10 Best Beaches in Heraklion

Stalis Beach, also known as Stalida Beach, is on the northern coast and is about 30 km from Knossos Palace, between Hersonissos and Malia. Travellers come from around the globe to enjoy the soft, silky sand and clean waters of Stalis Beach.

Sun seekers can find numerous sunbeds and umbrellas along the beach, and easy access to showers and bathrooms. This spot is a popular one for families, given its proximity to Knossos Palace. The area has restaurants, bars and shops, and has a relatively quiet nightlife.

Ammoudara is a great beach destination if you are in Heraklion and only have a short window of time to hit the beach; it’s the closest beach to the city centre. The area around the beach is quite developed, offering visitors many options for hotels and resorts. You can even take the bus to the beach.

Ammoudara means ‘big sand’ in Greek, and the beach doesn’t disappoint. The beach is a long one – 7 km – and covered in fine, white sand. Popular water sports at this beach include renting jet skis and banana boats.

Agia Pelagia is to the west of Heraklion and is the go-to spot for younger crowds and those with families. The quaint fishing village becomes a bustling resort town in the summer, with tons of hotels, restaurants and bars. Tavernas – small Greek restaurants – line the beaches.

The long, narrow beach is a popular one for scuba divers and snorkellers, because of the amazingly clear turquoise waters. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available beachside. The waters here are calm and quiet because the beach is located on the south side of Cape Souda.

Lygaria is close to Agia Pelagia and it’s where you can go to escape the crowds. This secluded cove is sheltered by the bay and surrounded by mountains and lush, green rolling hills. The area near the beach is a small town with a few hotels and several beachside restaurants.

The beach has coarse sand, pebbles and crystal-clear waters. The waves are small due to the location, but the clear waters make the perfect setting for snorkelling and scuba diving.

Gournes is located to the east of Heraklion, on the northern coast. This quiet, quaint little town has a few small hotels and shops. There are mini-markets and tavernas for snacks and necessities.

Due to its location, the beach at Gournes gets strong winds, kicking up the surf. The brown sand and clear, green waters are popular with sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts who are looking to escape the crowds. This beach tends to be quiet and less crowded, even in the summer months.

If you are looking for a photogenic beach, look no further than Paralia Paleokastro. The picture-perfect beach is a hidden gem near Heraklion. Its black sand and pebble beaches contrast with the clear, turquoise waters and make for great photo opportunities.

The small coves on this beach also make it perfect for snorkelling. The beach is surrounded by the natural beauty of rocks and cliffs. There are changing rooms and bathrooms beachside but not many other amenities, so plan accordingly for your outing.

Located near the northernmost edge of the Gulf of Heraklion, Mades is a quaint little village with a beach that is beloved by locals. It’s about 21 km northwest of Herklion and has a few tavernas nearby. If you are looking to stay the night, small houses and apartments are available.

The small bay is surrounded by pebble beaches. It has 2 small inlets with calm waters, making it perfect for snorkelling or fishing. The rocky seabed along this beach is brimming with fish. The cove tends to be quiet and less touristy.

A short distance east of Heraklion (9 km) is Amnissos beach, close to the landmark Knossos Palace. This beach is popular with families, locals and tourists alike and can get quite crowded in the summer months. The fine white sand of the beach leads to shallow, clear blue water which is great for children. There are also numerous water sports facilities nearby.

The beach is long and lined with sunbeds and umbrellas. There are also a few beach bars, tavernas and restaurants. Showers and bathrooms are available.

Potamos is in Malia, a coastal town tucked away in the north-eastern section of Heraklion. There is a larger beach in Malia, but Potamos is the place to go to escape the larger crowds. The beach is exposed to winds and has numerous rocky outcroppings.

The beach is a long, sandy one with clear blue water that tends to be shallow in depth. There are gorgeous white mountains in the distance, adding to the natural ambiance. Sunbeds and umbrellas line the beach and visitors can get food at some snack bars and tavernas.

Located on the northern coast, Anogia beach has several small, rocky bays. There are a few hotels nearby and a smattering of tavernas and restaurants. This beach doesn’t see big crowds, so it’s a nice place to escape.

The beach consists of pebbles and rocks. The water is deep here and clear blue. The beach has exposure to winds, so the waves can get strong. Mountains and cliffs provide the backdrop and unique rock formations like arches dot the beach.