Best Beaches in West Crete
From the iconic pink sands of Elafonisi to the secluded lagoon of Balos, West Crete is home to some of Europe's most spectacular beaches. We rank the top 10 and tell you how to reach each one.
Read more →Greece's largest island — ancient ruins, crystal waters, and world-class beaches
Hand-picked highlights from across the island
A stunning lagoon with turquoise waters and pink sand, accessible by boat or a scenic hike.
Explore →A protected nature reserve famed for its rose-tinted sand and shallow crystal waters.
Explore →Europe's longest gorge carves through the White Mountains for 16 km of breathtaking scenery.
Explore →A Venetian harbour town with colourful mansions, narrow alleys, and a vibrant culinary scene.
Explore →Expert advice for your Crete adventure
From the iconic pink sands of Elafonisi to the secluded lagoon of Balos, West Crete is home to some of Europe's most spectacular beaches. We rank the top 10 and tell you how to reach each one.
Read more →The 16 km descent through the Samaria Gorge is one of Greece's great hiking adventures. This guide covers permits, best time to go, what to pack, and how to get back to your hotel.
Read more →Whether you want a luxury clifftop resort or a family-friendly apartment near the beach, Crete has it. We review the best-value hotels across all regions for 2025.
Read more →From beachfront resorts to charming village guesthouses — compare thousands of hotels in Crete with the best rates guaranteed.
Boat tours, cooking classes, jeep safaris and more — discover and book the best experiences in Crete.