Best Beaches near Piskopianó in Heraklion region, Crete Island

Hersonissos beaches is located 1.2 km away.

Hersonissos, a bustling tourist hotspot in Crete situated just 28km to the east of Heraklion, is renowned for its tranquil beaches and calm seas – a rarity along the northern coast of Crete due to the prevailing northern winds. The most serene beaches can be found to the west of the port, shielded by the Cape Sarandaris. Towards the east of the port, however, lie the resort’s most frequented beaches.

As you venture east from the port of Hersonissos, the first sight to greet you is a sprawling, narrow, sandy beach, buzzing with throngs of beachgoers. It’s impeccably organized and conveniently close to the city’s amenities, though it may not be the best choice for those seeking a more serene environment.

Journeying further east, a series of small, sandy coves become apparent, primarily situated in front of hotels. Of these, Silva Maris Beach stands out with its high level of organization, a lifeguard, and numerous facilities. Continuing eastwards, you’ll encounter Star Beach, one of Crete’s most populous beaches, largely patronized by British and Dutch tourists. Lastly, near Cape Drapanos lie the peaceful beaches of Eastern Hersonissos, offering a quieter seaside experience.

Drapanos beaches is located 2.5 km away.

Living on the island of Crete, about 28km east of Heraklion, you’ll find the popular tourist town of Hersonissos. It’s known for its array of beaches, particularly on the eastern side. Located a short 2km distance from the Hersonissos port, these delightful coves extend up to the Drapanos Cape. The most vibrant among them is Star Beach, known for being one of the island’s busiest spots.

As you travel further east, there are several small, scenic sandy and pebbly coves that offer a feeling of tranquillity. Some of these secluded spots enjoy cool water due to the presence of freshwater springs in the sea. Next to these coves, you’ll find the Lychnostatis Folklore Museum, a place where visitors can delve into the historical Cretan way of life.

The final beach in the Hersonissos vicinity is located in front of the Nana Beach Hotel, at the edge of Drapano Cape, and is accessible by heading east. This well-maintained beach has sunbeds and a lifeguard on duty, with a variety of water sports and beach bars available. Thanks to the protection offered by two long piers, this beach enjoys calm waters all year round, as it’s shielded from the north winds.

Sarandaris coves is located 2.6 km away.

The tranquil beaches of Hersonissos Coves, also known as Limanakia, are located 27km east of Heraklion, extending from Cape Sarandaris to Hersonissos harbour. The beaches are protected from the strong northwest winds by Cape Sarandaris (Sarantari), providing calm waters for visitors. These coves are easily reachable and are situated near the vibrant town of Hersonissos with plenty of bars and cafes.

The western edge of the coves features a concrete dock ideal for diving, nestled on the rocky western side of Cape Sarandaris (Sarantari) near the quaint St. George Sarandaris chapel. A staircase leads to a sunbathing spot with hotel umbrellas and a rocky seabed perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Further down, at Cape Sarandaris’s base, you’ll discover the breathtaking Sarantari Cape beach, arguably the most picturesque and sheltered beach in Hersonissos. Its sandy beaches, shallow crystal-clear waters, and an intriguing sea cave make it a tranquil alternative to other beaches, despite the challenging descent through steep limestone cliffs.

Contrary to popular belief, Hersonissos also has a stony naturist beach located next to Sarandaris Cape, hidden discreetly by tall cliffs. This sandy, rocky cove provides a peaceful spot for swimming and solitude.

The well-known Sarandari beach comes next, popular among children due to its shallow waters and soft sands. The beach offers umbrellas, sunbeds, and a small canteen for convenience.

Next to Sarandari is Giofyri beach, situated under the main road and supported by a massive concrete wall. With its unique white coarse sand, deeper waters, and rocky seabed, it’s a popular choice among visitors, complete with umbrella and sunbed facilities.

Heading east from Giofyri along the coastal road, a series of small, slim beaches framed by white rocks awaits, their light-blue waters offering a truly mesmerizing sight. This captivating landscape stretches until you reach the large beach in front of the Creta Maris hotel, which extends up to Hersonissos port. This beach is well-equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, water sports facilities, and a beach volleyball court, becoming busier and more exposed to winds nearer the harbor.

Regardless of whether you decide to swim, a casual walk from the port to Cape Sarandaris offers stunning views of Hersonissos Bay and St. George’s chapel in Sarandaris. At Hersonissos port, consider visiting the lighthouse and the Agia Paraskevi church, partially built into the rock. On Kastri Hill, the remnants of the early Christian Hersonissos basilica and its preserved mosaics are a must-see.

Anissaras beaches is located 3.5 km away.

Located 21km east of Heraklion and west of Cape Sarandaris, the tranquil resort of Anisaras is now home to a plethora of large hotels, most of which provide all-inclusive services. Small sandy beaches with rocky seabeds line the front of these hotels, all well-equipped with umbrellas and sun beds mainly offered complimentary to hotel guests.

Although beautiful, the beaches have a generally rocky seabed, making them popular with snorkelers. Regular waves can pose challenges. The beach near Analipsi, however, the longest in the area, is notably sandier. The coastal road of Anissaras starts from here, running along the coast, stopping before the large Anissaras hotel complex, and then extends southwards, passing around the hotels up to Cape Sarandaris. To swim at the hotel-front beaches, one must either stroll along the coast until finding a preferred cove or seek permission from hotel security to cross the hotel grounds.

The small, picturesque chapel of St. George can be found on Cape Sarandaris, offering breathtaking views of Hersonissos’ western coves. It can be accessed by walking eastwards from the hotel beaches or by taking the road that links Anisaras and Hersonissos. Near the cape, a stone footpath leads to the church.

Anisaras is not a structured settlement, but rather a scattering of hotels and holiday homes, limiting dining and entertainment options outside the hotels. However, the close proximity of Hersonissos provides alternatives. Access to Anisaras from Heraklion by bus is slightly problematic, with no direct route available. The buses destined for Hersonissos stop about 2km from the beach, necessitating a taxi.

Contrary to rumors, Anisaras does not derive its name from the plant anise, which is not found in the area. Instead, the name is a corruption of ‘agisaras,’ the Greek name for the plant Cistus creticus (also known as aladania), which is abundant in the region.

Analipsis beaches is located 4.5 km away.

Analipsi, or Ascension, is a village situated 20km to the east of Heraklion and is named after the Ascension of Christ church. Positioned in a fertile valley, the area is primarily utilized for olive groves. In the early 20th century, it was known as Svourou Metohi, after the Turks who owned land there. Upon Crete’s liberation from the Ottomans, Analipsi was given to the shepherds of Agios Georgios village in Lasithi Plateau as a winter grazing ground. Now, these shepherds’ fortunate descendants own expansive properties featuring hotels, shops, restaurants, and various tourist amenities.

Compared to neighboring resorts, Analipsi is less touristy and more peaceful, making it a preferred destination for families. The village front features a quaint pier with a charming church dedicated to Agia Marina. To the west of the chapel, the coast is rocky, save for a small harbor with a lovely beach. East of the chapel, you’ll find the main sandy beach of Analipsis, which is well-maintained. Though the water isn’t deep, summer months often bring waves.

A leisurely afternoon can be spent wandering through the charming alleys of the old traditional village, admiring the beautiful gardens and stone-paved square. You might also want to visit the four-aisled Ascension church, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the Ascension of Christ, the Holy Cross, and Saint Efrosinos. The village’s main street, lined with cafes and shops, runs perpendicular to the coast.

Stalis Beach Crete: Visitor Guide, Location, Photos & Amenities is located 4.8 km away.

Stalida beach is a long, sandy beach on the north coast of Crete, about 30 km east of Heraklion between the resorts of Hersonissos and Malia. Stalida beach has shallow, gently sloping water and a full set of sunbeds, tavernas, and water sports, which makes it one of the most family-friendly beaches in the Heraklion area. The sand sits right in front of the Stalida resort, so food, drink, and services stay a few steps away.

Where is Stalida beach?

Stalida beach lies on Crete’s north coast, roughly 30 km east of Heraklion and its airport and about 3 km east of Hersonissos. Stalida, also written Stalis, has grown until it merges with Malia into one continuous stretch of coast, yet it keeps a calmer, family feel while Malia draws the louder party crowd. The name comes from the Greek verb “stalizo”, meaning to rest in the shade, because local shepherds once rested their flocks on this spot.

Sand, sea and swimming

The sand at Stalida beach is a long run of soft golden sand backed by a seafront promenade of tavernas and shops. The sea is shallow and deepens gently over a soft, sandy seabed, so young children can paddle safely a good way from the shore. A short rocky cape splits the beach into 2 sandy stretches, and the rocky sections are good places to snorkel. Afternoon winds can raise short waves because the shore faces north, so mornings are usually the calmest time to swim.

Facilities and organisation

Stalida beach is well organised for most of its length. Stalida beach offers sunbeds and umbrellas in packages, along with showers, changing rooms, and lifeguards on duty in season. Each section is run by a beach bar or taverna, and cafes and restaurants line the beachfront road. Water sports are available, including jet skis toward the Malia end, and there is room for beach volleyball. A small colony of Cretan date palms grows along part of the shore, a tree that is uncommon on the northern Heraklion coast.

Things to do around Stalida

Stalida beach makes a handy base for the eastern Heraklion coast. A short 6 km trip reaches the Aquaworld Aquarium and Reptile Rescue Centre, and the Lychnostatis Open Air Museum nearby explores Crete’s folk culture and natural history. Acqua Plus, one of the largest water parks on the island, sits a short drive inland. To the west, beyond Malia, the Malia Palace archaeological site preserves the third-largest Minoan palace complex on Crete. Walkers can follow the 5 km Bulgarian trail from Stalis up to the village of Mohos, named after the Bulgarian prisoners of war who built it during the Second World War.

Beaches near Stalida beach

The coast on either side of Stalida beach is lined with beaches, listed below by distance.

• Malia beach (2.4 km east): a long, lively sand beach with the most services and nightlife in the area.
• Drapanos beaches (2.5 km east): sandy and pebbly coves that stay calm all year behind their piers, mapped on our guide to Drapanos beaches.
• Potamos beach (4.3 km east): a quieter, river-fed stretch of sand beyond Malia’s port.
• Hersonissos beaches (4.6 km west): organised town beaches beside the resort’s services, covered in our guide to Hersonissos beaches.

Getting to Stalida beach

Stalida beach sits on the old national road, and the KTEL buses between Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos stop about 500 m from the sand, a 5-minute walk from most hotels. A paved road runs down to the beach, with parking nearby. A beach day here pairs easily with the Minoan palace at Malia and the quieter sands further east, and the easiest way to reach them on your own schedule is with a rental car, which you can compare on our car rental in Crete page.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Stalida beach?

Stalida beach is on the north coast of Crete, about 30 km east of Heraklion and around 3 km east of Hersonissos, on the stretch of coast that runs into Malia.

Is Stalida beach good for families and children?

Yes. The water is shallow and gently sloping over a sandy seabed, so children can paddle safely close to shore, and the beach is fully organised with facilities within easy reach.

What facilities does Stalida beach have?

Stalida beach has sunbeds and umbrellas, showers, changing rooms, and lifeguards in season, plus beach bars, tavernas, and water sports along the shore.

Is Stalida beach sandy?

Yes. Stalida beach is a long stretch of soft golden sand, split into 2 parts by a short rocky cape.

Is Stalida beach crowded?

Stalida beach is popular and busiest in July and August, yet it stays calmer and more family-oriented than the main beach at nearby Malia.

Can you do water sports at Stalida beach?

Yes. Water sports are available along the shore, including jet skis toward the Malia end, and the rocky sections are good for snorkelling.

How do you get to Stalida beach?

Take the KTEL bus between Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos, which stops about 500 m from the beach, or drive down the paved road and park nearby; a rental car also makes the quieter beaches along the coast easier to reach.

Aposelemis beach is located 5.8 km away.

The Aposelemis River, situated 19km east of Heraklion, between Analipsi and Gouves, is a significant wetland in northern Crete. The pond that forms near the shoreline serves as a natural habitat for various migratory birds and rare species. The river’s outlet gives way to a beautiful sandy beach with shallow cool waters. Although it’s in close proximity to large hotels and tourist spots, the beach lacks organization compared to other top beaches in the vicinity, with only a handful of umbrellas and sunbeds available.

There are two alternative routes to reach the beach. One option is to drive towards the beach of Analipsi and then follow the coastal road heading west. After traversing a few meters past the region’s rocky shores, you’ll arrive at the extensive Aposelemis beach. Alternatively, you can take the coastal road of Kato Gouves to its eastern end, where the road veers right and runs along a hotel’s walls. Aposelemis beach is directly across from this hotel, adjacent to Gouves’ soccer field.

Malia Beach Crete: Visitor Guide, Location, Photos & Amenities is located 7.1 km away.

Malia beach is a long, lively sandy beach on the north coast of Crete, about 35 km east of Heraklion and just east of Stalida. Malia beach forms the eastern end of a 6 km bay that begins at Stalis, and its fine sand, shallow clear water, and full set of sunbeds, water sports, and beach bars make it one of the busiest, most developed resort beaches in the Heraklion area. The sand runs right in front of Malia town, so bars, tavernas, and services stay a few steps from the shore.

Where is Malia beach?

Malia beach lies on the north coast of Crete, about 35 km east of Heraklion, in front of the town of Malia in the Heraklion region. Malia beach is the eastern part of a single 6 km bay that starts at Stalida to the west, so the coast runs almost without a break from Stalida through to Malia. Hersonissos sits further west along the same shore, which places Malia at the eastern end of Crete’s busiest resort strip.

Sand, sea and swimming

Malia beach is a wide stretch of fine sand that fills with sunbeds through the summer. The water is shallow and clear, and it deepens gently over a sandy seabed, so children can paddle safely close to the shore. The central and most organised part in front of the town is known as Klotzani, and the sand then continues east through quieter stretches toward Potamos beyond the port. Malia beach faces north, so afternoon winds can raise short waves, and mornings are usually the calmest time to swim.

Facilities and organisation

Malia beach is organised along its length, with sunbeds and parasols to rent, showers, and a lifeguard on duty during the day. Malia beach also offers a wide range of water sports, including jet skis, banana boat rides, and parasailing, alongside extra services such as beachfront massage, a beach gym, and pool bars at the seafront hotels. Cafes, tavernas, and beach bars line the sand, and the beach holds a Blue Flag for its water quality and facilities.

Nightlife and quieter beaches

Malia beach sits beside the liveliest resort strip in the Heraklion area, and the main street of bars, pubs, and clubs runs a short walk back from the sand and stays open into the early hours. The main beach turns busy and loud in high summer, so visitors who want calm often head east, beyond the local port, to the quieter beaches of Pirgos and Potamos. These eastern beaches keep a relaxed feel next to the Malia wetland and the Minoan palace, away from the crowds on the main strip.

The islet of Afendi Christos

Opposite Malia’s main beach lies the small islet of Afendi Christos, home to the chapel of the Metamorphosis tou Sotiros, the Transfiguration of the Saviour. The islet draws a crowd every year on 6 August, when people cross for the church service and its festival. Near the islet, a spring on the shore is said by locals to hold holy water that once helped childless women conceive, and you can reach the spot with a short swim from the beach.

Beaches near Malia beach

The coast on either side of Malia beach is lined with more beaches, listed below by distance.

• Potamos beach (1.9 km east): a quiet, river-fed stretch of sand beside the Malia wetland and the Minoan palace.
• Stalida beach (2.4 km west): a long, family-friendly resort beach with shallow water and a promenade of tavernas, covered in our guide to Stalida beach.
• Agia Varvara beach (3.5 km east): a small sandy bay by a church, with sunbeds and tamarisk shade, though the currents here can be strong.
• Drapanos beaches (4.7 km west): sheltered coves near Hersonissos that stay calm behind their piers, mapped in our guide to Drapanos beaches.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Malia beach?

Malia beach is on the north coast of Crete, about 35 km east of Heraklion, in front of the town of Malia. It forms the eastern end of a 6 km bay that begins at Stalida.

Is Malia beach sandy?

Yes. Malia beach is a wide stretch of fine sand that runs in front of the town, and it fills with sunbeds and parasols through the summer.

Is the water at Malia beach good for swimming and children?

Yes. The water is shallow and clear and deepens gently over a sandy seabed, so children can paddle safely close to shore. The eastern end, away from the main strip, tends to be the calmest.

What facilities does Malia beach have?

Malia beach has sunbeds and parasols, showers, and a lifeguard during the day, plus water sports, beach bars, and tavernas along the sand. The beach also holds a Blue Flag.

Is Malia beach crowded?

Malia beach is one of the busiest beaches in the area and is packed in July and August. The quieter eastern stretches toward Potamos stay calmer if you want more space.

What water sports can you do at Malia beach?

Malia beach offers jet skis, banana boat rides, and parasailing, along with swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball.

Is Malia beach accessible for people with reduced mobility?

Malia beach is partly accessible, with ramps and special chairs to help people reach the water. Access is by a paved road, and buses stop nearby.

When is the best time to visit Malia beach?

The best time to visit Malia beach is from June to September, when the weather is warm and dry. July and August are the busiest and liveliest months, while June and September stay calmer.

Getting to Malia beach

Malia beach sits a short way down from the town centre, and a paved road runs to the sand with parking beside it. Buses between Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos stop close to Malia, from where it is a short walk to the beach. A beach day here pairs easily with the Minoan palace at Malia and the quieter sands east toward Potamos, and the simplest way to reach them on your own schedule is with a car rental in Crete.

Gouves beaches is located 8.3 km away.

Kato Gouves, often referred to as Gouves, is a sought-after holiday destination nestled 18km east of Heraklion, at the base of Mount Ederi. Historically, the valley of Kato Gouves was a fertile ground for vegetables, olives, and cereals, cultivated by the inhabitants of Ano Gouves. Today, it’s been transformed into a tourism hub, featuring numerous hotels. Unlike the bustling resorts of Malia and Hersonissos nearby, Gouves offers a tranquil vacation experience, making it an ideal spot for families and the elderly. The sandy beaches here are loved by families, and are conveniently close to all necessary amenities.

Gouves beach is well-equipped with facilities such as umbrellas, sunbeds, lifeguards, water sports, and diving centres, alongside showers and changing rooms. The sea, featuring fine sand and shallow waters, is exposed to the common north winds. As a result, there are several small piers and marinas in the vicinity where you can enjoy a swim, shielded from the waves. The coastal road of Gouves runs parallel to the coastline, simplifying the task of locating your perfect beach spot! Enjoy an evening stroll on this road while admiring the sunset. The road also boasts numerous cafes and restaurants, offering panoramic sea views. Furthermore, Gouves’ main road houses a number of supermarkets, shops, pharmacies, clinics, and ATMs.

One must-visit spot is the Church of St. Constantine, nestled in a quaint pine forest adjacent to the sea. Its picturesque seaside location makes it a popular wedding venue, especially for couples from Heraklion. If your visit falls on a Saturday, you’re likely to witness a traditional Greek wedding or baptism. Beyond the shoreline, 2km to the north, lies the village of Ano Gouves. Its narrow streets, churches, and coffee shops exude a traditional charm. Further north, you can explore the Cave of Agia Paraskevi near the village of Skotino. To the east, Mount Ederi stands tall, home to radars used by the Americans for the operation of the erstwhile US air base in Gournes.

Potamos Beach, Malia (Heraklion), Crete is located 8.9 km away.

Potamos Beach is a quiet, sandy beach about 3 km east of Malia on the north coast of the Heraklion region of Crete, named after the small river that runs beside it. It sits just east of Malia’s port, next to the Malia wetland and the Minoan Palace of Malia, and stays calmer than Malia’s busy main beach. From Heraklion it is roughly a 30 to 35 minute drive east.

A quieter beach beside a river and a wetland

Potamos is a long, well kept stretch of sand that draws far fewer people than the main beach in the middle of Malia. The eastern end stays largely undeveloped because of the archaeological site and the protected wetland behind it, while a few hotels sit to the west, each with its own patch of sand.

The Malia wetland is an ecologically important reed bed that shelters many bird species and preserves coastal plants that have disappeared from much of Crete. Water flowing down from Mount Selena keeps a stream running here, turning into a small river close to the shore in winter and feeding clear water into the sea. The water is fresh enough that goats often come down from the hills to swim and drink at the edge of the beach. In autumn, white sand lilies bloom across the low dunes that back the shore.

Sand, sea and swimming

The beach is fine golden sand, and the sea is clear and shallow, deepening gently over a soft, sandy seabed. That makes it a good choice for families with young children, who can paddle safely close to shore.

Potamos is really more than one beach: a couple of sandy stretches with small rocky coves in between. The eastern bay is more sheltered and calmer, while the longer western stretch catches the north and northwest winds and turns wavier, so pick your spot to match the day. The rocky coves between the sandy sections are good for snorkeling.

Facilities and shade

Sunbeds and umbrellas are available to rent, and there are showers and a lifeguard on duty in season. Tamarisk trees along the back of the beach give natural shade, which helps when the midday sun is strong, so bring sun protection as well. For food and drink there is a snack bar on the sand, plus tavernas and a few hotels on the western side. Potamos flies a Blue Flag for its water quality and organisation.

Getting to Potamos Beach

By car it is a short drive from Malia, with parking beside both main sections of the beach. By bus, the Heraklion to Malia and Agios Nikolaos service stops close by, near the Malia Palace, from where it is a short walk down to the shore. You can also walk from Malia in about 30 to 45 minutes along Machis Kritis or Grammatiki. If you would rather have a car for the day and reach the quieter coves and nearby villages easily, you can rent a car in Crete.

What is nearby

Potamos Beach sits within easy reach of several sights. It is a short walk from the Minoan Palace of Malia, one of the largest Minoan palace complexes on the island, so a beach day pairs easily with some history. The wetland right behind the sand is a good spot for a short nature walk and birdwatching.

A coastal path runs east over the headland to the next cove. That walk ends at the small, church-side Agia Varvara beach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Potamos Beach?

Potamos Beach is on the north coast of Crete, about 3 km east of Malia and roughly a 30 to 35 minute drive east of Heraklion. It takes its name from the small river that runs beside it, next to the Malia wetland.

How do you get to Potamos Beach?

You can drive from Malia in a few minutes and park beside the beach. The Heraklion to Malia and Agios Nikolaos bus stops nearby, close to the Malia Palace, and it is also walkable from Malia in about 30 to 45 minutes along Machis Kritis or Grammatiki.

Is Potamos Beach good for swimming and families?

Yes. The water is clear and shallow and deepens gently over a soft sandy seabed, which suits children. The eastern bay is the most sheltered, so it is the calmest part for young swimmers.

What facilities does Potamos Beach have?

There are sunbeds and umbrellas to rent, showers, and a lifeguard on duty in season. Tamarisk trees give natural shade, and there is a snack bar on the beach with tavernas nearby on the western side.

Is Potamos Beach crowded?

Potamos is quieter than Malia’s main beach and keeps a relaxed feel. It is busiest in July and August, while June and September are calmer.

Is Potamos Beach windy?

The long western stretch catches the north and northwest winds and can get wavy. The eastern bay is more sheltered, so head there on windier days.

Does Potamos Beach have a Blue Flag?

Yes, Potamos Beach holds a Blue Flag, awarded for water quality and beach organisation.

What is there to see near Potamos Beach?

The Minoan Palace of Malia is within walking distance, and the Malia wetland behind the beach is good for a nature walk and birdwatching. A short coastal walk east over the headland reaches Agia Varvara beach.