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.
Agios Panteleimon beach at Istron 
Istro(n) is located 12km east of Agios Nikolaos and 22km north of Ierapetra, very close to Kalo Chorio. It is a quiet village, situated in a lush valley full with olive groves and springs, which has been developed during the last decades. However, the development was fortunately mild, mainly due to the regional building restrictions because of the archaeological discoveries. The main growth driver of Istron is undoubtedly the emerald beaches which are scattered in three adjacent bays.
Lagoufa is located right after the east end of Makrigialos main beach, around 59km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and 24km east of Ierapetra. It consists of two adjacent protected coves, which are formed near the big hotels of Makrigialos.
Drapanias Beach 
The beach of Drapanias is located 5km east of Kissamos and 32km west of Chania, between Korfalonas and the Nopigia. It is named after the homonym village, situated 1km south of the beach. It's east part is also called Kokkino Metohi.
Pirgos has two adjacent emerald sandy beaches, which are absolutely unorganized and isolated. Many campers prefer Pirgos for camping, as it is very far from any tourist infrastructure. The beaches are hidden in the heart of a large bay, surrounded by dunes and junipers and protected by steep cliffs.
Kastri beaches 
Kastri is located 72km southeast of Heraklion, in the sheltered bay of Keratokambos. It is the biggest of the two settlements of the region (the second is Keratokambos), which are now united. In recent years Kastri has faced considerable development, mainly because the surrounding beaches are a magnet for visitors.
The rocky beach of Tripiti is located 5km east of Sougia and 68km south of Chania, at the ending point of the rough gorge of Trypiti. It has crystal blue water and is pebbly. It is absolutely secluded, as all the beaches of the wider Sfakia area.
Vlychadia is located 31km north of Agios Nikolaos, on the north shores of the area of Mirabello. It is a small seaside settlement, where you can get after driving from Neapolis, through the villages Skinias and Agios Georgios. Around the dorp there are several small bays with secluded beaches, which are mainly rocky and pebbly.
In front of the cove lies a beautiful beach with coarse sand and vivid blue water. The beach is slightly developed with some umbrellas, water sports and some rooms, mini markets and taverns closeby. There are many tamarisk trees around offering shade to the visitors and the sea is almost always flat. The area is ideal for peaceful holidays and for families.
