Plakias Beach
4.4 / 5 Long south-coast beach with tavernas in Plakias, Rethymno, Crete, Greece
Photo: Vitka Vitkovic, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
A long sandy beach of about 1.3 km on the south coast of Crete, roughly 40 km from Rethymno. The village behind has tavernas, shops and supermarkets, and quieter stretches lie under the trees.
Practical info for Plakias Beach
| Access | Easy. Flat access from the village seafront. |
|---|---|
| Car parking | Parking in and around the village; plenty of space outside peak season. |
| Sunbeds & umbrellas | Sunbeds and umbrellas by stretch; prices vary, so compare before you sit. Some beach bars lend umbrellas to customers. |
| Food & drink | Many tavernas and beach bars along the waterfront, and supermarkets in the village. |
| Good to know | Strong wind makes the beach hard to use, so check the forecast. Part of the beach near a large rock is used by naturists. |
Last verified: October 2026. Compiled from official tourism pages, visitor guides and recent reports. Prices, fees and rules change by season, so confirm locally before you go.
Planning your visit to Plakias Beach
Sand beaches are usually gentle underfoot and easy for swimmers and children, though they can be exposed to wind and waves, so check conditions on the day. Bring a hat and extra water, as shade can be scarce away from facilities.
Access is rated easy, so most visitors can reach the beach without a long walk or special equipment.
The usual season runs May–October. Visiting near the start or end of that window usually means fewer people, but the sea is cooler and some facilities may not be open yet or may have closed for the year.
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View Plakias Beach on the map · Compare with all beaches
Best months to visit Plakias Beach
The swimming season here runs from May to October. June, July, August, September are the warmest and busiest, with the sea around 23 °C, so arrive early for parking and a good spot. May and October are quieter and cooler: good for walking and photos, though some beach bars and lifeguard posts may not be open yet or may already have closed for the year.
Who Plakias Beach suits
Sand makes it comfortable for sunbathing, building sandcastles and long walks along the water line. Easy access makes it practical for families, older visitors and anyone with a pushchair. Food and drink close by make it easy to stay for the whole day.
Getting there and nearby
Parking in the village, with plenty of space outside peak season. The beach sits at about 35.185, 24.400 on the map, so use the map link above for directions. If you are planning a day around it, the closest other beaches on our list are Preveli Beach (8 km), Triopetra Beach (15 km), Glyka Nera Beach (27 km).
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Plakias Beach?
Plakias Beach is best visited May to October. The sea is typically around 23 °C in season. Check the wind forecast, as strong wind makes the beach hard to use. A rocky cove nearby is better for snorkelling.
How do I get to Plakias Beach?
Access is rated easy. Parking in the village, with plenty of space outside peak season.
What facilities does Plakias Beach have?
Sunbeds and umbrellas, tavernas, beach bars and toilets.
Where is Plakias Beach?
Plakias Beach is in Plakias, Rethymno, Crete, Greece (approx. coordinates 35.1851, 24.3998).
Is Plakias Beach good for children?
Access is rated easy and the beach is sandy, which usually suits families. Check water and weather conditions on the day and keep children in sight near the water.
What should I bring to Plakias Beach?
Facilities: Sunbeds and umbrellas, tavernas, beach bars and toilets. A hat and sun protection are useful. Bring water and snacks if there is no kiosk or restaurant.
Is there parking at Plakias Beach?
Parking in and around the village; plenty of space outside peak season. Fees and rules change, so confirm locally.
Are there sunbeds at Plakias Beach?
Sunbeds and umbrellas by stretch; prices vary, so compare before you sit. Some beach bars lend umbrellas to customers. Prices are approximate and change by season.
Beaches near Plakias Beach
Preveli Beach
Rethymno, Crete, Greece · 4.6 / 5 · 8 km away
Triopetra Beach
Rethymno, South Crete · 4.4 / 5 · 15 km away
Glyka Nera Beach
Sfakia, Crete · 4.6 / 5 · 27 km away
Matala Beach
Matala, Heraklion, Crete · 4.5 / 5 · 38 km away
Marathi Beach
Kato Marathi, Chania, Crete · 4.3 / 5 · 41 km away
Seitan Limani
Akrotiri, Chania, Crete, Greece · 4.6 / 5 · 49 km awayBrowse all beaches in Greece or compare every beach.
Scores are editorial ratings from the EuroShores team. Last updated 2026-10-18.