Gournes is a beautiful sandy beach located in Heraklion, Crete, just a 10-minute drive from Heraklion International Airport. With its fine golden sand and calm, shallow waters, it is an ideal beach destination for families with children.
What to Do
- Swimming and sunbathing 🌞 – The beach has organized areas with sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, as well as free areas for those who want to relax on the sand. The calm, shallow waters make swimming a pleasure, especially for kids.
- Beach walks 🚶♂️🚶♀️ – Take relaxing walks along the sandy beach and enjoy the views and ocean breeze.
- Watersports ⛵ – There are options for watersports like paddleboarding and kayaking available for rent.
- Beachside tavernas 🍽️ – There are a few nice beachside tavernas and cafes where you can enjoy a meal or drink while taking in the seaside views.
Where to Eat
Arkadi Restaurant
Family-run beachside restaurant praised for its delicious Greek cuisine, friendly service, charming ambiance, and spectacular sea views from its outdoor garden seating area. Known for excellent dishes like moussaka, grilled meats, fresh fish, and more.
Taverna-MПAP
Right on the beach, this laidback taverna impresses visitors with its fresh seafood, generous portions, and welcoming staff. Don’t miss the seafood pasta and salads bursting with just-caught ingredients. Fruit and raki offered at the end of your meal.
Where to Stay
Mitsis Rinela Resort & Spa
Chic, upscale resort offering luxurious rooms with sea views, multiple pools and restaurants, a spa, evening entertainment, and attentive service. Located right on the beach.
Ideal Hotel Apartments
Friendly, family-run apartments with kitchenettes, balconies, and a small pool. Just a 3-minute walk from the beach. Onsite restaurant uses fresh ingredients from their garden.
Elpis Studios
Charming, spotless studios with balconies, run by a wonderfully hospitable family. Lively first-floor bar area to relax in. Beach just a couple minutes away.
Parking
There is free public parking along the main road by the beach. Gets busier in peak season. Additional paid parking available at hotels and tavernas nearby.
Brief Info
- 🏙️ City: Heraklion
- ✨ Island: Crete
- 🇬🇷 Country: Greece
- ✈️ Fly to: Heraklion Airport – 15 mins by car (10 km)
- 🏖️ Ideal for: families, couples, relaxers
Average Temperatures
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp |
|---|---|---|
| Jan | 13°C | 16°C |
| Feb | 13°C | 16°C |
| Mar | 17°C | 16°C |
| Apr | 18°C | 17°C |
| May | 23°C | 22°C |
| Jun | 28°C | 23°C |
| Jul | 28°C | 26°C |
| Aug | 32°C | 27°C |
| Sep | 29°C | 27°C |
| Oct | 22°C | 24°C |
| Nov | 19°C | 22°C |
| Dec | 15°C | 19°C |
