Fancy escaping the cold, damp weather of the UK and heading to Greece for a sunny getaway? Of course you do! Nothing says ‘sun’ quite like rolling waves and sand between your toes, and this post will take you through some of the beaches of Crete so that you can choose the perfect one for your holiday, no matter who you’re travelling with.
Kedrodasos
If you’re travelling to Greece with your family, I recommend that you stop off at this brilliant beach. Boasting a Blue Flag status, this gorgeous stretch of sand is safe, secure and easy to access. Visitors are allowed to enjoy various water sports such as windsurfing, and camping is also permitted for those who want to sleep under the stars.
Balos
Many tourists travel to Crete to enjoy its outstanding natural beauty, and there’s no place quite like this one when it comes to picture-perfect shorelines. This popular beach is often crowded, but for good reason – the crystal clear waters and hot white sands make for incredible photographs. Visitors are often overwhelmed by the sheer majesty of the landscape, so make sure you pay Balos a visit if you’re nearby.
Preveli
Water sports enthusiasts simply must spend a day at Preveli. This remote paradise provides great opportunities for water sports both out to sea and on the long river leading to it. Rent a pedal boat or surfboard and get stuck in – the beach is often quiet, so you can truly make the most of the wide open spaces.
Kommos
This shoreline is ideal for those looking to explore Crete’s hidden gems. Despite being one of the largest stretches of sand on the island, the lack of hotels in the area mean that Kommos is rarely inundated with tourists. Camping is permitted here, so this is the perfect option for backpackers or solo travellers passing through the area.
Matala
Located in Heraklion, this shoreline is extremely popular, so in order to steal a good spot you have to arrive early. Though quite often teeming with tourists, Matala is the perfect option for families as it has the Blue Flag award and some interesting caves and rock pools for the little ones to explore. There are plenty of facilities here, from toilets and showers to umbrellas and snack bars.
Greece is sure to provide you with the sunny getaway of a lifetime, no matter which sandy shore you choose to visit. Find out about more of Crete’s beaches by taking a look at this great infographic.