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Rethymno Beach

4.5
·3k reviews·Ρέθυμνο, Greece

A long, golden sandy beach with clear waters, backed by a lively promenade offering cafes, shops, and stunning sunset views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Enjoy calm waters and fewer crowds.

CrowdLow
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пляж Ретимно

Rethymno Beach

Best Time

Summer mornings

Enjoy calm waters and fewer crowds.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A long, golden sandy beach with clear waters, backed by a lively promenade offering cafes, shops, and stunning sunset views.

4.5
(3k reviews)

"A perfect mix of relaxation, local vibe, and convenience – definitely worth spending a day (or more!) here."

Vertical photo
TIP

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

The sand gets very hot! Bring water shoes or sandals to protect your feet. Pack plenty of sunscreen!

💰 Sunbed Prices Vary

Sunbeds can range from €15-€20 for two. Look for free areas or compare prices before settling.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Golden Sandy Shoreline

Golden Sandy Shoreline

Miles of soft, golden sand perfect for relaxing, walking, or swimming in clear, shallow waters.

Vibrant Promenade

Vibrant Promenade

Lined with cafes, tavernas, and shops, offering a lively atmosphere and convenient amenities.

Sunset Views

Sunset Views

Experience breathtaking sunsets over the sea, with the lights of Rethymnon town adding to the magic.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Heat

Rethymno Beach can get busy, especially during peak season. Aim for early mornings or late afternoons to enjoy the golden sand and clear waters with fewer people. The sun can be intense, so pack sunscreen and consider bringing water shoes for comfort on the hot sand.

Beach Access & Amenities

While many areas offer free access, renting sunbeds and umbrellas can add up, with prices varying. The promenade behind the beach is lined with cafes and tavernas, offering convenient food and drink options. Check local listings for water sports availability.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Enjoy calm waters and fewer crowds.
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for stunning photos.
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, beautiful lights.
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The reason, why y should visit Crete this summer #crete #secretbeach
@nastia_gr
267.7K likes • 1.5M views

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

The sand gets very hot! Bring water shoes or sandals to protect your feet. Pack plenty of sunscreen! Reddit

💰 Sunbed Prices Vary

Sunbeds can range from €15-€20 for two. Look for free areas or compare prices before settling. Reddit

These are 6 beaches with some of the most beautiful, clearest waters in Crete! ☀️🌊 How many have you visited? #crete #creteisland #cretebeaches #cretanlandscape #cretanbeaches #crearwater #crystalclearwater #pinksandbeach #beachdays #bestbeaches #playa #praia #allincrete #travelguide
@allincrete
117K likes • 2.1M views
📍Ammoudaki Beach in Rethymno download our free app 'creteunlocked' to discover all the best spots in Crete 🇬🇷 #crete #greekislands #greece #creteunlocked #kreta #creteisland #island #islandlife #greekisland #beaches #greecestagram #greecetravel #travel #travelgram #chania #destination #vacation #travelguide #creteguide #itinerary
creteunlocked
11.6K likes • 186K views

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Promenade

Enjoy the lively atmosphere, grab a coffee, or find a cozy taverna for a meal. Instagram

📸 Capture the Sunset

The evenings offer beautiful light and views of the town and harbor. Instagram

Windy at the Beach today ☀️🇬🇷 #dream_of_crete #crete #kreta #rethymno #creteisland #travelcrete #travelphotography #greece #hellas #creteisland #greekstyle #travelgram #ilovecrete #loverethymno #beach #windy #waves Photo: @dream_of_crete
dream_of_crete
628 likes • 8.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

☀️ Sun Protection is Key

The sand gets very hot! Bring water shoes or sandals to protect your feet. Pack plenty of sunscreen! Reddit

💰 Sunbed Prices Vary

Sunbeds can range from €15-€20 for two. Look for free areas or compare prices before settling. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Promenade

Enjoy the lively atmosphere, grab a coffee, or find a cozy taverna for a meal. Instagram

📸 Capture the Sunset

The evenings offer beautiful light and views of the town and harbor. Instagram

🚗 Consider Nearby Gems

Some find other beaches quieter and more affordable than Rethymno Beach itself. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Rethymno Beach is praised for its long, soft golden sand and clear, shallow waters, making it great for relaxation and swimming. Its convenient location with a promenade full of cafes and shops is a major plus. However, some visitors find it very crowded and the price for sunbeds and umbrellas quite steep compared to other beaches.

"Beautiful. Clean beach. Need shoes as it’s absolutely boiling. Found a great bar. Staff were lovely. Paid €15 for two sunbeds for the day. Great location. Packed. Lovely beach memory making day."

Caroline Sankey

"Rethymnon Beach is one of the best spots we visited in Crete! 🏖️ The beach stretches for miles with soft golden sand, so there’s always space whether you want to relax, walk along the shore, or swim. The water is clear and shallow, making it great for families as well as anyone who just wants an easy swim. 🌊☀️

The promenade behind the beach is full of cafés, tavernas, and shops, so you can easily grab a coffee, ice cream, or a full Greek meal without going far. 🍦🍴 In the evenings it’s especially beautiful, with the lights of Rethymnon town and the Venetian harbour not far away.

Sunbeds and umbrellas are available, but there are also plenty of free areas if you prefer to just bring your towel. Service from the beach cafés was always friendly and quick.

A perfect mix of relaxation, local vibe, and convenience – definitely worth spending a day (or more!) here. 🇬🇷✨"

Nihad Rs

"Very nice beach in front of the town promenade. Lots of loungers and water sports company’s. The sand is nice and the sea is clear blue and warm!"

Tony Jones

What People Like

Long golden sand
Clear shallow water
Convenient promenade

What People Dislike

Very crowded
Expensive sunbeds

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Rethymno Beach is conveniently located in front of the town promenade. You can easily walk to it if you're staying in Rethymnon town. Buses from other parts of Crete, like Chania or Heraklion, will likely drop you at the Rethymno Bus Station, from where you can take a short taxi ride or a local bus to the beach. Instagram+1

Yes, Rethymno Beach is very accessible. If you're coming from other towns in Crete, buses are a common and affordable option. Once in Rethymnon, the beach is a central point, easily reachable on foot or by local transport. Instagram+1

The beach is directly in front of the Rethymnon promenade, so if you're in the town, walking is the easiest and most pleasant way to get there. Instagram

Parking can be challenging in the busy areas near the promenade. It's advisable to check for designated parking lots or be prepared to walk a bit if you're arriving by car. Instagram

Absolutely! Rethymno is situated between Chania and Heraklion, making it a common stop. Regular bus services connect these cities to Rethymnon, from where you can easily access the beach. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Rethymno Beach itself is free to enter. However, renting sunbeds and umbrellas typically incurs a fee, which can vary. Reddit

Prices for sunbeds and umbrellas can range, with some visitors reporting costs around €15-€20 for two. It's wise to inquire about the price before you settle in, as there may not always be clear signage. Reddit

Yes, while many spots have rentable loungers, there are also plenty of free areas where you can lay down your own towel and enjoy the beach. Reddit

Rethymno Beach is a public beach and is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset. The surrounding promenade and its establishments will have their own operating hours. Instagram

For general access, booking in advance is usually not necessary, especially outside of the absolute peak times. However, if you have specific requirements or are visiting during a very busy period, it might be worth checking with local vendors. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Rethymno Beach features soft, golden sand, making it comfortable for lounging and walking along the shore. Reddit

The water is generally clear, warm, and shallow, making it excellent for swimming, especially for families and those who prefer gentle waves. Reddit

Yes, you can find various water sports companies offering activities along Rethymno Beach. Reddit

You'll find plenty of amenities along the promenade, including cafes, tavernas, shops, and restrooms. Sunbeds and umbrellas are also available for rent. Reddit

Rethymno Beach can get quite crowded, especially during the summer months and in the evenings. Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon can offer a more relaxed experience. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The promenade behind Rethymno Beach is packed with options, from casual cafes for coffee and ice cream to traditional tavernas serving classic Greek meals. InstagramReddit

Yes, the Old Town of Rethymnon, adjacent to the beach, is known for its charming tavernas. For a cozy, classic Greek meal away from the main tourist crowds, consider exploring its side streets. Reddit

Absolutely! Many tavernas along the promenade and in the Old Town offer authentic Cretan cuisine. Look for dishes featuring local olive oil, herbs, and fresh produce. Reddit

While specific recommendations vary, many travelers enjoy the cozy tavernas in the Old Town. Prima Plora is mentioned as a great option worth the ride, even if it's not directly in the Old Town. Reddit

Yes, there are beach bars and cafes situated along the promenade that serve the beach area, offering convenient refreshments. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The golden hours, just after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most beautiful light for photography. The evening lights of the town also create a picturesque scene. Instagram

The long stretch of golden sand, the vibrant promenade with its cafes, and the views of Rethymnon town and the Venetian harbor are all excellent subjects. The clear blue water also makes for great shots. InstagramReddit

Drone regulations can vary. It's always best to check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in public areas and near populated beaches before flying. Instagram

While Rethymno Beach is lovely, consider exploring nearby coves like Calypso Beach for dramatic cliffside scenery and unique underwater landscapes, perfect for more adventurous shots. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the beach and promenade. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water and enhance colors. Don't forget a waterproof bag for your gear! Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Rethymno Beach is a fantastic choice for families. The clear, shallow waters provide a safe environment for children to play and swim. The soft sand is perfect for building sandcastles. The promenade offers easy access to cafes and restaurants for quick snacks or meals, and restrooms are generally available. Reddit

While renting sunbeds can be an option, consider bringing your own towels to utilize the free areas and save costs. The beach's proximity to Rethymnon town also means you're close to other family-friendly attractions and amenities should you wish to explore beyond the sand. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Rethymno Beach offers a budget-friendly experience if you plan smart. The beach itself is free to access, and you can save money by bringing your own towels and beach gear instead of renting sunbeds and umbrellas, which can be pricey. Reddit

Opt for the numerous local bakeries and smaller cafes along the promenade for more affordable food and drink options rather than the prime beachfront restaurants. Exploring the side streets of the Old Town can also lead to more reasonably priced and authentic tavernas. Reddit

couples

For couples, Rethymno Beach offers a romantic setting, especially during the golden hour sunsets. The promenade provides a lovely backdrop for evening strolls, hand-in-hand, with the lights of the town reflecting on the water. Instagram

Consider enjoying a leisurely dinner at one of the many charming tavernas in the nearby Old Town, which offers a more intimate dining experience. While the main beach can be busy, exploring some of the quieter coves nearby, like Calypso Beach, can offer a more secluded and picturesque escape for a romantic day out. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Rethymno's Coastal Charm

Rethymno Beach is more than just a stretch of sand; it's an integral part of the city's identity. Stretching for miles, this golden sandy shoreline offers a perfect blend of relaxation and activity. The clear, shallow waters make it ideal for families and casual swimmers alike. The vibrant promenade that runs alongside the beach is a hub of activity, lined with charming cafes, traditional tavernas, and shops, providing easy access to refreshments and local flavors. InstagramReddit

As the day winds down, Rethymno Beach transforms into a magical spot for sunset viewing. The sky often paints itself in hues of orange and pink, casting a warm glow over the sea and the historic Rethymnon town. The lights of the Venetian harbor twinkling in the distance add to the romantic ambiance, making it a memorable experience for couples and solo travelers. InstagramReddit

While the beach offers convenience and beauty, it's worth noting that it can get crowded, especially during peak season. Some visitors also find the prices for sunbed rentals to be on the higher side compared to other Cretan beaches. For those seeking a quieter experience, exploring the numerous other beautiful beaches Crete has to offer might be an alternative. Reddit

Navigating Rethymno's Beach Scene

Getting to Rethymno Beach is straightforward, especially if you're staying in Rethymnon town, as it's directly accessible from the promenade. For those arriving from other parts of Crete, buses are a popular and economical choice, typically dropping you at the Rethymno Bus Station. From there, a short taxi or local bus ride will bring you to the beach. Instagram+1

When it comes to amenities, Rethymno Beach offers a good range. You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas, though prices can vary and might be higher than expected, so it's wise to check rates. Many visitors opt to bring their own towels and utilize the free areas available. The promenade is well-equipped with cafes and tavernas, ensuring you're never far from a coffee, snack, or a full Greek meal. Reddit

For those who enjoy an active beach day, water sports are readily available. However, if you're looking for a more secluded or budget-friendly beach experience, Rethymno's surrounding areas boast numerous other stunning beaches, some of which are highlighted as hidden gems or offer a more tranquil escape. TikTokInstagram+1

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