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Situated just 10km south of Agios Nikolaos before reaching Istron’s beaches, you’ll discover the lesser-known beach of Vathi. This hidden gem wasn’t on the map before 2010, as it’s a man-made creation and is not visible from the main road connecting Agios Nikolaos with Eastern Crete.
Nestled within a well-protected cove, Vathi remains largely unaffected by wind, except for the infrequent easterly gusts. The beach is characterized by its pristine white sand that enhances the mesmerizing hue of the sea. Managed by the nearby luxury resort, Daios Cove, the beach is well-equipped with amenities.
For non-hotel guests, accessing Vathi involves a descent down a concrete pathway and staircase. To find the entrance, take a left just before the hotel gates and follow the road until it leads to a narrow path heading towards the stairs. Vathi is an excellent choice for families thanks to its calm, waveless waters. For those keen on exploring, snorkelling along the rocky edges of the bay offers another dimension of this unique beach.
Vathi beach is located just 10km south of Agios Nikolaos
Yes, Vathi beach is suitable for swimming. The water is clear and calm.
Yes, there are water sports available at Vathi beach.
Yes, Vathi beach is family-friendly. The water is shallow and there are no strong currents.
Yes, there is lifeguard on duty at Vathi beach.
No, there is no fee to enter Vathi beach.
Yes, there is a parking area near Vathi beach.
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near Vathi beach.
The Vathi beach water colour is deep blue and blue.
The Vathi beach sand type is sand and fine pebbles.
The Vathi beach water depth is normal.
The Vathi beach sea surface is usually calm.
The Vathi beach crowds are normal.
The Vathi beach facilities include accommodation options, food/water nearby, umbrellas/beds, sports, and showers.
The Vathi beach access is available through bus services and a paved road.
The Vathi beach is ideal for snorkeling and spearfishing.
Find below list of things to do near Vathi beach:
This Land Rover excursion is the perfect way to explore the central part of Crete, visiting 2 different plateaus and learning about mythology as well as local life.
We head out in the Land Rover to the plateau of Katharo, passing through the largest forest on Crete. The roads here are basically non-existent and the mountains reach heights of 1,500 meters. You’ll have a refreshment stop at a kafenion (coffee shop) somewhere in the wilderness.
The tour continues on along dirt tracks, through valleys, and across rivers, and the journey starts to get exciting! At the next stop you’ll have the opportunity to take photos from a spectacular viewpoint above the Lassithi Plateau. You’ll then head to the plateau to enjoy your BBQ lunch, along with unlimited wine.
After lunch you’ll travel back in time as you visit the Eco Village, where you can see local crafts being made by traditional methods. The next stop will be Zeus’s cave where, according to mythology, the father of the gods was born. If you’d like to enter the cave there is a EUR 4 entrance fee that’s payable at the site.
Your driver/guide will take you on to Seli, where you can take photos of the unique scenery. You’ll continue on to the village of Krassi, noted for its 2,000-year-old plane tree and natural spring water source. As you make your way back you’ll pass through Selinari, an area where you’ll be on the lookout for vultures, now an endangered species.
Visit Santorini on this full day-trip from the island of Crete. After pick-up from your hotel, head to the harbor and begin your sightseeing boat tour on the Cretan Sea.
Upon arrival, see the white houses of Fira that lie high above the edge of the crater, and decide whether you would like to spend more time on this volcanic island. Wander the small town of Fira or visit the picturesque town of Oia.
Enjoy the leisurely Greek lifestyle and visit a taverna or two. Relax on the beach, enjoy the day by the sea, and simply leave your cares behind.
The ideal way to discover the island of Crete is with a private tour. Share a car and enjoy a full day with your group. Embark on an incredible island adventure with your friends or family, after planning the tour together with your professional guide. Beginning with pickup at your accommodation in Elounda, Agios Niklaos, Ierapetra, Malia, Crete, Hersonissos, or Ammoudara, the world is your oyster.
Settle into a comfy and luxurious Land Rover Discovery equipped with 6 seats and air conditioning. Discover local sites, hit the beach, or simply drive around taking in panoramic views. Perfect for a wedding trip or a birthday, relish in total privacy and the utmost luxury. Included in the tour is a fresh, high-quality dinner at a local taverna.
In this interactive Walking tour & Cretan food tasting, we will walk the coastline of Agios Nikolaos passing through Taurus Zeus with Europe and the horn of Amalthea telling the Greek myths, beaches and sightseeing continuing inside the town showing you local spots, telling information about area(shared also via email & maps) and we will enjoy a meal with 4 different meze(like tapas) talking about everyday living, general facts about Crete’s culture and traditions, sightseeing’s and myths.
Walking is about 40 minutes easy walking, about 2klm.
After we will visit the most famous restaurant in lake of Agios Nikolaos having a meal with 4 different meze(each person) that you can choose between fish or meat menu.
Water & one drink is included, wine, raki, beer or a soft drink.
Vegetarian or vegan menu can be arranged.
Changes in menu can be adjusted upon request.
Feel free to contact me for more information.
Spinalonga, the last leper colony in Europe, is located in Elounda from where we take the boat for Spinalonga island. Originally, Venetians fortified the islet in 1579, by building a fortress with 40 cannons and they are actually the best preserved walls in Europe.
It used to be a leper colony from 1903 until 1957, where epers could have a better life, medical help and economical support. The ruins of the market street with the shops, the hospital and many small houses in which lepers lived isolated, can be explored individually.
Leaving Spinalonga Island, we have free time to explore the unique Elounda village or go for swimming in the crystal clear waters of Elounda Bay your pita gyros take away.
Before we take the road back to Heraklion, we will visit Ag. Nikolaos, a town with 14.000 inhabitants which is built on the side of the Gulf Mirabello. In the center of Agios Nikolaos is the lake Voulismeni, probably created by an earthquake. Where, we can have a coffee break or a walk around the lake, which gives you a great view from above, over the center and the harbor of Agios Nikolaos. Next to the lovely harbor are shady thee-lined streets filled with shops give you the opportunity to do some “serious shopping”.
Our last stop is at the olive factory in Malia and taste the famous Cretan olive oil.
This full-day tour combines a visit to one of the most beautiful parts of Crete, the bay of Merabelo and the attractive town of Agios Nikolaos, and one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece, the island of Spina Longa.
At the same time you will get to know the customs and traditions of Crete through your visit to an authentic olive oil production factory and you will enjoy a delicious and traditional Cretan meal
Our journey into Cretan culture begins with our introduction to “liquid gold” in the traditional, four-generation, olive oil production factory.
You will learn about the history of the olive, the way of harvesting from ancient times until today and you will also have the opportunity to taste excellent quality olive oil, an experience that will elevate your senses!
Next spot is Agios Nikolaos,an international cosmopolitan resort ,built on three hills, it will enchant you with its character and its small, winding streets. The lake Voulismeni is the most beautiful jewel of the city, with thousands of legends to make it even more impressive. Later we will be greeted by the emblematic bay of Merabelo with the clear blue waters.
We will visit the traditional fishing villages of Elounda and Plaka where one of the most unique authentic corners of Cretan beauty is revealed in an area that hides within it all the beauty and essence of the Cretan landscape.
From the port of Plaka we will board a boat that will take us to the historical island of Spinalonga where we will admire the fortress and the former settlement of lepers.
Αlternatively you can browse the picturesque alleys of Plaka, enjoying the view of the Cretan sea or swim in the deep blue waters of Merabelos bay.
We end up in the traditional village of Fourni where under the plane tree we will enjoy a meal of pure products of the blessed Cretan land.(Optional)
On this excursion you will see and experience Crete through the eyes of a local
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Find below the list of hotels near Vathi beach:
Nested on a hillside overlooking its private bay on the North-East part of Crete, Daios Cove boasts 165 private sea-water pools a 2,500-m² spa, and luxurious rooms with spectacular views of the cove and the sea.
The elegantly designed Daios Cove rooms, suites and individual villas offer spacious living areas and marble-lined bathroom with separate bath tub and rain shower. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, flat screen TV, personalized pillow menu and coffee/tea maker.
At the Pangea guests can enjoy breakfast, overlooking the crystal waters of the cove. At night it turns to an International food bazaar with lots of International theme nights. A lighter fare is served at the Ocean Club. The Greek Tavern is set at the water’s edge and proposes local specialties and daily fresh catch.
Recreational amenities at Daios Cove Luxury Resort & Villas include 2 tennis courts, 2 outdoor pools, water sports, kids club, complimentary wireless Internet access and a 2,000-m² conference centre.
Daios Cove Luxury Resort & Villas is 20 minutes from the fishing village of Elounda, 10 minutes from the cosmopolitan town of Agios Nikolaos and less than an hour from Heraklion International Airport.
from
€458
/night
Situated within the Vathi district in Agios Nikolaos, Cretan Lodge Heated Pool has air conditioning, a patio, and garden views. It features an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, mountain views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The villa with a terrace and sea views has 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and 1 bathroom with a bath.
The reception at the villa can provide tips on the area.
Cretan Lodge Heated Pool offers a barbecue. Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at the accommodation, while hiking can be enjoyed nearby.
Vathi Kritsas Beach is 400 metres from Cretan Lodge Heated Pool, while Cave Thief Beach is 2 km from the property. The nearest airport is Sitia Public, 58 km from the villa, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, pool view and a patio, Etoile Villa Heated Pool is located in Vathi. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The villa with a terrace and mountain views features 3 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 2 bathrooms with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the villa.
Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at the villa.
Vathi Kritsas Beach is 700 metres from Etoile Villa Heated Pool, while Cave Thief Beach is 1.8 km away. The nearest airport is Sitia Public, 58 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€325
/night
Situated in Agios Nikolaos and only 1.3 km from Vathi Kritsas Beach, VATHI SPIROS VILLAS features accommodation with mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking. This villa offers air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony.
The villa has 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.
Guests at the villa can enjoy hiking nearby, or make the most of the garden.
Cave Thief Beach is 2 km from VATHI SPIROS VILLAS, while Lake Voulismeni is 7.7 km from the property. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 57 km from the accommodation.
from
€261
/night
Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, mountain view and a balcony, Villa Hibiscus, piscine privée avec une vue splendide is located in Vathi. This property offers access to a terrace, free private parking and free WiFi.
The holiday home comes with 2 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV and a fully equipped kitchen that provides guests with a dishwasher, an oven, a washing machine, a microwave and a toaster. Towels and bed linen are featured in the holiday home.
Vathi Kritsas Beach is 1.5 km from the holiday home, while Cave Thief Beach is 2.1 km away. The nearest airport is Sitia Public Airport, 58 km from Villa Hibiscus, piscine privée avec une vue splendide.
from
€149
/night
Situated directly on the coastline, family-run Villas Vangelis offers unobstructed views over Mirampelos Bay. The traditional villas feature a 7,000 m2 garden, a seaside Cretan restaurant and a swimming pool. The nearest sandy beach is a 5-minute walk away.
All Vangelis Villas units include a private balcony with Mediterranean Sea views or garden views. The air-conditioned rooms also have a fully equipped kitchen and free Wi-Fi access.
Breakfast is served daily and guests have the option of ordering it in the room. Guests can enjoy traditional flavours at the on-site restaurant prepared with local products.
Villas Vangelis’s guests are greeted with free Cretan raki, a bottle water, fresh fruits and juices. Guests have access to an outdoor pool and car/bicycle rental.
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Find below list of beaches near Vathi beach:
The picturesque Listi Spilios, situated 7km south of Agios Nikolaos along the old road to Sitia and Ierapetra, has become a bustling tourist spot over the years with a variety of accommodations, ranging from large hotels to smaller lodges. The beach is characterized by its rocky terrain and sandy patches, with a charming smaller beach nestled to the north of the main area. Unfortunately, recent extensive alterations by a major hotel in the vicinity have significantly changed the original rocky nature of the coastline, including the construction of a pier to retain sand. Visitors can enjoy amenities like umbrellas, a snack bar, water sports and a beach volleyball court. The quieter western side of the beach, boasting lush vegetation due to nearby freshwater springs, provides a serene escape.
The beach’s intriguing name, Listi Spilios, translates to ‘Robber’s Cave’ in Greek. This stems from a tale from the Middle Ages when the primary road used by locals to commute to island cities ran through this area. On the beach’s west end, there’s a petite peninsula home to several small caves, which, as the legend tells, were used as hideouts by robbers who targeted travellers on the road.
Situated 6km southeast of Agios Nikolaos, along the old route that links Agios Nikolaos to Sitia and Ierapetra, is Ammoudara Beach. This developed area boasts a variety of hotels, rental properties, taverns, and restaurants. There’s a beautiful sandy beach fronting the tourist settlement, with crystal-clear, light-blue waters. Thanks to its eastward orientation, the beach typically enjoys calm seas as the prevalent winds in Crete blow from the west. Beachgoers can enjoy amenities such as umbrellas, sunbeds, and water sports facilities.
Ammoudara provides an ideal setting for family vacations, but the beach’s small size can lead to it feeling somewhat crowded. For those seeking a less populated spot, heading west to the expansive Almiros beach might be a good alternative.
Agios Panteleimon beach, nestled in Istro, a village 12km east of Agios Nikolaos en route to Sitia, owes its name to a petite church located nearby. Featuring both sandy and pebbly stretches, the beach is set against the backdrop of vibrant turquoise waters. As it doesn’t draw the same crowds as the neighboring Voulisma beach, Agios Panteleimon is the perfect spot for those seeking relaxation and serenity.
In the vicinity, you’ll also find Karavostasi beach. This sandy, unspoiled beach is tucked away in the western part of Istro’s largest gulf and provides the perfect setting for peaceful moments. The surrounding area is rich in tamarisk, carob, and olive trees, adding to the beach’s charm. Just east of Karavostasi, there’s a large rock bearing the remnants of the Minoan settlement Priniatikos Pirgos.
Voulisma Beach dominates Crete’s coastline as a top destination, positioned in a sheltered cove between Agios Nikolaos and Ierapetra. Voulisma Beach provides direct access from Heraklion and includes shallow turquoise waters, smooth sand mixed with pebbles, and structured amenities. Voulisma Beach holds the Blue Flag award, confirming its environmental standards. Voulisma Beach experiences peak-time crowding but sustains appeal through its physical qualities.
Voulisma Beach provides access to the Gournia archaeological site, located 10 kilometres (6 miles) east near Pachia Ammos. Gournia is one of the best-excavated Minoan towns, which was destroyed by an earthquake and subsequently abandoned.
Voulisma Beach offers proximity to Panagia Faneromeni Monastery, positioned 11 kilometres (7 miles) southeast on a steep slope. Panagia Faneromeni Monastery is worth visiting for its stunning church built into a cave and the awe-inspiring sea views. Every year on the 15th of August, Panagia Faneromeni Monastery becomes a pilgrimage site, drawing visitors from across Crete.
Below is the list of the best restaurants near Voulisma Beach
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