Plakias Beach
A serene seaside town on Crete's south coast, offering long sandy beaches, clear waters, and dramatic canyon drives.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Plakias Beach
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene seaside town on Crete's south coast, offering long sandy beaches, clear waters, and dramatic canyon drives.
"Stunning mountains and sea await you in this small seaside town on the Southern coast of Crete."
🚗 Drive through Kotsifou Canyon
The drive to Plakias is stunning, especially through Kotsifou Canyon.
☀️ Find local tavernas
Eat where the locals do for authentic flavors and avoid tourist traps.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Plakias Beach Crescent
Main stretch of Plakias
A long, sandy expanse with clear, calm waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Ammoudaki Beach
Short drive/walk from Plakias
A hidden gem with turquoise waters and soft sand, nestled between rugged cliffs.
Calypso Beach
East of Plakias
A breathtaking cove resembling a natural fjord, perfect for snorkeling and diving.
Kourtaliotis Gorge
Near Plakias
Dramatic canyon with a spectacular road leading to Plakias, featuring a unique rock-built church.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the South Coast Vibe
Beach Bliss & Beyond
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive through Kotsifou Canyon
The drive to Plakias is stunning, especially through Kotsifou Canyon.
☀️ Find local tavernas
Eat where the locals do for authentic flavors and avoid tourist traps.
🤿 Snorkel at Calypso Beach
Discover an underwater paradise with clear turquoise waters.
🚶♀️ Explore hidden coves
Ammoudaki Beach offers a tranquil escape with clear waters.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive through Kotsifou Canyon
The drive to Plakias is stunning, especially through Kotsifou Canyon.
☀️ Find local tavernas
Eat where the locals do for authentic flavors and avoid tourist traps.
🤿 Snorkel at Calypso Beach
Discover an underwater paradise with clear turquoise waters.
🚶♀️ Explore hidden coves
Ammoudaki Beach offers a tranquil escape with clear waters.
🚤 Boat to White Beach
Rent a boat for a unique adventure to this secluded spot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Plakias Beach is praised for its stunning natural beauty, clear waters, and family-friendly environment. Visitors appreciate the scenic drives and the availability of local tavernas. Some find the underwater scenery less varied due to the sandy bottom, and the beach can get busy during peak season.
"Stunning mountains and sea await you in this small seaside town on the Southern coast of Crete. They have many tavernas to eat along the water. Look for where the locals are eating and this will help you avoid the touristy venues. While there are a handful of tourist shops, the landscape isn’t dominated with tacky items."
Anne Gryllakis Roberts
"Long beach, part near the shop and tavern, part quieter. Beach bars, sunbeds. Nudist part. Calm, clear sea. Around the rock. Plenty of parking spaces, but we were there at the beginning of May."
Libor
"Nice beach. It seems that the water here is slightly warmer than at other south coast beaches and very clear. The depth increases gradually, making it very safe for children. The bottom is evenly and homogeneously sandy with a beautiful wavy pattern, so there isn't much to see underwater, but it's still very pleasant, even say meditative at some point, to swim parallel or perpendicular to the coast."
Ivan Kuprijanov
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plakias is located on the south coast of Crete. The most scenic route is via the Kotsifou Canyon, which is a spectacular drive. If flying into Chania, it's a drive of about 1.5-2 hours. If flying into Heraklion, it's a longer drive of around 2-2.5 hours.
Yes, the roads are generally well-maintained, though some can be winding. The drive through Kotsifou Canyon is particularly memorable. Parking is usually available, especially outside of peak season.
There are bus services connecting Plakias to Rethymno, which is the nearest major town. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the numerous beaches and gorges in the vicinity. Boat tours are also available for reaching more secluded spots.
Absolutely! Plakias is a fantastic base for exploring the wild beauty of southern Crete, with easy access to stunning beaches and hiking trails.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Plakias Beach itself is a public beach and does not require an entrance fee. You may pay for sunbed and umbrella rentals if you choose to use them.
Most natural attractions like beaches and gorges are free to access. Some organized boat tours or specific sites might have associated costs.
Restaurants and shops typically open in the morning and close in the late evening, especially during the tourist season. Hours can vary, so it's best to check locally.
Plakias Beach is accessible at any time. For the best experience, visit during daylight hours to enjoy the clear waters and scenery.
Booking hotels in Plakias, Crete, especially during peak season, is highly recommended. Popular options include hotels, apartments, and resorts.
🎫 🏖️ Beach & Activities
Plakias Beach is great for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The calm, clear waters are also suitable for paddleboarding and kayaking.
Yes, Calypso Beach is renowned for its stunning underwater landscape, making it a paradise for snorkelers and divers.
You can rent boats in Plakias, including options for reaching secluded beaches like White Beach without needing a license.
The water deepens gradually, making it safe for children. The sandy bottom is also pleasant for playing.
Yes, there is a designated nudist section on Plakias Beach, typically found towards the quieter, eastern end.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Capture the dramatic scenery of the Kourtaliou Gorge on your way in, the sweeping crescent of Plakias Beach, and the hidden coves like Ammoudaki and Calypso Beach.
Early morning or late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a serene atmosphere. Sunsets over the Libyan Sea are spectacular.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beaches and dramatic gorges. Underwater housing or a waterproof camera is ideal for snorkeling and diving shots.
The drive through Kotsifou Canyon, the unique rock-built church, and the secluded fjord-like Calypso Beach offer distinctive photographic subjects.
Drone regulations can vary. Always check local rules and respect privacy before flying a drone. The dramatic coastal landscapes offer incredible aerial potential.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Adventure Seekers & Road Trippers
+1 Consider taking a boat trip to discover more remote locations like White Beach. The rugged landscape also offers opportunities for hiking and exploring gorges. Remember to have a good map or GPS, as some roads can be narrow and winding.🧘♀️ Relaxation & Quiet Seekers
Visiting during the shoulder seasons (May, September) will ensure fewer crowds and a more serene environment. Enjoy the slow pace of life, the sound of the waves, and the stunning natural beauty without the hustle and bustle of more tourist-heavy areas.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Beaches of Plakias
Further east, Calypso Beach presents a dramatic, fjord-like cove, renowned for its exceptional underwater visibility, making it a prime location for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Beyond the immediate vicinity, the south coast of Crete is dotted with numerous other stunning beaches. Many visitors opt to rent a boat to discover even more remote coves, including the famed White Beach, accessible by sea for a truly unique experience.
The variety of beaches, from expansive sandy shores to intimate, rocky inlets, ensures there's a perfect spot for every type of beachgoer. Remember to pack reef-safe sunscreen and plenty of water for your explorations.The Scenic Drive and Local Flavors
Once in Plakias, the town offers a delightful array of tavernas lining the waterfront. To truly savor the local cuisine, seek out establishments where the locals gather. This is often the best indicator of authentic, delicious food and a genuine Cretan dining experience.
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