The best beaches to explore by car - from Matala to Hersonissos and the bays near the capital.
Heraklion is Crete's main gateway and also a region where history, local life, and diverse beaches meet. Here you'll find family-friendly sandy beaches, hippie-style Matala, water sports resorts, and hidden coves between the mountains. With a car, you can see all these places during a single holiday - without tracking bus schedules.
The legendary hippie town where musicians and travelers from all over the world lived in cliff caves in the 1960s. The reddish-yellow cliffs, clear water, and free-spirited atmosphere make Matala Crete's most unique beach.
Nipp: Go in the morning to find a parking spot and enjoy the peace before the daytime tours arrive.
A diverse bay with several smaller coves: Mononaftis, Lygaria, and the main beach. Protected between the mountains, shallow and clear water - ideal for families with children and for the first swim stop after the airport.
Nipp: Drive past the main beach directly to the bays of Lygaria or Mononaftis to avoid the peak summer crowds.
A long sandy beach near the capital. It offers good wind and wave conditions for windsurfing, beach volleyball, and long walks. Perfect for those staying in Heraklion but craving the sea breeze.
Nipp: Combine with a visit to the Palace of Knossos - the beach is just a 15-minute drive away.
Crete's main active resort, where the beach, harbor, water parks, restaurants, and nightlife are all within walking distance. The beaches are mostly sandy, the water clear, and the services excellent - especially popular among young people and families.
Nipp: The eastern end of Hersonissos is quieter; the western end offers more bars and excitement.
A quieter alternative to Hersonissos. A wide sandy beach, shallow water, and many seaside taverns. Suitable for families who want to be close to the hustle and bustle, but not right in the middle of it.
Nipp: Afternoon winds sometimes make Stalis wavy - mornings are always the calmest.
A well-known party beach among the youth, featuring beach parties during the day and continuing on Melissi Street in the evening. The beach is sandy, with a few rocks in the water, and plenty of sunbeds. Suitable for those seeking an active holiday.
Nipp: If you want peace and quiet, head to the eastern end of Malia beach in the morning before 11 AM.
A small and cozy resort, perfect for those who want to be close to the airport and the capital, yet away from the city noise. The beaches are narrower, but the water is clear and the cafes are family-friendly.
Nipp: In the summer, the wind can create waves - morning hours are the best for young children.
A long and diverse stretch of beach that extends from Kato Gouves to the southern coast. It features sandy spots, rocky coves, and swimming pools. A great choice for families looking for a balance between services and tranquility.
Nipp: Visit the nearby CRETAquarium - a perfect combination for a rainy or an excessively hot day.
A quiet fishing village that has grown into a family-friendly resort. A wide sandy beach, crystal-clear water, and authentic taverns. One of our favorites for families who want to be close to Hersonissos, but not right in the middle of the bustle.
Nipp: Head to the fishermen's harbor for dinner - they serve the freshest catch of the day there.
A small, sheltered bay with everything you need for a day at the beach: sand, water, taverns, and mountain views. Because the beach is compact, it feels cozy and safe even during the peak season.
Nipp: The beach is popular among locals on weekends - book a table at the tavern in advance for the evening.
Public transport connects the major resorts, but hidden coves and the southern town of Matala are most comfortably reached by car. Our cars are delivered right to your hotel.
On larger beaches, a set with two sunbeds and an umbrella costs 8-15 € per day. Bring your own beach umbrella if you want to save money and choose the best spot for yourself.
The Cretan sun is strong. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and bring plenty of water. Some of the southernmost beaches have no shade.
In the morning from 9 to 11 AM, the beaches are the calmest, the water clearer, and parking easier. In the late evening, the beaches are beautiful once again for the sunset.
In one day, you can see both the southern Matala and the bays of the west coast.
Pick up your car at the hotel and drive south along the new highway.
Make a morning stop at Matala beach - explore the cliff caves and swim in the clear water.
Eat fresh fish or a Cretan salad in one of the beachfront taverns.
Drive back north and relax in a sheltered bay.
Return to Hersonissos or stay on the hillsides of Agia Pelagia to enjoy the view.
Without a deposit, with full insurance and hotel delivery. Start your beach adventure today.
Matala, Knossos, and other popular destinations - everything organized and convenient.
