Skaleta beaches

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Commencing 11km east of Rethymno and extending 3km eastward is the Skaleta beachfront, marking the end of the expansive beach of the Bay of Rethymno. The first resort you encounter after Pighianos Kampos is Sfakaki, which is exceptionally well arranged.

Stavromenos beach is the next stop, just 1km away, named after the area’s synonymous settlement. The beaches here are predominantly sandy and meticulously organized, with spots featuring pebbles and tiny rocks. As you journey eastward, the sandy stretch narrows down and gradually fades until it vanishes at the end of the Rethymno Gulf.

Continuing another 1km, you will reach the final segment of the immense East Rethymnon beachfront, Skaleta. Like all beaches on the north coast, Skaleta beachfront is exposed to the winds and typically experiences waves. The surrounding area has seen considerable development in recent years, now abounding with large hotels and tourist facilities. Regular bus services are available from Rethymno to Sfakaki, Stavromenos, and Skaleta.

From May to September, summer nights bring an extraordinary sight as loggerhead sea turtles lay their eggs in the Gulf’s sand. It’s not uncommon to see small areas of the beach cordoned off and inaccessible to visitors where nests have been spotted.

Skaleta beaches Map

Get directions to Skaleta beaches 

Most frequent asked questions

What are the Skaleta beaches?

The Skaleta beaches are a collection of beaches located in the village of Skaleta, on the northern coast of Crete, Greece.

What is the weather like at Skaleta beaches?

The weather at Skaleta beaches is typically warm and sunny during the summer months, with temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to low 30s Celsius.

What activities are available at Skaleta beaches?

Skaleta beaches offer a variety of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and beach volleyball. There are also several restaurants and bars nearby.

Are there any nearby attractions to visit while at Skaleta beaches?

Yes, there are several nearby attractions to visit while at Skaleta beaches, including the Arkadi Monastery, the Melidoni Cave, and the Rethymno Old Town.

Is it safe to swim at Skaleta beaches?

Yes, it is generally safe to swim at Skaleta beaches. However, it is always important to be aware of any potential hazards, such as strong currents or jellyfish.

What is the best time of day to visit Skaleta beaches?

The best time of day to visit Skaleta beaches is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the sun is not as strong and the crowds are smaller.

Are there any restrictions on the use of Skaleta beaches?

There are no specific restrictions on the use of Skaleta beaches, but visitors are expected to follow basic beach etiquette, such as not littering and respecting other beachgoers.

What is the water colour of the Skaleta beaches?

The water colour of the Skaleta beaches is blue.

What type of sand is found on the Skaleta beaches?

The Skaleta beaches has sand, with rocks in some places.

How deep is the water at the Skaleta beaches?

The water at the Skaleta beaches is shallow.

What is the surface of the sea like at the Skaleta beaches?

The sea surface at the Skaleta beaches is usually wavy.

What is the crowd like at the Skaleta beaches?

The Skaleta beaches has normal crowds.

What facilities are available at the Skaleta beaches?

The Skaleta beaches has accommodation options, food/water nearby, umbrellas/beds, sports, lifeguard, showers, and a Blue Flag.

How can I access the Skaleta beaches?

The Skaleta beaches can be accessed through bus services and a paved road.

Is there any other information about the Skaleta beaches?

Yes, the Skaleta beaches is a seaturtle nesting point.

Things to do near Skaleta beaches

Find below list of things to do near Skaleta beaches:

  • Skaleta

For this excursion, you will be picked up from your hotel area by our airconditioned bus. The first
stop is at the Spili village. You will have a chance to see a 100% traditional village with its well know
lion-head fountains in the middle of the village. Walking along its cobbled streets you can explore
the tourist shops which are full of traditional Cretan products. The next stop is at Matala where you
will have 2,5 hour of free time to enjoy the golden sandy beach. Matala is not only known for its
beautiful beaches but also for its artificially carved caves that date all the way back to the Minoan
period. These same caves were later occupied by a hippy commune in the late 6 0’s and 7 0’s. Many
musicians have composed song about the beauty of Matala including Bob Dylan and Cat Stevens.
The next stop is at the amphitheatrically built village of Agia Galini. Here will have 1,5 hours to
explore the village. The small, traditional houses and the harbor make the perfect match for a
coffee οr lunch break. The bus will then take you back to your hotel ending this amazing excursion.

  • Pigi, Rethymno

The wood oven is hot and waiting!
We will meet at the village of Pigi. A beautiful spacious garden will be the scenery for our cooking class. As we get to know each other you will have the chance to visit our vegetable and herbs garden or enjoy the swimming pool (bring your swimming suit!).

Now it’s time for you to cook!
As soon as you feel ready for work our host will dress you with your apron and will guide you through each of the recipes that you are going to learn. Home-made cheese, ntakos, tzatziki, staffed vegetables, greek salad and much more all cooked to local level perfection by you.

Enjoy your creations
After preparing all the dishes, lunch follows; we will use a traditional wood-fired oven for cooking our dishes and we will taste everything we have prepared outdoors, in an idyllic setting with a glass of raki and local wine. Let’s savor the wonderful Cretan flavors of traditional cuisine!

  • Adele, Crete

Immerse yourself in the rich culinary heritage of Crete as you embark on a gastronomic journey like no other. Learn from a passionate cook and proud native of a charming Cretan village.

Enter the cook’s home and discover the secrets of traditional Cretan cuisine using fresh products sourced from her family’s farm or local farmers. Learn in a charming atmosphere and cook in a traditional wood oven.

Enjoy a menu that can be adapted for our vegetarian friends or those with allergies. Experience the hospitality of a local home with a warm welcome with Greek coffee or herbal tea, homemade lemonade, ladokouloura, rolls made with olive oil, and loukoumakia.

Chat with the hose to get to know each other and learn the recipes with old traditional practices and cooked in a wood oven.

Try making starters like dakos (Cretan salad with tomato, cheese, olive oil, herbs), tzatziki (the famous Greek dip), and Greek salad. Learn to cook main dishes like gemista (stuffed vine leaves, zucchini flowers, tomatoes, zucchini, and pepper), and mousaka.

Indulge in a traditional dessert like Tyropitakia, traditional pies with homemade cheese, local honey, and cinnamon sprinkled, homemade ice cream, and seasonal fruit. Enjoy local wine and raki alongside your meal.

Experience genuine connections forged during the class and feel like part of the extended Cretan family, creating lasting memories and forging a deep appreciation for the traditions and flavors of this remarkable island.

  • Monastery of Arkadi

After you will be picked off in the morning from your hotel in Rethymnon, this unique village tour begins from Arkadi. There you will visit the historic Arkadi Monastery, renowned for its pivotal role in the resistance against the Turks. You will learn a lot about local history from the icons and the weapons there.

After this enriching visit, you will enjoy a majestic route towards Eleutherna where you will stop to glaze the landscape and enjoy the view.

The next station will be the village of Margarites, in which you can learn about the art of pottery and create your own ceramic in their local pottery workshop. The tradition of pottery goes back many generations in this village and the ladies there will be more than happy to initiate you to the Cretan pottery art.

Afterwards, you will be heading to Melidoni cave, also called “Gerodospilios,” which is a historic cave filled with stalactites and stalagmites. This 220-meter altitude cave was a place of worship for Talos the bronze giant guardian of Crete who protected the island of Crete from enemies. You will have an hour to explore the cave.

Before heading back to Rethymnon, you will stop at Axos Village, where you will have the chance to experience firsthand the production process of fresh cheese. Along with the local people you can take part in the milking process, witness the production of local cheese pies and cheese and of course taste the fresh traditional handmade snacks.

After the relaxed time for snacks and resting you are ready to depart and get dropped off at your hotel in Rethymnon, with a full experience of Crete’s history, art and flavors.

  • Monastery of Arkadi

Explore the northeastern part of Crete on a guided half-day trip from Rethymno. Encounter sights like the Fragma Potamon Dam as you soak up the local atmosphere.

Climb onboard the bus and start your trip by heading east to your first stop at iconic Melidoni Cave. Visit the fascinating site and perhaps enjoy a coffee (own expense) while admiring a magnificent view of the valley of Melidoni village.

Then, move south to Margarites village and make a stop at a pottery workshop. Have the opportunity to observe how traditional handmade pottery is made.

Next, move on to the famous Arkadi Monastery, where you have time for coffee or lunch (own expense). Finally, pause at a vantage point with a magnificent view at the well-known Fragma Potamon Dam for a photo stop. Return to your hotel in the early afternoon.

  • Monastery of Arkadi

Welcome to our Rethymno Sunset Tour, an opportunity for a magical and memorable trip! Discover the most beautiful panoramic views along paths running through hills and valleys. Cross picturesque villages and experience the natural wonders that Crete has to offer.

After we pick you up from your hotel, our first stop will be at the Venetian village of Pikris , where you will see the Cretan way of life and our hospitality.The village was built next to the river with its mythical nymphs. You will have the chance to see the amazing central gate of the villa Claudio. What makes it even more intriguing is the Latin inscription in letters: “Pateat bonis,” which translates to “the good man passes through.” This phrase hints at a place that values virtues and welcomes those of moral character.

Our next stop will be the Arkadi Monastery wich is one of the most important monasteries in Crete and holds great cultural and historical value.It is renowned for its stunning architecture, with a mix of Venetian, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences, making it a unique and captivating structure.(to enter the Monastery is optional and the entrance fee is 4 euro)

We continue through the changing scenery of wild flowers, herbs and local groves to reach the mountains at an altitude of around 1000m.Here you will have an amazing view point of the dam of Potamon. We stop to relax with a glass of wine whilst admiring the vivid colors of the sun sinking into the ocean!

Our last stop will be at Limnokastro where we will have a Cretan style evening meal at a local tavern by the river, where giant trees and a 1000 year old church will fascinate you! Here you will have the opportunity to try a selection of traditional local starters and main courses (vegetarian option available) and enjoy unlimited Cretan wine.

Don’t miss this unique experience and an unforgettable, epic Rethymno sunset tour!

Stays near Skaleta beaches

Find below the list of hotels near Skaleta beaches:

  • 9.5 / 10
  • Stavromenos

Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, sea view and a balcony, Bella Vista House is set in Magnisía. This beachfront property offers access to a terrace, free private parking and free WiFi.

Boasting a DVD player, the villa has a kitchen with a dishwasher, an oven and a microwave, a living room with a seating area and a dining area, 3 bedrooms, and 2 bathrooms with a walk-in shower and a bath. Towels and bed linen are offered in the villa.

At the villa guests are welcome to take advantage of a hot tub. A a baby safety gate is also available at Bella Vista House, while guests can also relax in the garden.

Popular points of interest near the accommodation include Skaleta Beach, Eleven Beach and Sfakaki Beach. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 70 km from Bella Vista House, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

    • 70 m
    • 9 / 10
    • Εθνική Οδός Ρεθύμνου Ηρακλείου

    Featuring pool views, New Crete apartment in Stavromenos Coast w/pool offers accommodation with a patio and a coffee machine, around 700 metres from Skaleta Beach. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.

    The apartment with a terrace and mountain views features 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are featured in the apartment.

    The apartment offers a hot tub. Guests can enjoy the infinity pool and garden at New Crete apartment in Stavromenos Coast w/pool.

    Eleven Beach is 1.2 km from the accommodation, while Sfakaki Beach is 1.6 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 69 km from New Crete apartment in Stavromenos Coast w/pool, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

    from

    €133

    /night

      • 260 m
      • 10 / 10

      Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, pool view and a patio, Beachfront Nymphes Aigli, Brand New Villa with Pool, Children Area & BBQ is situated in Skaleta. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.

      The villa features 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 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 a children’s playground. Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at Beachfront Nymphes Aigli, Brand New Villa with Pool, Children Area & BBQ, while cycling can be enjoyed nearby.

      Popular points of interest near the accommodation include Skaleta Beach, Eleven Beach and Agios Nikolaos Beach. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 69 km from Beachfront Nymphes Aigli, Brand New Villa with Pool, Children Area & BBQ, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

        • 270 m
        • 9.9 / 10
        • Palea Ethniki Odos Rethimnou Irakliou

        Located in Stavromenos, this detached villa features a terrace and a garden. The property boasts views of the sea. Free private parking is available on site.

        There is a seating area, a dining area and a kitchen equipped with a dishwasher. And features a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, PS3and game console, as well as a laptop and a computer are offered. The villa features free WiFi throughout the property.

        Balíon is 17 km from Velvet Breeze Superior Villa, while Rethymno Town is 12 km from the property. Chania International Airport is 45 km away.

        from

        €54

        /night

          • 430 m
          • 9.2 / 10
          • Εθνική Οδός Ρεθύμνου Ηρακλείου

          Situated 600 metres from Eleven Beach and less than 1 km from Sfakaki Beach, Sea melody apartments in Stavromenos features air-conditioned accommodation with views of the sea and free WiFi.

          Each unit comes with a fully equipped kitchen with a dining table, a flat-screen TV with streaming services and a private bathroom with shower, a hair dryer and free toiletries. An oven, a toaster and fridge are also available, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.

          The apartment has a garden and sun terrace.

          Skaleta Beach is 1.2 km from Sea melody apartments, while Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 12 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 70 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

          from

          €55

          /night

            • 450 m
            • 9.6 / 10
            • Stavromenos

            Enjoying panoramic Cretan Sea views, the stone-built Stavromenos Villas – Private Pools & Seaview – 15 min from City Center includes a private swimming pool with a sun terrace and sun loungers. It is located 12 km from Rethymno and features a modern decoration with beamed ceilings, and free Wi-Fi.

            Opening to a balcony with garden and pool views, the air-conditioned villa comes with a fireplace, seating area, a satellite TV and a DVD player. It also has a washing machine, and a fully equipped kitchen with a stove, fridge and dining table. Bathrooms include a tub or shower, and a hairdryer.

            Guests can prepare their own meals at the BBQ facilities within Stavromenos’ premises. Various taverns and supermarkets are within 1 km.

            The nearest beach is at a distance of 1 km. The international airport of Chania is approximately 80 km from the villa. The owners can help with car rentals and ticket services. Free private parking is possible on site.

              • 830 m

              Beaches near Skaleta beaches

              Find below list of beaches near Skaleta beaches:

              • 3.3 km
              Pigianos Kambos beaches is located 3.3 km away.

              Pigianos Kambos, also known as Pigi beach, is situated 8km to the east of Rethymno, centrally positioned along Rethymno Bay’s extensive beach. The name, Pigianos Kambos, translates to “Plane of Pigi” from Greek, reflecting the fertile fields that belong to the inhabitants of the nearby Pigi village. Today, Pigianos Kambos serves as a coastal tourist destination, albeit less developed than its neighbor, Adelianos Kambos. The area boasts a variety of accommodations, from apartments and rooms to larger hotels, complemented by multiple dining, entertainment, and shopping options.

              The beach in Pigianos Kambos offers a peaceful and quieter atmosphere compared to the other beaches in Rethymnon. Between Pigianos Kambos and Stavromenos, visitors can enjoy swimming and snorkelling in the numerous small, rocky coves. A unique feature of Pigianos Kambos is the opportunity to spot protected sea turtle nests, as these creatures choose this sandy beach to lay their eggs.

              Regular bus services from the center of Rethymnon make Pigianos Kambos easily accessible.

              • Pigianos Kambos beaches
              • Rocks in places, Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue
              • 4.3 km
              Spilies beach is located 4.3 km away.

              Spilies, also known as “Tou Maliou to Riaki” or Maliou stream, is a hidden gem located 15km to the east of Rethymnon city. Nestled between Skaleta and Geropotamos, the area is serene and tranquil, despite its proximity to the main highway that links Heraklion and Rethymno.

              This hidden paradise is nestled in a small rocky bay, boasting of a pebbly beach with crystal clear and deep waters, shielded by towering cliffs. The defining feature of the cove is the stunning cavernous rocks that shelter the small beach from the west. Beyond the western and eastern ends of the beach, several sea caves and rock formations with extraordinary shapes adorn the landscape. Unfortunately, a portion of the eastern caves collapsed in the winter of 2011-12. These caves serve as crucial habitats for endangered species like the Mediterranean monk seal.

              For an adventurous day, explore the rocky shores east of the beach, leading to the remarkable natural rocky arch of Geropotamos.

              The beach provides basic amenities such as umbrellas, beds, and a small canteen. However, be wary of waves, which are a common occurrence due to the northern winds.

              To reach the beach from Rethymnon, take the main road to Heraklion. After passing Skaleta, you’ll spot “Creta Farm”, followed by two gas stations on either side of the road. A short path to the beach begins behind the gas station on your left, marked by a sign to Spilies (ΣΠΗΛΙΕΣ). To avoid a left turn on the national road, it’s recommended to enter the station on your right and then turn back towards Rethymno.

              • Spilies beach
              • Pebbles
              • Deep
              • Blue
              • 4.9 km
              Adelianos Kambos beach is located 4.9 km away.

              Adelianos Kambos, also known as Adele Beach, is a seaside suburb of Rethymnon situated 6km to the east on a flat plain. This area, previously used for vegetable cultivation by residents of the adjoining village Adele, has seen considerable development over the past century, becoming an integral part of Rethymnon city. Access to Adelianos Kambos is straightforward, with local buses running regularly from the city centre.

              The extensive sandy stretch of Rethymnon Gulf beach begins at Adelianos Kambos and continues to Skaleta. The suburb offers a variety of accommodation options, from large hotels to smaller establishments, and plenty of choices for dining, shopping, and entertainment. The beach is well-equipped with amenities like umbrellas, lifeguards, changing rooms, showers and bars, making it a popular spot for beach sports and water activities. The sea here is typically shallow but can be wavy, a characteristic of all open beaches on the northern side of Crete. An interesting feature of this beach is the sea turtles that lay their eggs here, leading to the occasional sight of marked nests protected by ropes and signboards.

              • Adelianos Kambos beach
              • Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue
              • 5.1 km
              Geropotamos beach is located 5.1 km away.

              Geropotamos, situated approximately 18km east of Rethymnon and 3km west of Panormo, is named after the eponymous river that empties into the eastern end of the beach. The beach, though small, is marked by its sandy terrain and crystal-clear, cool water, a result of the river that runs throughout the year, forming a small lake near the shore. The beach is minimally organized with umbrellas and a canteen that provides refreshments, coffee, water, and some basic food supplies. A luxurious hotel is also located adjacent to the river. Although easily accessible, the beach remains quiet and uncrowded. However, the orientation of the shore makes it susceptible to northern winds.

              Geropotamos’ location on the main road connecting Heraklion and Rethymno makes it easily accessible. You can even reach it by bus by asking the driver to stop at Geropotamos. The area’s importance is underscored by its status as a natural shelter for rare birds and animals, courtesy of the Waterland. West of Geropotamos, the shore is riddled with cavities, home to the rare monk seals (Monachus monachus) and falcons.

              A few meters west of Geropotamos beach, you’ll find an extraordinary rocky arch known as Kamara. Beneath Kamara, there lies a small beach with sand, small pebbles, and crystal blue waters. The beach’s size makes it vulnerable to north winds, with waves almost covering it. However, on calm sea days, it is truly beautiful. The beach, surrounded by vertical cliffs that provide natural shade, is only accessible by boat. A fun activity on windless days is to swim from Geropotamos and snorkel en route.

              Cape Lianos, the eastern end of Geropotamos beach, also known as the Lavris area, is a rocky cape with a luxury hotel built on it. In front of the hotel, there are some small artificial coves with piers protecting them from waves. Although they appear private, you can reach the coves via a footpath that begins near the Geropotamos beach and heads eastwards, even if you’re not a hotel guest.

              The Lianos Cape area, along with the Geropotamos wetland, is protected under the European program “Natura 2000”. It is home to a variety of reptiles, birds, turtles, amphibians, mammals, and plants, some of which are indigenous or endangered.

              • Geropotamos beach
              • Pebbles
              • Deep
              • Blue

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