Which Crete beaches stay calm when the meltemi’s north wind picks up
When the meltemi, the seasonal north wind common in July and August, strengthens along Crete’s northern coastline, beachgoers can look to the island’s southern shore for calmer alternatives, according to a report by CretaOne.
A beach that is calm one day can have significant waves and strong currents the next once northern winds intensify. This does not necessarily mean a day at the beach is ruled out. Because of Crete’s varied terrain, when the north wind strongly affects one side of the island, other areas may be more sheltered. Local weather forecasts and any posted beach warnings should always be checked before setting out, the report notes.
Looking south when the north wind blows
A general rule followed by many locals is that when the northern coast experiences heavy swell from north winds, it is worth checking conditions on the southern side of the island instead. This does not mean every southern beach will always be calm — wind intensity and direction, local gusts, and the shape of each bay can significantly affect conditions. Still, several areas are worth checking, according to the report.
Southern coast options
Agia Galini, Rethymno: Located on the southern side of Rethymno, Agia Galini is a frequent choice for those seeking an alternative to the northern coast, since its position may offer different conditions when the north of the prefecture faces heavy swell.
Plakias, Rethymno: One of the best-known coastal spots in southern Crete, Plakias can itself be affected by very strong local winds. A general forecast of “north wind” is not enough — conditions on the specific day should be checked.
Matala, Heraklion: A popular day-trip destination from Heraklion in southern Crete, Matala sits within a bay, and conditions there can differ entirely from what is happening on the prefecture’s northern coast at the same time.
Kalamaki and Kokkinos Pyrgos: The Mesara region has large beaches that serve as alternatives when northern conditions are unsuitable. Because parts of this coastline are open, wind conditions should still be checked before departing.
Tsoutsouros, Heraklion: On the southern side of Heraklion prefecture, Tsoutsouros offers a long coastline and is a popular summer destination. It requires a longer drive from Heraklion but can offer sea conditions very different from the northern beaches.
Makry Gialos, Lasithi: Located on the southern coast of Lasithi, Makry Gialos has beaches with relatively shallow water in several spots. Its location makes it worth considering when north winds create difficult conditions near Agios Nikolaos or other more northern areas.
Myrtos, Ierapetra: West of Ierapetra, Myrtos is another southern Crete option. The small seaside village combines swimming and dining and can serve as a full-day destination.
Palaiochora, Chania: In southwestern Crete, Palaiochora has an advantage in that it has beaches with different orientations around the settlement, allowing swimmers to check which side offers better conditions depending on the wind direction that day.
Northern beaches can change within hours
Along the north coast, beaches in Heraklion, Rethymno and Chania prefectures can develop heavy swell as north winds strengthen. The report cautions that the view from shore can be misleading — waves and, in particular, sea currents can make swimming dangerous even for experienced swimmers.
Red flags should never be ignored
Regardless of how far someone has traveled to reach a beach, a red flag or a lifeguard’s instruction means swimmers should not enter the water, the report states. Extra caution is advised for children, since strong swell can sweep them away more easily. A beach being calm the previous day is no guarantee it will be safe the next.
Checking conditions before setting out
Crete’s long coastline and beaches with widely varying orientations mean that even on days with a strong meltemi, a better option may exist on another side of the island. Checking the wind forecast, wave height and local conditions before departing can prevent an unnecessary trip and make swimming considerably safer, according to the report.
