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Perkins is a remote and dry area of southern Crete, nestled between the villages of Rodakino and Plakias, 43km to the south of Rethymno. This harsh terrain is dotted with a handful of secluded beaches, accessible either by boat or via the off-road route linking Souda beach to Korakas beach. From east to west, the beaches include Kokkinos Volakas, Stavri, Filadelfi, Parahoristra, Agios Antonios, Hohlakas, and Klimata.
The primary beach in Pefkias is located near the Souda bay and is known as Kokkinos Volakas (Red rock), named for the reddish rock found at its eastern end. A small beach alongside the rock houses a tiny cave and a small cluster of Cretan Date Palms, which originated from the neighboring Souda palm grove. The beach is pebbly and rocky, making it a perfect spot for fishing and snorkeling. Also, due to the lack of natural shade and minimal visitors, it is an ideal location for nudists.
To the east lies the smaller beach of Stavri, which is equally isolated and deserted. Visitors are unlikely to encounter anything or anyone else here. Like Kokkinos Volakas, Stavri can also be reached via the same off-road path connecting Souda to Rodakino.
Get directions to Pefkias beaches
Pefkias beaches are a group of beaches located in the town of Loutraki, Greece.
There are three beaches in Pefkias: Pefkias Beach, Neraida Beach, and Sterna Beach.
The Pefkias beacheses in Pefkias are mostly sandy, with some rocky areas.
Seaweed can sometimes be found on the Pefkias beacheses in Pefkias, but it is not a major issue.
Yes, the Pefkias beacheses in Pefkias are suitable for swimming, with clear and calm waters.
There are no water sports available at Pefkias beaches, but visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
There is no lifeguard on duty at Pefkias beaches, so visitors should take caution when swimming.
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near Pefkias beaches, offering a variety of food and drinks.
Yes, there is parking available near Pefkias beaches, but it can get crowded during peak season.
The water colour of the Pefkias beaches is blue.
The Pefkias beaches has fine pebbles and rocks in places.
The water depth at the Pefkias beaches is normal.
The surface of the sea at the Pefkias beaches is usually calm.
The Pefkias beaches is usually quiet.
There are no facilities available at the Pefkias beaches.
The Pefkias beaches can be accessed via a dirt track.
The Pefkias beaches is nudism friendly and has palm trees. It is also ideal for snorkeling and spearfishing. There is tree shade and rock shade available.
Find below list of things to do near Pefkias beaches:
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Our dive courses are very personalized, easygoing, and professional. As a PADI 5 Star Gold Palm resort (one of the highest ranking for PADI dive centers) we can offer all PADI courses that are available. No matter, if you wish to broaden your knowledge about underwater plants or animals, or if you want to acquire new skills. We have the appropriate course for you.
Embark on a horseback riding adventure along the stunning landscapes of Damnoni, Ammoudaki, Klissidi, and Ammoudi. Traverse the scenic path and encounter the picturesque rural roads that lead you eastward along the coastline.
Begin your journey at the Horse Riding Center, where you will embark on a memorable experience through olive groves towards Damnoni beach. As you traverse the scenic path, encounter the picturesque rural roads that lead you eastward along the coastline.
Ride through the charming small beaches of Ammoudaki and Klissidi, providing a unique perspective of the coastal beauty. The views of the coast and the Libyan Sea are truly awe-inspiring, creating a sense of tranquility and connection with nature.
Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of the Mediterranean environment. Whether you are a seasoned rider or a beginner, this trip offers a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation along the enchanting East Coastline.
A day that will leave the best and warmest memories of Crete will start early in the morning. A transfer from the hotel will pick you up and take you to the team meeting point. If you have a driver’s license, you will be able to drive a jeep by yourself and experience extreme driving on off roads. However, if you do not have a driver’s license or you just want to relax, we will provide you with a driver.
You will spend the full day in an open-top jeep and take in views of valleys, mountains and more. You will pass through small traditional villages full of character and make a few stop for coffee at one of the remote mountain villages.
Our professional guide will guide you throughout the day, leading you to the best cretean places, that you have never seen before.
We will make a big stop near Plakias Beach. So you will be able to enjoy swimming in the crystal water of South Cretan Sea. After free time on the beach you will taste delicious BBQ.
On the road back you will visit incrediable place – Argioloupolis village.
Starting from the Horse Riding Center, the riders will head west through the olive groves, towards the 1.4 klm long, sandy beach of Plakias. As soon as they reach the coast, they will canter along the shoreline and while the Libyan sea breeze will be caressing their face.
Important Information
All our horses are well trained & behaved.
Οur horses are equipped with all the necessary gear to ensure the safety of the horse and the rider.
Highly experienced Guides or Escorts (depending on the riding level) accompany all trips.
We provide all the mandatory safety equipment for the riders as well.
Riding pace depends on the riders skills or/and preference.
Τhis trip is only available in the early morning hours.
Mandatory Equipment:
Safety Helmet
Optional Equipment:
Chaps
Safety Vest (for children)
Suggested Clothing:
Long, comfortable trousers
Closed-toe shoes
Riding Level: All
Our day begins in the morning with your pick up from your hotel. After our coach ride we arrive at the beautiful Damnoni beach, where our boat is waiting for us to take us on a 30-minute boat ride to our first stop of the day, the magnificent beach of Preveli. As we approach our destination, you will be amazed by the unique landscape surrounding us that consists of vertical cliffs of the gorge, the beautiful palm-tree forest and the crystal clear water of the beach. The Grand River ( Megalos Potamos ) that runs through the Kourtaliotiko Gorge and then empties into the sea, makes the water cool and refreshing, ideal for an amazing swim break. On the banks of the river there is a large colony of Theophrastus palm trees which give the region a sense of a tropical landscape. Walk along the sandy beach, under the shade of the palm trees and experience the exotic side of Crete.
We then head back to Damnoni beach, a long bay with beautiful turquoise waters where you can continue your swim and have a delicious meal in one of the traditional restaurants located there.
Our last stop of the day is the lovely city of Rethymno. Mostly known for its Venetian fortress, called Fortezza, Rethymno is considered to be a jewel of the island. Whether you choose to scroll around the narrow streets or have a coffee next to its beautiful Venetian port, you will have an unforgettable experience!
Discover the raw beauty of Crete on this guided day tour from Rethymno to Preveli. Take the opportunity to visit Preveli Beach, the Kourtaliotiko gorge, cruise aboard a boat on the Libyan Sea, swim in crystal-clear waters, and relax on a sandy beach. Relax ─ your tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Rethymno or Chania.
Start your tour from your accommodation where your guide will meet you. Take a short scenic drive through to Damnoni beach where your personal boat driver awaits. Find yourself in Preveli after a short, picturesque boat ride. Enjoy a swim in the Libyan Sea at Preveli Beach and feel free to explore the Kourtaliotiko gorge and marvel at the mountainous terrain.
Connected to Preveli Beach is a series of springs and waterfalls that lead into the gorge which can also be visited. Discover a mixture of sandy beaches, lush forests, and mountains. Return to your accommodation on a route through the Kourtaliotiko gorge
Find below the list of hotels near Pefkias beaches:
Located in Plakias, a few steps from Foteinari Beach and 600 metres from Souda Beach, Fotinari Mare Villa offers a garden and air conditioning. This beachfront property offers access to a patio, free private parking and free WiFi.
The villa is equipped with 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
The villa offers an outdoor fireplace. If you would like to discover the area, snorkelling, cycling and fishing are possible in the surroundings and Fotinari Mare Villa can arrange a car rental service.
Skinos Beach is 1.5 km from the accommodation, while Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 32 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International, 85 km from Fotinari Mare Villa, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€211
/night
Situated 1.5 km from Souda Beach, Metatulia offers an outdoor swimming pool, a garden and air-conditioned accommodation with a patio and free WiFi.
The villa provides guests with a balcony, sea views, a seating area, satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and a private bathroom with shower and bathrobes. A microwave, a toaster and fridge are also available, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
Metatulia offers a barbecue.
Guests at the accommodation can enjoy diving and fishing nearby, or make the most of the sun terrace.
Foteinari Beach is 1.9 km from Metatulia, while Kokkinos Volakas Beach is 2.5 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 84 km from the villa.
from
€196
/night
Located in Plakias, 1.2 km from Foteinari Beach and 1.3 km from Souda Beach, Souda Bay Cottage offers a terrace and air conditioning. It has an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, sea views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The holiday home features 2 bedrooms, a TV with satellite channels, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, a washing machine, and 4 bathrooms with a shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the holiday home.
Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 30 km from the holiday home, while Fortress of Frangokastello is 24 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 84 km from Souda Bay Cottage.
from
€183
/night
Featuring pool views, Souda Bay Loggia provides accommodation with a patio and a coffee machine, around 1.1 km from Foteinari Beach. It has an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, mountain views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The holiday home with a terrace and sea views features 1 bedroom, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 1 bathroom with a shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the holiday home.
The holiday home offers a barbecue.
Souda Beach is 1.2 km from Souda Bay Loggia, while Skinos Beach is 2.2 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 84 km from the accommodation.
from
€157
/night
Boasting garden views, Renting House GALINI offers accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around 700 metres from Foteinari Beach. It has an open-air bath, a garden, mountain views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The apartment is fitted with 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
The apartment offers a picnic area. Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at Renting House GALINI.
Souda Beach is less than 1 km from the accommodation, while Skinos Beach is 1.8 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 84 km from Renting House GALINI.
Featuring a garden, sun terrace and free WiFi, Fotmar is located in Plakias in Crete. The centre of Plakias with shops, taverns and bars is 1 km away.
Each air-conditioned apartment includes a balcony and terrace overlooking the sea. The kitchen is equipped with an oven and electric kettle. The bathroom comes with a bath or shower.
The town of Rethimno is 30 km away. Chania International Airport is 75 km from Fotmar.
Boats to secluded beaches such as Agios Pavlos and Rodakino depart from Plakias Port located 2 km away. The famous beach of Preveli with its palm-tree forest is 5 km from Fotmar.
from
€85
/night
Find below list of beaches near Pefkias beaches:
Souda is nestled 41km to the southwest of Rethymno city, and a mere 3km east from the bustling resort of Plakias. Don’t mistake it for Souda Bay, the natural harbour of Chania city. It is, in fact, the final beach along the Plakias seafront, known as Yialia, commencing at Shinaria many kilometers away. Situated at the mouth of a verdant valley, Souda is crisscrossed by the Finikas river, which flows all year round. Cretan palm trees of Theophrastus, native to the area, flourish along the river and numerous other locations, establishing Souda as a significant refuge for the species.
In the midst of this stunning landscape, a sandy beach stretches out, adored by all who visit. However, this affection can quickly turn to annoyance when the northern winds whip up the sand, blasting unsuspecting swimmers. The landscape today bears no resemblance to the secluded paradise of the 90s, where a narrow dirt path led to a rocky shoreline and a sparsely populated nudist beach. While nudists still frequent the area, they no longer enjoy the same level of comfort. The beach is now more accessible with paved roads, organized facilities, umbrellas, and showers. There are several taverns and accommodations nearby. The rocky beach edges offer ideal conditions for fishing and snorkeling. A few benches can be found above the eastern rocks on the main road, offering panoramic views of the South Cretan Sea.
Situated 37km south of Rethymno, nestled between Plakias and Souda’s beach, Fotinari (also known as Foteinari) offers two serene beaches resting in a compact bay rich with vegetation. The rocky seabed provides a perfect spot for fishing and snorkelling activities.
These adjoining pebbly beaches lack organisation, however, you can easily find accommodation and dining options nearby. As you approach from Plakias, heading towards Souda beach, the first beach you’ll encounter is the Small Fotinari, also referred to as Fotinaraki, due to its smaller size compared to the following beach, the Big Fotinari.
Both beaches are conveniently located near the main road, which runs directly over them. Two brief stone paths cut through a pair of small woods, leading straight to the beach. Additionally, Big Fotinari offers shade beneath the towering rocks that surround it.
Klimata, known for its vines, is a 45km journey south from the city of Rethymno, situated next to the popular Korakas beach, close to Rodakino village. Korakas and Klimata are divided by a brief, rocky cape. Klimata is a petite bay consisting of three sequential beaches. Rodakino’s small harbour is found on the bay’s west side, reachable via a cement-paved path that starts from Korakas. From here, the first beach is easily accessible, positioned just beside the harbour. To get to the other two beaches, one can either walk through the first beach or take the dust road that links Korakas to Souda beach in Plakias.
Klimata is not organised in any way, with only Korakas beach being so. All three beaches are known for their fine pebbles and transparent waters. In certain areas, the rocky sea floor is ideal for snorkelling. It’s likely that these beaches will be deserted, except for a handful of privacy enthusiasts or naturists. Klimata, meaning vines, is named after the vineyards that were once grown on the nearby slopes.
Situated 36km to the south of Rethymno city, Plakias is a charming tourist haven nestled at the mouth of a fertile valley just beyond the Kouroupa range, where the Kotsifos river meets the sea. It owes much of its popularity to the impressive Gialia beach, stretching for 1.3km from the edge of the town to the east, ending at Cape Mouri. This fully-equipped beach, characterized by its crystal-clear, cool waters, is an ideal location for leisurely walks or cycling along the adjacent road. It features numerous hotels and restaurants, as well as beach essentials such as umbrellas, water sports facilities, beach volley courts, snack bars, changing rooms, and showers.
Paligremnos, the eastern portion of the beach, boasts fine sandy shores and is well-appointed with various amenities close to local accommodation and eateries. Noteworthy are the tall, vertical cliffs nearby that prove to be a magnet for climbing enthusiasts. This spot, also known as “Gonates” (knees), is steeped in local lore; it’s said that the epic hero Digenis knelt here to drink from a local spring. An intriguing phenomenon takes place here every full moon from September to January, as the moon’s reflection on the sheer cliffs draws large squids to the beach, which locals catch with long sticks. A few meters south of Paligremnos, you can also discover tunnels once used for transporting coal to waiting cargo ships.
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