A Guide to Paleochora's Beaches
- By Simpson Travel
- 30 Jun 2023
- Where to go
Tucked away on a peninsula in the southwest of Crete, Paleochora is an excellent choice for those with a taste for the alternative. Its beautiful beaches and maze of rustic streets with bougainvillea clambering up the walls attracted hippies to the village during the 1970s, and the bohemian spirit can still be felt today. Read our guide to find which of the many beaches and coves along Paleochora’s pristine coast is for you.
There’s no shortage of beaches in Paleochora, from family friendly stretches of golden sand to hidden coves for adventurous walkers, and secluded spots favoured by naturists – perhaps a hangover from the summer of love!
Good for families...
Pachia Ammos is one of the most loved beaches in Paleochora, for good reason. This beautiful beach is over 500 metres long, so despite its popularity, there is plenty of room. In addition to being the best place for watersports and escape the wind on the eastern side of the peninsula, it is also a great option for families due to its wide, sandy beach, and shallow coast.
Other family-friendly beaches in the area include the small bay of Plakaki, Azzurro, Alonaki and Grammeno Beach.
For peace & quiet...
Methexis is the smallest beach in the area. This small, rocky cove with crystal clear waters is an ideal spot for swimming, snorkelling and diving as the water quickly becomes deep.
On windy days, avoid the sandy beaches and make your way to Chalikia. This pebble beach tends to be quiet, and you can enjoy great views of the mountains along the coast.
Venture 4km east of Paleochora to Anidri beaches, aka Gialiskari, a collection of secluded beaches by Anidri Gorge that were the main attraction for the hippies of Paleochora back in the 1970’s. While it is possible to walk to Gialiskari from Paleochora, driving to the beach is recommended due to the heat.
For adventurers...
If wild solitary coves and coastal pathway walks are your thing, there is plenty for you to enjoy in Paleochora.
Wild Beach is an appropriately named rocky, solitary cove with perfect turquoise waters. Walk west from Grammeno Beach and hike over the sand dunes to find your own tranquil paradise where you can snorkel and dive undisturbed. Confident walkers in search of a moderately challenging hike will enjoy the Anidri Beach – Sougia Beach trail in the cooler months. Part of the E4 European path, the route passes along ravines, bays and the ancient ruins of Lissos.
A local tip... Kalamakia Beach and the small bay of Psilos Volakas are the best places to watch the sunset in Paleochora. Due to their unique position facing the west, you can enjoy the sun in the late afternoon and witness a spectacular sunset at nightfall.
Where to stay in Paleochora
Situated a 10-minute stroll away from the charming centre of Paleochora and Pachia Ammos beach, Amphitheatre Suites provide a luxurious base to explore this glorious corner of Crete from. These elegant one and two bedroom each have well-equipped kitchen area and comfortable living space leading out onto a private terrace overlooking the warm waters of southern Crete.
