Crete Guide

Crete Beach & Coastal Tours

Discover pink sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, and dramatic coastal scenery on boat tours

35+ tours
From $40
4-8 hours
Crete Beach & Coastal Tours

Crete beach and coastal tours showcase the island's spectacular Mediterranean coastline - from the famous pink sand of Elafonissi and Balos Lagoon's turquoise waters, to dramatic southern coast beaches accessible only by boat, hidden coves, and coastal villages. These tours range from boat trips to remote beaches visiting Balos Lagoon with its exotic Caribbean-like colors, Elafonissi's unique pink sand created by crushed shells, Chania boat tours exploring Venetian harbor and sea caves, snorkeling excursions in crystal-clear waters, and beach-hopping adventures along either coast. Experience swimming in pristine Mediterranean coves, understanding how Cretan geography creates diverse beach types (sandy/pebble/pink), discovering beaches tourists miss, and soaking in the island's coastal beauty creating perfect beach day experiences for sun-seekers and nature lovers discovering why Crete offers some of Greece's most beautiful and diverse beaches beyond typical Greek island beach scenes.

Featured Beach Coastal Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for beach coastal tours in Crete

Day Trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island
From $49.81
Free Cancellation

A day trip that combines relaxation and history gives you the chance to visit the highlights of the Northeast part of Crete, where the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos with the magnificent lake can be found. Elounda, a small village on the shore of Mirabello bay with spectacular views, is where the boat begins the cruise heading to Spinalonga island, a small uninhabited island used during the history as a fortress and later on as a leper colony. On the way back to Elounda Port the boat will anchor so you can dive in the refreshing waters.

4.4(413)
8h
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Full-Day West Crete Tour: Chania & Rethymnon Old Town and Kournas Lake
From $56.93
Free Cancellation

Join us on a combined tour to the West Side of Crete! You will enjoy a visit to two beautiful and traditional old towns, those of Chania and Rethymnon as well as a visit to the Lake of Kournas! Experience the charming town of Chania which attracts many tourists every year, walk around its picturesque streets and admire the unique old harbor of this town. Enjoy a visit to the Lake of Kournas and relax in this beautiful landscape of Cretan nature. Lastly, visit the town of Rethymnon and walk through its streets along the port to the old town.

3.9(38)
11h
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Crete Nature Kournas lake Argyroupoli &Georgioupoli from Rethymno
From $29.06
Free Cancellation

Enjoy a round-trip excursion to the southern part of Rethymno. Experience the natural beauty of Crete, explore traditional villages and more. See traditional villages, churches, mountains, gorges and beaches on this full-day tour from Rethymno. Stop at Kournas, Crete’s only fresh-water lake. Enjoy a short drive through the countryside to the traditional village of Argyroupoli, where you can enjoy a cup of Greek coffee. Stop at Kournas, Crete’s only fresh-water lake. Enjoy a short drive through the countryside to the traditional village of Argyroupoli, where you can enjoy a cup of Greek coffee. Swim & Dine in Georgioupolis Join us for a relaxing day in the charming coastal village of Georgioupolis! Enjoy a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters, unwind on the sandy beach, and savor a delicious local lunch by the sea. Perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers looking to experience authentic Cretan hospitality and natural beauty. Limited spots

3.3(8)
8h
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Heraklion: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves & Odigitria Monastery
From $51
Free Cancellation

Discover the relaxed charm of South Crete on a comfortable day trip from Heraklion. Enjoy plenty of free time in the colorful seaside village of Matala, where you can swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea, relax on the beach, or explore the famous hippie caves carved into the cliffs. Travel back in time at the historic Odigitria Monastery, visit its folklore museum, and learn about traditional herbal remedies made by the monks using local mountain herbs. A perfect blend of seaside leisure, culture, and authentic Cretan history.

4.8(35)
8h
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From Heraklion: Quad Safari Wild Crete Day Tour
From $111.48
Free Cancellation

Duration: 6 Hours Start: 9:00 AM End: 3:00 PM Start with a scenic coastal ride and visit a historic monastery. Marvel at the Aposelemis Dam and explore the sunken village of Sfendili. Enjoy a guided olive oil tour and olive oil tasting and indulge in an authentic Cretan lunch. Then, explore the Cave of Saint Fotini, which houses a charming church inside, and admire breathtaking views from the top. At the end of the day, we’ll wrap up our adventure with a refreshing swim to cool off after a dusty, thrilling off-road quad safari. Highlights: • Scenic Coastal Ride • Gouverniotisa Monastery • Aposelemis Dam & Sfentili Village • Olive Oil Factory Guided Tour • Lunch at a Traditional Village in the mountains (Included) • Optional Horse Ride for 10 minutes • Cave of Saint Fotini – View Point • Beach time for swimming

4.3(6)
6h
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Elafonisi Beach Shore Trip from Chania/Souda: Crete’s Coastal Gem
From $81.83
Free CancellationNew

Visit the stunning Elafonisi Beach, renowned for its unique pink sands and crystal-clear waters. Elafonisi is one of Crete’s most beautiful and unforgettable destinations. This unique beach, with its soft pink-tinged sands and sparkling turquoise waters, offers an amazing place to relax and enjoy the island’s natural beauty. Framed by gentle dunes, local flora, and the fresh Aegean breeze, Elafonisi invites you to swim in the clear shallows, walk along the shoreline, or simply take in the breathtaking scenery. This 6.5-hour shore trip from Chania/Souda port offers a relaxing escape where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. With a knowledgeable English-speaking driver-guide, benefit from expert insights and a hassle-free journey. The tour includes convenient port pick-up and drop-off, ensuring you return to your ship on time. Experience the charm of Crete with a small group of up to 8 travelers, making it an intimate adventure.

6h 30m
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Parasailing Activity on Rethymno Beach, Crete
From $47.44
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Experience the ultimate thrill with our Banana Watersports adventure at Rethymno Beach, Crete! Live an exhilarating ride with our specially designed banana boat! Create unforgettable memories with friends and family with coastal views and our expert guides. Adrenaline-pumping experience that will leave you wanting more!

5.0(48)
10 min
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Banana Watersport Activity on the Beach at Rethymno
From $23.72
Free Cancellation

Experience the ultimate thrill with our Banana Watersports adventure at Rethymno Beach, Crete! Our specially designed banana boat offers an exhilarating ride unlike any other. With expert guides and breathtaking coastal views, create unforgettable memories with friends and family. Book now for an adrenaline-pumping experience that will leave you wanting more!

5.0(8)
10 min
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Crete and Heraklion Areas Direct Day Trip Vai Beach
From $37.95
Free Cancellation

Discover the allure of Vai Palm Beach in Sitia—a slice of the Caribbean nestled within Crete’s shores. Swaying palm trees, golden sands, and crystal-clear waters transport you to a faraway island paradise. The lush palm forest, native to the area for over 2,000 years, adds an exotic touch. Pirates once planted these palms, and their legacy remains. Advertisers even featured Vai’s enchanting palm forest in a Bounty chocolate bar commercial, highlighting its irresistible appeal. Spend blissful hours lounging on soft sands, soaking up the sun, and listening to the gentle lapping of waves. Vai Beach invites you to unwind and escape. Explore hidden coves and coastal nooks—the secrets of this tropical haven. Whether you’re swimming in the cool sea or strolling along the shore, adventure awaits. 12.15 Arrival at Vai Beach (short stop between) 16.15 Departure from Vai Palm Beach 19:00 Arrival in Malia (short stop between) ROUTE: 150 km DURATION: 10 hours STAY IN VAI PALM BEACH: app. 4 hours

8h
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Full-Day Tour to Vai Palm Beach, Toplou Monastery, and Sitia Town
From $59.3
Free Cancellation

Start your day tour discovering the beautiful east part of Crete! The day tour starts from visiting Toplou, a 15th-century monastery located in a dry and barren area. Toplou monastery is one of the most significant monasteries in Crete, dedicated to Panagia (Virgin Mary) and St. John the Theologian. Continue the tour, to visit the largest palm forest in Europe, Vai Palm Beach. The palm forest draws thousands of visitors each year. They come not only for its wonderful palm forest, but also for the large sandy beach spread out at its foot. Last stop of the day is at Sitia town, one of the least "touristy" parts of Crete, that was built up in Venetian times.

4.3(4)
11h
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Shore Explore Chania: City Charm, Beach, Monastery & Winetasting
From $759.02
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Experience Crete's diverse beauty on a private shore excursion from the Chania area, exploring Chania Town, Agia Triada Monastery, and Marathi Beach. Stroll through the charming streets of Chania Town, rich in history and culture. Visit the serene Agia Triada Monastery, a haven of peace and spirituality, where you will have the opportunity for wine tasting of three wines made by the monastery, along with traditional rusks and olive oil, also produced by the monastery. End your day relaxing at the picturesque Marathi Beach. This tour is perfect for cruise ship passengers or visitors seeking a tailored experience, blending urban exploration with historical insights and coastal relaxation.

5.0(13)
6h 30m
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Land Rover Safari: Tripitis Gorge and Beach, South Crete
From $111.48
Free Cancellation

Join this 8-hour guided excursion through the Cretan mountains and discover the central part of Crete from mountains to gorges to a beautiful beach. Our journey starts as we make our way to Mount Giouktas with breathtaking views of the blue infinity of the Aegean Sea. From here we take the road through extensive vineyards, stop in a mountain village where we join the locals for a coffee. We continue through dirt tracks, bumpy roads over the olive tree dotted hills toTripiti Gorge where you have a magnificent view, over the Gorge before we drive in and we stop to give you the possibility to walk thru the Gorge (300m) to the narrows place where you find the little church of Panagia which is built into the rocks. At Tripiti beach we have time for a swim and have Lunch next to the beach with unlimited wine and water before we head back towards the South Coast passing stopping for some refreshment and to try our local drink, Raki.

5.0(95)
8h
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From Chania: Day Cruise to Cretan Blue & James Bond Island
From $78.27
Free CancellationNew

Discover the stunning northern coastline of Crete on a full-day cruise from Souda Bay. This journey includes swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Almyrida Bay, exploring the dramatic sea cave at Cape Drepano, and enjoying leisure time on the sandy shores of Marathi Beach. The cruise features a welcome drink, professional guides, and the chance to unwind while soaking up the beauty of Crete’s coastal treasures. Ideal for families and nature lovers, this immersive experience showcases the best of the Cretan blue waters in a comfortable and relaxing setting. - Full-day cruise from Souda Bay with multiple stops - Swim and snorkel in the azure waters of Almyrida Bay - Explore the unique sea cave at Cape Drepano - Enjoy free time on the beautiful Marathi Beach with local tavernas

9h
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Best of Crete (3-days Tour package)
From $2,371.93
Free CancellationSkip The Line👤Private Tour

Explore Crete with All Your Senses. Best of Crete – 3-Day Private Tour Package. Immerse yourself in the beauty, culture, and history of Crete on this handpicked 3-day journey across the island’s most captivating regions. This exclusive tour operates only from the Heraklion district and is led by your dedicated professional tourist guide, ensuring a seamless, in-depth, and personal experience from start to finish. From the mythical ruins of Knossos and the treasures of Heraklion to the charming coastal towns of Chania and Rethymnon—and finally, to the crystal waters of Elounda and Spinalonga Island—you’ll uncover the soul of Crete with all your senses: sight, taste, sound, touch, and story. Convenient pickup and drop-off from your accommodation in the Heraklion district ensures a seamless travel experience. Let us guide you behind the myths, through history, nature, and tradition—on a tour crafted not just to visit Crete, but to truly feel it.

5.0(2)
72h
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Half-Day Small-Group Boat Safari in Crete
From $177.89
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

(9:00-12:00). (13:00-16:00). (17:00-20:00) Without Skipper(Only Tour Safety Guide). No licenses needed. Boats available for safari exploration that can accommodate from 1 to 5 people. The Rent a Boat Safari category includes a sea tour, which is an adventure worth choosing. The duration is 3:00 hours and takes place in the wider area of Georgioupolis, Obrosgialos, near a cave. You will be drawn by the crystal blue waters, where you will have enough time to jump in, for a refreshing swim. Each boat is 5 meters long, has 5 seats and its engine is 30hp YAMAHA. The tour safety guide will be on the first boat to give you directions on navigation and show you the route, while the rest of the boats will follow. There is also pick up and drop off service available and we can supply you with snack and water. Do not forget your swimsuit!

4.9(36)
3h 30m
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Why Choose Beach Coastal Tours in Crete?

Exotic Beaches

Balos turquoise lagoon and Elafonissi pink sand rival Caribbean beauty.

Boat Access

Reach remote pristine beaches inaccessible by road - exclusive swimming spots.

Crystal-Clear Waters

Mediterranean clarity perfect for snorkeling - see fish, rocks, underwater caves.

Diverse Coastline

Sandy, pebble, pink sand, lagoons, coves - Crete offers every beach type imaginable.

Types of Beach Coastal Tours in Crete

Balos Lagoon Tours

Boat trip to famous turquoise lagoon with Caribbean-like beauty.

Boat rideBeach timeSwimmingSnorkelingFull day

Elafonissi Beach Tours

Visit legendary pink sand beach with crystal waters.

Bus tourPink sandSwimmingLunch8 hours

Boat Snorkeling Tours

Coastal cruises with multiple swimming and snorkeling stops.

Boat tourSnorkel gearHidden covesLunch6-7 hours

Beach Hopping Tours

Visit multiple beaches experiencing Crete's coastal diversity.

3-4 beachesVarietySwimmingCompleteFull day

What to Expect on Crete Beach Tours

Duration

Full-day tours: 8-10 hours. Boat tours: 6-8 hours. Includes travel time to remote beaches.

Beach Types

Balos: lagoon, sandy, turquoise. Elafonissi: pink sand, shallow. South coast: pebble, dramatic. All stunning.

Swimming

Crystal-clear Mediterranean, warm May-October (22-26°C), snorkel-worthy, safe calm waters most beaches.

Transportation

Tours include: bus, boat, or 4x4 depending on beach location. Remote beaches require effort reaching.

Facilities

Popular beaches have sunbeds (€8-10), umbrellas, tavernas. Remote beaches pristine, limited facilities.

Crowds

Balos/Elafonissi crowded summer (boats bring hundreds). Early arrival or shoulder season better.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Balos best by boat - road access rough 4x4 only

2

Elafonissi morning arrivals beat bus tour crowds

3

Bring water shoes - some beaches rocky entry

4

Sunscreen essential - Cretan sun intense

5

May-June and September best - warm water, fewer crowds

6

South coast beaches less crowded but pebble

7

Snorkel gear provided most boat tours

8

Pack light - carrying belongings to remote beaches

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What is Balos Lagoon?

A: Crete's most famous beach - exotic turquoise lagoon with white/pink sand! Northwest Crete, Gramvousa peninsula. Shallow warm lagoon where two seas meet. Absolutely stunning - Caribbean-like colors, dramatic cliffs, Gramvousa island fortress visible. However, very popular - boats bring 500+ daily summer (crowded!). Accessible by boat (€27, includes Gramvousa visit, 1 hour each way) or rough 4x4 road + 20-minute hike down (drive-able but challenging). Boat recommended. Swimming, snorkeling, pristine. Beach time typically 2-3 hours. Essential Crete beach. Photos everywhere! Cannot visit Crete without seeing Balos. Worth crowds for beauty!

Q:What is special about Elafonissi?

A: Pink sand beach - crushed shells create rosy hue! Southwest Crete. Shallow warm waters, sandbars walkable to small island (Elafonissi = "deer island"). Absolutely beautiful - turquoise water contrast pink sand. Protected nature reserve. However, very popular - hundreds arrive daily via bus tours summer (crowded!). Early morning (before 10am) or late afternoon less busy. Accessible by bus tour (€40-50, 8 hours) or rental car (2-hour drive from Chania). Beach facilities, tavernas, sunbeds. Families love shallow waters. Essential Crete beach alongside Balos. Both must-see. Pink sand unique - photographs beautifully!

Q:Can I swim year-round?

A: Swimming season: May-October optimal! Water warmest July-September (24-26°C). June and October comfortable (22-24°C). May still pleasant (20°C) but cool for some. Cretan beaches warmer than northern Greece. November-April too cold for most (16-19°C) - only hardy locals/winter swimmers. However, winter beach walks beautiful (empty, dramatic). Tourist beaches open summer only (May-October). Remote beaches accessible year-round but facilities closed winter. Plan beach activities May-October window. Swimming absolutely possible and gorgeous 6 months annually!

Q:Which coast is better?

A: North vs South different! North coast (Heraklion, Rethymno, Chania): sandy beaches, more touristy, developed, accessible, warm shallow waters, family-friendly, windy sometimes. South coast (Libyan Sea): pebble beaches, dramatic, pristine, less developed, quieter, warmer (protected from north winds), harder accessing. Famous beaches: Balos/Elafonissi (west), Vai palm beach (east), Matala caves (south). Each coast unique. North easier accessing. South more authentic wild. Tours visit both. Choose based on preferences - convenience vs pristine nature!

Q:Are boat tours worth it?

A: Absolutely! Many best beaches accessible only/best by boat. Balos via boat easier than rough road. South coast beaches boat-only. Coastal cruises show caves, cliffs, hidden coves. Snorkeling stops. Swimming in pristine waters. However, boat tours expensive (€40-70), crowded (100+ passengers), seasickness possible rough seas. Alternative: rent car visiting accessible beaches independently (cheaper, flexible). But boat-only beaches genuinely spectacular. Worth expense for Balos, remote coves. Choose based on budget and seasickness tolerance. Boat access opens Crete's best beaches!

Q:What should I bring to beaches?

A: Essential: swimsuit, towel, sunscreen (SPF 50+), hat, sunglasses, water, snacks. Recommended: water shoes (rocky entries), snorkel gear (if not provided), beach umbrella (shade limited), change of clothes, waterproof phone case. Remote beaches: bring everything (no facilities). Popular beaches: sunbeds/umbrellas rentable (€8-15), tavernas available. Cash for sunbed rentals. Cretan sun intense - protection crucial. Lightweight backpack carrying belongings. Minimal valuables (theft rare but cautious). Prepared means comfortable beach day!

Q:Are Crete beaches crowded?

A: Famous ones summer: yes! Balos, Elafonissi, Vai packed July-August (hundreds daily). Tour boats deposit masses. However, Crete enormous - countless beaches! Lesser-known beaches quiet even peak season. South coast generally less crowded. Weekdays better than weekends. Shoulder season (May-June, September-October) manageable crowds even famous beaches. Winter empty. Early morning arrivals (before 10am) beat tour buses. Absolutely possible finding secluded beaches - just avoid famous ones midday summer or explore alternatives. Local guides know hidden spots. Crete rewards exploration!

Don't Miss the Perfect Crete Experience

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Why Visit Crete?

Ancient Palace of Knossos and Minoan civilization

Dramatic Samaria Gorge and natural landscapes

Diverse beaches and crystal-clear waters

Authentic Cretan cuisine and culture

Traditional villages and mountain scenery

Perfect blend of history and nature

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Crete enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summers are warm (75-90°F/24-32°C), winters are mild (45-65°F/7-18°C), and spring/fall offer pleasant temperatures.

Best Months

April to June and September to October offer the best weather with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and perfect conditions for outdoor activities.

Peak Season

July to August brings peak tourist season with hot weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.

Off Season

November to March offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with cooler weather and occasional rain.

Plan Your Crete Trip

Transportation Tips

Rental cars for island exploration, buses for main routes, and ferries for coastal access. Walking is perfect for exploring cities and villages.

Car Rental Deals in Crete

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Crete adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in Crete

Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.

Ready to Explore Crete?

Discover the best tours and activities in Crete with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.