Preveli Beach is a unique palm beach located on the south coast of Crete, known for its exotic scenery with a palm forest lined river flowing into the sea. The beach is quite secluded, accessed by parking at the top of a hill and hiking down around 500 steps.
What to Do
- 🏞️ Natural Beauty – Preveli is renowned for its lush palm forest and river that meets the sea, creating a tropical oasis feel. The surrounding mountains and rocky outcrops add to the beauty.
- 🏊️♂️ Swimming and Sunbathing – The beach has pebble sand and calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The palm trees also offer patches of natural shade.
- 🤿 Snorkeling – Snorkelers can explore the rocky coves and spot sea life. The waters have good visibility.
- 🥾 Scenic Walks – There are scenic mountain trails leading to viewpoints overlooking the exotic beach and palm grove scene below.
- 🍽️ Beach Cantina – There’s a small cantina right on Preveli Beach serving snacks, drinks and light meals until evening.
Where to Eat
Gefyra Tavern Cafe
An idyllic tavern located by a bridge over the river, surrounded by ducks and geese. They serve delicious traditional Cretan food like spinach pies and Greek salad on their breezy terrace. Friendly staff and reasonable prices.
Traditional Cafe & Rakia Kerames
An ultra authentic family-run cafe in the mountain village of Kerames, off the beaten track. Known for their warm hospitality, fantastic local dishes like vine leaf rolls, and signature raki spirit. Outdoor seating in the village square.
Where to Stay
Hapimag Resort Damnoni
A large beachfront resort with self-catering apartments, restaurants, pools, activities and a private beach area. Clean, comfortable rooms with ocean views. Friendly staff and lively atmosphere, good for families.
Schinaria Bay
Simple but pleasant apartments right on the pebble Schinaria Bay, a 10 minute drive from Preveli. Includes free sun loungers and parasols. The on-site Skinara Taverna serves fresh seafood.
Labyrinth Studios
Charming studios with a sparkling pool and lush gardens, 5 minutes drive inland from Preveli. Run by welcoming owners. Each studio has a kitchenette and balcony. Quiet location.
Parking
There is a large dirt parking area at the top of the hill above Preveli Beach. Parking costs €2 for the entire day. The scenic 500 step trail down takes 15-20 minutes. There are some rails and ropes along parts of the steep path. Bring proper footwear.
Brief Info
- 🏙️ City: Rethymno
- ✨ Island: Crete
- 🇬🇷 Country: Greece
- ✈️ Fly to: Chania Airport – 1 hour by car (38km)
- 🏖️ Ideal for: Nature lovers, couples, families
Average Temperatures
| Month | Air Temp (°C) | Water Temp (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 9 | 17 |
| February | 6 | 16 |
| March | 14 | 16 |
| April | 14 | 17 |
| May | 26 | 21 |
| June | 26 | 22 |
| July | 27 | 26 |
| August | 33 | 27 |
| September | 26 | 26 |
| October | 25 | 24 |
| November | 16 | 22 |
| December | 14 | 19 |
