Petres beach

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Situated at the eastern edge of the expansive Episkopi beachfront, Petres beach, or Stones beach, is a 46km journey east from Chania and 13km west from Rethymnon. The beach owes its name to the majestic Petres Gorge that concludes at this point. The area is dotted with facilities such as accommodations, eateries, and even a diving school. The Vythos cove, positioned north of the other areas, offers umbrellas and a less sandy terrain. The rocky underwater landscape makes it a hotspot for fishing and snorkelling. However, the frequent northern winds can cause the sea to become wavy.

Petres beach Map

Get directions to Petres beach 

  • Google maps
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Beach details

  • Rocks in places
  • Sand
  • Accommodation
  • Food and water
  • Umbrellas and beds
  • Blue
  • Bus services
  • Paved road
  • Family friendly
  • Ideal for snorkeling

Most frequent asked questions

What is the location of Petres beach?

Petres beach is located in the Rethymno region of Crete, Greece.

Is Petres beach suitable for swimming?

Yes, Petres beach is suitable for swimming, but it is recommended to check the water conditions before entering.

Is Petres beach pet-friendly?

Yes, Petres beach is pet-friendly, but it is recommended to keep your pets on a leash and clean up after them.

Are there any water sports activities available at Petres beach?

No, there are no water sports activities available at Petres beach.

Is there any accommodation available near Petres beach?

Yes, there are several accommodation options available near Petres beach, including hotels, apartments, and villas.

Is there any restaurant or cafe available at Petres beach?

No, there are no restaurants or cafes available at Petres beach, but there are several options available nearby.

Is there any parking available at Petres beach?

Yes, there is a parking area available near Petres beach.

What is the water colour of the Petres beach?

The water colour of the Petres beach is blue.

What type of sand is found on the Petres beach?

The Petres beach has sand, with rocks in some places.

How deep is the water at the Petres beach?

The water at the Petres beach is shallow.

What is the surface of the sea like at the Petres beach?

The sea surface at the Petres beach is usually wavy.

What is the crowd like at the Petres beach?

The Petres beach is usually quiet.

What facilities are available at the Petres beach?

The Petres beach has accommodation options, food and water nearby, and umbrellas/beds.

How can I access the Petres beach?

The Petres beach can be accessed by bus services and a paved road.

What other information should I know about the Petres beach?

The Petres beach is ideal for snorkeling and spearfishing.

Things to do near Petres beach

Find below list of things to do near Petres beach:

  • Episkopi Beach

Create lasting memories in Crete as you enjoy an olive oil tasting experience under the shade of olive trees. This entire experience will be enjoyed in the middle of a 2,000-year-old monumental olive grove.

Discover the history, culture, and Cretan civilization of olive oil throughout the centuries. During your walk around the peaceful olive groves such as the holy Gethsemane Garden, you will discover the beauty of the Cretan landscape as well as the myths, flavors, and aromas of olive oil.

The activity includes an olive oil tasting of 4 different olive oils at a tasting table in the shade of some olive trees. During the tasting you will be pairing food with more types of olive oil, and you will receive tips on how taste, preserve, choose, cook, and fry olive oil. You’ll also receive more information about harvesting and olive oil extraction.

  • 3rd Klm. National Road, Rethymno 741 50

Discover a secluded culinary & wine tasting journey in a restaurant hanging from the side of a Cretan gorge. Indulge in the finest Greek wines, traditional Cretan dishes, and explore the history of this enchanting land. Reservations only.

  • Lake Kournas

Embark on an exhilarating jeep adventure filled with history, culture, and the breathtaking landscapes of Crete. This tour promises a blend of entertainment, fun, and exploration, taking you through the island’s most captivating sights.

Limni Kournas: Crete’s Natural Lake
Our adventure begins at Limni Kournas, Crete’s only natural lake. Here, we’ll take a short break to enjoy the panoramic views extending to the Lefka Ori’s northern fringes. The serene beauty of the lake provides a perfect start to our journey.

Argyroupoli’s Water Sources
Next, we explore a valley leading to Argyroupoli’s water sources, where nature’s artistry is displayed through lush vegetation and stunning waterfalls. This picturesque setting offers a tranquil spot for a coffee break amidst nature’s splendor.

Holy Five Virgins Monument
We then visit the monument dedicated to the Holy Five Virgins, marked by tombs in a cave from which holy water flows. A small church here pays homage to these martyred virgins, adding a spiritual dimension to our tour.

Mountro Gorge and “To Nisi”: Off-road route
Our journey takes us off-road to the Mountro Gorge, through dense forest vegetation, and up the mountain to the historical ruins of “To Nisi”. This abandoned settlement whispers tales of a bygone era, inviting us to uncover its secrets.

Rural Life in Mountros Village
Passing through the quaint village of Mountros, we delve into Crete’s rural life at the Mitato of Astrinos in Kali Sykia. Here, we’ll experience traditional goat milking, cheese making, and savor the authentic feta of Crete, surrounded by nature.

In Agkouseliana village, we’ll halt to savor our Cretan lunch. Delight in shared appetizers for every four persons and a main course for each individual, accompanied by wine and water. Indulge in the authentic flavors of “whatever mum has cooked,” with vegetarian options readily available.

Preveli’s Palm Forest and Beach
Our expedition leads us to the enchanting palm forest of Preveli. A brief hike reveals a landscape dominated by palm trees, unique rock formations, and a river merging into the Libyan Sea, culminating at a stunning beach for a refreshing swim.

Kourtaliotis Gorge: Nature’s Majesty
On our return, we explore the Kourtaliotis Gorge, feeling its refreshing aura and admiring its wildlife, including the occasional rare vulture. This natural marvel marks a fitting end to our journey through the hidden treasures of Crete.

This day tour is not just a trip; it’s an immersion into the essence of Crete, filled with unforgettable memories, wildlife encounters, and a deep appreciation for the island’s unexplored beauty.

  • Lake Kournas

Join this unforgettable journey to the West Side of Crete, where you’ll uncover its rich heritage, breathtaking natural beauty, and charming towns that truly make this region unique. First, immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Chania Town for 2.5 hours.

Wander along its picturesque Venetian streets, lined with charming shops, bustling markets, and delightful local restaurants. Don’t miss exploring the famous old port, teeming with activity and offering mesmerizing views. Spend leisurely moments strolling along the coastline or relaxing with a drink at a seaside café. Then continue the bus journey from Chania to the lake, which will take approximately 1 hour.

Discover the serenity of Crete’s largest natural lake, Lake Kournas, during our 1.5-hour visit. Marvel at the tranquil waters reflecting the majestic White Mountains, evoking an Alpine atmosphere. Choose to enjoy a scenic pedal boat ride, take a refreshing swim, or indulge in a delicious meal at one of the charming tavernas (additional cost).

Explore the captivating charm of Rethymno, a town steeped in Venetian heritage, during your 1.5-hour visit. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the old port, soaking in the picturesque vistas. Wander along the scenic oriental beach road, immersing yourself in the vibrant blend of cultures that define this coastal gem. Expect a return bus journey lasting approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the location of your hotel in the Heraklion Region.

  • Lake Kournas

After pickup from your hotel, drive to Chania in the West of Crete. According to ancient writers, it was the “mother of the Cretan cities”, and an important Minoan city. Explore the Old City and see elements from all the civilizations that flourished here in the past: archaeological Minoan sites, Turkish minarets and mosques, Muslim neighborhoods, and Venetian fortresses.

See dockyards, fountains, squares, arches, mansions, and the Lighthouse. You can enjoy lunch at the picturesque harbor or visit the famous Agora, a market hall that is home to small traditional shops and taverns.

Next, the bus will take you to the quaint Lake Kournas, the only freshwater lake on the island. Admire the area’s lush vegetation, steep hills, and rare species of fish and birds, like eels, moorhens, and two-color turtles. Here you can enjoy a swim in the lake, or take a leisurely afternoon walk.

Continue to Rethimnon, the third biggest town in Crete, where monuments of the ancient Greek, Ottoman, and Venetian eras coexist. Explore the small alleys in the old town, see the Turkish minarets, and visit the Venetian fortresses. Alternatively, just relax and enjoy a Greek coffee at the vibrant old port. You will then board the bus for the return journey back to your hotel.

  • Lake Kournas

This excursion takes you to the west side of the island. It includes a visit to the towns of Rethymnon and Chania, as well as to the well – known Lake of Kournas. Going west on the northern axis of Crete, first we will pass the Ida range that includes the highest mountain of Crete, Psiloritis (2453m high), then our tour will take us to the beautiful town of Rethymno.

A graphic Cretan town, so characteristic and unique, that nothing similar is met anywhere else on the island of Crete. We will have time to relax at the beautiful scenery at the old port of Rethymnon. We will have time to relax at the beautiful scenery at the old port of Rethymnon.

Our next stop Chania is the capital city of the prefecture of Chania, which comes second in size on the island and is the sixth biggest city in Greece having approximately 65.000 residents. Its Venetian walls and harbor, narrow streets, and old buildings from the Venetian and Turkish period are mostly intact and take you directly to the past. The old harbor, where the small fishing boats can moor, is a perfect place to enjoy a coffee and observe the liveliness of the city. Here you can see the cross – shaped closed Marketplace and the leather – Market Street.

Next stop and last is the lake of Kournas, the only natural sweet water Lake close to Chania, where you will have your lunch. For those who want, there is a possibility to make a tour in the lake on pedals, or just walk around the lake and swim before we take the way back to Herakleio

Stays near Petres beach

Find below the list of hotels near Petres beach:

  • 9.5 / 10
  • Petres 0 Rethymno Petres 0 Rethymno

Pietra Di Mare features sea views, free WiFi and free private parking, located in Petres, less than 1 km from Episkopi Beach.

Fitted with a balcony, the units offer air conditioning and feature a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with shower and a hair dryer. There is also a kitchen in some of the units equipped with kitchenware.

The aparthotel offers a seasonal outdoor pool.

A kids pool is also available at Pietra Di Mare, while guests can also relax on the sun terrace.

Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 12 km from the accommodation, while Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 37 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International, 57 km from Pietra Di Mare, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

from

€83

/night

    • 210 m
    • 9.9 / 10
    • Petres, Rethymno

    Boasting garden views, Eleanna’s House – 400m From the Beach offers accommodation with a patio and a coffee machine, around 1.4 km from Episkopi Beach. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.

    The apartment is fitted with 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with mountain views.

    Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at the apartment, while hiking and walking tours can be enjoyed nearby.

    Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 12 km from Eleanna’s House – 400m From the Beach, while Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 36 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International, 58 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

    from

    €76

    /night

      • 420 m
      • 9.1 / 10
      • Petres

      Set in Petres, 1.2 km from Episkopi Beach and 12 km from Archaeological Museum of Rethymno, Aristotelis Residence offers air conditioning. This villa features a private pool, a garden, barbecue facilities, free WiFi and free private parking.

      The villa comes with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.

      Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at the villa, while cycling can be enjoyed nearby.

      Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 36 km from Aristotelis Residence, while Municipal Garden is 11 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 58 km from the accommodation.

      from

      €287

      /night

        • 490 m
        • 9.3 / 10
        • Petres Petres

        Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, mountain view and a patio, Stone Villa II in Petres is located in Petres. It has a garden, pool views and free WiFithroughout the property.

        The villa with a balcony and sea views features 2 bedrooms, a living room, a TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and 1 bathroom with a shower. Towels and bed linen are featured in the villa.

        A car rental service is available at the villa.

        Episkopi Beach is 1.1 km from Stone Villa II in Petres, while Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 12 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International, 58 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

        from

        €135

        /night

          • 560 m
          • 9.3 / 10
          • Madaros Area, Karoti

          Set in Karotí, 2 km from Episkopi Beach and 15 km from Archaeological Museum of Rethymno, Villa Ypsilon offers air conditioning. This villa features a private pool, a garden, barbecue facilities, free WiFi and free private parking.

          The villa with a terrace and sea views has 3 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 2 bathrooms with a hot tub. Towels and bed linen are offered in the villa.

          The villa offers a picnic area. Walking tours can be enjoyed nearby.

          Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 39 km from Villa Ypsilon, while Municipal Garden is 14 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 58 km from the accommodation.

          from

          €169

          /night

            • 1.6 km
            • 9.6 / 10
            • Main Street

            With a hilltop setting that offers panoramic sea views, a stroll away from Episkopi beach, Aneria Suites offer self-catering accommodation on the northern coast of Crete.

            The location of Aneria Suites provides peace and tranquillity, but also quick and easy access to vibrant Rethymno.

            All the apartments and studios are air conditioned and equipped with kitchenette, fridge and satellite TV. The water is heated with solar energy. From your veranda or terrace, you can enjoy uninterrupted views of the sea or the mountains.

            And while you relax in or by the pool, there will be nothing between you and the wonderful Cretan sky.

            A number of water sports, diving, fishing, as well as mountain biking, hiking and climbing can be enjoyed in the area.

            from

            €81

            /night

              • 2.2 km

              Beaches near Petres beach

              Find below list of beaches near Petres beach:

              • 2.0 km
              Episkopi beach is located 2.0 km away.

              Episkopi beach is a 3.5 km sandy beach on the north coast of Crete, 14 km west of Rethymno and 45 km east of Chania. Episkopi beach sits in a fertile valley between the Mouselas river and the river that runs out of the Petres gorge. The water is shallow and usually a little wavy, like most beaches on Crete’s north coast, and it takes its name from the village of Episkopi, 2 km inland to the south.

              At a glance:

              • Length: about 3.5 km of sand
              • Water: blue and clear, shallow, usually light waves
              • Family friendly: soft sand and a gentle, shallow entry
              • Organized western section: lifeguard, umbrellas and sunbeds, showers, snack bars, water sports
              • Quiet zone: the eastern end near the Petres bridge
              • Access: coastal road, KTEL bus, and parking at the beach

              The beach and the water

              The sand is soft, with a short pebbly strip at the waterline that turns sandy underfoot as you walk in. Mornings are usually calm and clear enough to see the bottom, while an afternoon breeze can raise small waves. The shallow, gently shelving water suits families with children and makes the beach a good spot for a slow swim or a snorkel.

              Facilities and the organized section

              The western part of the beach is well organized. There you find lifeguards, showers, changing rooms, umbrellas and sunbeds, snack bars, and water sports. Tavernas and bars line the shore, several renting sunbeds under thatched umbrellas. Because the beach runs for about 3.5 km, you can still find a quieter, less developed stretch toward the eastern end near the Petres bridge.

              Getting there and parking

              The main coastal road between Rethymno and Chania runs parallel to the beach, so access by car is easy. Frequent KTEL public buses connect Chania and Rethymno and stop on the highway beside the beach, and parking is available at the shore. The simplest way to reach Episkopi and explore the rest of the north coast is to rent a car.

              Sea turtles

              Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) nest along this coast between May and September, and Episkopi is a recorded nesting point. If you visit in those months, keep clear of any marked nests and take your litter home with you.

              What is nearby

              Episkopi sits within a short drive of these stops:

              • About 2 km east lie Petres beach and the Petres gorge, with a diving school and a rocky seabed that snorkelers and anglers favor.
              • Argyroupolis, an inland village known for its springs and lush greenery.
              • Lake Kournas, the only natural freshwater lake on Crete, a short drive inland.
              • Further west, the sandy resort beaches of Georgioupolis and Kavros.

              The name Episkopi means “Diocese”: the village was the seat of the local diocese in the Byzantine period, and the old Episcopal church of St Nicholas nearby now stands in ruins. Almost unknown to travelers, the area is also the ancestral home of the Vardinoyannis family.

              FAQ

              Where is Episkopi beach?

              Episkopi beach is on the north coast of Crete in the Rethymno area, 14 km west of Rethymno and 45 km east of Chania. It lies below the village of Episkopi, between the Mouselas and Petres rivers.

              Is Episkopi beach good for families?

              Yes. The water is shallow and the sand is soft, and the organized western section has a lifeguard, so it suits children and less confident swimmers.

              Is Episkopi beach organized, with sunbeds and facilities?

              The western part is organized, with lifeguards, showers, changing rooms, umbrellas and sunbeds, snack bars, and water sports. The eastern end near the Petres bridge is quieter and less developed.

              Are there water sports at Episkopi beach?

              Yes, water sports are offered in the organized western section, alongside the lifeguard, showers, umbrellas, and snack bars.

              How do I get to Episkopi beach, and is there parking?

              The coastal Rethymno to Chania road runs next to the beach, so you can drive or take a KTEL public bus that stops on the highway. Parking is available at the beach.

              When is the best time to visit Episkopi beach?

              The main season is June to September, when the weather is warm and dry. Late May, June, and September are usually quieter than midsummer.

              Is Episkopi beach good for snorkeling?

              Yes. The water is clear and shallow, and the rockier seabed near Petres beach to the east is a favorite for snorkeling and fishing.

              • Episkopi beach
              • Rocks in places, Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue
              • 4.1 km
              Kamari beach is located 4.1 km away.

              Kamari Beach is situated roughly 7km west of Rethymnon, close to Gerani village, at the entrance of Vederi Gorge. The coastal highway linking Chania and Rethymnon runs adjacent to the beach and over the Gerani bridge.

              The beach is relatively compact, featuring pebbles and rocks in certain areas, making it a favourite among snorkelers. Despite being exposed to frequent northerly winds, it offers some amenities such as a few umbrellas, taverns, and rooms. Additionally, a quaint harbour and the charming Panagia Kamariani church can be found nearby.

              A short distance south of the beach, one can find the sealed entrance to the Gerani cave, a significant archaeological site in central Crete, discovered unexpectedly during the construction of the main road. Moreover, visitors can explore the scenic narrow streets of Gerani village and visit the St George church along with several smaller churches.

              • Kamari beach
              • Rocks in places, Sand
              • Normal
              • Blue
              • 5.9 km
              Kavros beach is located 5.9 km away.

              Located between Georgioupoli and Pyrgos, Kavros refers to the expansive beach situated just 4 km east of Georgioupoli, near the hotel bearing the same name. Though the area has experienced substantial tourist development, it’s somewhat less commercialized compared to the adjacent Georgioupolis. Kavros beach is a sandy stretch with transparent, shallow waters; however, its openness to the wind often results in notable wave activity. The beach provides several facilities for visitors, including an array of restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it a perfect spot for an all-day excursion. For those seeking tranquillity, parts of the beach remain unorganized, offering a more serene experience.

              The place at its greatest part is developed and only a very small part of it has been left untouched. Between the remaining virgin parts of the beach, there is an extensive and very important ecosystem of dunes. The dunes of Kavros, like all dunes, host a significant and very fragile ecosystem that is home to its own plants. The most important role of the dunes in Crete is that they protect the inner lands from erosion. In the area, in winter we meet small ponds and the landscape is quite different from the summer.

              • Kavros beach at Kournas
              • Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue
              • 8.8 km
              Koumbes beach is located 8.8 km away.

              Koumbes, situated 2km west of Rethymnon’s center, is the only beach on the city’s western side. The beach offers stunning vistas of the impressive Fortezza fortress, located several hundred meters to the east. Koumbes derives its name from the Turkish word ‘Kubbe,’ which translates to ‘dome.’ This expansive beach, adorned with sand and fine pebbles, has seen significant growth in recent years, and its development has become a top priority for the Rethymno Municipality. This growth has led to numerous improvements, including the addition of walkways and similar enhancements along the coast.

              At Koumbes, visitors can avail themselves of all necessary tourist amenities, such as lifeguard services, umbrellas, showers, changing rooms, and water sports. The area also boasts numerous hotels, accommodations, restaurants, taverns, snack bars, and cafes. Access to Koumbes from the city center is convenient, either by bus or on foot. Walking takes no more than 20 minutes.

              • Koumbes beach
              • Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue

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