From the dunes of Lafonissi and Xerokambos to the tropical shores of Kedrodasos and Chrissi, from the hidden beaches in the wild gorges of Sfakia and Asteroussia to the emerald bays of Triopetra and Plakias, from Balos and Elounda lagoons to the palm groves of Preveli and Vai, from piney beaches of Ierapetra to the long organized strands of the northern coasts, Crete offers the ultimate combination of carefree holidays and natural beauty, which can be finely reflected on its beaches.
Kalathas Beach 
The beach in front of the village is beautiful, with fine sand and shallow crystal clear water. Opposite Kalathas, there is a small island which you can easily reach by swimming. Next to the beach there are several palm trees that give an exotic tone to the landscape.
Chora Sfakíon or Sfakia is a small town on the south coast of Chania. It is the capital of the remote and mountainous region of Sfakia, and is a small town of just 278 inhabitants (2001 census). It lies on the south coast near the end of the Imbros Gorge, 74km south of Chania.
Spilies beach 
Spilies beach or “Tou Maliou to Riaki” (i.e. Malios’ stream) is located 15km east of Rethymnon city, in a fairly secluded area, just a few kilometers east of Skaleta and west of Geropotamos. It is quite unknown to most locals, though it is very close to the main road that connects Heraklion and Rethymno.
Analipsis beaches 
Analipsi later was occupied by the the shepherds of Saint George village, in Lasithi Plateau, where the winter is very cold. Thus, they moved their cattle here in winter. Today, the lucky descendants of the shepherds have large properties in the area, with hotels, shops, restaurants and all sorts of tourist facilities.
Martsalo is a secluded beach in the west Asterousia Mountains, one of the most inaccessible areas of Heraklion. It is located just a few kilometers from the “horn” of Messara Plain, the Cape Lithino, and 80km southwest of Heraklion.
Vathi beach 
The beach is artificial and is formed in a narrow bay, which is very well protected from the winds. Only easterly winds could affect the area, but they are very rare in Crete. The beach has fine white sand, making the colors of the sea stunning. It is very well organized, because it is operated by the luxurious local hotel.
The long beach in front of the village is a nice pebbly beach, which is actually a small part of the vast beach that runs from Kolimbari and extends up to Chania. This is ideal for swimming, especially on windless days.
Dia is a small uninhabited island located 12 miles north of Heraklion. During the summer, excursion boats run daily to Dia, where the visitor can admire the rugged landscape of the island and swim in the crystal clear waters. The place where the boats stop is called the port of St. George.
