Beaches in the Rethymnon region

Crete is divided into four administrative regions, and the central-western region is called Rethymnon. The region’s largest city has the same name and is the third-largest city on Crete.

The Rethymnon region is well known for its long sandy beaches, which stretch for many kilometres in several places along the north coast. The combination of nice beaches, pleasant holiday resorts and a short distance to Rethymnon city makes the north coast a popular choice for both families and couples. The south coast is less well known, but it is home to a few truly special beaches set in beautiful natural surroundings far from the main tourist areas.

Popular beaches in the Rethymnon region
The Rethymnon region does not have quite as many famous beaches as the Chania region, where some of Crete’s best-known beaches are found. In return, the region offers a large town beach and a palm beach:

• • Rethymnon beach – a sandy beach stretching for several kilometres east of Rethymnon town, with good facilities and shallow water.
  • Adelianos Kampos beach – a family-friendly beach with plenty of space and a calmer atmosphere than in Rethymnon.
  • Preveli beach – one of Crete’s most unique beaches, where a river flows through a palm forest and into the sea. It is Crete’s second-largest palm beach and a very special nature experience.
  • Plakias beach – a beautiful beach on the south coast with clear water and mountains all around.
  • Bali beach – several small bays with calm water, perfect for families with children and for a relaxing day by the sea.

Beaches on the north coast of the Rethymnon region
The most popular holiday areas in the region are along the north coast, and this is also where you will find the largest beaches. From Rethymnon town and eastwards, the beach continues through holiday areas such as Adelianos Kampos and further along the coast in an almost unbroken stretch of sand.

The beaches here are known for their fine sand, plenty of space and a wide range of facilities such as sunbeds, beach bars and water sports. A slightly hidden gem is Episkopi beach, which lies 14 km west of Rethymnon. It is a beautiful sandy beach with high mountains in the background.

Beaches on the south coast of the Rethymnon region
On the south coast, the landscape changes character, and the beaches are mainly found in bays surrounded by mountains. The pace is slower here, and the area is clearly less touristy than the north coast.

One of the best-known beaches is Preveli, which stands out for its palm forest and the small river that runs through the gorge and into the sea. Here you can swim both in the sea and in the cooler fresh water from the river, which makes the beach one of the best nature experiences on Crete.

Further west lies Plakias, the best-known holiday resort on the south coast of the Rethymnon region. Here you will find a wide beach with clear water and a relaxed atmosphere. The area around Plakias also offers smaller beaches and bays where you can often find peace and quiet, even in high season.

The Rethymnon region at a glance
The Rethymnon region is an excellent choice for those looking for long sandy beaches, good swimming conditions and a relaxed atmosphere. The combination of the lively north coast and the quieter south coast gives you plenty of variety during a holiday in central-western Crete. The palm beach at Preveli is one of the most spectacular beaches on Crete and perfect for a day trip.