Anissaras Beach
Anissaras Beach offers clear blue waters and excellent snorkeling, with stunning sunsets and charming coves, though it's primarily stony.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Anissaras Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Anissaras Beach offers clear blue waters and excellent snorkeling, with stunning sunsets and charming coves, though it's primarily stony.
"Discover clear waters and vibrant marine life, perfect for snorkeling and sunset views."
🥾 Bring Water Shoes
The beach is stony; water shoes are essential for comfortable walking and swimming.
🐠 Snorkel Gear Recommended
The underwater area is rocky and full of fish, making it ideal for snorkeling.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Saradari Coves
Near Anissaras
Charming, family-friendly coves with reddish sand and clear waters, offering a serene escape.

Snorkeling Paradise
Anissaras Beach
Discover a rocky underwater world teeming with fish, perfect for snorkelers seeking marine life.

Spectacular Sunsets
Anissaras Beach
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky over the Mediterranean Sea.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Footwear is Key
Seasonal Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Bring Water Shoes
The beach is stony; water shoes are essential for comfortable walking and swimming.
🐠 Snorkel Gear Recommended
The underwater area is rocky and full of fish, making it ideal for snorkeling.
☀️ Seek Out Coves
Explore the charming Saradari Coves for a more secluded beach experience.
📸 Sunset Views
Anissaras Beach offers beautiful sunset vistas, perfect for evening strolls.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Bring Water Shoes
The beach is stony; water shoes are essential for comfortable walking and swimming.
🐠 Snorkel Gear Recommended
The underwater area is rocky and full of fish, making it ideal for snorkeling.
☀️ Seek Out Coves
Explore the charming Saradari Coves for a more secluded beach experience.
📸 Sunset Views
Anissaras Beach offers beautiful sunset vistas, perfect for evening strolls.
🏖️ Resort Beach Access
If visiting off-season, you might find access to resort sunbeds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Anissaras Beach is praised for its clear, beautiful waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities, with many enjoying the spectacular sunsets. However, visitors frequently note that the beach is made of small stones rather than sand, which can be uncomfortable for walking and entering the sea without proper footwear.
"Very rocky so hard to get into the sea. Sand had a strange sharp texture that made prolonged walking on it painful
In short, bring proper footwear"
Peter B
"Crete in April is a new experience for me. Yesterday was gorgeous, today also but blowing a gale! None of the public beaches with sunbeds are open yet (May 1) so I gate crashed the beds at Anissa Hotel. This is taken there. I love to see nature doing its thing."
Britta Mettler
"One of our favourite spots while on Crete. Small stones that the beach is made out of have all of the benefits of the sand but are easier to get of you, and don't get everywhere as the sand does. The underwater area is rocky and full of fishes and nice views and many many fishes if you want to snorkle."
Michael Bartasso
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Anissaras Beach is located near Hersonissos on Crete. It's easily accessible by car or taxi from nearby towns. Some visitors mention walking to it from hotels in the area.
Yes, Anissaras Beach is a well-known stretch of coastline. If you're staying in the Hersonissos area, it's a straightforward destination to reach.
Depending on your accommodation, walking to Anissaras Beach is possible. Some hotels are located directly on or very close to the beach.
For exploring the immediate area and nearby attractions, renting a car offers the most flexibility. Taxis are also readily available.
While specific bus routes might vary, the general area is served by public transport connecting to larger towns like Heraklion. It's advisable to check local schedules.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Anissaras Beach is a public beach, so there is no entry fee. You only pay for optional services like sunbeds and umbrellas.
As a natural beach, Anissaras is accessible at all hours. However, amenities like beach bars or restaurants may have specific operating times, especially outside peak season.
Yes, sunbeds and umbrellas are typically available for rent, especially during the tourist season. Some hotels offer these amenities directly to their guests.
Public beaches with sunbeds usually start opening around May 1st. If you're visiting earlier, you might need to rely on hotel facilities.
Booking in advance is generally not necessary for public beach sunbeds, but it might be an option through your hotel or specific beach clubs.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
Anissaras Beach is characterized by small stones rather than fine sand, with a rocky seabed. It's known for its clear, blue waters and offers opportunities for snorkeling.
Yes, the water is clear and generally good for swimming. However, the rocky seabed and stones can make entry and walking in the water less comfortable without proper footwear.
Popular activities include swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling due to the rich marine life. Beach walks and enjoying the sunset are also highly recommended.
Facilities can vary. Hotels located on the beach often provide these for their guests. Public facilities might be limited, especially outside the main season.
Yes, it can be family-friendly, especially the Saradari Coves area. However, the stony nature of the beach might require extra supervision for very young children.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stunning sunsets, the clear blue waters, and the unique texture of the stony beach. The Saradari Coves also offer picturesque scenes.
Absolutely! Anissaras Beach is renowned for its beautiful sunsets, providing a perfect backdrop for memorable photos.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive sea views and sunsets. If you plan on snorkeling, an underwater camera or waterproof case is a good idea.
Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography at public beaches. However, always be mindful of privacy if photographing other beachgoers.
The 'golden hour' just before sunset offers the most beautiful light. Mornings can also be lovely with softer light and fewer people.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing water shoes for everyone to ensure comfortable access to the sea and for exploring the rocky seabed. Many hotels in the area cater to families, offering amenities like pools and direct beach access, which can enhance the overall family vacation experience.
🐠 Snorkelers and Divers
Bring your own snorkel gear or check if local hotels or rental shops offer it. The clear waters provide good visibility, allowing you to fully appreciate the underwater ecosystem. It's a great way to add an adventurous element to your beach day.
📸 Photographers
Don't miss capturing the unique texture of the stony beach and the vibrant blue of the water. The Saradari Coves also offer picturesque scenes with their reddish sand and charming inlets. A wide-angle lens is recommended for capturing the expansive coastal views.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Anissaras Beach Terrain
The seabed also follows this rocky theme, which is a significant advantage for snorkeling enthusiasts. The underwater landscape is rich with marine life, making it a prime spot to explore the underwater world of Crete. The clarity of the water further enhances the snorkeling experience, allowing for excellent visibility of the fish and underwater formations.
Exploring the Saradari Coves
While amenities might be minimal in these coves, this scarcity contributes to their untouched charm. Visitors can find a cozy atmosphere, making it a relaxing escape. A nearby kiosk sometimes offers beach snacks and drinks, adding a touch of convenience without detracting from the natural beauty. The Saradari Coves are often cited as a 'hidden gem' and a great spot for families seeking a tranquil beach day.
The Magic of Anissaras Sunsets
Many visitors and content creators highlight the beauty of these sunsets, often capturing them in photos and videos. The tranquil atmosphere of the beach during this time, combined with the stunning visual display, creates a truly memorable experience. It's a perfect way to end a day of exploring Crete, offering a moment of peace and natural beauty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit