Be prepared for the 'Meltemi' winds in July and August; the bay can get very windy, making swimming challenging on some days.
Rent a car to explore the remarkable nearby mountain villages like Myrthios and Sellia for spectacular views over the bay.
Use Plakias as your base to visit the famous Preveli Palm Beach, accessible via a short drive and a steep descent.
Scuba diving is excellent here; the clear waters and rocky seabed make for great underwater exploration.
🍽 Food
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Staka
A rich, traditional dairy dip made from sheep's milk fat, best tried in the hillside tavernas of Myrthios above Plakias.
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Antikristo
Lamb traditionally roasted around an open fire, often served in the mountain village tavernas inland.
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Bougatsa
Start your morning with this creamy custard pastry topped with cinnamon from the local bakeries in town.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
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Carob Products
Buy local carob syrup (hartoupi) or rusks, a traditional and healthy regional specialty found in mini-markets.
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Ceramics
Authentic Cretan pottery and ceramic bowls can be found in artisan shops in the surrounding villages.
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Souda Beach
Just a few kilometers west of Plakias, this sheltered bay gives a much quieter and calmer swimming experience.
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Kotsifou Canyon
Drive through this impressive gorge just north of Plakias and stop at the small chapel built into the rock face.
Water temperature…
Plakias has evolved from a small fishing hamlet into a beloved destination for independent travelers, while maintaining its relaxed charm. The main bay features a long sandy and pebble beach extending over a kilometer, with exceptionally clear water. A standout feature is the massive vertical cliff at the eastern end of the beach (Gonates), which is a popular spot for rock climbing. Due to the winds funneling through the nearby gorges, Plakias is also a known spot for windsurfing. The surrounding area provides excellent hiking opportunities, including the Kourtaliotiko Gorge and the path to the famous Preveli palm forest and beach. The waterfront promenade is lined with tavernas serving fresh local fish. Located about 35 km from Rethymno, Plakias features a more authentic atmosphere compared to the busier northern resorts. Nearby coves like Damnoni, Ammoudi, and Souda are within easy reach for those looking to explore different beaches.
Location: Greece
Top sights: Kalypso Cretan Village · Fotinari Beach · Souda Beach
Pick weather + travel mode, get a concrete day plan.
09:00→16:183.3 km walk5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 22–30 €Entries 26€ · Transport 0€
Start your morning absorbing the tranquil beauty of Skinos Beach before walking the long sandy stretch of Plakias. Midday takes you up to the historic ruins of Koules, offering sweeping sea views. Spend your afternoon unwinding at the unique Paligremnos Beach. As evening approaches, marvel at the imposing cliffs of Korifi glowing in the sunset light.
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09:10 · 47'
Skinos Beach
Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and peaceful atmosphere of Skinos Beach, a great spot for swimming, but remember to bring water shoes for the rocky shoreline.
Stroll along the expansive golden sands of Plakias Beach, where you can admire the surrounding cliffs, and arriving early guarantees the best spot near the cafes.
Explore the historical ruins of Plakias Koules, an old fortress offering panoramic bay views, and wear sturdy shoes for the slightly uneven uphill path.
Relax at Paligremnos Beach, renowned for its dramatic vertical cliff backdrop and clothing-optional vibe, making it good to bring plenty of sunscreen for a natural tan.
Hike up to Plakias Korifi to witness awe-inspiring historical cliffs that tower over the sea, taking care to stay away from the fragile edges while taking photos.
Start your morning with a walk along the dramatic coastline, where the rain deepens the colors of the rocks. At noon, seek shelter in a cozy village cafe. In the afternoon, explore the fortress ruins, which look particularly mystical under gray skies. In the evening, enjoy the fresh, humid sea air and the crashing waves in the harbor.
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09:10 · 47'
Skinos Beach
Watch the dramatic waves from a safe distance; use waterproof shoes as the path becomes slippery and muddy during rainfall.
Experience the morning silence in the crisp winter air by the sea. At noon, warm up with a local mountain tea in one of the few open taverns. In the afternoon, take advantage of the soft, low sunlight for spectacular photos of the coast. Since the sun sets around 17:00, finish your walk well before the chilly evening twilight.
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09:10 · 47'
Skinos Beach
Enjoy the completely deserted beach in the winter sun; wear windproof clothing as the northern wind can blow quite strongly here.
Kick off your cycling tour inland at the rustic Mill of Chatzis, enjoying the morning breeze. By midday, pedal to Koules for a touch of history, then roll down to Plakias Beach for a swim. Your afternoon follows the stunning coastline to the serene cove of Fotinari. Finally, end your active day unwinding at the picturesque palm-fringed Souda Beach.
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09:10 · 47'
Mill of Chatzis
Discover the rustic charm of the Mill of Chatzis, a quaint local landmark offering a glimpse into traditional Cretan life, and keep an eye out for local wildlife nearby.
Explore the historical ruins of Plakias Koules, an old fortress offering panoramic bay views, and wear sturdy shoes for the slightly uneven uphill path.
Stroll along the expansive golden sands of Plakias Beach, where you can admire the surrounding cliffs, and arriving early guarantees the best spot near the cafes.
Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and peaceful atmosphere of Skinos Beach, a first-rate spot for swimming, but remember to bring water shoes for the rocky shoreline.
Escape the crowds at Fotinari Beach, a secluded cove great for snorkeling among colorful fish, just be sure to pack your own snacks as amenities are limited.
Unwind at Souda Beach, famous for its lush palm trees and refreshing river estuary, offering an excellent opportunity to grab a fresh seafood lunch at the nearby tavernas.
Start your bike tour carefully on the slippery roads leading inland. At noon, find shelter under a canopy in a small village during the showers. In the afternoon, the route leads back to the coast, where salty spray mixes with the rain. In the evening, end the tour at the harbor and warm up in a tavern after the wet ride.
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09:10 · 47'
Mill of Chatzis
The area around the mill can be very muddy; park your bike on solid ground and watch out for slippery stones at the old ruins.
Enjoy the clear, cool morning breeze on the empty roads around Plakias. At noon, cycle leisurely through sleeping nature as the winter sun gently illuminates the landscape. In the afternoon, reach the remote coves that are now all yours. Plan your return before 17:00, as it gets very cold quickly after sunset.
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09:10 · 47'
Mill of Chatzis
The old mill is very idyllic in winter in the green valley; wear layers as it is much cooler in the shade of the hills than on the beach.
Your coastal drive begins at Souda Beach, perfect for a refreshing morning dip in its crystal waters. Continue to Fotinari before heading slightly inland to see the charming Mill of Chatzis midday. In the afternoon, explore Koules fortress and the towering Paligremnos cliffs. Conclude your adventure at Kalypso, diving into the dramatic rocky fjord.
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09:10 · 47'
Souda Beach
Unwind at Souda Beach, famous for its lush palm trees and refreshing river estuary, offering an excellent opportunity to grab a fresh seafood lunch at the nearby tavernas.
Escape the crowds at Fotinari Beach, a secluded cove excellent for snorkeling among colorful fish, just be sure to pack your own snacks as amenities are limited.
Discover the rustic charm of the Mill of Chatzis, a quaint local landmark offering a glimpse into traditional Cretan life, and keep an eye out for local wildlife nearby.
Explore the historical ruins of Plakias Koules, an old fortress offering panoramic bay views, and wear sturdy shoes for the slightly uneven uphill path.
Hike up to Plakias Korifi to witness awe-inspiring historical cliffs that tower over the sea, taking care to stay away from the fragile edges while taking photos.
End your day at Kalypso Cretan Village, a unique resort built into a rocky fjord excellent for diving, and enjoy a sunset drink at their scenic coastal bar.
Start your car tour relaxed and enjoy the view of the churning sea through the windshield. At noon, stop at a cozy mountain tavern where the fireplace is already lit. In the afternoon, explore the viewpoints while the clouds hang low over the hills. In the evening, return safely to Plakias and watch the rain in the harbor.
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09:10 · 47'
Souda Beach
Watch the massive surf directly from the warm car; the spray can whip all the way to the parking lot in strong winds.
Enjoy the morning drive through the peaceful winter landscape with excellent visibility. At noon, warm up in a mountain village with a hearty Cretan stew. In the afternoon, experience the spectacular light of the low sun on the coast. Finish your tour in time before 17:00 to safely catch the picturesque sunset.
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09:10 · 47'
Souda Beach
The beach is wonderfully lonely and vast in winter; the palms along the stream form a beautiful contrast with the clear, cool winter sky.