crystal-clear waters. It is very well organized with many tavernas, showers, changing rooms, umbrellas, and sunbeds. You will also find facilities for water sports and a diving center.

It is located 60 km south of Rethymno, in the region of Sfakia. It got its name from the large Venetian castle in the area. There are many beaches covered with white sand and with tourist facilities, but the most popular one is the beach in front of the castle. It is a large beach with sand dunes and crystal-clear, warm waters!

Sougia is a small village located 75 km west of Chania. It is a quiet place with beautiful scenery and amenities such as restaurants, taverns, cafes, and mini-markets. The lovely 1.3-kilometer-long beach that starts from the village’s small harbor is covered with coarse sand and pebbles, and the water is deep and crystal clear. The section of the beach in front of the village is organized with umbrellas, showers, sports facilities, and lifeguards. As you move eastward, the beach becomes less organized, and this part is preferred by those who enjoy naturism or simply want to isolate themselves. At the eastern end of the beach, there is also a small cove.

Palaiochora is a small town located 77 km south of Chania, built on a large peninsula surrounded by the Libyan Sea. Many call it “The Bride of the Libyan Sea,” and indeed, Palaiochora has much to offer visitors, but above all, it offers the warm smiles and hospitality of its people. Pachia Ammos Beach, located on the western side of the town, is a 1 km long beach with very clean waters and all the amenities to help you enjoy your visit. To the east, you will find Halikia Beach, a pebble beach along the coastal road filled with restaurants, cafes, and tavernas. The beaches of Palaiochora are part of a vast 18 km long stretch that will satisfy every taste. Just remember that the beaches to the west are sandy, and the beaches to the east are pebbly.

Triopetra is located 52 km south of Rethymno and consists of two beaches separated by a small peninsula. The three huge rocks at the edge of the peninsula give the name to the beach, and here you can also find a beautiful cave. The main beach of Triopetra is west of the rocks and stretches for several kilometers. The beach is sandy and an excellent place for relaxation, as it is not organized at all. It is also famous for its beautiful sunsets. East of the rocks is the second beach, which is well organized with tavernas, rental rooms, and umbrellas. There is also a small river running with fresh water.

Rodakino is a village south of Rethymno with three quite and less organized beaches, ideal for those who want to relax. All three beaches are covered with gravel while on two of them there are some places where you can eat and drink. The third, and most difficult to reach, beach is not organized in any way, a paradise for those who love nudism and fishing.

Sweetwater Beach is a mesmerizing destination in Sfakia, Crete, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and natural beauty. Located on the island’s southern coast, between Loutro and Chora Sfakion, the beach is accessible only by boat or a hiking trail, offering a secluded and tranquil spot for visitors. It is an ideal location for swimming and sunbathing, while the surrounding area provides stunning views and opportunities for exploration.

Marmara Beach, nestled on the southwestern coast of Crete, is a hidden gem that captivates visitors with its stunning beauty and tranquil ambiance. Accessible primarily by boat or a scenic hike, this secluded beach is renowned for its clear turquoise waters and unique rock formations, including small sea caves that beckon exploration. The pebble beach, surrounded by dramatic cliffs, offers a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. Marmara Beach is the perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, or simply basking in the serene natural surroundings, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Crete.

Paximadia, two uninhabited islets off the southern coast of Crete, are an intriguing destination for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. Known locally as the “Elephant Islands” due to their unique shape, Paximadia boast pristine, untouched landscapes with crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. These islets, steeped in myth and legend, offer a serene escape from the bustling mainland, with their rocky shores and secluded beaches providing a perfect haven for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. Accessible mainly by boat, a visit to Paximadia promises a unique and tranquil experience, showcasing the untouched charm of Crete’s lesser-known treasures.