Best beaches in North West Crete
. is west Crete nice?
. Summer vacation
. Travel
. traveling west Crete
. Vacation
. vacation in west Crete
Best Beaches in Crete: Top 5 Famous Beaches You MUST Visit
November 3, 2024
Best Beaches in Crete:
Top 5 Famous Beaches You MUST Visit
Crete has some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, each offering unique landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and a distinct character. Here are the top 5 beaches we recommend visiting from Infinity Wellness Hotel, with a little info about what makes each one special, driving times, what you’ll see on the way, and some helpful tips to make the most of your experience.
Elafonissi Beach- The Beach with the pink sand
Driving Time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes from Infinity Wellness Hotel
Known For: Stunning pink sand and shallow turquoise waters, ideal for families and relaxation.
Why People Love It?: Elafonissi’s rare pink sand and lagoon-like waters attract visitors repeatedly. It’s a haven for relaxing swims, wading through shallow waters, and sunbathing in a truly unique environment.
The Drive: You’ll pass through beautiful olive groves, traditional picturesque villages, mountain roads, with incredible coastal and forest views along the way.
Helpful Tips: Plan to arrive by early afternoon and stay for the sunset—it’s absolutely breathtaking here. It’s a popular destination, so visiting in the morning or after 4 PM can help you avoid the busiest times.
Previous
Next
Balos Lagoon-
Exotic blue lagoon, white sand, turquoise waters
Driving Time: Approximately 1 hour from Infinity Wellness hotel, or by boat from Kissamos port.
Known For: Its exotic blue lagoon, white sand, and unique blend of shallow and deeper waters.
Why People Love It: The views of Balos from above, if you arrive by car, are surreal. This beach is famed for its turquoise waters, gentle waves, and rugged landscape, making it one of Crete’s most photographed spots. So get your instagram/Facebook/TikTok story ready to become WOW! And your heart to be captured…
Scenic Drive: If you drive, the last 8 km is off-road but offers fantastic scenery, from rocky mountains to views over the entire lagoon before you hike down.
Helpful Tips: If driving, wear comfortable shoes for the 20-30 minute hike down and back up to & from the beach—hiking shoes are best. Arriving early (around 7 or 8 AM) can help avoid crowds. Prepare for a challenging climb back up, especially if it’s midday, as it can get quite hot.
Falasarna Beach-
Best Sunset beach in Northwest Crete
Driving Time: About 40 minutes from Infinity Wellness Hotel.
Known For: Long stretches of golden sand, clear waters, and one of Crete’s best sunset views.
Why People Love It: Falasarna has an open, spacious feel that invites visitors to spend hours lounging, swimming, or enjoying water sports. The sunset here is incredible, and it’s a favorite for beachgoers who love quieter, scenic locations.
Scenic Drive: You’ll drive through lush fields and rolling hills, with views of the coast opening up as you approach.
Helpful Tips: Since the sand here is quite coarse, it’s best to visit on calmer days to avoid wind. Plan to end your day with the sunset—it’s spectacular.
Seitan Limania (Saitan Beach)
strikingly clear water and impressive cliffs
Driving Time: About 1 hour 10 minutes from the hotel.
Known For: Dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and a secluded atmosphere.
Why People Love It: This hidden cove is known for its strikingly clear water and impressive cliffs. Although small, it has a unique appeal for those willing to venture down a short hike to reach the beach.
Scenic Drive: The last stretch of the drive is memorable, with cliffs giving way to views of the cove below.
Helpful Tips: Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes as the path down is rocky. Get there early if possible, as it’s small and fills up quickly.
Afrata Beach
The intimacy & the wild cliffs make it perfect
Driving Time: A quick 3-4-minute drive from Infinity Wellness Hotel.
Known For: A peaceful, hidden spot with beautiful rocky shores and calm, clear waters.
Why People Love It: This is a favorite for those wanting a quiet day by the sea. The pebbly shores and crystal waters make it ideal for unwinding, and it feels like a true escape from busier beaches.
Scenic Drive: The short drive winds through the quaint village of Afrata and down to the coast, with lovely views along the way.
Helpful Tips: Bring stone shoes for added comfort while swimming and walking on the beach. This is a great place to let go, breathe in the fresh air, and relax.
Previous
Next
https://youtu.be/IdpnO7mFUjk
**A Quick Tip:**
When ever you go to a beach in Crete please remember to drink more water than usual, don’t forget to take you sun protection creams, sun glasses and a hat are alweys recommended, but the right ones will make you look cool as well 🙂 If you choose to stay with us at Infinity Wellness Hotel, you can borrow from us a sun umbrella for the beach, and we also have some cool sunbeds to lend you.
To summaries, these beaches offer diverse experiences, from iconic pink sands to secluded rocky coves, and each has its own charm. Whether you’re planning a quiet morning or a day ending in a stunning sunset, Crete’s beaches are waiting to welcome you back again and again.
