Best Beaches in Heraklion
Heraklion has more variety than people expect
Most travellers know Heraklion for Knossos, but the regional unit also has excellent beaches — sandy and family-friendly to the west, dramatic and remote to the south. This guide covers Matala, Komos, Agia Pelagia, Lendas and a handful of harder-to-reach pebbled coves on the Asterousia coast, with honest notes on facilities, crowds and how to get there.
1Matala Beach
Matala village · History · Atmosphere
The legendary 1960s hippie cove with sandstone cliffs riddled with Roman-era caves. The town keeps a bohemian feel; the magic returns after the day-trippers leave at sunset.
Local tip: Stay one night — the magic happens after sunset when the buses leave and the caves are illuminated.
2Komos Beach
Pitsidia (2 km) · Naturism · Relaxation
Beautiful, very long south-coast beach with golden sand and clear water — a more natural, less developed alternative to nearby Matala.
Local tip: At the southern end you can see the fenced ruins of the ancient Minoan port of Komos.
3Agia Pelagia
Heraklion (20 km west) · Families · Sheltered swimming
A horseshoe-shaped sheltered bay with crystal-clear water, sunbeds, tavernas and shallow access — the favourite family beach near Heraklion town.
Local tip: Walk to the western end past the rocks for a quieter cove without sunbeds.
4Lendas
Heraklion (75 km south) · Wild south coast · Seclusion
A small fishing village on the wild Asterousia coast with a long pebble beach. Famously the burial site of an ancient sanctuary of Asclepius.
Local tip: The further west you walk along the coast, the wilder it gets — Dytikos beach is naturist-friendly.
5Agiofarango
Matala (8 km hike) · Seclusion · Adventure
Reached by a beautiful 30-minute hike through a gorge or by boat, this south-coast beach is one of Crete's most remote and pristine swimming spots.
Local tip: Halfway through the gorge, stop at the small church of Agios Antonios and the hermit cave.
6Kokkini Hani
Heraklion (15 km east) · Family resorts · Convenience
A long sandy beach in a developed resort area with hotels, tavernas and full facilities. Easy bus connection from Heraklion town.
Local tip: Visit the nearby Cretaquarium — one of the largest aquariums in the Mediterranean.
Heraklion like a local
Combine beaches with Knossos, wineries and the Lasithi Plateau — Heraklion is more than just a transit hub.
Heraklion like a local
Combine beaches with Knossos, wineries and the Lasithi Plateau — Heraklion is more than just a transit hub.
Let Heraklion come to you
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