7 Hidden Beaches in Crete Worth the Journey

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I first visited Crete in 1981 as a four-year-old boy, and returned many times throughout the 80s and 90s. Since relocating to Europe in 2022, I’ve rediscovered the island — visiting three times in the past two years, with a fourth trip already planned in August 2025. Safe to say, Crete has captured my heart all over again.

Tucked away from the crowds, these hidden beaches in Crete offer a glimpse of the Greece I remember from my youth: unspoiled, peaceful, and full of character. In many of these spots, life moves slowly, regulars return year after year, and the water is impossibly blue.

I’ve travelled extensively across the island, and this list includes my absolute favourite secluded beaches in Crete — selected using my personal three-part test:

✅ Is the water that vivid, crystal-clear blue that you just have to dive into?

✅ Is the beach quiet or nearly deserted — even during the summer rush?

✅ Is it beautiful enough to make you pause?

If your beach dreams match mine, read on — these are Crete’s best-kept secrets, and they’re well worth the journey.

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Tips for a Beautiful Day at Crete’s Hidden Beaches

Many of Crete’s hidden beaches require a little effort and planning to reach, whether that’s a dusty track, a short hike, or even a boat ride. But that’s exactly what makes them so special. These secret coves stay quiet because they’re just far enough off the beaten path.

Here’s everything you need to know for a smooth experience before setting out on your adventure.

📋 Checklist

🗺️ – Download Offline Maps – phone signal can be patchy in remote areas of Crete.

📆 – Check Boat Schedules in Advance if the beach you select is only reachable by boat.

🎒 Pack the Basics – water, snacks, shade and good walking shoes (the sand can get very hot)

🚫 Don’t Expect Facilities – many beaches will not have bars, loungers, toilets or bins – Take only memories, leave only footprints!

Do I Need a 4×4?

Short answer: No. I’ve reached every beach on this list in a humble Fiat 500.

Yes, the roads can be a bit dusty and bumpy, but nothing wild. You’ll often hear rental companies say, “No off-roading to Balos Beach!” (Fair — and forget Balos anyway. These hidden gems are far better.)

🚗 Need a rental? I always use Auto Europe – great rates, easy pickup, and no surprises. Book early for the best prices.

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What To Expect at Crete’s Hidden Beaches

Think spectacular scenery, crystal-clear water, and long, peaceful days in the sun.

⚠️ One quick heads-up: many secluded beaches in Greece (including Crete) have unofficial clothing-optional sections. These are almost always tucked away at the far ends or more secluded corners, and naturists tend to stick to those areas.

If that’s not your vibe, don’t worry, you can still enjoy everything these hidden gems have to offer. Stick to the main part of the beach, and to be honest, you’re unlikely to even notice.

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The Best Hidden Beaches in Crete

I’ve grouped these beaches by Regional Unit — with a strong bias toward Chania, which is my personal favourite part of the island. Naturally, many of my hidden gems are clustered there.

That said, the far east of Crete in Lasithi (after Agios Nikolaos) has plenty more to explore. I’ll be heading back in August to uncover a few more secluded spots – and I’ll be sure to update this list once I do!

Just for context: Crete is divided into four Regional Units, listed west to east:

• Chania
• Rethymno
• Heraklion
• Lasithi

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Chania Region

1. 🏖️ Glyka Nera Beach (aka Sweet Water Beach)

📍 Location:
South Coast between Chora Sfakia and Loutro

🗺️ How To Get There:
Only accessible by boat or on foot.

🥾 By Foot
You can park just outside Chora Sfakia at the first hairpin bend after Llingas Beach. From here it is around a 1km hike. Not for the feint-hearted expect rocky terrain, chains to hold onto on cliff top paths, and dramatic scenery. Expect to hike for 30-40 mins (I did do it in 25 last year).

⛴️ By Boat
Boats run regularly between Chora Sfakia, Glyka Nera and Loutro during the summer season. Look out for the Deligiannis Kiosk at the new port in Sfakia or board and pay at the old port.

🌊 Why It’s Special:
I first visited Glyka Nera in 2024 and instantly fell in love with its dramatic landscape during the hike to the beach as well as the familiar charm of the family run business on the beach. The water is spectacular as a fresh water source bubbles up from the rocks below. Dig down slightly into the rocks and you will find cold, refreshing fresh water.

🧭 What To Bring:
Plenty of snacks and water. if you prefer not to bring your own shade, 2 Sunbeds and shared parasol can be hired for around €10.

🏝️Beach Vibe:
A peaceful and relaxed crowd, with a naturist section located at the far end of the beach (furthest from the boat pier). There’s clear signage marking the clothing-optional area, but most of the beach is mixed and easygoing.

💡 Local Tip:
I think it is worth hiking there early morning to experience the beach before the boats arrive. Alternatively you can charter a Deligiannis boat prior to the scheduled times, worth doing if you are a group of around 5.

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🏖️ Kedrodasos Beach

📍 Location:
Southwest Crete, near Elafonisi

🗺️ How To Get There:
Easily accessible by car – there’s a dirt parking area just above the beach (you’ll find the pin on my google map below). From there, it’s a 10–15 minute walk down through soft sand and low juniper trees. The descent isn’t difficult, but it’s longer than it looks – and hot in summer!

💡 Top Tip:
Walk straight down to the water’s edge rather than following the trail through the trees — the sand is much heavier going up there.

🌊 Why It’s Special:
Kedrodasos is wild and beautiful, with soft white sand, turquoise water, and scattered juniper trees that offer natural shade. It feels totally untouched — even though it’s close to one of Crete’s busiest beaches. I’ve visited a couple of times now, and the peaceful vibe and scenery always make the walk worthwhile.

🧭 What To Bring:
There are no facilities, so come prepared: water, food, shade, and decent walking shoes or sandals. (Closed shoes are better, as the sand can get scorching.)

🏝️ Beach Vibe:
Laid-back and uncrowded, especially away from the main access path. As with many secluded beaches in Crete, you may come across naturists toward the far end, but the atmosphere is relaxed and mixed overall.

💡 Local Tip:
If you’re curious about nearby Elafonisi but want to escape the crowds, wade across the lagoon and walk to the far end of the island (about 1 km toward the fort). It’s a beautiful walk, and you’ll find quiet coves where you may have the beach to yourself — a complete contrast to the main beach area.

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🏖️ Macherida Beach

📍 Location: Akrotiri Peninsula, near Chania Airport

🗺️ How To Get There:
There’s roadside parking at the top of the trail, and the beach is just a few hundred metres down a dirt footpath. It’s an easy walk — flip-flops are manageable, but shoes are a better choice. Macherida is about €30 by Uber from Chania city or just a 15-minute drive from the airport.

🌊 Why It’s Special:
On my last visit, I was swimming here just 45 minutes after touching down — it really is that close. This small, sheltered cove has azure-blue water, soft sandy patches, and views back toward Chania. It’s ideal for a quick dip, a quiet swim, or even snorkelling.

🧭 What To Bring:
There are no facilities — bring your own water, snacks, towel, and something for shade.

🛥️ Bonus Vibe:
Small boats often anchor in the bay, drawn in by the exceptionally clear swimming water.

🏝️ Beach Vibe:
Mostly quiet and relaxed, with a mix of locals and visitors. You may come across a few naturists toward the far end of the bay, but the majority of beachgoers are regular bathers.

💡 Local Tip:
This spot stands out among Chania’s beaches for its water clarity and peaceful atmosphere — much quieter than more famous spots like Seitan Limania, and in my view, better for swimming.

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Rethymno Region

🏖️ Mikro Ammoudi Beach (near Plakias)

📍 Location: South coast near Plakias (Rethymno region)

🗺️ How To Get There:
Accessible by car or bike from Plakias — around a 10-minute drive. The road is a little bumpy as it skirts the coast, but it is short and there is a small car park above the beach.

🌊 Why It’s Special:
This secluded cove is the baby brother to the larger Ammoudi beach and is a hidden gem for morning swims. The water is crystal clear and becomes deep quickly, making it perfect for confident swimmers. I spent hours swimming out into the deep water here, it’s peaceful and serene early in the day, although the afternoons can get quite busy in peak season.

🧭 What To Bring:
There are sunbeds available to rent at reasonable prices, and a small taverna on-site with drinks, light meals, and toilet facilities. Still, bring water and a hat if you’re planning to stay through the heat of the day.

🏝️ Beach Vibe:
Relaxed and low-key, especially in the mornings. While naturism is common in the area, you’re unlikely to notice more than one or two naturists. The beach is mostly mixed and welcoming to all.

💡 Local Tip:
Just next door is Klisidi Beach, a tiny hidden cove that’s often completely empty. It’s difficult to reach on foot from the car park — the trail down is a scramble — but if you’re able to climb or swim around from Mikro Ammoudi, you may have the place entirely to yourself.

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Heraklion Region

Red Beach (Kokkini Ammos – Matala)

📍 Location:
Just south of Matala, on the south coast of Crete

🗺️ How To Get There:
You’ll see clear signposts for Red Beach along the cliff edge above Matala. Follow the well-marked path, then descend a steep, rocky trail (15–20 minutes) – you really must wear sturdy shoes (not flip-flops). Don’t be discouraged by the “FKK/Nudist Beach” sign at the gate. Nudism on the beach is optional not mandatory.

🌊 Why It’s Special:
The contrasting red ochre cliffs and calm azure water make this cove feel secluded and unspoilt, yet it’s only a short walk over the headland from Matala – a complete contrast. The swimming is outstanding.

🧭 What To Bring:
Water, snacks, and strong sun protection are essential. The sun can be brutal on the trail and sand. If you will not be renting sunbeds at the beach, make sure to bring some shade.

🍹 Eating & Drinking:
There are a couple of cash-only beach bars set just behind the sand, each with a relaxed, low-key atmosphere. The furthest pop up one, Street Beach Food & Drinks, is a standout for its excellent mojitos and friendly vibe. A perfect reward after the walk in. You can even rent umbrellas and sun beds from them.

🏝️ Beach Vibe:
Very relaxed and in keeping with Matala’s free-spirited atmosphere. Clothing is optional for some visitors, especially at the far ends, but the central area remains mixed and easy to enjoy for everyone.

💡 Local Tip:
Aim for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the sun’s peak and enjoy the best lighting on the red cliffs. There are some excellent snorkelling opportunities to the further end of the beach.

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🏖️ Kommos Beach

📍 Location: Just north of Matala

🗺️ How To Get There:
About 10 minutes by car from Matala or Pitsidia. There’s plenty of parking near the southern end of the beach.

🌊 Why It’s Special:
Kommos is a long, open stretch of sand with a wild, natural feel. On calm days, the water is crystal clear — but when the wind picks up, the sea becomes dramatically rough. It’s less developed than Matala and has a real sense of space and freedom.

🏛️ A Note On History:
Kommos was once the ancient port of Phaistos, and you’ll see Minoan ruins behind the beach. Sadly, they’re not open to the public, but they add a unique historical touch to the landscape. I managed to take some nice drone shots on my last visit.

🧭 What To Bring:
There’s a taverna and some sunbeds available at the southern end, but if you’re heading north, bring your own shade, water, and any essentials.

🏝️ Beach Vibe:
Spacious and peaceful, especially as you move north beyond the Minoan ruins. You may come across naturists in this quieter section, but the main beach remains mixed and relaxed.

💡 Local Tip:
For a peaceful experience, walk beyond the ruins to Sarantari Beach — it’s usually quiet and has gorgeous views. Kommos is also a brilliant place to watch the sunset.

I wouldn’t recommend continuing on to Kalamaki — it felt a bit like a seaside resort that time forgot, and lacked the atmosphere of Kommos or Matala.

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Lasithi Region

🏖️ Kolokytha Beach

📍 Location: East Crete, near Elounda and Agios Nikolaos

🗺️ How To Get There:
The drive is a little more challenging, expect narrow roads and uneven surfaces, but it is worth the effort. One of the most challenging parts is as you cross from Elounda onto the island – if the wind is blowing prepare to have the car soaked in salt spray!

💡Top Tip: I usually stop to swim on the rocky side before the road climbs over to the beach itself as the water here is such a deep blue colour and it is great for snorkelling. Parking is limited, so arriving early is a good idea.

🌊 Why It’s Special:
This side of the island has a different feel — the water is a rich, deep blue, and the views are stunning. Kolokytha offers a peaceful alternative to the busier beaches nearby, with a more remote, untouched vibe.

🧭 What To Bring:
There are no facilities, so come prepared with shade, water, and whatever you need for the day.

🏝️ Beach Vibe:
Generally popular with families and day-trippers, especially later in the day. Unlike many beaches on the south coast, nudism isn’t common here — expect a more conventional beach atmosphere.

💡 Local Tip:
Kolokytha is a great base if you’re exploring Elounda, Plaka, or Spinalonga — all just a short drive away. Go early to avoid the day trip boats and enjoy the calm before the crowds.

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Interactive Map: Discover Crete’s Hidden Beaches

⭐ Tip: Click the star icon on the map title bar (“7 Hidden Beaches in Crete Worth the Journey”) to save this map to your Google account for easy access later.

Use the zoom and drag tools to explore each beach location. Tap on a pin for more details and tips.

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Planning Your Trip to Crete? Here’s What I Recommend

With so many travel sites out there, it can be hard to know where to start. These are the trusted platforms I personally use and recommend — tried, tested, and ideal for booking accommodation, tours, insurance, and car hire in Crete.

🔎 Looking for more active adventures? Don’t miss my guide to hiking the Samaria Gorge — one of Crete’s most unforgettable day trips.

You can find many other resources for Crete at the official tourism site here.

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Wrapping Up: My Favourite Hidden Beaches in Crete

There’s no shortage of beautiful beaches in Crete, but if you’re looking for turquoise water, a bit of peace, and that off-the-beaten-path feeling, the spots on this list are truly special.

In my experience, the very best swimming water is often found on the south coast, along the coastline of the Libyan Sea. It’s where the sea feels clearest, the pace is slower, and the crowds really thin out, especially if you’re willing to drive a little, hike a bit, or wake up early.

Of course, there are countless other amazing beaches on the island. However these are my personal hidden gems, chosen from real-world experience and repeated visits.

I’ll continue to update this list as I explore more of the island. In the meantime, I hope it helps you discover a side of Crete that feels a little more secret, a little more special — and entirely worth the journey.

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