Where to Stay in South Crete: Best Areas and Hotels to Enjoy the Libyan Sea!

where to stay in south crete

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You’ve probably heard often that southern Crete is the best area to visit on the island. And that’s true. What’s also true is that the south remains quite wild and uninhabited and that finding suitable accommodation facing the Libyan Sea can be challenging.

In this article, I bring you a complete guide to where to stay in South Crete. The guide includes areas that offer great beaches, essential services, a few shops, and reasonably good roads to access. It also includes some of the best hotels in South Crete.


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Where to Stay in South Crete

WHERE TO STAY IN SOUTH CRETE

ARE YOU PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO CRETE LAST MINUTE?

Be sure to book accommodation and tours in Crete ahead of time to ensure availability!

📍 Top tours I recommend on the island:
Full-day Samaria Gorge trek (#1 tour in Crete!)
Boat cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa (top-selling tour!)
Ticket to Knossos Archaeological Site (top tour in Heraklion)

🛌 These are three convenient hotels in Crete:
Lyttos Beach (beachfront in Hersonissos, near Heraklion)
SanSal Boutique Hotel (near Chania Old Town with a pool!)
Grecotel Lux Me White Palace (beachfront in Rethymnon)

Remember that the best way to get around Crete is by car. Check rental car rates for Crete here.

Divided in half by three mountain ranges, the island of Crete features an over-developed northern coast with plenty of hotels and activities geared to tourism and a more tranquil southern coast with just a few villages and some of the most spectacular and solitary beaches in the Mediterranean.

Best Areas to Stay in South Crete

where to stay in South Crete

If you’re planning to enjoy a holiday off the beaten track in Crete, check out these villages facing the Libyan Sea to find the best places to stay in South Crete.

From the westernmost region of Chania to the easternmost region of Lasithi, these are the top places to stay in South Crete!

Elafonisi

  • Chania region
Greece - Crete - Elafonis
Elafonisi.

One of the most visited beaches in Elafonisi, this excellent beach is a must-see when visiting the Chania region.

Even when the visit can be perfectly organized as a day trip, more and more travelers decide to spend one or two nights in Elafonisi to enjoy fewer crowds and stunning sunsets.

GREECE - CRETE - ELAFONISI
Elafonisi.

Although the area is very isolated, there are a few convenience stores and supermarkets. There are just a few houses, a couple of tavernas, and little more.

Remember that the closest village is Elos (about 30 minutes—19.1 km), where you can find other facilities, including a pharmacy and more restaurants.

Best Places to Stay in Elafonisi


Paleochora

  • Chania region
GREECE - CRETE - PALEOCHORA PENINSULA
Paleochora.

Facing the Lybian Sea, Paleochora is one of the most visited destinations on the island’s southern coast since it is quite a big village.

Despite being remote and solitary, it is ideal for a quiet vacation. There are also several shops, convenience stores, markets, restaurants, hotels, and vacation homes to rent. That’s the main reason travelers choose Paleochora.

The place is lively, and you can visit a few interesting nearby places and enjoy easy day trips.

where to stay in South Crete
Paleochora.

There is much to do in Paleochora, making it perfect for couples of all ages and families with kids. Besides, there are dozens of sandy and pebbled beaches to choose from. Some of them feature organized structures and others are wild and lonely.

And if you enjoy outdoor adventures, Paleochora is perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, safari rides, and fishing trips.

Best Places to Stay in Paleochora


Sougia

  • Chania region
where to stay in South Crete
Sougia.

Quiet and relaxing, the small seaside village of Sougia is a popular place to spend a weekend (or more!) in South Crete.

The village of Sougia features a gorgeous beach (included in our list of Crete’s naturist beaches) with very basic structures. There is another beach opposite the village with facilities including a bar, umbrellas, and toilets.

where to stay in South Crete
Sougia.

Although the village is not as big as Paleochora, it is still convenient. It features a few restaurants, shops, hotels, and rooms to rent. The town can be accessed by car from Chania or by boat from Chora Sfakion.

Best Places to Stay in Sougia


Agia Roumeli

  • Chania region
Boat Trips Crete - Port Agia Roumeli
The small port of Agia Roumeli.

Most travelers reaching Agia Roumeli arrive here after hiking through Samaria Gorge, the most important canyon on the island.

However, you can spend a few days in Agia Roumeli. If you don’t want to hike through Samaria Gorge, you can get there by boat (daily ferries depart from Paleochora, Sougia, and Chora Sfakion).

Especially in that case, remember that booking in advance is particularly important since Samaria is the most popular hike on the island!

where to stay in South Crete
Agia Roumeloi.

INSIDER’S TIP: Many hikers think they will pass Samaria and head back to Chania on the same day, not counting on the extreme exhaustion that walking through Samaria might imply. However, when they reach Agia Roumeli, they are desperate to find accommodation and rest their sore feet for the night! So booking a hotel in Agia Roumeli in advance is key!

The village is small but traditional and has a unique family atmosphere. Services are basic but convenient, prices are usually affordable, and it also hosts some of the best taverns in South Crete!

Best Places to Stay in Agia Roumeli


Loutro

  • Chania region
where to stay in South Crete
Loutro.

One of Crete’s best southern places to visit is Loutro, a charming fishing village close to the impressive Aradena Gorge, a few hours on foot from Chora Sfakion.

Loutro’s charm is also enhanced because it can only be reached on foot or by boat. There are no cars in the settlement and roads leading to the village!

where to stay in South Crete
Loutro.

The place is relaxing and offers just a few souvenir shops and restaurants, an ATM, and no pharmacies. Since many restaurants and hotels only accept cash, it’s always better to withdraw some money before getting there.

Most ferries to Loutro leave from the port of Chora Sfakion. You can read more about this unique southern village in this complete guide to Loutro.

Best Places to Stay in Loutro


Chora Sfakion

  • Chania region
sea, mountains, village
Chora Sfakion.

One of the best places to stay in southern Crete is Chora Sfaklion since it is convenient to explore the Libyan coast of the Chania region.

The place features dozens of restaurants and other shops, several hotels and flats to rent, and… the most important thing is its port, with boats and ferries that will take you to all the beaches in the south of Chania that cannot be easily accessed by car, including Loutro, Agia Roumeli, Marmara Beach and Illingas.

where to stay in South Crete
Chora Sfakion.

From here, there are also regular ferries to the southernmost island of Gavdos (another incredible place to stay in South Crete!). If you enjoy hiking, the area features some of the most stunning gorges in Crete, including Aradena and the spectacular Imbros Gorge.

Best Places to Stay in Chora Sfakion


Frangokastello

  • Chania region
Frangokastello - Crete
Frangokastello.

Frangokastello is another favorite place of mine when looking for an authentic area in Crete that feels far from everything.

The small village is located a good 20-minute drive east of Chora Sfakion. It features a few hotels and studios for rent, some small taverns (mostly in the hotels), a couple of convenience stores, and one or two minimarkets. That’s all!

where to stay in South Crete
Frangokastello

The village is known for its great sandy beach adorned with the ruins of an ancient Venetian Fortress facing the sea, which gives name to the settlement.

Best Places to Stay in Frangokastello


Plakias

  • Rethymnon region
GREECE - CRETE - RETHYMNON - PLAKIAS BEACH
Plakias.

Moving along the southern coast, from Chania to Rethymnon, Plakias is a popular coastal town on the Libyan Sea. The village is quite relaxing and picturesque, featuring some incredible beaches nearby.

Plakias is also famous for scuba diving, snorkeling, and other underwater activities since it is home to a unique seabed that attracts diving aficionados year after year. In the area, there are some unique nudist beaches too.

The village has several shops, restaurants, and hotels, making it a good destination in Rethymnon for a short or long stay.

where to stay in South Crete
Plakias

Plakias is easy to reach from Rethymnon town going through the mountains (the road is in very good condition even if the trip can be long and tiring).

Plakias is an ideal base from which to explore the south of Crete. However, since the area is quite isolated, a car is necessary to move around.

Plakias is also close to the neighboring region of Chania, and the coastal trip from Plakias to Frangokastello is among Crete’s most beautiful road trips.

Best Places to Stay in Plakias


Preveli

  • Rethymnon region
where to stay in South Crete
Preveli.

Famous for the stunning ancient monastery in the area, Preveli is quite an isolated southern beach with little to do other than lazily lounge under the sun, bathe in the freezing-cold river, or explore and hike the beautiful natural surroundings.

Visiting Preveli and its beach in a day can be exhausting, especially if you choose to hike to the beach after exploring the historic monastery. In that case, finding accommodation in the area for the night can be a good idea.

where to stay in South Crete
Preveli.

Although there are just a few rooms to rent in the surrounding area, once most tourists have left, the place becomes a calm oasis where you can rest, enjoy silent walks, and witness unforgettable sunsets.

The tiny Kerames village is the most convenient place to stay around Preveli.

Best Places to Stay near Preveli


Triopetra

  • Rethymnon region
where to stay in South Crete
Triopetra.

One of the most excellent beaches in the south, Triopetra is a gorgeous shore to visit either as a day trip from Rethymnon or as a quiet holiday destination

Although most structures and services are located in the nearby Plakias village, the place is perfect if you’re looking for a very isolated area to stay in the south.

where to stay in South Crete
Triopetra.

Visit the small beaches of Katsounas and Ligres near Triopetra and the impressive dunes of Agios Pavlos beach. These are three incredible gems on the southern coast of Rethymnon.

Best Place to Stay in Triopetra


Agia Galini

  • Rethymnon region
Where to stay in Crete, Agia Galini
Agia Galini.

Probably the most popular place to stay in the south of Rethymnon, Agia Galini is a popular destination that receives hundreds of visitors yearly.

The lively seaside resort is a favorite destination among tourists from the Balkan countries. It has a picturesque center with shops and tavernas, plenty of accommodation, lovely beaches, and a tourist port.

There are also several good beaches within a short drive from the village. Agia Galini is about 60 km from the city of Rethymnon, and it attracts tourists from April to October.

Best Places to Stay in Agia Galini


Matala

  • Heraklion region
Matala beach and beach umbrellas
Matala.

One of the most famous villages on the southern coast of Crete, the small town of Matala is a gorgeous hippie settlement with an impressive bay famous for its ancient caves, once home to several ancient civilizations that dwelled on the island.

The village is an active summer destination with plenty of places to see nearby and exciting things to do. There are dozens of hotels, restaurants, shops, markets, ATM points, pharmacies, and essential medical services nearby.

Souvenir Shop Matala Crete
Matala.

In the area, it is possible to visit more isolated beaches such as Kokkini Ammos and Kommos or explore the impressive archaeological site of Phaistos, the second-most important Minoan Palace on the island after Knossos.

You might also want to read How to Get from Heraklion to Matala.

Best Places to Stay in Matala


Kamilari

  • Heraklion region
where to stay in South Crete
Kamilari.

A traditional village just minutes from the busier Matala, this is an excellent place to stay if you want to explore the southern coast of Heraklion.

The village is quite active during the winter, and there are a few lovely souvenir shops with prices far more convenient than you might find in Matala.

The smell beach of Kalamaki, just a few minutes from the center of Kamilari, is a tranquil alternative to Matala and a safe, shallow shore for families with children.

Best Place to Stay in Kamilari


Pitsidia

  • Heraklion region
where to stay in South Crete
Pitsidia.

Also close to Matala, Pitsidia can be more affordable than the famous hippie village. The area has excellent restaurants and other essential services, including kiosks, convenience stores, and minimarkets. It won’t be challenging to find a pharmacy and an ATM.

Nearby beaches include Matala, Kokkini Ammos, Kommos, and Kalamaki.

Best Places to Stay in Pitsidia


Kaloi Limenes

  • Heraklion region
where to stay in South Crete
Kaloi Limenes.

Located on the southern coast of Heraklion, right under the shadows of the Asterousia Mountains, it is one of the most laid-back places to stay in Crete.

The area around Kaloi Limenes is ideal for a very quiet holiday for those who have spent a stressful year at work and only long for an area to disconnect and relax without noise or chaos.

There is little to do, but that is the village’s charm. Kaloi Limenes features some essential shops, convenience stores, and a couple of very good traditional tavernas.

Best Places to Stay in Kaloi Limenes


Tsoutsouros

  • Heraklion region
where to stay in South Crete
Tsoutsouras.

Also known as Tsoutsouras, this fantastic area south of Heraklion is quite off the beaten path, thus ensuring highly relaxing holidays in an utterly isolated environment.

The small village has a partly organized sandy beach with calm and crystalline waters, shallow enough to make it a perfect destination for a family vacation.

Tsoutsouros is the name of the village and the area’s main beach. However, there are several other small shores you can visit.

The little settlement offers essential services, restaurants, and convenience stores. Still, for more shops, banks, supermarkets, and pharmacies, it is necessary to reach the inner village of Mesochori.

Best Places to Stay in Tsoutsouros

  • Triton Hotel – A beautiful beachfront property with a seaside café-bar, free Wi-Fi in public areas, and air-conditioned rooms overlooking the mountain or the Libyan Sea. The hotel features an à la carte restaurant, and the café-bar offers snacks and drinks. Continental breakfast is served daily to guests.
    Click here for more information and to get the latest prices.


Myrtos

  • Lasithi region
GREECE - CRETE - LASITHI - MYRTOS
Myrtos.

Located very close to the bigger city of Ierapetra, Myrtos is a picturesque seaside village with a tranquil vibe.

It is an excellent base to explore the southeastern portion of the island. It has gorgeous souvenir shops and amazingly charming alleys to wander in the evening after a long day at the beach.

Although the village lacks pharmacies, banks, or ATM points, these facilities can be easily found in the nearby Ierapetra, which can be reached by car or local bus.

where to stay in south crete
Myrtos.

The agricultural center is quiet in winter and the shoulder seasons, while it gets quite busy in summer.

You will find all you need, including rooms for rent, hotels, restaurants, taverns, cafeterias, a gas station, and a few convenience stores and minimarkets.

Best Places to Stay in Myrtos


Ierapetra

  • Lasithi region
where to stay in south crete -  ierapetra
Ierapetra.

The most important city in the Lasithi Region is not Agios Nikolaos, as you might have guessed since it’s also the region’s capital, but it’s the southern Ierapetra.

The city is the best place to stay for those interested in visiting Chrissi Island. It has a lively center with plenty of things to do, accommodations, restaurants, supermarkets, schools, and interesting sights to explore.

Ierapetra, Crete
Ierapetra.

Ierapetra is only 30 km from Agios Nikolaos, making it a perfect day trip destination and a great place to spend a few days if you’re looking for a quiet vacation in Crete.

Best Places to Stay in Ierapetra


Makrigialos

  • Lasithi region
Makrigialos Beach in Crete
Makrigialos

Sometimes also written as Makri Gialos, this small village is a few minutes by car from Ierapetra and features a more relaxing vibe and a beautiful beach.

Located between the isolated Xerokampos and the more lively Ierapetra, this small village offers a quiet and relaxing environment but also several seaside restaurants, a picturesque port (from where it’s possible to reach Chrissi Island), ATMs, small convenience stores, a few seaside bars, and a pharmacy.

where to stay in South Crete
Seaside, Makrigialos.

It is an excellent destination for families because the beaches are safe and shallow.

Best Places to Stay in Makrigialos


Xerokampos

  • Lasithi region
XEROKAMPOS - CRETE
Xerokampos.

Arguably the most remote area on the island, Xerokampos (also written Xerocampos) features one of the best collections of isolated beaches in South Crete.

Although there are just a few convenience stores and minimarkets in the area to purchase just a few essentials, the place is ideal for a relaxing holiday in complete solitude.

Just a couple of traditional, very simple taverns, incredible beaches with no organized structures, and a good access road to the coast are some highlights of a stay in Xerokampos.

Xerocampos beach, southern Crete.
Xerocampos.

Best Places to Stay in Xerokampos

  • Villa Agrilia is about 40 minutes from the closest beach in Xerokampos. This is a fantastic villa in a quiet location on the southern coast of Crete. The villa has a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a garden, and a terrace. There are 2 bedrooms, a dining area, a kitchen, and a living room. Free private parking is also available
    Click here for more information and to get the latest prices.

I publish new content about Crete almost every day! For more island guides and details about traveling to Crete, bookmark my Crete and Practical Guides pages to discover exactly what you need before your trip.

Are you dreaming of a getaway to Crete but feeling overwhelmed with planning?

Look no further! With my personalized consultation calls, I’ve assisted countless travelers in crafting the perfect Crete experience. Shoot me an email with your anticipated travel dates. Let’s turn your Crete dreams into reality—reserve your spot today!

Coming to Crete Soon? Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

Before embarking on your Crete adventure, consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself and your loved ones from unexpected situations. Although Crete is a safe destination, getting travel insurance is like having a safety net for your adventures.

Heymondo offers customizable plans, letting you choose the coverage that best suits your itinerary and activities. >> Get a travel insurance quote from Heymondo here.

Safety Wing is simple and affordable, offering straightforward insurance plans for long-term travelers and digital nomads. >> Get a travel insurance quote from Safety Wing here.

More Resources to Enhance Your Crete Adventure

I’ve got some excellent travel resources to make your adventure unforgettable! Start by checking out my ultimate guide to planning your trip to Crete, packed with helpful essential information. Remember to explore the articles on prices in Crete, common mistakes to avoid, and insider secrets for an unforgettable experience.

Once you’re ready to pack, use this comprehensive Crete packing list to ensure you have everything you need for a fantastic vacation. Explore the best places on Crete Island, discover my tours and activities, be amazed at Crete’s incredible beaches, and check out the best times to visit.

If you are exploring specific regions, I’ve got detailed guides to help you make the most of your time in Heraklion, Rethymnon, Lasithi, and Chania.

Suggested Accommodation in Crete

No time to read all my accommodation guides? Check out these places to stay:

More Useful Travel Resources

  • Check out all the digital travel guides I’ve specifically written about Crete. They are affordable and practical to check from your mobile.
  • Look for cheap flights with CheapOAir or find convenient ferry tickets with Ferryhopper.
  • Welcome Pickups offers a convenient pre-paid airport transfer service, while Discover Cars is my favorite engine for finding a rental car on the island.
  • Need cash? I’ve been using Wise in Crete for ages! It’s one of the best cards for overseas travel.
  • Finally, to book adventures, tours, and cultural experiences, I always recommend Get Your Guide.

Pin this Guide to Where to Stay in South Crete!

Where to stay in South Crete

About me:

Gabi Ancarola | The Tiny Book

Gabi Ancarola

I moved to Crete in 2016. During these years, I learned so much about the island! In Crete, I juggle being a solo mom, hosting culinary tours, and writing for several travel media. I’ve written for Greek Reporter, published travel guides about Greece, co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete, and had more glasses of frappe than any regular person could ever handle.

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