Here’s a list of the 11 best beaches in Crete, the largest Greek island, which boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the Mediterranean, based on their beauty, unique landscapes, popularity and crystal-clear waters:

1. Elafonissi Beach (Chania – Southwest Crete)

Famous for its pink-tinged sands due to crushed seashells, Elafonisi a protected Natura 2000 area, features shallow, turquoise lagoons ideal for families and wading. Its remote location adds to its charm, though it gets busy in peak season. It is about a 90-minute drive from Chania or 2 hours from Heraklion accessible and with guided tours.

2. Balos Lagoon (Chania – Northwest Crete )

Known for its turquoise waters and white sand, Balos is a breathtaking lagoon with a Venetian castle backdrop. It’s a bit wild and less developed, offering a sense of adventure. Balos can reached by boat from Kissamos or a challenging off-road drive plus short hike.

3. Matala Beach (Heraklion)

Famous for its hippie history and caves carved into sandstone cliffs, Matala offers a family-friendly and vibrant village atmosphere with golden sand and calm waters. Its sunsets are beatiful. About an hour’s drive from Heraklion or Rethymnon.

4. Vai Beach (Lassithi)

Unique for its large palm forest, one of Europe’s largest, Vai Europe’s largest natural palm forest is a tropical oasis with golden sand and clear waters. About a 30-minute drive from Sitia, It’s a bit remote but worth the adventure.

5. Falassarna Beach (Chania – West Crete)

A long, sandy stretch with turquoise waters, Falassarna is more accessible than Balos or Elafonisi and offers amenities like beach bars and tavernas. Ideal for swimming, windsurfing as it is often windy, and relaxing. It is about an hour’s drive from Chania or 20 minutes from Kissamos.

6. Preveli Beach (South Crete, near Rethymnon)

Unique setting with a palm forest and a small river flowing into the sea, with golden sand around, it is great for nature enthusiasts as it is less commercialized with a scenic hike to reach.

7. Seitan Limania – Stefanou Beach (Akrotiri Peninsula, near Chania)

Narrow cove, with dramatic cliffs and bright blue water. Steep descent to reach the beach, not ideal for families but great for Instagram shots.

8. Agiofarago Beach (South Crete)

Secluded pebble beach accessible via a scenic gorge hike or boat, offering tranquility. Crystal waters, ideal for snorkeling. The beach offers minimal facilities for a raw experience.

9. Kommos Beach (South Crete, near Matala)

Long, sandy beach with archaeological significance close to ancient Minoan ruins. Less crowded so it is great for quiet relaxation.

10. Istro (Voulisma Beach, East Crete)

Golden sand beach with emerald water and organized services. Good for families with easy access, best for people staying near Agios Nikolaos.

11. Stavros Beach (Near Chania)

Calm, shallow waters in a sheltered cove, famous as a filming location for Zorba the Greek. The combination of soft sand, clear waters, and the mountainous backdrop makes it great for photography and relaxation. Free parking close to the beach, with easy access.

Our suggestion is to visit the 11 Crete beaches in late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October) to avoid crowds and high temperatures.