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Episkopi

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

City

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Practical info — Episkopi

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🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

Visit the beach early in the morning to enjoy calm waters before the afternoon winds pick up.
You can easily find free parking spots along the main road near the coast.
The western part of the beach is more organized, while the east is wilder and quieter.
Bring water shoes as the entrance to the sea can be rocky in certain patches.

🍽 Food

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Cretan Dakos

Try this local specialty at the traditional tavernas located right on the beach.

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Fresh Fish

Visit one of the family-run fish tavernas at the eastern end of the beach.

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Lamb with Stamnagathi

A classic Cretan dish found in the traditional restaurants in the village center.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

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Local Olive Oil

Buy high-quality Cretan olive oil from the small mini-markets in the village center.

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Cretan Honey

Look out for thyme honey sold by local producers along the main road.

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River Estuary

Take a peaceful walk where the river meets the sea, an excellent spot for birdwatching.

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Eastern Beach Section

Escape the crowds and enjoy absolute tranquility on the unorganized parts of the long beach.

Episkopi is located on the north coast of Crete, about 15 kilometers west of the historical city of Rethymno. The highlight of the settlement is undoubtedly Episkopi beach, an approximately 10-kilometer stretch of coastline with fine sand and clear, shallow water. The beach is so extensive that one can always find a quiet spot even during the high season. Some sections are well-organized with sunbeds and umbrellas, while others remain entirely natural. The village of Episkopi itself is situated slightly inland on a hill, offering a wonderful view of the Cretan Sea. It is a lively place with traditional kafenions, tavernas, and small shops. The surroundings are characterized by olive groves and vineyards, inviting walks and cycling tours. Its strategic location on the national road makes Episkopi a good starting point for excursions to Lake Kournas or the mountain village of Argiroupoli with its famous waterfalls. Cretan cuisine is a priority in Episkopi. In the tavernas along the beach and in the village, visitors can enjoy local specialties such as dakos, fresh fish, and Cretan olive oil. The atmosphere is family-friendly and relaxed. Arrival is straightforward as the place is well-connected to the island's transport network. A visit to Episkopi combines the comfort of a modern seaside resort with the charm of the traditional Cretan lifestyle.