It is challenging to distinguish the best beaches in Crete. There are so many that deciding which ones to place first and which last is hard. Let’s start with Chania, where most of the island’s beaches are located. The combination of mountains and sea creates unique landscapes, while the lack of roads significantly limits human intervention, preserving the natural beauty.
Western Crete: Stunning Beaches and Hidden Gems To the west, we highlight Falassarna, a beautiful beach with fine sand and stunning waters. It offers an organized section with restaurants, cafes, and sunbeds, as well as a quieter, untouched side for those seeking tranquility.
A little further south, you’ll find Sfinari, a peaceful and picturesque bay with excellent seafood tavernas. Similarly, on the western coast, you can visit Kambos Beach, Stomio, and Voulolimni, located near the Chrysoskalitissa Monastery.
As we move further southwest, we reach the famous Elafonissi, the most developed beach in the area. However, if you seek serenity and privacy, head east to Kedrodasos. Just a 15-minute walk will lead you to a small paradise with cedar trees, white sand, and crystal-clear waters.
In the southwest, you will also find Krios, a quiet and beautiful beach. Another excellent choice is Sougia, a large pebble beach with clear waters, great tavernas, and rental rooms. The sea here is usually calm, making it an ideal destination. 
A hidden gem nearby is Ancient Lissos, a small bay west of Sougia, accessible only by boat or via a scenic one-hour hiking trail. Southern Crete: Secluded Beaches and Exotic Destinations Eight miles east of Sougia lies Domata, considered one of the best beaches in Crete. It is vast, unspoiled, and features a dramatic natural rock wall, while a pine forest reaches right up to the shore. The only way to access it is by boat or via the E4 trail, which connects the entire coastal network. Further west on Crete’s southern side, we find Agia Roumeli, the exit point of the famous Samaria Gorge. This location is unique, as it is accessible only by boat or by hiking through the gorge or the E4 trail. Agia Roumeli offers small hotels and the opportunity for free camping, along with pristine waters and a vast shoreline. The local cuisine is of excellent quality, featuring traditional Cretan dishes. To the east, you will discover the exotic Agios Pavlos Beach, accessible only by boat. This remote and peaceful beach has a long coastline, natural shade from pine trees near the shore, and the historic Agios Pavlos Church, dating back to the 10th century and restored in 1980. The beach is ideal for free camping, and there is a small cantina offering food and water.
Continuing east, the next highlight is Marmara Beach, located at the exit of Aradena Gorge. This stunning beach features smooth, water-polished rocks resembling marble, from which it gets its name. The only way to reach it is by boat, and on top of a cliff, you will find an amazing taverna serving delicious food. Loutro: A Hidden Coastal Paradise Just two miles east of Marmara lies one of the most beautiful locations in southern Crete and a top holiday destination: Loutro. Once an ancient port and a shelter for fishermen, Loutro village is now one of the best places to visit. Protected from winds and waves, the crystal-clear turquoise waters remain calm year-round. The freshwater springs that flow into the sea keep the water cool and exceptionally clean. Loutro offers charming accommodations and high-quality tavernas serving fresh seafood and local lamb.
Since there are no roads or cars, it gives the feeling of being on a secluded island. The area is also perfect for hiking, with many trails leading to nearby beaches and nature spots. On the same coastline, you will find the famous Glyka Nera (Sweet Water Beach). The name comes from the freshwater that seeps through the sand from underground mountain springs. This unique feature gives the sea an extraordinary clarity. The beach is quite large, with both organized and untouched sections, and there is a charming seaside cantina offering quality food, coffee, and refreshments. The only way to reach Glyka Nera is by boat or on foot from Chora Sfakion, adding to its exclusivity and appeal. Conclusion Crete is home to some of the most stunning and diverse beaches in the Mediterranean.
Whether you seek well-organized resorts, exotic pink-sand beaches, or secluded hidden paradises, the island offers something for every traveler. The untouched beauty of southern Crete, with its wild landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic coastlines, provides an unforgettable experience for those willing to explore its treasures.
by Christos Paterakis
