Minos beach is a picturesque cove tucked between the mountains and the sparkling Aegean sea in northeastern Crete. With its turquoise waters and soft sand, it’s easy to see why travelers rave about this hidden gem.
What to Do
Minos beach has something for everyone:
- 🏞️ Relaxation & tanning – With lounge chairs and umbrellas available for rent, it’s the perfect spot to work on your tan or just bliss out listening to the waves.
- 🤿 Swimming & snorkeling – The calm, clear waters are ideal for swimming and spotting schools of fish. Rent a mask and snorkel to fully explore the cove.
- 🥗 Beach restaurants – Grab a bite at one of the excellent tavernas just steps from the sand. Seafood is the specialty, naturally.
There’s limited parking at the beach itself, but larger public lots are available along the main road for a small fee.
Where to Eat
Popular restaurants near Minos Beach include:
Krikri
This delightful family-run tavern features delicious authentic Cretan cuisine, fresh seafood, and excellent hospitality. Must-try dishes include the incredible fried zucchini, best saganaki in town, and mouthwatering fresh fish.
Piato
Piato delights diners with creative Greek fusion dishes, tuned-in service, and a relaxed yet upscale ambiance. The beetroot salad, seared tuna, and pistachio ice cream come highly recommended. Reservations are advised.
Where to Stay
Minos Beach Art Hotel
The premier luxury hotel situated right on Minos Beach, this 5-star design property features bright, modern rooms and bungalows, multiple pools, private beaches, a luxury spa, and excellent dining options.
Minos Palace Hotel & Suites
Overlooking Mirabello Bay, this luxurious beachfront hotel offers beautifully appointed rooms and suites, sensational views, attentive service, and amenities galore. Guests especially rave about the breakfast.
Victoria Hotel
Family-run Victoria Hotel is located just across the street from Minos Beach in Agios Nikolaos. Its superb location, sparkling clean rooms, and warm hospitality from owners Victoria and Stavros make it a top area choice.
Parking
Ample free public parking is available near the beach entrance, with additional private paid parking at some beach restaurants.
Brief Info
- 🏙️ City: Agios Nikolaos
- ✨ Island: Crete
- 🇬🇷 Country: Greece
- ✈️ Fly into: Heraklion Airport – 1 hour drive (65km)
- 🏖️ Best for: Couples, families
Average Temperatures
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp |
|---|---|---|
| January | 9°C | 17°C |
| February | 11°C | 17°C |
| March | 14°C | 17°C |
| April | 19°C | 18°C |
| May | 23°C | 22°C |
| June | 27°C | 24°C |
| July | 28°C | 26°C |
| August | 32°C | 27°C |
| September | 29°C | 25°C |
| October | 21°C | 24°C |
| November | 17°C | 21°C |
| December | 13°C | 19°C |
