Gouves Beach is a beautiful stretch of golden sand nestled along the northern coast of Crete. With its clear blue waters, scenic surroundings, and abundance of amenities, this beach offers an idyllic Mediterranean escape suited for all types of travelers.
What to Do 📋
There’s something for everyone to enjoy at Gouves Beach:
- Swimming and Sunbathing – The calm, shallow waters make swimming a pleasure. Find a spot to soak up the sun on the soft sand.
- Beach Walks – Take relaxing strolls along the coast and admire stunning sunsets over the sea.
- Snorkeling – Spot colorful fish and sea life while snorkeling along the rocky stretches of the bay. Rentals are available.
- Beach Activities – Beach volleyball, paddleboarding and more available from nearby rental centers.
You’ll also find:
- 🛍️ Shops and restaurants – Souvenir shops, mini markets, cafes, and tavernas line the beach road behind the sand.
- 🚿 Amenities – There are free public showers and toilets at intervals along the beach.
- ⛱️ Sun lounges – Available to rent for ~€5 per day. Most include a sun umbrella.
Where to Eat 🍽
Gouves has no shortage of dining options with restaurants and tavernas to suit all tastes and budgets, including:
Island Restaurant Gouves
Perched on the rocks overlooking the sea, Island Restaurant charms with its beachfront tables, sunset views, and live music performances. Enjoy generous Greek and seafood plates at reasonable prices. Signature dishes include the Greek meze platter and fish platter.
Paradise Restaurant Bar
A family-run taverna praised for its warm hospitality, great value, and authentic Greek fare like moussaka and stifado. An ideal local spot to soak up the laidback atmosphere.
Where to Stay 🏨
Accommodation overlooks the beach or sits just footsteps away. Highly rated options include:
Hara Ilios Village – Charming hotel with beautiful pool area surrounded by lush gardens. Offers clean, modern rooms plus great buffet breakfasts.
Enorme Maya Beach – Stylish adults-only hotel featuring a pool, bar, and avant garde-decorated rooms with sea views. Half board available.
John-Mary Apartments – Simple, homey apartments of various sizes located 100m from beach. Very budget-friendly rates.
Parking 🅿
Free public parking is available along the main Gouves beach road and side streets. Arrive early in peak season to secure a good spot.
Brief Info 🏖️
- 🏙️ City: Gouves
- ✨ Island: Crete
- 🇬🇷 Country: Greece
- ✈️ Fly to: Heraklion Airport – 18 km/20 min drive
- 🏖️ Ideal for: Families, couples, sunseekers
Average Temperatures
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp |
|---|---|---|
| January | 11°C | 17°C |
| February | 15°C | 17°C |
| March | 19°C | 17°C |
| April | 17°C | 17°C |
| May | 28°C | 22°C |
| June | 27°C | 25°C |
| July | 28°C | 26°C |
| August | 32°C | 27°C |
| September | 29°C | 26°C |
| October | 20°C | 23°C |
| November | 18°C | 22°C |
| December | 16°C | 19°C |
With its laidback ambience, postcard-worthy views, delicious food, and proximity to Crete’s top attractions, Gouves Beach checks all the boxes for an idyllic Mediterranean getaway. I wholeheartedly recommend adding this slice of paradise to your Crete itinerary!
