Explore Crete island

Plakias - Crete, GREECE

Plakias is set in a spectacular bay on the South Coast of Crete island overlooking the  Libyan Sea with beautiful surrounding countryside. The first mention of Plakias was in the census of 1961 when 6 fishermen were its only permanent inhabitants, it can therefore be said to be a relatively new village or small town. The sandy beach is an unbroken line from Plakias village centre to the headland one kilometre or so away. To the right of the village past its little harbour, the beach is more stony, but ideal for those snorkellers who enjoy swimming amongst the rocks. Many tavernas and restaurants line the attractive sea front and continue inland, for that cool refreshing drink after a few hours sun worshiping.

Money can be changed in Plakias Village at all the Travel Agents. Car hire is available for those who want to explore this fabulously scenic island. There are plenty of supermarkets to cover your daily needs, also a bakery for fresh bread, a butchers, and even a fish and chip shop. There is a regular bus service to Rethymno about 30 kilometres away, which  is well worth a visit, especially on Thursdays which is market day.  There are countless shops and tavernas in Rethymno old town so you will be spoilt for choice.
Heading back to Plakias gives you a second chance to view the spectacular scenery, especially the Kurtalioti Ravine. The views across to Plakias are just breathtaking, have plenty of film in your camera.

The beach in Plakias is one long bay. In front of the village, it has a lot of pebbles, and is certainly not at it’s best. However, if you walk east you can follow the road right along the bay. Plakias beach gets better as you walk along, and there is a lot more sand. At the far end, the cliffs provide a nice area for snorkelling too.
The beach is rarely crowded, and you can always find a fairly quiet spot somewhere. There are several showers along the way, which is a nice way of getting the salt off before getting back to the serious business of sunbathing. But beware, the gentle breeze tends to make you underestimate how strong the sun is. Everything you need is available in Plakias – shops, supermarkets, plenty of places to eat and drink, and two discos. There is no bank (or hole in the wall) yet – but you can easily change money in most places. There are several travel agents – which are the places to check first if you want to do an excursion. You may well find prices a lot cheaper than those offered by your holiday company’s reps.