Beach Crete

Spend a day at the south part of Heraklion Region. Discover its coast and scenic landscapes of Matala, swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea and take a walk to the world-wide known Caves of the Village. Enjoy the views over the bay and walk around the streets of the village to do some souvenir shopping or have lunch. During this tour you will also visit, the archaeological site of Gortyn, the Roman capital of the island of Crete which area was first inhabited around 7000 BC.

Elafonisi Beach, located on the southwest coast of Crete, is one of the island’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and pink-hued sand, created by crushed shells and coral, this unique beach is a must-visit destination. The area is a protected nature reserve, home to rare plant species and sea turtles, making it a paradise for nature lovers. • The bus picks up passengers between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, depending on the location of your hotel. • The journey to Elafonisi takes approximately 3.5 hours. • There is a 40-minute stop along the way for those who wish to use the restroom or grab a snack. • Upon arrival, visitors will have to walk for about 15 minutes from the bus parking area to reach the beach. • You’ll have 4 hours to enjoy the stunning scenery, swim in the shallow waters, or simply relax on the soft sand The bus will return to Rethymno, arriving at approximately 6:30 PM.

The Real Crete: On this excursion you will have the opportunity to see many places that represent the traditional lifestyle and some historical facts of Crete. The first stop is at Melidoni Cave which is a cave full of history and dates back to Neolithic Period based on tools and items found it the cave. The second stop is at the village of Margarites. Margarites is famous for its pottery that goes back many generations. The third stop is by Arkadi Monastery, is the oldest monastery in Crete. You then continue on the village of Apostoli. Here you will visit an old olive oil factory and see how the production of our olive oil is made. In this village you will also eat in a traditional tavern whilst enjoying the beautiful sound of live Creta music. The second last stop is at Saint Antonios Gorge for photos and finally the last stop which is the Dam known as "Fragma Potamon" which is the home of many animals and flowers.

Step into our air-conditioned minivan for a journey to Elafonisi Beach, a stunning destination in Europe, famous for its pink coral sand and crystal-clear waters. Perfectly suited for cruise ship passengers, our tour begins directly at the Chania-Souda port ensuring a seamless start to your day. As we travel through scenic landscapes, our English-speaking driver-guide will share compelling stories and fascinating facts about the local area. Optional stops for snacks and beverages are available to enrich your journey. On arrival at Elafonisi, a protected EU site adored by millions each year, you'll marvel at the unspoiled white and pink sandy beaches facing the expansive Libyan Sea. A multitude of inviting beach spots provide the perfect setting for relaxation and admiration of this magnificent location. Join us to explore this exceptional highlight of Crete and enjoy a slice of Mediterranean paradise. We offer both private and shared tour options to suit your preferences.

Depending on your level of ability – and the local weather at the time of booking – Fit in Crete can suggest a kayak and/or snorkel tour that will suit you. With many years of experience sea kayaking and snorkelling around West Crete we can choose the location & the sights so you have a great day! Make sure to contact us to clarify the details of your trip when booking.

Starting early, heading west, we reach the port of Kissamos. Here we take our boat for approximately a 1 hour pleasant sail along the coastline. Arriving in the port of the ex­-pirate island of Gramvousa we hear how, during the Turkish occupation, the residents of the island started looting passing boats thus giving the island its pirate reputation. Don’t miss out on a visit to the Venetian castle on top of a steep rock as this is one of the most impressive castles in Greece. There is plenty of time for swimming or lunch on board. Our boat then departs for the Blue Lagoon of Balos, a shallow and warm water lagoon which brings to mind similar lagoons in the Caribbean. You will be disembarked at a distance of 50 meters from the shore according to the Law , as there will be no approach pier. Balos is one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole world. Enjoy a fantastic swim and relax for approximately 3 hours before boarding for the return sail. An experience to remember a lifetime !

After a short drive through the Messara plain you reach Matala. Known for the colony of hippies in the Sixties, where they lived in large holes formed on the mountain. The rocks are holes with a Roman burial. In Matala you will have time for a refreshing dip in the water, eat something or just enjoy a drink on the beach. This is the place where Zeus, having taken the form a bull, swam ashore with Europa on his back before dragging her off to Gortys. Both the Minoans and the Romans used the place as their harbor. Nevertheless, for most people, Matala means only one thing: hippies. Back in the late 1960s – 1970s, this little town was a colony of the “flower children”, who lived in the caves that used to be former Roman tombs. Every summer thousands of people celebrating the Matala Beach Festival. Check out the option for the Matala Beach Festival. Be there to share the Love! ❤️

This excursion takes you to the extreme southwest of Crete and to the foothills and wild mountain landscape of the White Mountains and to the Dream Beach called Elafonisi.

Follow us through the savage natural landscape of Crete which makes your soul fill full of power. We will start from the dam of the rivers at the lake, we will end up to the breathtaking full of plants gorge of Saint Antonios with a small church in the rocky cave. We will pass through some traditional villages and we will stop to take pictures at the higher point of the area, viewing the North and the South Rethymno and the two highest mountains of Crete. Τhen we will visit a botanical garden for a 40-minutes guided tour. You will discover plants and flowers of Crete, famous for their healing properties. At the end of that tour we will have a tea to enjoy and smell the magic of Cretan nature.We continue direction Spili (a famous village for its natural springs), we will visit the folklore museum. As long as we cross the imposing gorge of Kourtaliotis we will move towards Plakias beach for swimming and lunch with view to the South Cretan Sea.

Enjoy the most idyllic and beautiful sunset of Crete! For romantics and not only, enjoy the sunset to end your day in the most special way in the historical Minoan settlement, Karfi. Combine an unforgettable off road in a wonderful part of Crete crossing its hinterland where in addition to traditional settlements you will see its natural beauty until you enjoy the magnificent sunset in an amazing panorama.

• An exciting journey from the North to the South of Crete Island! • The route passes through the entire island capturing part of the Psiloritis massif. From the foot of the mountains stretches the delightful beauty of Messara valley, which has been the island's breadbasket for centuries. • During the ride you will hear the information about the history of the island and the sights that you will visit. Then, you can enjoy a walk in the preserved part of the ancient Roman capital of Crete Gortis, which is considered to be one of the most important archaeological sights in Greece. • Finally you will have time to swim in the crystal clear waters of Matala beach, relax or dine in one of the traditional taverns located along the coast.

Enjoy the sensation of a unique pink paradise on Earth! Let the pink Sand touch your body and the diamond clear water gently tease you. Elafonisi is a miracle of Nature on a very exceptional Island, Crete! Optionally you can clime the 90 steps leading to the impressive Monastery of Chrysoskalitissa.

Experience the ultimate thrill with our Banana Watersports adventure at Rethymno Beach, Crete! Live an exhilarating ride with our specially designed banana boat! Create unforgettable memories with friends and family with coastal views and our expert guides. Adrenaline-pumping experience that will leave you wanting more!

Enjoy a day of sun, sea, and sand at Voulisma Beach on a day trip from Heraklion. Swim in the crystal-clear waters and relax on the golden sand. Don’t miss the chance to visit one of Crete’s most beautiful and serene beaches. Whether you’re a sun-seeker, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Voulisma Beach—also known as Golden Beach—has something for everyone. Just a short drive from Heraklion, it offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, relaxation, and adventure. Renowned for its mesmerizing turquoise waters and pristine golden sands, this postcard-perfect setting is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. With its calm, shallow waters, Voulisma Beach is perfect for families with children, providing a safe and welcoming environment. It has also been awarded the Blue Flag for its cleanliness and high environmental standards. You will have four hours of free time to explore and enjoy the beach at your own pace.

Enjoy a driving experience to the off the beaten track places, experience the spectacular views and the excitement of travelling off-road. Stop for swimming at famous Preveli palm beach. The jeep safari is ideal for all age groups and it is a superb way of getting to know Crete.

This self-guided driving tour around the Kedros mountains in Crete introduces you to the island’s rich history, charming villages, and traditions. Starting in the village of Spili, with its famous lion-head fountains, you’ll visit monasteries, churches, and picturesque towns along the way. Highlights include learning about Cretan music and dance, visiting Ano Meres’ village square, and experiencing the breathtaking views of the Melissa Cape Sandhills. The tour ends in the fishing port of Agia Galini, where you can enjoy local tavernas. Along the route, you'll explore mythology, history, and the world-renowned Cretan olive oil, making this a memorable journey through southern Crete.

Elafonisi is an oblong, which often”breaks” in two parts by water giving the impression of being a separate island and a “Natura 2000” protected area. The island is full of dunes with sand lilies and junipers (like-cedar trees). The endangered turtles Caretta-Caretta and several rare animals nest on the island and it is strictly forbidden to remove any plants, animals from the area. Exotic beach with white sand and turquoise waters, reminding of the Caribbean, are formed on either sides of the peninsula. The sand is pinkish in many places, taking its color from thousands of broken shells. Near the “breaking” point of the peninsula, the water does not exceed 1m, creating a small lagoon, ideal for children.

The trip takes place in the most spectacular coast of Crete. During our kayak trip, we will visit the well known Sweet water beach and will have a stop/lunch afterwards in Loutro village. The whole trip takes place in an area which has NO roads. It is near the national park of Samaria. The whole distance of the trip is about 15km (8.1 nautical miles). No experience required. Tandem or single kayaks are available.

Discover the allure of Vai Palm Beach in Sitia—a slice of the Caribbean nestled within Crete’s shores. Swaying palm trees, golden sands, and crystal-clear waters transport you to a faraway island paradise. The lush palm forest, native to the area for over 2,000 years, adds an exotic touch. Pirates once planted these palms, and their legacy remains. Advertisers even featured Vai’s enchanting palm forest in a Bounty chocolate bar commercial, highlighting its irresistible appeal. Spend blissful hours lounging on soft sands, soaking up the sun, and listening to the gentle lapping of waves. Vai Beach invites you to unwind and escape. Explore hidden coves and coastal nooks—the secrets of this tropical haven. Whether you’re swimming in the cool sea or strolling along the shore, adventure awaits. 12.15 Arrival at Vai Beach (short stop between) 16.15 Departure from Vai Palm Beach 19:00 Arrival in Malia (short stop between) ROUTE: 150 km DURATION: 10 hours STAY IN VAI PALM BEACH: app. 4 hours

Join us on a journey through history and nature! Meet your tour leader at Cretan Spiti Travel terminal in front of Hari’s Creperie, at 08:30, or at the Heraklion Port at 09:00 for cruise ship guests. Our first stop is the archaeological site of Phaistos, a key city of the Minoan civilization. You'll have 45 minutes of free time to explore and enjoy the views of the surrounding countryside. Next, we head to the village of Matala, with its golden sandy beach, crystal-clear waters, and the famous caves carved into the cliffs. Spend 1 hour 45 minutes swimming, relaxing, or strolling through village’s colorful streets, full of history and character. At 13:45, we arrive in the village of Zaros, known for its fresh spring water and natural beauty. Here, you’ll have 2 hours to enjoy an optional lunch of local specialties, take a walk by Lake Votomos, and visit the traditional watermills that mark the area’s heritage. We return to Heraklion, arriving at the meeting point by 17:00.