These images are powered by
Madé, also known as Madés, is a quaint coastal hamlet situated close to Ligaria, 20km to the northwest of Heraklion and 4km towards the east of Agia Pelagia beach. It can be found near the northernmost fringe of the Gulf of Heraklion, at a site known as Cape Bourouni of Rogdia. To reach this spot from Heraklion, you would have to travel along the highway to Chania and then take the Ligaria / Mades exit. A sign for Madé will appear just 1.5km into this route.
The village overlooks a tiny bay with a pebble beach, enveloped by several rocks and the small settlement of Madé. The local hotel manages this area well, offering both umbrellas and sunbeds to its guests. Nearby, you can find a handful of rooms, a mini-market, a beach bar, and a few taverns. The tranquillity of the beach attracts mostly locals who have constructed their summer homes here. Its rocky seabed teeming with fish makes it a perfect spot for fishing and snorkelling. However, the beach’s northern orientation leaves it susceptible to winds.
The signature feature of Mades is a pair of small islets that lie opposite the western end of the beach, which are perfect for snorkelling. The name ‘Mades’ derives from the Greek verb ‘Mado’, meaning ‘break easily’. It refers to the area’s stones, which are prone to cracking and are highly unstable.
Get directions to Madés beach
Yes, Madés beach is suitable for swimming. However, it is always recommended to check the water conditions before entering the sea.
Yes, there are several water sports activities available at Madés beach, including surfing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding.
Yes, there is a lifeguard on duty at Madés beach during the peak season.
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near Madés beach where you can enjoy a meal or a drink.
Yes, Madés beach is suitable for families with children. However, parents should always keep an eye on their children and make sure they are safe in the water.
Yes, there is a parking area near Madés beach where you can park your car for a fee.
Yes, there are several hiking trails near Madés beach where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and nature.
Yes, Madés beach is accessible for people with disabilities. There are ramps and other facilities available to make it easier for them to access the Madés beach.
The water colour of the Madés beach is deep blue.
The Madés beach has pebbles and fine pebbles.
The water at the Madés beach is deep.
The sea surface at the Madés beach is usually wavy.
The Madés beach has normal crowds.
The Madés beach has accommodation options, food/water nearby, umbrellas/beds, sports, showers, and a Blue Flag.
The Madés beach can be accessed through a paved road.
The Madés beach is ideal for snorkeling and spearfishing.
Find below list of things to do near Madés beach:
If you are over 8 years old, this day-program offers you the opportunity to discover the feelings of freedom and tranquility that scuba diving gives you. Throughout this program, you will be accompanied by an english speaking instructor.
Without you having particular knowledge and in small groups, STAY WET DIVING CENTER makes you discover what you have dreamed of for a long time already! Lack of experience is not an obstacle, since when you arrive with us, you will follow a briefing (about 30 minutes) given by a diving instructor. He will teach you the basics of diving and introduce you to the flora and fauna of the Mediterranean.
Add this unforgettable experience to your vacation!
Following this theory, you will be divided into groups of 4 people maximum and supervised by 1 instructor from the center. At no time will you be alone in the water! We are waiting for you with firm fins to guide you for 45 minutes through this fantastic world, at a maximum depth of 6 meters (regulatory depth for a first dive, 12 meters for the second). Whether it’s the feeling of weightlessness, discovering the fascinating world of the sea or simply breathing easily underwater – you will quickly develop a taste for diving!
If you chose to come with us, the transfer back to your hotel will leave at 4PM. It will give you time to enjoy our beautiful beach and eat at the delicious restaurants we have at the bay.
Do not miss this day!
Discover the underwater world with the experts of Scuba Diving at the famous bay of Agia Pelagia, where the sea is always calm and clear.
Discover the underwater world and feel as a diver. This program is specifically designed for those who never dived before and know nothing about scuba diving.
You’ll be taught the basics of scuba so that you’ll have a real dive, always following the safety standards of Padi, the leading scuba diving organization in the world. Feel like diver, breathe and move freely underwater and listen to the sounds of silence, always accompanied and supervised by qualified PADI instructors.
You’ll spend one hour in the diving center for basic information and introduction to scuba diving, watch a 20 minutes informational video in your language. Your experienced instructors will teach you all the secrets and the techniques of scuba diving. that makes it easy and simple, and will be continuously with you during your whole activity.
You’ll spend one more hour in the sea where you’ll be practicing the simple techniques you previously learned, while your instructors will guide you to the top experience of your life. You’ll be breathing and moving freely and play underwater games while exploring the house reef and thousands of fish swim around you.
Your instructors will teach you how to be autonomous and enjoy the most, not just hold you and pull you around.
During your first dive, you’re allowed to reach the depth of six meters, but you’ll be taken only where you feel comfortable and safe.
Return to the dive center to watch the footage and HD videos captured during your whole activity.
If you are over 8 years old, this day-program offers you the opportunity to discover the feelings of freedom and tranquility that scuba diving gives you. Throughout this program, you will be accompanied by an english speaking instructor.
Without you having particular knowledge and in small groups, STAY WET DIVING CENTER makes you discover what you have dreamed of for a long time already! Lack of experience is not an obstacle, since when you arrive with us, you will follow a briefing (about 30 minutes) given by a diving instructor. He will teach you the basics of diving and introduce you to the flora and fauna of the Mediterranean.
Add this unforgettable experience to your vacation!
Following this theory, you will be divided into groups of 4 people maximum and supervised by 1 instructor from the center. At no time will you be alone in the water! We are waiting for you with firm fins to guide you for 45 minutes through this fantastic world, at a maximum depth of 6 meters (regulatory depth for a first dive, 12 meters for the second). Whether it’s the feeling of weightlessness, discovering the fascinating world of the sea or simply breathing easily underwater – you will quickly develop a taste for diving!
After learning the basics during this first dive, we invite you to repeat the experience during a 2nd dive during the day. During this, you will discover a completely different universe since you will leave the bay to do a slightly deeper dive (12 meters) where you will be able to observe new types of fish as well as a unique relief.
The second dive will be done around 2PM. The transfer back to your hotel will leave at 4PM. It will give you time to enjoy our beautiful beach and eat at the delicious restaurants we have at the bay.
Do not miss this day!
The Discover Scuba – Intro program takes approximately 1 and a half hours, including a 30 minute theory session conducted by one of our professionals. This is followed by a dive in our pool or in confined water (shallow water in front of our dive center) where divers practice a few basic diving skills. Then the program involves a Confined Water dive to a maximum depth of 5 meters for approximately 30 minutes.
The Discover Scuba Diving and Discover Scuba – Intro program lets you experience the thrill of diving under the supervision of a PADI/SSI Instructor in ideal conditions.
Mermaid diving is a popular and exciting new trend in the world of diving. Instead of traditional scuba gear, divers wear a mermaid tail, allowing them to swim like a mermaid or merman.
Mermaid diving is suitable for both beginners and experienced divers, as long as they are comfortable in the water and have basic swimming skills.The experience of mermaid diving is not just about swimming with a tail. It’s also about exploring the underwater world in a new and magical way. In mermaiding participants use their whole bodies, similar to the dolphin movement. The movement starts in the chest and from there continues like a wave throughout the entire body.
The mermaid tail, adds an element of fantasy and fun to the dive, and many divers enjoy performing tricks and swimming in formation with other mermaids.
Generally, there is no age limit in mermaiding but participants must be experienced swimmers.
Take the plunge with a beginner’s diving course in Agia Pelagia and earn an SSI certification at the end. Enjoy a driving trip with two open water dives, descend up to 6 meters, and benefit from the support and guidance of an SSI instructor.
After being picked up from your hotel, arrive at the base and meet your SSI instructor. Take a 30-minute theory class to learn the ins and outs of water and diving safety. Once you feel comfortable, pick up your diving equipment and make your way to the water for the first of two dives.
Take your time to get comfortable in the water and enjoy the support of your instructor. Explore the world beneath the waves of Agia Pelagia as you scout out colorful fish, unique rock formations, and otherworldly plant life.
Both dives will last approximately 45 minutes, giving you plenty of time to adjust and gain confidence.
Finally, enjoy a relaxing transfer back to your hotel.
Find below the list of hotels near Madés beach:
Situated in Agia Pelagia, just a few steps from Mades Beach, Luxury Seaside House in Mades Heraklion features beachfront accommodation with a terrace and free WiFi. The air-conditioned accommodation is 1.5 km from Ligaria Beach.
The apartment features 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony with sea views.
The apartment offers a children’s playground. If you would like to discover the area, hiking is possible in the surroundings and Luxury Seaside House in Mades Heraklion can arrange a car rental service.
Fraskia Beach is 1.7 km from the accommodation, while Venetian Walls is 19 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 23 km from Luxury Seaside House in Mades Heraklion, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€121
/night
Boasting mountain views, M&N Luxury Family Apartment 10meters from the Sea features accommodation with a patio and a coffee machine, around a few steps from Mades Beach. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The apartment features 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.
A car rental service is available at the apartment.
Ligaria Beach is 1.5 km from M&N Luxury Family Apartment 10meters from the Sea, while Fraskia Beach is 1.7 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 23 km from the accommodation.
from
€135
/night
Situated a few steps from Mades Beach and 1.5 km from Ligaria Beach, Sea View Apartments 10meters from the beach in Agia Pelagia features air-conditioned accommodation with views of the mountain and free WiFi.
The apartment provides guests with a terrace, sea views, a seating area, satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with a toaster and a fridge, and a private bathroom with walk-in shower and a hair dryer. A stovetop and kitchenware are also available, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
At Sea View Apartments 10meters from the beach guests are welcome to take advantage of a fitness room.
If you would like to discover the area, snorkelling, hiking and walking tours are possible in the surroundings and the accommodation can arrange a car rental service.
Venetian Walls is 19 km from Sea View Apartments 10meters from the beach, while Heraklion Archaeological Museum is 20 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 23 km from the apartment, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
Boasting mountain views, Eleni Sea View Luxury Apartment in Mades features accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around 80 metres from Mades Beach. This holiday home provides air-conditioned accommodation with a patio.
The holiday home with a terrace and sea views has 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a toaster, and 1 bathroom with a bidet. Towels and bed linen are available in the holiday home.
A car rental service is available at the holiday home.
Ligaria Beach is 1.4 km from Eleni Sea View Luxury Apartment in Mades, while Fraskia Beach is 1.6 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 23 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
Situated in Agia Pelagia, Popis Sea View Apartments offers accommodation with free WiFi and flat-screen TV and a terrace.
Every unit has air-conditioned rooms and a kitchen with an oven and coffee machine. There is also a toaster, fridge and a kettle.
If you would like to discover the area, snorkelling is possible in the surroundings.
Heraklio Town is 17,3 km from the holiday home. Heraklion International Airport is 21,9 km away.
from
€45
/night
Featuring mountain views, Mary’s House Sea View 15meters from the beach provides accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around 70 metres from Mades Beach. It features a terrace, barbecue facilities, sea views and free WiFithroughout the property.
This holiday home is equipped with 2 bedrooms, a kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, a flat-screen TV, a seating area and 1 bathroom equipped with a bidet. Towels and bed linen are provided in the holiday home.
A a baby safety gate is also available for guests at the holiday home.
Ligaria Beach is 1.4 km from Mary’s House Sea View 15meters from the beach, while Fraskia Beach is 1.6 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 23 km from the accommodation.
from
€135
/night
Find below list of beaches near Madés beach:
The Ligaria beach, nestled 21km northwest of Heraklion and just 1km east of Agia Pelagia, is shielded by the Bay of Ligaria from the common northwest winds of the region. Not far from here is the Panagia church, a relic from its days as the Panagia Ligariani monastery. The area is named after this monastery, which in turn, derives its name from the abundant osier plant, also known as ‘ligaria’ in Greek, famous for its pliable stems and lovely flowers.
The beach is an enchanting spot with its rough sand and serene, turquoise water. The presence of small boats adds to the charm of the scene. While the eastern part is more exposed to waves and tends to gather more debris, the western side boasts cleaner water and a flat sea. Smooth rocks are found close to the shore except for the western part of Ligaria which has small sandy areas. The beach is well-equipped with facilities like umbrellas, sunbeds, water sports, a diving school, beach bars, restaurants, and accommodations. However, parking can be a challenge, especially on weekends due to the influx of locals.
A trail leading northeast from the west end of the beach takes you to the top of the cape safeguarding Ligaria. Adjacent to this cape lies a secluded little beach named Parasfougario. It has sand and pebbles but is exposed to the wind. A stone pathway starting from a cliffside house leads to this beach, but it is off-limits as it falls under private property.
Parasfougario Beach, situated in the Achlada district of Malevizi province, is approximately 22 km northwest of Heraklion on the island of Crete. Positioned on a steep incline between the well-known beaches of Lygaria and Agia Pelagia, the only access to it is by a 20-25 minute swim from either of these beaches.
A set of stairs from a nearby house lead directly down to this petite beach. Its backdrop of a slope blanketed in crithmum adds to its charm. The ocean floor features pebbles and coarse sand, and a small cave to the east further enhances the picturesque setting.
Unlike its neighbouring beaches, Parasfougario is exposed to the northern winds. As a result, it is advisable to avoid it during windy periods, as it tends to accumulate a significant amount of rubbish during these times.
Situated 19km northwest of Heraklion, nestled between the Capes Katarameno to the west and Bourouni of Rogdia to the east, lies Tripiti. This untouched stretch of coastline is north of its namesake settlement and boasts a pebbled shore alongside deep blue waters. Towering cliffs encase it, and to the east, exquisite caves can be found, giving the beach its name, Tripiti, which translates to ‘with holes’. These imposing cliffs contribute to the beach’s seclusion, making it one of the most remote beaches near Heraklion.
It’s worth noting that there is no vehicular access to the beach, evident by the remnants of a road that once led there until 1995. This road was entirely washed away by floods, leaving no trace of even a footpath.
The only drawback of this stunning location is its exposure to the north winds, which occasionally deposit litter along the coast. However, when the sea is tranquil, the beach offers an ideal getaway, particularly for those fortunate enough to own a private boat.
The Panagia’s Fraskia Bay is nestled 24km northwest of Heraklion, on the western fringe of the Heraklion Bay. It is situated at a small valley’s exit, adjacent to the existing private settlement of Theseus. The name, Fraskia, originates from the Cretan term ‘fraski’, a type of jar used as a beehive by the Cretans. The surrounding area abounds in thyme, herbs, and shrubs, making it a perfect spot for beekeeping.
A significant portion of the coastline is peppered with alternating tiny coves of sandy and rocky seafloors, extending southwards to the area known as “The Garden of Priest”. Beyond this area, remarkable caves can be found. The sea, usually calm due to the infrequent eastern winds in northern Crete, was used by the Venetians as a harbour to shield their ships. Particularly on days when the northwest winds prevail, Panagia becomes the preferred choice for Heraklion’s boat owners.
Access to the beach is primarily by boat, with a strenuous path from the Heraklion-Rethymnon highway (before the exit to Ligaria) leading to the bay. A shorter, more accessible path starts from the neighbouring Theseus beach, but entry is restricted as it is private property. The beach is secluded, with no amenities. Sadly, unchecked construction by thoughtless locals has marred the shoreline. These squatters brazenly constructed cement bases on the beach, causing significant damage to the landscape with their refuse.
The beach is named after the Panagia (Virgin Mary) monastery, of which only ruined walls remain. A solitary shrine is the only reminder of a once-existing church. The church continues to celebrate annual festivities, with residents of Rogdia and Achlada villages arriving by boat. A dry creek with dense vegetation lies near the church.
In front of the settlement, there is a deep, pebbly beach with a calm, artificially created sea meant for the residents. The seabed starts shallow but deepens abruptly after a few meters. Umbrellas are provided for the village dwellers. Non-residents or visitors are prohibited from driving cars to the beach and must park near the village exit. A steep 1km walk is required to reach the beach, making the return journey quite exhausting. The beach may not be worth the effort unless permitted by a security guard to drive down. Alternatively, boats from the nearest harbour, Pantanassa, can be used. The deep waters are ideal for fishing, especially for avid snorkelers.
© All rights reserved. Crete Locals
