When travelers ask me what are the best places to stay in Crete, it’s important to first know what is the main reason you have to visit Crete. The best place to stay in Crete for you should be chosen keeping your interests in mind. If you are a fan of beaches, and love to spend hours swimming, sunbathing, or relaxing under a beach umbrella, keep reading, as this article tells you what are the best places to stay in Crete for beaches and a restoring holiday by the sea.
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Best Places to Stay in Crete For Beaches
Let’s Start by Getting Ready for Crete!
RESOURCES TO BOOK YOUR TRIP:
Book your flight: I use Skyscanner to compare prices before booking a plane ticket.
Book your ferry: When ferries are more convenient than air travel, I use Ferryhopper.
Book your accommodation: I’ve tried many different platforms for accommodation, but none of them beats the advantages of Booking.com.
Book your car: The best way to find an affordable car to rent is to use a powerful search engine that compares all the rental companies in the market. I use Discover Cars.
Book your tours: Live unforgettable adventures and cultural experiences with Get Your Guide. For instance, you can Visit Elafonisi, discover Balos Beach, hike Samaria, or explore Knossos.
Don’t forget travel insurance: Things can go wrong at times, but travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. I recommend Safety Wing for peace of mind.
It can be hard to choose where to stay in Crete for the best beaches because Crete is a big island (the biggest of the Greek islands) and there are so many incredible beaches that you might want to see them all.
It is also important to keep in mind that some of the most beautiful beaches are often located in quite remote areas (aka south coast and eastern Crete) so if you also want to enjoy some nightlife, these isolated locations are the best areas on the island, but they can have very limited entertainment. For that reason, renting a car will be necessary.
In this guide, I will discuss the best places to stay in Crete for the best beaches and I will also recommend you some of the top beach hotels and resorts in each place. You can combine many places in one itinerary, or just discover only one area. It’s up to you!
Where to Stay in Crete for Beaches
The 4 Regions
Best Places to Stay for Beaches in Chania Region, Crete
Chania is the best region to stay in Crete if you love going to the beach. The region concentrates dozens of amazing beaches.
Kissamos
Kissamos is a small but busy town located about 30 minutes west of Chania. It is the main town on the extreme west of the island, with several shops, restaurants, a nice waterfront, and a few popular beaches. In town, there is an important Archaeological Museum hosted in a magnificent Ottoman building.
A stay in Kissamos is good also for exploring the extreme west, checking archaeological sites (Polyrrenia and Phalasarna), and even hiking in places such as Samaria Gorge, Topolia Gorge, Rokka Gorge, and Sirikari Gorge.
Kissamos is a perfect place to stay if you want to take day trips to the best beaches in the Chania region because it is close to the popular Falasarna, and Elafonisi.
Besides, from the port of Kissamos depart daily cruises and boat trips to Balos Beach and Lagoon.
You might also want to read: Top Things to Do in Kissamos.
Recommended Places to Stay in Kissamos, Crete
Aphrodite Beach – Situated in a quiet area within walking distance of the restaurants, shops, and the archaeological museum, Aphrodite Beach is a beachfront hotel on the sandy beach of Mavros Molos in Kissamos. The rooms are clean and comfortable and have a balcony with garden or sea views. The hotel also has an outdoor pool
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Maria Beach Hotel – This is a simple and convenient hotel in a great location, only one minute from the beach and a few hundred meters from the main square, tavernas, and other shops. Maria Beach Hotel has comfortable rooms and studios with a kitchenette and a small dining area. There is also a beachfront terrace, offering panoramic views of Kissamos Bay.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
You might enjoy: Visit Guide to Elafonisi Beach & Visit Guide to Balos Beach.
Kolymbari
The seaside village in Kolymbari is situated at the foot of the Rodopou Peninsula, the less populated and less explored area on the island.
The town is really small, catering mostly to tourists as there are many hotels in the area, as well as a few restaurants and tavernas, the main attractions in this small town.
The wider region of Kolymbari is known for olive oil production with plenty of olive groves that give the area a green touch.
Kolymbari is a good place for beaches off-the-beaten-track, including the beautiful Menies and Afrata, both with crystal clear water, and Ravdoucha, an ideal place for fishing.
Recommended Places to Stay in Kolymbari, Crete
Euphoria Resort – This beautiful 5-star hotel is situated 250 m from Rapaniana Beach in the area of Kolymbari, popular for golfing and cycling. The rooms are comfortable and well-appointed. There is a swimming pool, a fitness center, and a sauna. Facilities for children include a playground.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Avra Imperial Hotel – Situated amidst 65.000 square meters of gardens, Avra Imperial Hotel is located only meters from Kolymbari Beach. The guest rooms and suites are ultramodern, with large bathrooms and gorgeous views, some rooms also have a private or shared pool or a spacious terrace with a hot tub. The hotel has 3 swimming pools, a spa with, a steam room, a Finnish sauna, a gym, and an indoor pool.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
You might enjoy: Best Beaches in West Crete.
Paleochora
This is a gorgeous village on the southern coast of the Chania region and is a good two-hour drive from Chania. It is quite popular among tourists, although not very busy. It is not difficult to find accommodation in Paleochora, other than cozy hotels, there are many beautiful vacation homes for rent in town.
Paleochora is a picturesque, romantic town, perfect for young couples looking for a hidden spot for a romantic escape.
There are plenty of beaches in the area, and it is also an important southern port, from where you can take ferries to visit other southern beaches, including Sougia, Loutro, and Agia Roumeli.
Recommended Places to Stay in Paleochora
On the Rocks – Located a 3-minute walk from the beach, the hotel has a privileged location a short walking distance from the center of Paleochora. The rooms have balconies with direct sea views. In the hotel, there is a large lounge-bar area, a gift shop, and a spacious terrace with a seating area.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Libyan Princess – Situated on the main street, in a small peninsula between the two scenic gulfs of Paleochora and only a 2-minute walk from the beach, the boutique hotel has superior guest rooms, elegant and functional, with private balconies enjoying views of the village or the pool and garden. There is an outdoor pool with a bar, a wellness club, a gym, and on-site parking.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
You might enjoy: Magical Things to Do in Paleochora.
Loutro
The small fishing village of Loutro is also located in the southern part of the region. It is a small whitewashed village amphitheatrically opening to a pebbled bay with very clean waters. The town offers just a few hotels and tavernas, and it can only be reached by boat or hiking, which makes it also a port of call for day trips.
However, it does not get as busy as you may imagine, so a stay here is relaxing, and also perfect to jump on a boat and visit isolated beaches such as Finikas, Glyka Nera, or Marmara. The hike along the coast can take you to Chora Sfakion, from where you can explore gorges (Aradena Gorge, Imbros Gorge) and other small villages.
Recommended Places to Stay in Loutro
Villa Niki – This small gem lies hidden behind the hotels on the waterfront in Loutro, Villa Niki is a favorite place to stay in the village featuring rooms with great views of the bay and the mountains surrounding mountains, only steps from the fish taverns by the sea.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Daskalogiannis Hotel – Situated on the beachfront in Loutro, 100 m from Loutro Beach and 600 meters from Finikas Beach. This traditional Loutro hotel has rooms with a seating area and gorgeous views of the bay of Loutro. The property also features a restaurant, a terrace, a shared lounge, and a very convenient ATM (probably the only one in the village).
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
You might enjoy: Loutro, Chania’s Heavenly Fishing Village.
Falasarna
Although small, the settlement of Falasarna (also written Falassarna and Phalassarna) is a good place to stay if the only thing you plan to do is stay by the beach. Falasarna is about one hour west of Chania town. The village has a few hotels and rental homes, as well as a few tavernas.
The area is known for having no shops, nightlife, or any other kind of entertainment other than water sports. The place is a perfect base to visit Balos and Elafonisi, as well as other lesser-known beaches on the west coast. The beaches in Falasarna are sandy and very wide, which makes it a chosen place in Crete for family holidays.
If you’re looking for a completely relaxing vacation, made of long swims, lazy siestas on the beach, endless sunbathing hours, and seaside cocktails, this is the place to be!
Recommended Places to Stay in Falasarna
Casa D’Irene Deluxe Hotel – Situated in the picturesque village of Platanos, 5 minutes by car from Falasarna Beach, Casa D’Irene is a charming mountain retreat, with a relaxing environment. There are classic and superior rooms, family accommodations, and a luxurious maisonette. The hotel features an outdoor pool and a children’s playground.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Cielo e Mare Villas – Located about 700 meters from the main beach in Falasarna, these villas feature accommodation with a patio or a balcony, and access to a beautiful garden and an outdoor pool. There’s also a barbecue on the spectacular sun terrace.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
You might enjoy: Visit Guide to Falasarna Beach & Accommodation Guide to Falasarna.
Best Places to Stay in Crete for Beaches in Rethymnon Region
Although Rethymnon is not the most popular region when it comes to beach life, there are still some gorgeous beaches in Rethymnon, a few of them are on the north coast, but the best ones are on the southern coast.
Bali
Located on the north coast, Bali is a small but attractive beach resort attracting many visitors. There are several hotels facing the bay and quite a few beaches to visit.
A stay in Bali is also good for day trips to other villages, for instance, Panormos, about a 15-minute drive from Bali, is another Rethymnon seaside town with a nice beach and a gorgeous town for tavernas and picturesque views. The scenic beach of Geropotamos is also close by.
Recommended Places to Stay in Bali
Bali Star Resort Hotel – Featuring elegant and modern guest rooms decorated in soothing earthy tones with balconies, this hotel is located just a 2-minute walk from the beach. The hotel is built amphitheatrically on a small peninsula, enjoying a view of the port and the sea. There is a large garden with free deck chairs and a playground, a pool, and a beach bar.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Blue Bay Lifestyle – Set in an elevated position and only one minute from the beach, the hotel overlooks the fishing village of Bali. The rooms are spacious and with a private balcony with gorgeous sea views. The property has a rooftop terrace with a swimming pool and a bar.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
You might enjoy: Best Things to Do in Rethymnon.
Panormos
Panormos is a picturesque beach town on the north coast of Rethymnon with a lovely traditional vibe, fantastic narrow alleys with traditional homes, shops, and delicious tavernas, a harbor, and three different beaches with calm waters and sheltered from the winds that often affect the northern coast of Crete.
Panormos beaches have a relaxing, family atmosphere while it is possible to try your skills at diving and other water sports.
Other than enjoying the beaches, there is a lot to see and discover. Panormos stands in what is believed to be on the site of the ancient city Panormus, where you can visit the ancient Basilica of Agia Sophia one of the greatest Christian churches in Greece.
Everyone is aware that the Venetians conquered and ruled the island for centuries, but not many know that also the Genoans conquered Crete for a brief period.
Witnesses of those times are the ruins of the Fort of Milopotamos or Genoese Port, still visible next to the harbor.
Recommended Places to Stay in Panormos
Iberostar Creta Panorama & Mare – Situated a 5-minute walk from the beach, and 4 km from Panormos, the beachfront Iberostar Creta Panorama & Mare is an elegant complex with 6 pools, a spa center, and 3 restaurants. Each modern room enjoys views of the garden and the sea from its private balcony. On the premises, it is possible to practice numerous sports and there is a children’s area with activities and entertainment.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Z Boutique Hotel – Located about 30 meters from the center of Panormos, this tranquil and comfortable hotel features impeccably clean and super comfy rooms with a relaxing seating area and an inner courtyard with a pool, lounges, and trees.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
You might enjoy: Fabulous Things to Do in Rethymnon at Night.
Plakias
Plakias is a small seaside town located in the south of Rethymnon, the village is small and tourist, with several hotels, tavernas, and souvenir shops.
It is in a good location for all kinds of beaches, from family-friendly to naturist beaches. If you’re into scuba diving, Plakias is a perfect area, there are several diving schools and it is a great place for immersion.
Staying in Plakias will allow easy access to beaches such as Plakias, Damnoni, Rodakino, Ligres, Triopetra, and the spectacular palm beach of Preveli.
Recommended Places to Stay in Plakias
Flisvos Rooms – Just 20 meters from the beach, Flisvos Rooms is only minutes from the center of the scenic, fishing village of Plakias, within walking distance from restaurants, bars, and shops. The hotel is close to the beaches of Souda, Damnoni, Ammoudi, and Preveli which can be accessed with a boat trip from the nearby port. The guest rooms come with gorgeous views of the sea or the mountains and gorges that surround the bay.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Alianthos Garden – Located within walking distance from the shops and tavernas of the village and a 1-minute walk from the beach, Alianthos Garden Hotel is a family-run complex, only 50 meters opposite the wonderful beach of Plakias. The hotel has a relaxing and informal atmosphere, while the renovated guest rooms and apartments offer comfortable beds with Cocomat mattresses and a pillow menu. They all feature balconies with panoramic views. On the property, there is also a swimming pool.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
You might enjoy: Fantastic Unspoiled Beaches in South Crete.
Agia Galini
Agia Galini is a seaside resort located on the southern coast of Rethymnon, about 60 km from the center of Rethymnon town. It is quite popular with tourists for its quiet and relaxing vibe. Agia Galini features a small center with several shops, restaurants, cafes, and lively but limited night entertainment.
The village is an ideal place for quiet holidays, long walks near the mountains, as well as for day trips to coastal towns such as Matala (in the Heraklion region) and other beaches including Triopetra, Ligres, and Preveli.
Recommended Places to Stay in Agia Galini
Sky Beach Hotel – Located a 1-minute walk from the beach, the family-run Sky Beach Hotel is within walking distance from the center of the village. It features a swimming pool and a snack bar, while accommodation consists of furnished apartments and studios with large balconies and panoramic views of the Libyan Sea.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Astoria Hotel – Situated only a 2-minute walk from the beach, Astoria Hotel is nestled near the small fishing port, the promenade, and the lovely beach of Agia Galini. The hotel has been recently renovated. It has comfortable, tastefully furnished rooms with panoramic private balconies facing the Libyan Sea, the surrounding mountains, or the hotel’s garden.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Best Places to Stay in Crete for Beaches in Heraklion Region
Heraklion is the main region of Crete as it hosts the capital of the island, also called Heraklion.
There are some good beaches on the north coast, but the best beaches in the Heraklion region, as it’s often the case in Crete, will be located in the South.
Agia Pelagia
Agia Pelagia is a fishing village located on the north coast of the Heraklion Region, it is fairly well-developed with tavernas, seaside restaurants, shops, and much more.
It is about a 20-minute drive from the center of Heraklion, also allowing easy access to all there is to do in the capital and the rest of the Heraklion region.
Agia Pelagia features a big bay with a sandy beach and many small nearby coves offering pristine beaches ideal for water sports, swimming, and renting boats.
Some of the best beaches in the area include Mononaftis, Kladissos, Filakes, Psaromoura, Lygaria, and Mades.
Recommended Places to Stay in Agia Pelagia
Happy Cretan Suites – In the heart of a relaxing area, about a 20-minute walk from the beach, the suites feature panoramic views over Stavros Bay and the Cretan Sea views. All the modern units have a private balcony while some accommodation types are stone-built with a slanted ceiling. In a few rooms, there’s also an indoor or outdoor hot tub. The hotel has a seawater pool and whirlpool and a sea-view fitness center. There is free parking on-site and a bus stop just outside the hotel.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Sea Side Resort & Spa – Adults Only – Conveniently situated only 80 meters from Mononaftis Beach, and only 18 km from the International Airport of Heraklion, the Sea Side Resort & Spa offers rooms with terraces or balconies and panoramic sea views, some of them with sharing pools. There are 3 restaurants, 2 large swimming pools, and sports and leisure facilities including a fitness room, a tennis court, a spa with a sauna, hammam, hydrotherapy pools, and an indoor pool.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
You might enjoy: 1, 2, or, 3 Amazing Days in Heraklion.
Stalida (Stalis)
Perfect for family holidays, Stalida is a tranquil seaside resort located between the more noisy and lively towns of Malia and Hersonissos.
It has a more limited nightlife but its central street is a good place for a relaxing night walk with its delicious tavernas and beach bars.
Stalida is a great family resort with a wide, sandy, and shallow beach, perfect for toddlers and small kids that are just learning to swim.
Besides, it is easily accessible from the National Road, allowing easy access to the center of Heraklion, which is about 20 minutes from the village.
It is also very close to the archaeological sites of Malia and Knossos, as well as different theme parks, water parks, and the CretAquarium.
Recommended Places to Stay in Stalida
Talgo Suites – The gorgeous beachfront suites are decorated in soft, soothing tones, offering balconies with sea or garden views. The property features a Mediterranean restaurant and a snack bar, everything only 50 meters from the center of Stalida.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Eurohotel Katrin Hotel & Bungalows – Situated a short 3-minute walk from the beach, Katrin Hotel & Bungalows is within walking distance from the small entertainment and shopping area of Stalis village, with tavernas, bars, and stores. The rooms and bungalows are spacious and comfortable and equipped with modern amenities. On the property, there are 2 swimming pools, a pool bar, a restaurant with outdoor and indoor spaces, pool tables, a children’s playroom, and other entertainment facilities.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Malia
More lively and catering to younger crowds, Malia also has access to nice beaches, it’s a 30-minute ride from Heraklion, and it is mainly an entertainment town (more on this in the nightlife section).
The small town has good sandy beaches, while nearby it is also possible to take interesting day trips in the mountains.
From Malia, it’s very easy to reach the Minoan Palace of Malia or explore other beaches in the area, such as Stalida, Anissaras, Analipsi, or the Sarandari Coves in Hersonissos, all of them to the West as well as Sissi and Milatos, to the East.
Recommended Places to Stay in Malia
Drossia Palms Hotel and Nisos Beach Suites – Set amidst beautiful and peaceful gardens with palm trees and yet close to the best of Malia’s entertainment district and sandy beaches. The hotel offers access to its sandy beach with loungers and umbrellas while there is also a large swimming pool and a sun terrace. The rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated with private balconies and kitchenette facilities.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Pyrgos Blue – Situated 1 km from the center of Malia and 3 km from the beach town of Stalida, Pyrgos Blue is a gorgeous hotel overlooking the Gulf of Malia. It has a garden, an outdoor pool, and a private beach area and it’s only a 10-minute walk away from the restaurants, shops, and clubs in the center of Malia. The rooms feature a kitchenette and balconies facing the sea.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
You might enjoy: Things to Do in Heraklion At Night & Best Hotels in Hersonissos.
Matala
Matala is a perfect seaside location on the southern coast of Heraklion. It is a hippie village with a fantastic bay with ancient caves to explore right by the sea…
You will be amazed at the caves in Matala!
In the area, there are many other beaches to visit, including the exotic (and naturist) Red Beach, Agiofarago beach and its gorge, Kommos and Kalamaki.
The best place to stay in the area is, of course, Matala village, but accommodation in this hippie village is not unlimited and sometimes prices are on the higher side, especially for peak months.
Don’t worry, there are a few small villages just minutes from Matala that offer good alternatives, including Sivas, Pitsidia, and Kamilari.
Recommended Places to Stay in Matala
Valley Village – Located on the main street of Matala, Valley Village is only a 5-minute walk from the Blue Flag beach of Matala. The traditional-style rooms feature comfortable Cocomat bed mattresses and are decorated with earth-tone colors and wooden furniture. Some rooms have balconies with mountain views while other rooms include a second bedroom and a veranda with access to a gorgeous private garden. are featured in all types of accommodation. There is a large open terrace, and two swimming pools, one for adults and a separate children’s pool.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Thalasso Resort – This is an elegant holiday home ideally located just a minute from the sea and in the center of Matala. It is also within a short distance of the trail to the Red Sand Beach. The units are modern and elegant, featuring sea views. They are equipped with a terrace, and a comfortable kitchen and pets are allowed.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Recommended Places to Stay in Pitsidia and Kamilari near Matala Beach
Evridiki’s House Apartment and Studio – Located in Pitsidia, about 2 km from Kommos Beach and Kalamaki Beach, as well as a very short drive from the center of Matala, this traditional Cretan home offers accommodation with a garden and barbecue facilities. Some units have a fully equipped kitchen and a dining area while some units have a seating area and a balcony.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Kritamos Villa & Apartments – Tucked away in a quiet location and surrounded by olive groves, this family-run property is only 200 meters from the village of Kamilari. The self-catering maisonettes and apartments have traditional stone walls and furnished balconies or verandas. They come with a kitchen or kitchenette as well as dining and seating areas. The property is 2 km from Kalamaki Beach and a short drive from Matala Beach. The archaeological site of Phaistos is 3 km away.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
You might enjoy: How to Get from Heraklion to Matala.
Best Places to Stay in Crete for Beaches in Lasithi Region (Agios Nikolaos)
There are dozens of great beaches all over eastern Crete, in the Lasithi region, starting from the ones on the Mirabello Gulf. There are also heavenly beaches further east, near Sitia, as well as on the southern coast, close to Ierapetra.
Agios Nikolaos
Agios Nikolaos is the capital of the Lasithi region, therefore it is a big and developed town with tons of hotels, restaurants, and shopping opportunities.
The picturesque town features a beautiful natural Lake connected to the sea, and it has a relaxing atmosphere.
The best beaches near Agios are scattered along Mirabello Bay, these are Almyros, Voulisma, Tholos, and Mochlos.
The area is also good to visit Spinalonga, trekking the Richtis Gorge, or visiting the oldest olive tree in the area of Kavousi.
Recommended Places to Stay in Agios
Hotel Port 7- Boutique Collection – Situated only a 2-minute walk from the beach, at the entrance of the port, Hotel Port 7 is only 100 meters from Kitroplatia Beach, close to bars, restaurants, and shops. The rooms have direct views of Mirabello bay and Voulismeni lake, and some of them come with a kitchenette or an outdoor hot tub.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Meliti Hotel (Adults Only) – Located about 2.5 km from the center of Agios, and about 6 km from Elounda, this hotel is in a calm and quiet area, minutes from the gorgeous Havania Beach. All the rooms are bright and simple, with furnished balconies overlooking the Mirabello Gulf.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
You might enjoy: Amazing Things to Do in Agios Nikolaos
Elounda
Elounda is an exclusive seaside resort in Lasithi, home to some of the best hotels in Crete.
The village has a beautiful beach with quiet waters and it is also a great departing place to visit Kolokitha Beach and the ancient underwater ruins of Olous.
Elounda is also minutes from the pristine pebbled shore in the small village of Plaka. Both Plaka and Elounda are convenient departure points for a short trip to Spinalonga Island.
Recommended Places to Stay in Elounda (and nearby Plaka)
Porto Elounda Golf & Spa Resort, Six Senses Spa – Situated along the coast of Elounda, this hotel features rooms with views of Mirabello Bay, a sea-view veranda with lush plants, and a seating area. The hotel also comes with a tennis court and awarded spa, a heated freshwater indoor pool, and a golf course. In the hotel, there is also a water sports center and a playground for infants and kids with a variety of learning activities, and a small water park.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Elounda Palm Hotel & Suites – Right in the heart of Elounda, only 500 meters from the center of town, Elounda Palm Hotel & Suites is a family-run hotel located within walking distance from the beach. It has rooms with balconies facing the Mediterranean garden or the Gulf of Elounda, some rooms offer private pools. The hotel also has a restaurant, a bar, and a large, shared, outdoor pool.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Blue Palace Elounda, a Luxury Collection Resort, Crete – One of the most beautiful places to stay in Plaka, this beachfront hotel is 5 km from the center of Elounda. It offers luxurious accommodations with award-winning cuisine, a spa, a water sports center, and 2 tennis courts. There are suites and bungalows with living areas and magnificent views of the island of Spinalonga. Some rooms have a private pool or private access to a section of the beach.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
You might enjoy: Unforgettable day Trip to the Lasithi Plateau & Visit Guide to the Cave of Zeus.
Sitia
Another important town in Lasithi is Sitia, the easternmost city in Crete.
Sitia is home to a regional airport and a perfect location to access the remote beaches in the East, including Vai Beach and its palm trees, Itanos, Chelidoni (or Swallow Beach), and Xerokampos among others.
In the area, it is possible to try the exquisite wines made in the region, either in Toplou Monastery or the eclectic Economou winery.
It is also possible to visit an archaeological site (Gournias or Zakros) and explore the famous Gorge of the Dead.
Recommended Places to Stay in Sitia
Sitia Bay – Facing the blue-flag, sandy beach of Sitia, a 5-minute walk from the town center, Sitia Bay is close to shops and restaurants. The self-catering accommodation is surrounded by a garden, it has a pool with hydromassage, a rooftop terrace, a small gym, a sauna, and a playing area for kids. The units come with a kitchen and balcony overlooking the Cretan Sea.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Sitia Beach – Located a short walk from the city center, Sitia Beach is a 5-star hotel with 3 swimming pools, a tennis court, and a spa. It is located on a private beach area of Sitia Bay. The rooms come with sea, pool, or garden views and it offers a poolside snack bar for drinks and light meals.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Ierapetra
The only important city in south Crete is Ierapetra, therefore it is a busy place, well organized, featuring lots of accommodation, taverns, shops, and more. There are also plenty of sightseeing opportunities in the whole area.
Ierapetra is the place to stay if you want to visit Chrissi Island, with its paradisiac beaches, but also the tranquil beaches of Ferma, Agia Fotia, Myrtos, Makrigialos, and Xerokampos. Ierapetra is also the best place to stay for a day trip to Chrissi Island, this uninhabited islet on the Libyan Sea has some incredibly exotic beaches.
Recommended Places to Stay in Ierapetra
Tylissos Beach Hotel – Situated right by the sea, Tylissos Beach Hotel is about 1 km from the city center of Ierapetra and features its private beach with free loungers. The rooms are super modern, decorated in white with accents of beige and turquoise. There are also a swimming pool, a children’s pool, and a beach bar.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Enorme Santanna Beach – Located minutes from Ferma Beach, Enorme Santanna features a beautiful garden, a restaurant, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, and a fitness center. It is close to several attractions and other beaches in the area including Livadi, Agios Andreas Beach, and Peristera.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
You might enjoy: Day Trip to Chrissi Island & Unique Things to Do in Ierapetra.
Please, help us protect the beaches in Crete. Respect the environment and don’t leave any trash on the beach.
After reading this post, which looks like your favorite place to stay in Crete for the best beaches?
Let me know in the comments below!
You might also want to read these other articles about Crete:
– Unmissable Things to Do in Crete – A guide with over 50 incredible things to do on the island.
– Safest Beaches in Crete for Kids – A guide to the best family-friendly beaches on the island of Crete.
– How to Spend 3 Weeks in Crete – A tested itinerary for 3 (and also 2) weeks in Crete.
– What to Eat in Crete – A guide to the most unusual dishes you can try in Crete (forget about Greek Salad!).
– Best Luxury Resorts in Crete – A complete list of 5 and 4-star resorts in every region of Crete.
Pin this Guide to Where to Stay in Crete for Beaches for Your Next Adventure!
About the author of this blog:
Gabi has been living in Crete for the last five years. On the island, she juggles being a solo mom, hosting culinary tours in summer, translating, and freelance writing.
She’s written for Greek Reporter, published several travel guides about Greece, and had more glasses of frappe than any regular person would be able to handle.