Top 10 Beaches
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1. Preveli (Finikas)
The Kourtaliotis river meets the sea at Preveli, where the green river, blue sea, date palms and “Greek bamboo” (calamus reeds) create a tropical oasis feel.
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2. Falasarna
This long sweep of yellow sand is one of the finest on the west coast, and has yet to be exploited by the tourist industry – though there are a few places to stay.
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3. Platanias
The best beach within easy reach of Chania, and the village has plenty of places to eat and drink. This is Chania’s after-dark summer playground, with pubs, clubs and discos.
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4. Stavros
Quieter than Platanias, and so an attractive alternative for those seeking a little tranquillity. The lagoon-like bay featured in the film Zorba the Greek .
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5. Agios Pavlos
At the foot of the Samaria Gorge, and so perfect for a restorative swim in its cool waters after the downhill hike.
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6. Elafonisi
The superb beach opposite the island of Elafonisi on the west coast is one of Crete’s best, with a long crescent of white sand and shallow turquoise water that warms up quickly in summer. Very busy.
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7. Sougia
Shaded in places by a line of Tamarisk trees, Sougia’s position between Paleochora and Agia Roumeli makes it ideal for a quick plunge for walkers treading a coastal route.
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8. Marmara (Marble Beach)
A collection of sheltered coves lined with smooth white pebbles. Marmara attracts nude sunbathers and can be reached by boat from Loutro.
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9. Glika Nera (Sweetwater Beach)
A tiny patch of pebble and sand reachable only by scrambling along a rocky cliff path, or by boat from Loutro or Chora Sfakion.
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10. Damnoni
Its golden sands have been somewhat marred by insensitive hotel building, but east of the main beach are smaller sandy coves, Ammoudi and Skinaria.
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