Rethymnon Beach 🏖 - Crete, Greece

Rethymnon beach is one of the best beaches in Crete – an 8km long stretch of golden sand and shallow, warm azure waters perfect for swimming and lounging under the Mediterranean sun. As a local, I highly recommend travelers spend at least a few days enjoying this beautiful sandy escape.

Rethymnon beach

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What to Do

Rethymnon beach has something for everyone:

Relaxation: With plenty of free or affordable sunbeds and parasols available to rent, the beach is ideal for sunbathing, reading a book, and simply unwinding. The calm, clear waters are also perfect for leisurely swimming.
Water sports: There are multiple water sport centers along the beach offering jet skis, banana boating, parasailing and more for those seeking an adrenaline rush.
Beach bars: Cool off with a cold drink or snack at one of the many lively beach bars and cafés lining the shore. My favorite is Gorgona, where the food, drinks and ocean views are exceptional.
Scenic walks: The 8km coastline is great for long walks, jogs or cycles along the waterfront promenade, especially at sunrise and sunset. There are also scenic trails leading to breathtaking viewpoints of the sea nearby.

Where to Eat

You won’t go hungry in Rethymnon, with plenty of restaurants to choose from along the beach strip. Here are some standouts:

Gorgona

Gorgona is always bustling thanks to its delicious Greek cuisine, friendly staff and prime seaside location. Menu highlights include fresh seafood, Greek salads, grilled meats and more. With amazing ocean views and charming ambiance, it’s easy to see why this family-run tavern is a local favorite.

Gorgona

Thalassa Restaurant & Cocktails

Thalassa’s beautiful waterfront setting complements its fantastic Greek and Mediterranean menu. Highlights include tender grilled octopus, seafood pasta and pizza, and traditional dishes like moussaka and souvlaki. With friendly, multilingual staff and a lively atmosphere, Thalassa is fun for the whole family.

Thalassa Restaurant & Cocktails

Where to Stay

Rethymnon offers many excellent hotels near the beach. Below are top-rated options:

Bio Beach Boutique Hotel

This chic, adults-only boutique hotel sits right on the beach. All rooms feature sea views and sleek, modern décor. Guests praise the exceptional service, views and central location.

Kriti Beach Hotel

Kriti Beach offers airy rooms with balconies, an awarded beach area out front exclusively for guests, plus onsite dining. Reviewers rave about the location, cleanliness, value and hospitality.

BIO Suites Hotel Rethymnon

These lovely self-catering suites sit a 5 minute walk from Rethymnon beach. Travelers compliment the studios’ stylish design, proximity to the beach and old town, tasty breakfasts and helpful staff.

Parking

Parking can be tricky along the busy beachfront strip, but there are affordable lots in the area. My go-to is Holiday Parking located near the center of town, with cheap hourly and daily rates. Just leave your keys so attendants can shuffle cars around as needed. It’s easy walking distance to all the attractions.