Paralia Mononaftis is a beautiful small pebble beach located near Heraklion on the Greek island of Crete. With its crystal clear waters, underwater rock formations, and abundance of marine life, it’s a top spot for snorkeling and diving.
What to Do 📋
- 🤿 Snorkeling and Diving: The calm, clear waters provide excellent visibility for snorkeling. Spot colorful fish and octopuses hiding among the rocky sections and crevices. Scuba diving is also popular with a dive school located right on the beach.
- 🧺Relaxing: Relax on a sun lounger under an umbrella, which can be rented for around €7-10 per set per day. The beach has areas with pebbles as well as smooth rocks. Wear water shoes for comfort entering the water over the rocky sections.
- 🏊♂️ Swimming: Take a dip in the beautiful clear waters. Though rocky underfoot, areas of the beach are sandy. The water is mostly shallow and calm, ideal for swimming.
- 🛍️ Beach Shops: There are several small shops renting umbrellas and lounger sets, as well as selling snacks, drinks, beach items, and souvenirs.
- 🍽️ Restaurants: Enjoy a meal of fresh local seafood or Greek cuisine at one of the excellent beach tavernas located right on Paralia Mononaftis.
Where to Stay 🏨
The adults-only Eva Mare Hotel & Suites is a lovely, peaceful oasis located only a 3-minute walk from Paralia Mononaftis beach. The hillside property features a sparkling infinity pool overlooking the sea. Chic rooms have balconies, many with gorgeous ocean views. Wake up to an included breakfast buffet of Greek yogurt, homemade pies, fresh fruit and scrambled eggs. The onsite restaurant Votsalo serves creative Mediterranean-fusion cuisine on its romantic terrace at dinner. With gracious hospitality and stylish amenities, Eva Mare is ideal for a relaxing beach getaway.
Parking 🅿
Free public parking is available in a small lot right at Paralia Mononaftis beach. Additional free parking can also be found along the main road entering the beach. There is enough space to accommodate visitors arriving by car.
Brief Info 🏖
- 🏙️ City: Heraklion
- ✨ Island: Crete
- 🇬🇷 Country: Greece
- ✈️ Fly to: Heraklion Airport – 30 minutes by car (35 km)
- 🏖️ Ideal for: Couples, families, snorkeling, scuba diving
Average Temperatures
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp |
|---|---|---|
| January | 13°C | 17°C |
| February | 15°C | 17°C |
| March | 18°C | 16°C |
| April | 18°C | 18°C |
| May | 25°C | 23°C |
| June | 29°C | 25°C |
| July | 28°C | 27°C |
| August | 32°C | 27°C |
| September | 28°C | 26°C |
| October | 21°C | 23°C |
| November | 17°C | 22°C |
| December | 16°C | 19°C |
