Georgioupolis Beach
A stunning, long sandy beach on Crete where a refreshing cold spring meets the warm Aegean Sea, offering a unique swimming experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter, cooler, and perfect for strolls.
Georgioupolis Beach
Best Time
Quieter, cooler, and perfect for strolls.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning, long sandy beach on Crete where a refreshing cold spring meets the warm Aegean Sea, offering a unique swimming experience.
"It’s an incredibly beautiful bay with a natural spring flowing into the sea, offering a unique swimming sensation."
☀️ Sunbeds: Free with Purchase
Skip the hotel charges! Buy a drink or snack at a beach bar for free sunbeds. :moneybag:
🥶 Embrace the Cold Spring
The natural spring water is cold! Enjoy the unique mix with the sea, but be ready for a refreshing dip. :snowflake:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Unique Spring Meeting the Sea
Georgioupolis Beach
Experience the rare phenomenon of a cold natural spring flowing directly into the Aegean Sea. A truly unique swimming sensation!
The Iconic Church of Agios Nikolaos
End of the rocky walkway, Georgioupolis Beach
A picturesque white church perched on a rocky outcrop, accessible by a scenic walk across the water. Perfect for photos!
Miles of Golden Sand
Georgioupolis Beach
Stretch out on one of Crete's longest sandy beaches, offering ample space for relaxation and long, leisurely strolls.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Spring's Chill
Beach Access & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Sunbeds: Free with Purchase
Skip the hotel charges! Buy a drink or snack at a beach bar for free sunbeds. :moneybag:
🥶 Embrace the Cold Spring
The natural spring water is cold! Enjoy the unique mix with the sea, but be ready for a refreshing dip. :snowflake:
🚶♀️ Stroll to the Church
Walk the rocky path to the charming Agios Nikolaos church for stunning views and photos.
🚗 Easy Parking Available
Plenty of parking spots are available, conveniently located away from the main road noise.
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Sunbeds: Free with Purchase
Skip the hotel charges! Buy a drink or snack at a beach bar for free sunbeds. :moneybag:
🥶 Embrace the Cold Spring
The natural spring water is cold! Enjoy the unique mix with the sea, but be ready for a refreshing dip. :snowflake:
🚶♀️ Stroll to the Church
Walk the rocky path to the charming Agios Nikolaos church for stunning views and photos.
🚗 Easy Parking Available
Plenty of parking spots are available, conveniently located away from the main road noise.
🚲 Bike Around Georgioupolis
Rent a bike for a fun way to explore the village and its surroundings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Georgioupolis Beach for its beautiful, clean waters and unique blend of spring and sea temperatures. The long sandy expanse and the charming nearby church are highlights. Some find the spring water quite cold, which may not suit all young children, and sunbed costs can add up if not mindful of beach bar offers.
"It’s an incredibly beautiful bay. A natural spring flows into the sea here, and the spring water is very cold. The seawater is warmer than the spring, so you can swim in a mix of cold and warm water. Since the water is quite cold, I think children might not want to swim here much. However, the beach itself is really beautiful.
For us, it was a perfect experience. It was different from other beaches. We did swim, but since the water was cold, we couldn’t stay in too long. Still, I absolutely loved how clean the water was."
Özlem Ce
"Nice beach with fine sand and shallow water. There are hotels offering sun beds for 20 euro if you are not a guest there, but there are also beach bars offering sun beds for free if you order drinks or food."
Bogdan Somesan
"The beach is good 👍 good for people with kids😊
You can have 2 beds and umbrella for 10€ . Be aware, if you are not a customer you have to pay 0,50 cents
In general, in Georgioupoli you don’t have a lot of options where to swim 😁 but anyway we enjoyed it.
You are always welcome to buy an umbrella and don’t pay for the bad"
Alona Serdiuk
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Georgioupolis Beach is easily accessible by car, with plenty of parking available. It's about a 25-minute drive from Chania and Rethymno.
While public transport options might be limited directly to the beach, the village of Georgioupolis is served by local buses. From the village, it's a short walk to the beach.
Renting a car is a popular and convenient option, offering flexibility to explore.
Georgioupolis Beach is approximately a 25-minute drive from Rethymno, making it a feasible day trip.
Taxis are generally available in Georgioupolis, especially during peak season, but it's advisable to pre-book for longer journeys or specific times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Georgioupolis Beach itself does not have an entrance fee. Access to the beach is free.
Sunbeds and umbrellas can range from free (with purchase at beach bars) to around €10-€20 if rented directly from hotels. Buying your own umbrella is also an option.
Georgioupolis Beach is a public beach and is accessible at all hours. Beach bars and restaurants will have their own operating times.
It's generally not necessary to book sunbeds in advance, especially if you plan to use those offered by beach bars with a purchase.
There are no specific entry restrictions for Georgioupolis Beach. Visitors are expected to respect the natural environment and any local regulations.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
Georgioupolis Beach is unique because a cold natural spring meets the warmer sea water, creating a refreshing swimming experience. The water is also noted for its cleanliness.
Yes, the beach has fine sand and shallow waters, making it generally good for families with children. However, the cold spring water might be a consideration for some younger children.
Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and long walks along the shore. Some areas may offer water sports, and the nearby village provides opportunities for cycling.
Yes, there are numerous beach bars and local cafes offering food and drinks, providing a place to relax and enjoy Cretan hospitality.
Early mornings are ideal for a quieter experience and cooler temperatures.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic Church of Agios Nikolaos at the end of the rocky walkway is a must-capture.
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, provides beautiful lighting for capturing the beach's natural beauty.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and coastline. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water.
The juxtaposition of the cold spring water against the warmer sea, the charming church, and the vast sandy expanse are all unique subjects to photograph.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beach bars offer convenient spots for snacks and drinks, and some provide free sunbeds with purchases, which is a bonus for families. Renting a bike can also be a fun activity for older children to explore the village.
Consider bringing sand toys and floaties for extra fun on the shore. 💰 Budget Travelers
Consider staying in guesthouses or apartments slightly further from the immediate beachfront for more affordable accommodation options. Exploring the village and enjoying the natural beauty of the beach are free activities.
couples
+1 A leisurely walk along the shore or a stroll to the picturesque Church of Agios Nikolaos provides a perfect backdrop for shared moments. Enjoying a meal or drinks at a beachfront taverna with sea views adds to the romantic ambiance. The relaxed pace of Georgioupolis village also makes it ideal for couples seeking a peaceful getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Hydrology of Georgioupolis Beach
While the clean, clear water is a major draw, the coldness of the spring might be a surprise for some, particularly those with young children who prefer warmer swimming conditions. However, many find the unique temperature mix to be a refreshing and memorable aspect of their visit. The visual contrast of the clear spring water meeting the blue sea also makes for a striking natural spectacle.
This unique hydrological feature contributes to the beach's appeal, offering a different kind of seaside experience compared to typical Mediterranean beaches. It's a natural wonder that adds to the charm and distinctiveness of Georgioupolis.
Exploring Georgioupolis Village and Beyond
A must-do activity is the walk along the long, rocky pier to the picturesque Church of Agios Nikolaos, which stands proudly on a small islet. This iconic landmark provides stunning panoramic views of the coastline and is a popular spot for photos, especially during sunrise or sunset.
For those looking to explore further, Georgioupolis serves as a convenient starting point. Renting a car allows easy access to nearby attractions like Lake Kournas, Crete's largest freshwater lake, or the historical city of Chania.
+1 The surrounding areas offer opportunities for scenic drives and discovering more of Crete's natural beauty. Accommodation Options Near Georgioupolis Beach
+1Popular choices include resorts like Pilot Beach Resort and Hydramis Palace Beach Resort, which often feature amenities such as swimming pools, restaurants, and direct beach access.
When booking, consider the proximity to the beach and the specific amenities offered. Some hotels provide sunbeds for guests, while others might have arrangements with nearby beach bars. Reading recent reviews can help in choosing the best fit for your holiday needs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit