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.
Vathianos Kambos beaches 
Vathianos River empties in the area, but it gets dry on the summer. The area has several adjacent coves with gold sand and shallow waters. Because the beach front is facing north, waves are quite common. That's why in some places you will see several small piers, breaking the waves.
Kalo Horafi beach 
Kalo Horafi is located approximately 37km east of Rethymno and 43km west of Heraklion, at the former position of 318 Agii Pateres (318 Holy Fathers) monastery. The monastery does not survive today, but there is a newer chapel commemorating that. “Kalo Horafi” is the name of the wider area, characterized by the wild Cretan landscape with high mountains and green gorges.
Kitroplatia beach 
In front of the big tamarisk trees of the square Kitroplatia there is a small beach with sand and pebbles in places. Here you will find umbrellas and showers. Next to it there are many options for accommodation, food and drink. It is a perfect choice for children and anyone looking for a beautiful and clean beach, close to all amenities of a city.
Koumbes is located 2km west of the center of Rethymnon and is actually the only beach in the west part of the city. It has wonderful views to the imposing fortress of Fortezza, which is located a few hundred meters on the east. It is named after the Turkish word Kubbe that means “dome”.
The beach of Kamari is located about 7km west of Rethymnon, near the village Gerani, at the exit of Vederi Gorge. The highway connecting Chania and Rethymnon runs along the shore and above the bridge of Gerani, next to the beach.
Voulolimni pond 
Voulolimni (i.e. sunk lake) is located 70km southeast of Chania and 500m northwest of Chrysoskalitissa monastery. It is actually a small crater, surrounded by rocks, forming a small salt lake. Voulolimni is not actually a beach, but the rocky "pool" for the residents of Chrysoskalitissa.
Votsalaki (or Botzalaki) is located 71km southeast of Agios Nikolaos and 36km east of Ierapetra, on the west end of Goudouras, at the position of Aspra Chomata (White Soil). It is situated amid the arid and rugged landscape of East Crete, close to the exit of the wild Gorge Asprolithos.
The sandy beach is formed in a small bay in front of the hotel Hellenic Palace. Opposite the bay there is an islet where you can go swimming, but beware for the strong currents. The beach is well organized with umbrellas and sunbeds, and there are several tamarisk trees nearby. Like most beaches in northern Crete, Santa Barbara is vulnerable to winds.
