Agia Pelagia beach
Beach description
Situated 21km west of Heraklion, on the southern side of the compact Cape Souda, you’ll find Agia Pelagia beach, also known as Santa Pelagia. This beach is nestled amidst several picturesque coves with stunning beaches. Originally, Agia Pelagia was a quaint settlement utilized by Achlada villagers for agricultural purposes, but it has since evolved into a bustling tourist destination replete with hotels, restaurants, cafes, bars, and more. Routine bus services to Heraklion ensure its accessibility.
The primary beach of Agia Pelagia is a slender, sandy stretch with greenish water. The Turks dubbed it Tsanak Limani, meaning ‘plate harbor’ due to its circular shape. The bay forms a natural, tranquil harbor, and the beach provides an array of amenities such as watersports, diving, food, and accommodation. However, in some areas, the beach is narrow with sunbeds occupying most of the space.
The beach is well-shielded from northern winds by the Cape of Souda, where ruins of the ancient port town Apollonia can be found. A luxury hotel now stands on Souda, but the ruins are accessible for tourists. A small shrine stands near the hotel, marking where the icon of Santa Pelagia was discovered centuries ago. Not far from the beach is the former Agia Pelagia monastery, renowned throughout the island during the Venetian era. Worshippers would flock to the beach during the monastery’s feast, seeking healing in the sand.
A short walk past the shrine on Cape of Souda will lead you to Fylakes, considered the most beautiful beach of Agia Pelagia. Fylakes consists of two small coves with fine sand and greenish water, concealed by Cape Souda’s towering rocks. Accessing Fylakes requires navigating the rocky coast and wading through chest-high water, so secure your belongings accordingly.
To the east of Agia Pelagia, beneath Hotel Diana, is the lesser-known pebbled beach, Vlyhada. This small, man-made beach is exposed to the winds and can only be reached by swimming from Agia Pelagia, as the hotel does not permit land access.
Agia Pelagia served as a crucial port during the Venetian period, providing aid to the besieged Cretans during the Candia siege. The Turks later constructed a fort here, though no remnants remain today. The port was also where the legendary ship of Arkadi docked during the Cretan Revolution to provide ammunition to the rebels.
Beach details
Most frequent asked questions
What activities can I do at Agia Pelagia beach?
There are various activities you can do at Agia Pelagia beach such as swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.
Is Agia Pelagia beach suitable for families with children?
Yes, Agia Pelagia beach is suitable for families with children as the water is shallow and calm, making it safe for kids to swim. There are also various activities for children to enjoy, such as building sandcastles and playing beach games.
Are there any restaurants or cafes near Agia Pelagia beach?
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near Agia Pelagia beach where you can enjoy a meal or a drink while enjoying the beautiful view of the sea.
Is Agia Pelagia beach accessible for people with disabilities?
Agia Pelagia beach is not fully accessible for people with disabilities as there are some steps and uneven terrain. However, there are some areas that are accessible, and some hotels in the area offer accessible rooms.
Can I rent beach equipment at Agia Pelagia beach?
Yes, there are several places where you can rent beach equipment such as sun loungers, umbrellas, and snorkeling gear at Agia Pelagia beach.
Is there a parking area near Agia Pelagia beach?
Yes, there is a parking area near Agia Pelagia beach where you can park your car for a fee. However, during peak season, it can be difficult to find a parking spot, so it’s best to arrive early.
What is the water colour of the Agia Pelagia beach?
The water colour of the Agia Pelagia beach is blue and green.
What type of sand is found on the Agia Pelagia beach?
The Agia Pelagia beach has sand.
What is the water depth of the Agia Pelagia beach?
The water depth of the Agia Pelagia beach is normal.
What is the surface of the sea like at the Agia Pelagia beach?
The surface of the sea at the Agia Pelagia beach is usually calm.
Is the Agia Pelagia beach usually crowded?
Yes, the Agia Pelagia beach is a crowded place.
What facilities are available at the Agia Pelagia beach?
The Agia Pelagia beach has accommodation options, food/water nearby, umbrellas/beds, sports, lifeguard, and showers.
How can I access the Agia Pelagia beach?
The Agia Pelagia beach can be accessed through bus services and a paved road.
Is there any other information available about the Agia Pelagia beach?
No, there is no other information available about the Agia Pelagia beach.
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User reviews
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Things to do near Agia Pelagia beach
Stays near Agia Pelagia beach
- 9.8 / 10
- Αγίας Πελαγίας
Situated a few steps from Agia Pelagia Beach, Buganvilla-Sea front villas offers barbecue facilities, and air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi.
Each unit has a terrace offering sea views, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a well-fitted kitchen and a private bathroom with a bath or shower, bathrobes and a hair dryer. An oven, a fridge and stovetop are also offered, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
Psaromoura Beach is 1 km from the villa, while Ligaria Beach is 1.4 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 25 km from Buganvilla-Sea front villas.
- 70 m
- 9.5 / 10
- Agia Pelagia Beach Grill 1st Floor
Situated a few steps from Agia Pelagia Beach, Buganvilla Sea View apts offers air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi.
The apartment provides guests with a terrace, sea views, a seating area, satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and a fridge, and a private bathroom with shower and a hair dryer. A stovetop and kitchenware are also available, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
Fishing and hiking can be enjoyed nearby.
Psaromoura Beach is 1 km from Buganvilla Sea View apts, while Ligaria Beach is 1.4 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 25 km from the accommodation.
from
€69
/night
- 80 m
- 9.7 / 10
- Agias Pelagias
Conveniently located only 50 metres from the beach of Agia Pelagia, Superior Savvas Apartments by the sea offers units with free WiFi access, and a spacious terrace. Bars and restaurants are 200 metres away.
All air-conditioned rooms include a kitchenette with electric kettle and fridge. Each has a flat-screen TV, coffee machine and bathroom with shower.
Apartments Savvas is 25 km from Heraklion International Airport. Free public parking is available.
- 90 m
- 9.3 / 10
- Agia Pelagia
Situated in Agia Pelagia, within a short walk of the beach and the vibrant centre, Seascape Luxury Residences offers uniquely decorated apartments with free WiFi access. The complex includes 2 swimming pools, outdoor pool with a decked terrace, and a poolside bar offering drinks and snacks throughout the day.
Opening to balconies, Seascape Luxury Residences offer views over the sea or the pool. Each apartment includes a fully equipped kitchen with dining table, a seating area and a luxurious bathroom with glass shower. A flat screen TV and air conditioning are available.
Heraklio Town is 18 km from the accommodation. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 20 km from Seascape Luxury Residences.
from
€113
/night
- 100 m
- 7.3 / 10
- Captain Michael Street
Just 50 metres from Agia Pelagia Beach, these cheerful apartments offer comfortable self-catering accommodation with a relaxed atmosphere and a cute garden for afternoon relaxation.
Litsa Mare consists of just 8 apartments, providing a more homely feel for your stay in Agia Pelagia. Each of the spacious rooms has a cosy living and dining area and a well-equipped kitchenette for your catering needs. Some provide views of the sea, while others of the surrounding area or mountain.
Enjoy a cup of coffee in Litsa Mare’s charming garden before taking a short walk to the beach. Visit the many local shops, bars and restaurants along the beach front or simply relax and soak up the sun.
Litsa Mare Apartments is located 20 km from Heraklion Town and 22 km from Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport.
- 110 m
- 9.5 / 10
- Agia Pelagia
Featuring sea views, By the sea provides accommodation with a balcony and a kettle, around a few steps from Agia Pelagia Beach. This beachfront property offers access to a terrace and free WiFi.
The air-conditioned villa consists of 2 bedrooms, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and a coffee machine, and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and bathrobes. Towels and bed linen are provided in the villa.
A continental breakfast is available daily at the villa.
If you would like to discover the area, skiing, snorkelling and cycling are possible in the surroundings and By the sea can arrange a car rental service.
Psaromoura Beach is 1.1 km from the accommodation, while Ligaria Beach is 1.4 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 25 km from By the sea, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
- 130 m
