Three of Crete’s best Blue Flag beaches

Three stunning Cretan beaches – The best of a blue-flag crop!

Greece’s economy might be in a dire state but it hasn’t led to the nation letting the standard of its beaches falter in any way. In fact, Greece ranks one of the highest in beach cleanliness and safety, with hundreds of beaches across Greece mainland and its islands having been deemed worthy of flying a Blue Flag.

It has been announced this year that on the island of Crete alone has a total of 97 Blue Flag beaches. Greece’s biggest island is well-known for its stunning natural beauty and long sandy beaches, of which many are brimming with top-quality water sport facilities as well as many environmental-based activities.

If you are lucky enough to be visiting the truly picturesque island of Crete this summer then take a look at three of Crete’s best Blue Flag beaches.

Frangokastello Beach

With a huge fortress dominating part of Frangokastello Beach’s landscape it is no wonder this beach attracts a lot of visitors to its soft sand and pure water each year.

This long sandy beach on the south coast of Crete seems to have exceptionally lucent water lapping upon its shores and, given its almost unrivalled translucence, remains a popular spot for snorkelers

With sands this soft and water this clear, it is hardly surprising that Frangokastello has been awarded with an EU Blue Flag.

Preveli Beach

South from Rethymno on Crete’s South coast lies the beach of Preveli, which can be found by following a steep path from the Moni Preveli Monastery.

This stunning beach is fringed by palm trees and exudes an atmosphere of exclusiveness and class. Although being a popular spot for boat trips, it is advisable to make the most of this spectacular Cretan beach out of season.

Elafonisi Beach

Situated on the extreme south-western corner of Crete, the “tropical lagoon-esque” beach of Elafonisi can be found. What has been described as being “pinkish sand”, this stunning beach is perfect for children (and adults) to wade out and explore the rocky inlets, just remember to take your bucket!

This beautiful beach has been awarded with a Blue Flag for its cleanliness and safety and, despite being quite a drive to get to, is extremely popular and can get very busy in the summer.