Anissaras beach
The holiday resort of Anissaras is situated in northeastern Crete, around 25 km east of the island’s capital, Heraklion, and 2–3 km northwest of the larger resort of Hersonissos.
Anissaras beach
Anissaras beach is almost 1 km long, although most of it is only 10–20 metres wide. It is mainly covered in pale sand, mixed with some shingle in places. The water is exceptionally clear but becomes deep fairly quickly.
There are plenty of sections where sun loungers and parasols can be hired, and showers are also available. There is usually plenty of space on the beach.
Behind the beach are several large and attractive family hotels. One of these beachfront properties is the four-star Mitsis Cretan Village, which has several swimming pools and a very long water slide, visible in the picture below. The hotel offers a wide range of activities for the whole family and is also available on an all-inclusive basis.
Child friendliness
The sand is ideal for playing, including along the water’s edge. However, the water deepens fairly quickly.
Water sports
Visitors can hire jet skis, windsurfing equipment, sea kayaks, small catamarans and pedalos.
Restaurants near the beach
There are a handful of restaurants behind the beach, although most dining options are found within the hotels.
Anissaras holiday resort
Anissaras is mainly a spread-out resort area with many newer, family-friendly hotels. There is no real high street or town centre, but restaurants, mini-markets and tourist shops are dotted throughout the area.
A couple of kilometres to the west is the pleasant little village of Analipsi, while Hersonissos lies a few kilometres to the south. Hersonissos has a much wider selection of shops and restaurants.
Southwest of Anissaras is Watercity Waterpark, the largest water park in Crete. It offers plenty of fun for the whole family, and the journey of around 16 km is easily made by taxi or hire car.
Anissaras map
As the map shows, the northern side of Anissaras is bordered by a long beach, and most hotels are only a short distance from the coast. The larger resort of Hersonissos lies a few kilometres to the south.
