Beach Near Heraklion for 3 Nights

by Nick
(Sicily)

We are coming to Crete and Santorini for 7 days. If we only stay 3 nights in Crete what is the one spot you would recommend to go and stay?

We are looking for beach and we are flying in/out of Heraklion. Thanks!!

Beach near Heraklion

Hi Nick,

That is easy - we would suggest Agia Pelagia Beach. It is only 23 km from Heraklion. Close enough to visit Knossos one morning too!. Enjoy the sandy beaches and clear waters there.

In Agia Pelagia there are many cafes and tavernas right down by the water's edge, it is an amphitheatrical bay with steep sides, so be sure to choose an accommodation near the beach, otherwise you could be facing some steep hill climbs.

We suggest the Out of the Blue Resort which is leafy with large gardens, its own beach access and many facilities. Or on the budget side, we suggest Andy's Apartments which are one street back from the beach, neat and tidy and central.

Other Beaches Close to Heraklion

The sandy Kato Gouves Beach is just 20 km from town, on the north coast to the east, with lots of hotels.

Just 25 km to the east of Heraklion is Anissaras Beach which has many rocky coves and plenty of accommodation options.

The closest beach to town is Ammoudara Beach which is long and wide and sandy, very handy to town and the airport, with loads of facilities, we suggest Yannis Apartments on the budget side here...

Beaches in Crete

In the Heraklion region you will find many beautiful beaches and seaside villages ideal for a short sandy holiday.

On the southern coast which is much less developed and touristy than the north, you will find some wide beaches where you can get the wind in your hair...

Kokkinos Pirgos is a pebbly long wide beach which sometimes has surf and has lovely beaches all around, with a little fishing port and good seafood taverna.

Malala Beach is quite famous for its hippie past and music festival in June each year, it has unique caves, a sandy beach and very clear waters for swimming. Walk to nearby untouched beaches...

Keratokambos Beach is lesser known, quite far away and you can get away from it all here...

Kalo Taxidi! Bon Voyage!

Agios Nikolaos in Crete

I would go to Agios Nikolaos! It's a not too long way to go from Heraklion (60 km ?) You will have a good urban and touristic life, the beaches from there: Elounda and Plaka are not too far away.

A very nice village, you must see: Kritsa is good to reach, and Agios Nikolaos is such a nice small town - also at night!

Have a good time at Crete! But for sure: 3 days are never enough

Best wishes

Elisabeth from Bavaria