The south coast is famous for its array of wonderful beaches, all offering crystal clear waters and some great snorkelling opportunities.

There are a couple of  small beaches close to Villa Hera but the nearest larger beach is Agios Pavlos beach. The main beach is a beautiful bay but be sure to walk beyond the bay to find the second beach of this amazing area which is famous for its sand dunes and is something not to be missed.

Triopetra beach is only a stone’s throw away and definitely worth a visit. Two wide sandy beaches, they are separated by a small peninsula. At the edge of the peninsula, in the sea, three majestic rocks rise. Triopetra is named after these rocks, since it means “Three Rocks”. On the beach there are a few rooms and taverns, and umbrellas are offered.A sweeping stretch of sand,  it is named after the 3 rocks which rise proudly from the sea and has a few tavernas.

Ligres is a secluded, beautiful, sandy beach with a nudist area right at its end. Very nearby there are taverns where you can taste fresh fish of the area and local meals. Do not forget to visit the neighbouring Agia Fotia beach with its small tavern on the water.

Agia Galini has 2 stretches of sand and pebble beach and offers a good swimming opportunity if you are visiting.

Preveli beach is a beautiful sandy beach famous for its palm trees. Here, the mouth of the river Kourtaliotis empties into the sea. Stroll up the side of the river to discover the true beauty of Preveli - amazing rock pools in which to take a refreshing dip! Park just before Preveli Monastery (also worth a visit) and follow the track down to the beach. It is a 15 minute walk downhill - don’t forget you also need to walk back up!  

Matala beach is located at the exit of a small valley, which forms a large enclosed bay with great views of Paximadia Island. The bay is fine shingle and has crystal clear deep water. The beach is very well organised with umbrellas, toilets, showers and tavernas and cafes.

A little further afield but well worth the journey, the beaches of “Schinaria”, “Damnoni”, “Souda” and “Plakias" are simply beautiful. All are organized and have tavernas or a cafe. 

Crete is a magical island , just waiting to be discovered.