We visited this place yesterday, and it turned out to be a reminder not to rely too much on tourist guides, suggestions, or popular tips. The beach itself is, of course, beautiful, but it was so crowded and chaotic that it really took away from the experience. The parking lot is located a few hundred meters above the beach, and to get there you need to go down very steep stairs. One definitely has to be careful, especially for elderly visitors or those with small children. I actually witnessed a little boy falling and scraping his knees badly on the way down. On site, there is a bar, some chairs, and a toilet. The scenery is undeniably stunning – the rock formations, including the famous heart-shaped rock, are impressive. However, the sheer number of people, along with the constant arrival of boats unloading tourists, completely robs the place of its natural charm. There is no harmony, no energy, no peace. Despite the undeniable beauty, the river mouth is simply overcrowded with visitors. After about two hours we left, climbing back up the steep path to the parking lot (currently €3). Afterwards, we found another beach just 7 minutes away, where we were completely alone – and as the locals say, everyone can find their own beach here.

Beautiful beach. From the parking lot, it’s a short hike down to the beach, with beautiful views along the hike. It’s all downhill to the beach and all uphill back, so be prepared. The beach gets very crowded after 9:30-10 AM, especially when the boats start to arrive and drop people off.

A true gem to visit while in Crete! Steps are a bit steep but with care can be done. We were in our beach flip-flops and no issues! The palm tree forest, the river( can actually walk thru it upstream for scenic view) and the beach are spectacular!

Just no. That’s what comes to mind when I think about this beach. Overhyped, overcrowded, too much effort to reach and too little reward once you get there. The famous palm grove isn’t physically blocked off, but there are signs saying you can’t enter because of fire hazard. Of course, people ignore them and walk up the river from its mouth to snap photos of the palms. The water here is also colder than on most southern beaches, which doesn’t exactly make it inviting. Getting there is another issue. It’s a solid 15-minute walk each way, with the return being steep uphill. I’m a hiker, and even for me it was effort — I timed it. Expect uneven rocky stairs and a frustrating climb back if you’re not steady on your feet. If you’re absolutely set on visiting, skip the hike and use the boat service from Plakias. Otherwise, there are so many better options for your day. Souda Beach in the south, for example, is a far more enjoyable choice.

Easily the most magical place I’ve ever been with the most unique landscape EVER! Absolutely LOVED this spot and recommend exploring here if you’re in Crete!

Gorgeous beach with a river and many palm trees!! We loved it here, but 2 things worth mentioning: - water is super cold - you have to hike a bit in order to get to the beach

This place has so much potential, but unfortunately, it's being ruined by tourists who don’t seem to care. There was plastic floating in the water, which was really sad to see in what could be a magical spot. It was pretty overwhelming because it was crowded. The hike up can be intense, but it’s doable if you pace yourself. At the top, there’s a guy selling fruit and water — I highly recommend grabbing something from him. If you’re not up for the hike, I noticed there’s a boat service that picks up and drops off visitors. Overall, it is a beautiful location, but to be honest, I’m not sure I’d recommend it simply because of how busy and poorly treated it is. Definitely bring water shoes — the rocks in the water are slippery.

In my opinion one of the best places to stop to view the gorge, fantastic views from here, there is room for a small number of vehicles to park. As you look out to the left you can see a church built into the rocks in the distance, and if you look down to the right you can see the remains of a car which must have crashed many years ago.

(Translated by Google) Good parking lot and picnic area to view the gorge. Unfortunately the benches and tables were destroyed. However, you can sit on the stone wall, enjoy the gorge and watch the circling birds of prey. Right next to the road and therefore a lot of traffic. (Original) Guter Parkplatz und Picknickplatz um die Schlucht anzuschauen. Leider wurden die Bänke und Tische zerstört. Man kann sich jedoch auf die Steinmauer setzen, die Schlucht geniessen und den kreisenden Greifvögeln zuschauen. Direkt neben der Strasse und daher viel Verkehr.

(Translated by Google) Impressive gorge, worth stopping briefly for a photo. (Original) Beeindruckende Schlucht, lohnt sich kurz für ein Foto anzuhalten.

I give it five stars because of the beautiful unique views. It’s good for snorkeling. You don’t have to jump off the cliff into the water like some of the reviews say. There are some places where there is a small distance between the rocks that the sunbeds are on but there are ladders to easily access the water. There is also a small sandy part where you can just walk in. There’s a cool pathway on top of the rocks and you get great panoramic views from a staircase that goes up the cliff behind the beach area. I didn’t stay at the beach… I just went for the views and I went early so it was not crowded. Parking gets dicey early so plan for that.

Stunning scenery and perfect for free diving and snorkeling. There are sunken statues to look at and the local dive club to observe while free diving. Can cross to the other side of the bay also and climb the super sharp rocks for views. Bring swim shoes, can rent mask and fins from dive club, there is a little snack bar for drinks and there are sun loungers to rent also. We were here mid October and the water was warm enough to swim in. Nice calm bay.

Spectacular Place to visit. I came across it by accident using google maps. We came in early May so the water was a bit icy for my Florida blood. You have to walk through the resort to access the water. 20€ will get you 2 lounge chairs and an umbrella. Well worth it. It’s a short walk to the resorts pirate bar to grab a cool beer or sandwich.

Kalypso beach used to be stunning but it feels used now. The water was s amazing the view is incredible BUT the loungers are the worst we have used in the whole of Crete. It would be amazing if they got great loungers, played music and had an awesome beach bar. Instead you have to pay €20 for Astro turf covered wooden box loungers that do not recline. And a beach bar that opens after 12. My advise if you really want to go because it is lovely when not full of people - go early and leave early!

Very beautiful area with clear waters and lots of fishes, perfect for snorkeling and cliff jumping. Definitely worth visiting.

20€ for 2 beds is overpriced compared to what you pay at other beaches. Cute place and worth to check out once. However, that is more than enough:)

A must visit when in Crete. We went there with rented cars from the middle of the island, where our villa was located. It was a one hour drive full of turns and ups and downs. We were tired from the long ride when we arrived at the beach, but the moment we saw the crystal clear water and the mesmerizing cliffs - excitement replaced the tiredness. The beach has nice shade from the rocks. We brought our own towels and layed comfortably on the rock. After we applied some sun screen we jumped in the water. All of us had swimming goggles and started exploring around the cliffs. We found cliffs for jumping as well. The water is very salty and allows you to swim easily without getting tired.

Love this beach! Blue water, nice sand, great restaurants around.

The little ones close to it are better (better water and so on) but the beach is i credibly empty (august), a lot of rentable seats, restourants under the trees, we found very easily the parking lots at 10 am.

Beautiful beach, worth your time! There are a few tavernas behind the beach and they have incredible food. You can rent an umbrella and two sun-beds for circa 7€. Visited during low season (end of october) but the water was still amazing to swim in. You should definitely pay this place a visit and it is definitely worth it.

great beach , big enough to feel spacious. The food is decent, fairly valued and the waiters at the restaurants very eager to serve and very polite. Nice and scenic route. Enough space to park. Not to be missed!!

The beach is crystal clear and we went to two of the restaurants there, Akti Damnoni and Taverna Violakis 1967. Both Tavernas have delicious foods and lovely staff. There is also an Italian Cafe at the top but we ran out of time. There is a Crete Market before the beach

Lovely beach. Worth going to the far end near the rocks. Sun beds €10 and beach service from the little bar at the top of some steps. Water so clear for snorkelling and lots of fish. Take care at that end getting in the water as there is a large area of rock under the water. It’s no problem just be aware it’s there! Plenary of car parking when we got there at 12 ish.

Nice and quiet beach. Good umbrellas and beach beds. Good taverna and the possibility to take the hop on boot to Preveli. Great.

I really liked the beach, as well as the bar. The food was delicious. However, i didn't like the fact that there were naked people on the beach, so we couldn't stay with the kids. We should have moved to another beach because of the nudists, whose place is not on this beach...

This is a beautiful beach with a wonderful atmosphere. We used to come back here every year. It's a shame that commercialism, in a broader sense, is pushing nudists away, as they were once a key part of this community. ​I hope the beach will one day return to its traditions and that those wonderful people we met here every year will come back, and that commercialism and the pursuit of money will give way in this place.

This small special beach not far from Damnoni Beach, nestled between some huge rock formations is a Summertime favorite - beautiful clear blue waters with small pebbles. It's well maintained with available sun loungers & umbrellas (10e) and a small snack bar at the top with seating. This is a nudist beach although not signposted anywhere - so be wary if this is not for you. Easy parking.

Beautifull little beach also for nudist. Wonderfull surroundings and beach bar. Just take care a little bit more of cleanliness.

This not that big beach is sourrounded by rocks and crystal-clear seawater. Since I booked a hotel in the vicinity of this beach for a few days, I spent some time there. The beach was well-frequented during weekdays, but unfortunately very crowded on the weekend. It’s a fine pebble beach and a set of two sunbeds and a sunshade costed 10€ per day during the time I was there. One reason why I spent a few days there is, that it seems to be a clothing-optional beach. However, I don't know if this is an official thing or simply just tolerated, as I couldn’t see any corresponding signs. As I was there for the first time, I noticed that a some other guests were naked and so I decided to spend most of the time in my birthday suit as well to get a seamless tan. I would have liked to have spent more time there! And it was a real pleasure to take a bath in such a clear and clean water!

Beautiful water, nice beach (perfect combo between pebble and sand), nice little spot. However, WATCH OUT: it’s mainly a nudist beach. No problem to wear your swimwear of course, but most people are naked.

The water was perfect, goes deep with a few steps in. For adults who want to enjoy peaceful time at the beach it's a really good choice. At the end of the day there was enough space, free sunbeds too. Watching the sunset together there was great ~

Stunning beach! We absolutely love this beach, but you need a car to get here. It’s quiet and really lovely. It’s served, and a set of beach beds with umbrella will set you back €15 for the day. There is a nice taverna and toilets. My daughter was stung by a jellyfish, and the taverna gave her a sting stick to help ease the sting. Really lovely beach for snorkeling.

One of the best beaches I've visisted. We went in october, so it wasn't crowded. There is a small cantina on the beach. Good for snorkeling as well.

A truly wonderful beach, with incredible waters and surroundings! There is a canteen there as well and a café with a wide parking. Although the place is magical, there is a guy with sunbathing sets who is really rude.

Love it, stunning beach with lot of underwater life. And great cliffs to jump from. The shade set it 15€

Absolutely loved Skinaria Beach! It's the perfect spot if you (like me) prefer smaller, more natural beaches over long sandy ones. It's easy to get to by car but feels wonderfully secluded, surrounded by rocky cliffs that keep the water calm. The water itself is crystal clear - the coarse sand means it stays perfectly clean. It's fantastic for snorkeling around the cliffs and rocks. To top it off, around half of the beach is organised so you can get comfy beds with drink/snack service, and there's a great taverna on the beach for hot food. My favourite beach of our trip.

Visited this gem at the end of October, they were 2 sets of bed available! Blue striped ones for 10 euros each set and padded ones for 20 euros each sets! There is a snack bar near by and a Taverna (2 to 3 minutes walk) near this beach! The water is very clear, so bring ur Snorkeling gears! In late October I parked easily in the parking close to the beach! The road leading to this beach can be a tricky to new drivers, so be prepared! I will definitely visiti this place again

Small idyllic bay framed by rocks. Pristine water. It is recommended to collect your own rubbish after visiting.

When we arrived there were not many people on the beach since there was a red flag which did not allow swimming but the waves were not big nor strong and it was perfect for a swim. The beach sand is perfect and the water was a little bit colder than usual since the day before there was a strong wind. Beach bar wine was 25e per bottle which was okay. It was a little bit windy. Water was clear not cloudy nor muddy. We had a great time.

A truly cozy gem at the very end of Plakias beach. The best staff ever, my respect! )

Plakias beach is at the bay head, long, curved, sandy, and partially protected by the mountainous cliffs that embrace it. The beach is also partially shaded by tamarisk trees (salt cedars, almariki in Greek). Shaded sitting areas with beach chairs, and umbrellas on the beach itself) make this a very comfortable place for all. Nearby (across the busy coastal road) are a plethora of cafes and tavernas offering fresh fish (grilled) and Greek salads. Enjoy...

It‘s a beach club so you expect slightly higher prices for drinks than in the restaurants nearby. But absolutely avoid ordering any of the food there.

Directly on the best side of plakias Beach we found the Beach House. What really surprised us is finding a supreme quality place: we expected an usual beach bar, we found espresso and cappuccino like the best bar in Milan, and cocktails made by a real barman. Aperol Spritz 10 e lode!

Large beach with decent sand. Sun beds are free if you are a customer of one of the many beach side taverna, otherwise they are 5 Euro for the day. Tends to get very windy in the evening but dies down at night.

Overall a good beach, though not so good for snorkelling due to the big waves stirring up the sediment under the water! There's lots of disabled access, including a changing room and a ramp into the sea. If you bring an inflatable, make sure to hold on to it as I've seen 2 get carried off by the waves so far, with people hopelessly swimming to get it back!

This lovely family run restaurant offers not only delicious, authentic Cretan food but also warm hospitality that makes you feel right at home. The staff were incredibly kind and attentive, and every dish we tried was fresh and full of flavor. To top it all off, the view is absolutely stunning the perfect setting for a relaxing meal. Highly recommended!

The owner is a very hospitable man. The food is very tasty, I recommend the mixed grill platter for 2 people

Went there today craving gyros which was not on the menu. We were met by a lovely man who described every dish with so much heart and passion that we decided to give it a go. Hand on heart it was the best dish we've had during our stay in Crete 🩷. We ate red chicken with chips- everything was seasoned beautifully, full of flavour and cooked to perfection. I would highly recommend if you want fresh, honest, delicious food. Thank you for having us and made us feel so much welcome 🥰

This family run taverna had delicious chicken souvlaki. The view of the sea was incredible and the kids loved the garlic bread with cheese on top - we had to order another one after it disappeared so quickly! Sausages and chicken filet were also great. Nice house wine seals the deal.

Such a lovely little spot! Cozy atmosphere and a warm, welcoming vibe. The food was absolutely delicious – the chicken was tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Prices are very fair, making it great value for money. A place you instantly feel comfortable in and definitely one worth coming back to!

Nice tavern that takes advantage of its proximity to the Preveli beach car park and its monasteries. However, it is also rather touristy, with courteous but sometimes uncaring service. Lamb Tsigariasto below the usual Cretan quality, and tomato salad so-so, all at a price that is not exactly cheap. At the end, I was offered raki but no dessert.

Beautiful place with a stunning view! The service is incredibly friendly, and everything is very clean and well-maintained. It’s the perfect spot to relax and recharge either before the hike down or after the climb up. Highly recommended!

Gefyra Taverna Cafe is a pleasant stop for anyone passing through the area. The location is convenient, especially if you’re exploring nearby sights or just looking for a break during your journey. The food was decent and satisfying – nothing overly fancy, but well-prepared and flavorful enough to enjoy. The atmosphere is relaxed, and the staff were friendly and helpful, which added to the overall experience. It’s a good spot to sit down, rest for a while, and enjoy a traditional Greek meal. I’d definitely recommend it to fellow travelers looking for a reliable, friendly place with fair prices and a nice local touch.

The location is really nice and the food is great! We came at 16:00/ 4PM so it wasn’t crowded and the garden is very nice. You have shadow from the trees and it’s quiet, you can hear the river flowing, really nice scenery. We received from the house some grapes with rakiu.

We came on a very windy day, but it wasn't blowing that strongly there. The waitress was friendly and had a very good sense of humour. The service was fast, and the food was tasty. I tried a swordfish fillet and I liked it.

Absolutely delicious! The food was full of flavor, the service was excellent, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. We especially loved the pasta and pizza — both were outstanding. Highly recommended, 10/10!

highly recommend this place! the atmosphere was very cozy, staff very friendly, we got our food quickly and it was delicious too! when we were finished with our food they even brought us some shots with little pie bites:)

Great spot after a full day of sun at Prevelli Beach! The tatziki and chicken souvlaki was very tasty!! Beautiful place to sit, shaded area with lovely greenery!

We have been coming to this taverna for a few years now. Food this time was better than last year and service was nice and friendly. Lovely setting by the river.