Stalida Beach (or Stalis) is located 30km east of Heraklion, between Malia and Hersonissos. Originally a small seaside village formed by the inhabitants of Mochos, it has now evolved into a bustling tourist destination, harmoniously blending into the neighbouring town of Malia. Stalis caters primarily to families seeking a tranquil retreat, and is beautifully equipped with a range of accommodations, eateries, bars, and taverns, not to mention an ATM and a pharmacy for convenience.
Stalida makes for a perfect base to explore the nearby attractions and engage in an array of activities. The locality is teeming with stunning beaches, enriching archaeological sites, and captivating cultural spots. A short 6km trip from the beach takes you to the Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre – a place where you can acquaint yourself with a variety of marine creatures and reptiles. Nearby, the Lychnostatis Open Air Museum offers a deep dive into Crete’s natural history and culture.
For those seeking aquatic thrills, the Acqua Plus waterpark, the island’s largest, is not far from the coastline. To the west, beyond Malia and Potamos Beach, lies the Malia Palace Archaeological Site, home to the third largest Minoan palace complex and steeped in millennia-old history. A further 20km south, the ancient Minoan settlement of Karfi offers another slice of history, believed to have been home to around 3,500 inhabitants.
For those with a passion for hiking, the Bulgarian trail, starting from Stalis and leading up to Mohos, is a must. Named after the Bulgarian prisoners of war who constructed it during WWII, this 5km trail, though lengthy and ascending, is an experience in itself. Along the way, you’ll cross a pedestrian bridge spanning the highway and encounter the contemporary Panagia Theogenitor Monastery. Once in Mohos, enjoy a leisurely stroll along narrow lanes, relax with a coffee in the spacious square, and enjoy the warm company of the locals. You can choose to return via the same trail or follow a different one leading from Mohos to Malia.
There are various activities you can do at Stalida beach such as swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, and water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.
Yes, Stalida beach is suitable for families with children as the water is shallow and calm, making it safe for kids to swim. There are also playgrounds and other activities for children to enjoy.
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near Stalida beach where you can enjoy a meal or a drink while enjoying the beautiful view of the sea.
Yes, you can go snorkeling at Stalida beach as there are many areas with clear water and interesting marine life to explore.
Yes, Stalida beach offers a beautiful sunset view that you can enjoy while relaxing on the Stalida beach or having a drink at one of the nearby cafes.
The water colour of the Stalida beach is blue.
The Stalida beach has sand.
The water at the Stalida beach is shallow.
The sea surface at the Stalida beach is usually wavy.
Yes, the Stalida beach is a crowded place.
The Stalida beach has accommodation options, food/water nearby, umbrellas/beds, sports, lifeguard, and showers.
The Stalida beach can be accessed through bus services and a paved road.
Yes, there are palm trees on the Stalida beach.
Find below list of things to do near Stalida beach:
Experience the Lychnostatis Open Air Museum and dive into Cretan culture dating back thousands of years. See traditional houses, windmills, distilleries, everyday tools of the past. Enrich your visit with an audio guide and audiovisual film or private tour.
Learn what it means to be a Cretan at a museum dedicated to promoting the understanding and awareness of Cretan folk cultural heritage. Explore the museum’s collections that focus on themes of Cretan folk tradition and ethnology, Cretan nature and environment, and Cretan folk culture.
Visit traditional dwellings, the chapel, olive oil press, tsikoudia (raki) distillery, threshing floor, ceramic shop, weaving and plant-dying workshop, bees and wax workshop, shoe-making workshop, carpentry, herbarium, Cretan fruit garden, herb garden, mineral and stone exhibition, Cretan folk artists’ gallery, and more.
Stop at the auditorium featuring 100 seats for audio-visual shows, seminars, and more, or visit the open-air theater with 250 seats for cultural and artistic evens. Check out the temporary exhibitions hall, library, café, and souvenir shop during your visit.
The event starts at 11:00 a.m. every Wednesday (1st July- 1st November 2023).
First, you will start by pressing the grapes with your own feet -in the traditional way-, in the Museum’s wine vat.
After that, you will taste cheese-pies, potatoes baked in the oven, grapes, figs and watermelon from our garden, as well as by-products of grapes (like Cretan wine and “tsikoudia’’ – Raki ) and the healthy dessert “Μoustalevria” (derived from the grape-juice, with no sugar or preservatives added).
At the same time, you will enjoy Cretan traditional music with local dancers (voluntary participation).
The event, ends with a Museum guided tour/audio guide and a short Film in several languages.
At the end, you will be able to explore the Museum on your own, take pictures, relax in the Museum’s beach and enjoy the drinks and snacks from the Museum’s beach-bar.
The company operates a 19 meter/62 feet (total capacity of 100 people) new built traditional wooden boat, cozy enough to provide high quality services.
From the moment you step onto the vessel you will experience Greek hospitality at its best from Cpt.Panos, George and Leftheris. Our mission is to offer our guests a relaxing experience where they live, feel and taste the best Crete has to offer through a unique journey of authentic moments. The standard trip includes two stops for swimming and snorkelling at St.George bay and Stalis area. On the first stop, one hour after sailing, the crew will prepare a grilled meal (lunch) and on the second stop (at Stalis area) a fruit platter will follow.
Kindly note that there is always the option of booking the vessel for a private trip and personalize the experience according to your group’s needs.
Come aboard, experience Greece with all your senses and make memories that will last for a lifetime.
Try diving for the first time with a beginner program. Learn the basics of diving with a theory session, a pool practice, and a shore dive to discover the underwater world.
Start with a theory session with the help of a 20-minute video and an oral presentation. Then, go to the equipment room to get your diving gear. Proceed to the pool to practice some basic diving skills, like clearing your mask underwater in case water runs in and give yourself time to get comfortable in the scuba equipment in a safe water space.
Finally, go for a shore dive to discover the underwater world. The shore dive is your first real dive in the sea! Enjoy the feeling of weightlessness and explore the Cretan underwater wildlife under the direct supervision of your instructors.
The program takes place everyday except Sundays at our Diving Center which is located inside Nana Golden Beach Hotel.
The program starts at 9:30 in the morning and ends around 12:00-13:00 in the afternoon.
Starting off we climb on an off-road terrain between olive groves through this green place full of colors, we will go quad safari on an impressive off-road route between the vineyards and to explore the unknown Paths ofe Crete .After we will arrive to PACHALIGO forest where we will a litle relax ! We continue through dirt roads with impressive mountains and wild nature with rich flora and fauna and unique views. A chance to pick some local herbs and become one with nature! In NEAPOLIS we ill have free time and free coffee !!
We have the opportunity to take amazing photos and then continue to explore beautiful parts of the offroad route, ending up for a swim in the crystal clear waters of Boufos beach in Sisi!
After our bath we will have lunch in a traditional tavern relaxing!!!
We continue this adventure having fun on an amazing dynamic dusty-sandy off-road coastal route and through the narrow streets of the traditional village of Sisi.
Having experienced an incredible Gocretesafari Quad Trip in Crete and having the opportunity to learn about the authentic Cretan life, we are sure that you will come back full of amazing memories that will last a lifetime!
Pedal with us on our Party bike in Malia. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in this fun adventure during your holiday. Book your tour now and get ready to create unforgettable memories.
Pedal, drink, and laugh with friends on the stunning coastal roads.
OUR PARTY BIKE:
The power to operate our environmentally-friendly Party bikes comes solely from pedalling, so be sure to keep pedalling! Our bikes come equipped with 15 comfortable seats, 10 for pedalling and the others for resting. A sound system is also included to add some liveliness and provide the perfect vibes for raising a glass.
TOUR EXPERIENCE:
Have a one-hour fun and fitness adventure in the most festive locations in Crete. Our responsible driver will guarantee your safety, and our friendly bartender will make sure you have the biggest grin on your face and glasses never empty.
BOOKINGS :
You can make a booking for yourself or team up with your friends to form the best tour group in town.
If your team is over 8 people, you can hire the entire bike and celebrate a special occasion with your loved ones.
Drinks available (excluded from the ticket price, to be paid extra)
€2,50 / Soft drinks
€3,50 / Beer (500ml)
€6 / Prosecco (glass)
€6 / Vodka + Soft drink
Find below the list of hotels near Stalida beach:
Hotel Anatoli Apartments is situated in Stalida, within only 30 metres of the sea and 5 km from the lively Hersonissos Town. Heraklio Town is 28 km away.
All air-conditioned units feature a dining area and balcony, as well as a kitchenette equipped with a fridge and stovetop. There is a private bathroom with a bath or shower in each unit. Bed linen is available.
Hotel Anatoli Apartments also includes a seasonal outdoor pool. Safety box is also available in the reception area upon charge.
Bike hire is available at the property and the area is popular for golfing and hiking. Ágios Nikólaos is 28 km from Hotel Anatoli Apartments. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 24 km from the property.
Situated right on the sandy beach of Stalida, the 5-star I- Resort Beach Hotel offers elegantly decorated rooms. It includes a spa centre and 2 restaurants.
The air-conditioned rooms of I- Resort Beach Hotel Lounge feature parquet floors and light wood furnishings. They come with a satellite LCD TV, minibar and hairdryer. All rooms have balconies, while most of them enjoy Cretan Sea views.
The 2 pools have wooden decks with free sun loungers and umbrellas.
Facilities include 2 restaurants, as well as 2 bars, the main and the pool bar.
I- Resort Beach Hotel is a few minutes’ walk from the centre of Stalida. Heraklion airport is at 35 km. Free private on-site parking is available.
There is no ATM on the property but nearby.
from
€221
/night
Right on the sandy beach of Stalis, Soleil Rooms and Suites features an outdoor pool with snack bar, surrounded by palm trees. It offers self-catered accommodation, billiards by the beach, and free Wi-Fi in public areas.
All spacious and air-conditioned studios open out to a balcony with side or straight Cretan Sea views or to a terrace facing the garden. Each has a kitchenette with a mini fridge, cooking hobs and kettle. The private bathroom is fitted with a shower.
Guests will find a tavern and mini market within 50 metres from Soleil Rooms and Suites. The lively resorts of Malia and Hersonissos can be reached at 3 km. The town of Agios Nikolaos and Nikos Kazantzakis Internationals Airport are around 30 km away.
The family-run Lia Sofia Apartments provides self-catered accommodation in a privileged, quiet area, just 80 metres from the sandy Stalida Beach and a 5-minute walk from the centre of Stalida.
All rooms feature a balcony and include well-equipped kitchenettes. There is a garden where guests can enjoy their meals in the open air or simply relax. Most rooms offer mountain or garden views.
The property can arrange a transfer with a taxi upon request and at a surcharge.
Guests who wish to eat out can find many local restaurants, especially along the main beach road within a 5-minute walk. Knossos Palace is at 35 km . A golf course is 10 km away and an aquarium is within 15 km.
from
€49
/night
Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a patio, Seashell Apt 1 is situated in Stalida. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony and free WiFi.
The apartment has 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 mountain views.
Popular points of interest near the apartment include Stalida Beach, Alexander Beach and Ikaros and Kernos Beach. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 26 km from Seashell Apt 1.
from
€138
/night
Located a few steps from Stalida Beach and 1 km from Alexander Beach, Esperos Studios and Apartments, #3 and #4 in Stalida provides air-conditioned accommodation with views of the inner courtyard and free WiFi.
Each unit is equipped with a terrace offering garden views, a satellite flat-screen TV, a dining area, a well-fitted kitchenette and a private bathroom with shower and a hair dryer.
The apartment offers a barbecue.
Ikaros and Kernos Beach is 1.8 km from Esperos Studios and Apartments, #3 and #4, while Drapano Beach is 2.2 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 26 km from the accommodation.
from
€59
/night
Find below list of beaches near Stalida beach:
Situated 35km to the east of Heraklion, Malia is a vibrant hub known for its dynamic nightlife and historic appeal with the third largest Minoan palace in Crete, the Malia Palace. Malia’s appeal is augmented by its sandy beaches, a key catalyst for its tourism development.
The main beach in Malia forms the eastern stretch of a 6km long bay commencing from Stalis. This vast beach boasts fine sand and shallow water, often thrumming with life, so much so that there’s barely a gap between sunbeds! Catering to all your comfort needs, the beach offers not only standard amenities such as umbrellas and water sports but also exclusive services like beachfront massage, a beach gym, pool bars at the hotels, and more.
However, if tranquillity is what you’re after, Malia might not be the best fit. You could consider venturing east, beyond the local port, towards the serene beaches of Pirgos and Potamos.
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.
The primary beach of Malia, situated in the heart of the town, is often teeming with visitors. As a result, those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle tend to head towards the sandy stretches to the east of Malia’s port, conveniently located near the Palace of Malia. The most easterly of these beaches is named Potamos (meaning River), due to a small stream that flows along its eastern edge, adjacent to Malia’s wetlands.
Potamos is a lengthy, sandy expanse that is well maintained, yet typically less populated than Malia’s main beach. The eastern portion of the region remains relatively untouched due to its archaeological significance. However, to the west of the beach, a number of hotels can be found, each boasting its own sandy cove.
The Malia Swamp is a wetland of unparalleled ecological importance, home to an expansive reed bed that provides habitat for numerous bird species. This area also preserves several types of coastal vegetation that have been lost elsewhere on Crete. The entire area is irrigated by water that flows from Mount Selena, forming a stunning river in the winter months, mere meters from the shore, resulting in crystal clear waters that feed into Potamos beach. The sea here is so fresh, locals can even drink from it! It’s not an uncommon sight to see goats descending from the mountain, swimming in the sea and drinking the water due to its fresh scent. Surrounding Potamos are smaller sand dunes, which come autumn, are adorned with stunning white sand lilies.
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.
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