Exploring the beaches of Hersonissos
From well-kept sandy beaches to small, secluded coves tucked between the rocks, Hersonissos offers plenty of places to enjoy the sea. The waters are generally clear and calm, with shades of blue and turquoise that make even a short swim feel like part of the holiday.
The beaches stretch along the western side of the Gulf of Malia, from Cape Sarandaris to Cape Drapanos, with Hersonissos harbour and the town itself roughly in the middle. Some are lively and well-equipped, while others are little more than a strip of sand between the rocks.
They also have their own local character. Some beaches are managed by the municipality, while others have taken their names from the hotels, beach bars or restaurants beside them. A few of the smaller coves do not even have an official name and are known mainly to locals.
Here is our guide to the most popular beaches in Hersonissos, together with a few nearby spots that are easy to reach by taxi, bus or car.
The beach west of the port
The largest beach in Hersonissos stretches for about 300 metres west of the port, between Kastri Hill and the Creta Maris Resort. It is a relatively narrow, sandy beach, backed by the road and the lively centre of the resort, with cafés, bars, restaurants, shops and water sports centres all within easy reach.
The beach is often known by the name of the bar or restaurant next to it, where you can find sunbeds and umbrellas, as well as food and drinks served directly on the beach.
Facing north, it can be quite windy, and the sea is sometimes affected by stronger currents. These conditions make it popular with surfers and other water sports enthusiasts. Later in the day, the beach becomes a beautiful spot to watch the sun set beyond the horizon.
Paralia Limenas
Just beyond the port, between the commercial waterfront and the town’s main road, lies Paralia Limenas, one of the busiest beaches in Hersonissos. From early morning, it fills with swimmers enjoying its calm, clear waters, sheltered by Cape Kastri and the harbour’s protective breakwater.
The beach is sandy and well organized, with sunbeds and umbrellas available for visitors. There is very little natural shade, however, and because the beach is relatively compact, finding a free spot for your own towel and umbrella can be difficult, especially during the busiest summer days.
Its greatest advantage is the location: you can step off the main road, find a place by the sea, and still have everything the centre of Hersonissos offers just a few metres away.
A little farther east, near the Silva Maris Hotel, you will come across a few tiny sandy spots tucked between the rocks. They can be quite charming on a calm day, but there is very little protection from the sea, and strong waves can completely wash them away.
Sarandari Municipal Beach
On the western side of the port, just beyond the Creta Maris Resort, a short concrete staircase leads down to Sarandari Municipal Beach. Tucked between two rocky cliffs, this small sandy beach feels pleasantly sheltered and peaceful, away from the busier parts of Hersonissos.
The water is usually calm, warm and shallow, making it a particularly good choice for families with children. The rocky edges also create good conditions for snorkeling, with plenty to explore beneath the surface.
Sunbeds and umbrellas are available on the beach, while a small kiosk offers snacks and refreshments when you need a break from the sea.
Gefyri Beach
Further along the coastal road to the west, you'll discover the secluded mini beaches known as "Limanakia" (The Small Coves). These beaches feature warm, crystalline waters unaffected by northern currents. Located just after Sarandari, at the base of a high concrete wall that supports the paved road, Gefyri Beach is among the most beautiful, featuring coarse white sand and a rocky, deeper seabed. Umbrellas and sunbeds are available, but the place tends to be crowded.
The Limanakia Coves
Further west along the coastal road, a series of small, secluded beaches known locally as Limanakia. the “little coves”, appear between the rocks. Their sheltered position protects them from the stronger northern currents, and the water here is often exceptionally clear and pleasantly warm.
One of the most attractive is Gefyri Beach, just beyond Sarandari. It lies at the foot of the tall concrete retaining wall that supports the coastal road, with coarse white sand and a rocky seabed that becomes deeper quite quickly.
Sunbeds and umbrellas are available, but Gefyri is a popular spot and can become quite crowded in summer. If you arrive early, however, you may find a much quieter little corner to enjoy the clear water and rocky coastline.
Chrisi Ammos Beach
East of Hersonissos, Chrysi Ammos is one of the local favourites, combining a pleasant sandy beach with a lively atmosphere. A beach bar provides sunbeds and umbrellas, along with music, drinks and refreshments throughout the day.
The rocky sections at either end of the beach are worth exploring with a mask and snorkel, while those looking for something more energetic can rent equipment for a range of water sports.
A little farther east, near an abandoned campsite, there is another attractive little beach without an official name. It is a quieter alternative if you prefer to get away from the music and activity of Chrysi Ammos.
Iliostasi Beach
It is especially convenient after a visit to the museum. You can finish exploring traditional Cretan homes, workshops and gardens, then walk down to the beach for a swim and a few peaceful hours by the sea. And, if the mood calls for it, you can always enjoy a cold Cretan craft beer while taking in the view.
Unnamed cove beaches
Between Iliostasi Beach and the Abaton Hotel, several small coves appear along the rocky coastline. Some have sandy shores, others are covered with small pebbles, but all offer a quieter place to stop for a swim and enjoy the sea away from the busier beaches of Hersonissos.
A few freshwater springs flow into the sea along this stretch, making the water noticeably cooler in places. The shape of these little beaches also changes with the seasons: after a stormy winter, the waves may carry much of the sand away, only for it to return gradually later in the year.
A few freshwater springs flow into the sea along this stretch, making the water noticeably cooler in places. The shape of these little beaches also changes with the seasons: after a stormy winter, the waves may carry much of the sand away, only for it to return gradually later in the year.
Drapanos Beach
At the easternmost end of Hersonissos, on the tip of Cape Drapanos and next to the Nana Beach Hotel, you will find a well-maintained sandy beach sheltered from the northern winds. The seabed slopes gently into the clear, calm water, making it a comfortable choice for swimming and families.
Two long concrete breakwaters extend into the sea on either side, creating a small artificial bay and keeping the water relatively calm. The beach is well organized, with sunbeds and umbrellas, a lifeguard, beach bars and several options for water sports.
Its position at the far eastern edge of Hersonissos also gives it a more spacious feel, away from the bustle of the town centre.
Sarandaris Cape Beach
The effort is worth it. A small sandy shore opens onto shallow, bright blue water, protected from much of the wind that can affect the more exposed beaches around Hersonissos. At the northern end, a small sea cave adds another little detail to this secluded corner of the coast.
Just below the Cape Sarandaris headland, a small concrete jetty is a favourite spot for paddleboarders and divers. From here, the coastline continues west past the little church of Agios Georgios, where the rocks form several natural sea pools.
Further along, the coast opens towards the sea, and this is also where excursion boats often stop in the late afternoon. Floating just offshore, passengers can enjoy one of the most beautiful sunset views around Hersonissos, with the sun slowly sinking into the open sea.
The naturists’ beach
Although nudism is not officially permitted on Crete’s beaches, it is generally tolerated in secluded places that are hidden from public view. One such spot is the unofficial “naturists’ beach” beneath the high cliffs of Cape Sarandaris.
It is more of a rocky platform than a conventional beach, with a few large boulders providing some welcome privacy. Small, discreet and well away from the main beaches, it is used by visitors looking for a quiet, clothing-optional place to enjoy the sea.
Hotel beaches in Hersonissos
If you are looking for a holiday where the beach comes with a little extra comfort and pampering, staying at one of Hersonissos’ higher-end resorts can be a good option. Among the better-known choices are Lyttos, Creta Maris, Silva Maris, Nana Hotels and Abaton Island Resort & Spa, all of which have their own beach areas and extensive facilities.
The entertainment facilities include a water park, bungee-jumping tower, sports fields and a centre for renting water sports equipment. It is a lively choice for families, groups of friends and anyone who prefers a bit of excitement between swims.
There are also several beautiful beaches just beyond Hersonissos, all within easy reach for a half-day or full-day escape.
Stalis Beach
Just 5 km east of Hersonissos, Stalis Beach is one of the most popular stretches of coast in the area. A lively seaside promenade runs alongside the beach, lined with cafés, bars, souvenir shops and restaurants, while the broad sandy shore slopes gently into clear, shallow water.
It is a good choice if you want to combine a relaxing beach day with plenty of places to eat, drink and browse nearby. Water sports are also available for those who prefer a little more activity.
Stalis is easy to reach from Hersonissos by regular bus services, while taxis offer another convenient option for families or small groups.
Anissaras Beach
Just west of Hersonissos, Anissaras Beach is an easy escape from the town, with sandy shores, clear turquoise water and a more relaxed atmosphere. The coastline here is dotted with smaller coves, making it a pleasant choice for swimming, sunbathing and water sports.
Seaside tavernas and cafés are close by, so you can easily turn a few hours at the beach into a leisurely lunch or dinner by the sea.
Analipsi Beach
Stretching for about 1 kilometre between the Lyttos area and Aposelemi Beach, Analipsi Beach is a long, open stretch of coast lined with palm trees. The shore alternates between fine sand and small pebbles, while the crystal-clear water becomes deep quite quickly.
Parts of the beach are reserved for hotel guests, particularly around the Agia Marina Church, but there is plenty of space for visitors who prefer to spread out their own towels. Showers and toilets are available, while nearby restaurants, tavernas and water sports centres make it easy to spend the whole day here.
Aposelemi Beach
The beach is only lightly organized, with a few umbrellas and sunbeds for those who want some extra comfort. Its real appeal is the feeling of space and wildness, with views across the sea towards the uninhabited island of Dia and the protected landscape around the Aposelemis River.
We hope this article helps you add Hersonissos to your travel bucket list! Find out more in the article ”Hersonissos: Between Traces Of The Past And Modern Adventure / Crete Guide".
