Preveli Beach
A unique oasis where a river meets the sea, framed by a palm forest and dramatic gorge.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Preveli Beach
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique oasis where a river meets the sea, framed by a palm forest and dramatic gorge. 
"It's worth it for the unique palm forest and river meeting the sea, despite the crowds. "
👟 Footwear for the Stairs
Wear sturdy shoes for the steep stairs. Flip-flops are manageable, but good grip is key!
🚤 Boat Alternative
If the stairs are too much, take a boat from Plakias for easier access.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Palm Forest Oasis
Along the Kourtaliotis River
A stunning palm grove creates a tropical feel where the river meets the sea. It's a unique natural wonder in Crete.
+1
River Meets the Sea
Beachfront
Experience the unique sensation of the cool river water flowing into the warm sea. A refreshing contrast for swimmers.
Kourtaliotiko Gorge Views
En route to the beach
The journey through the gorge offers dramatic scenery and a sense of adventure before reaching the beach.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
The Steep Descent
Crowd Control Strategies
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Footwear for the Stairs
Wear sturdy shoes for the steep stairs. Flip-flops are manageable, but good grip is key!
🚤 Boat Alternative
If the stairs are too much, take a boat from Plakias for easier access.
💧 River Water is Cold!
The river water is refreshingly cold, a stark contrast to the sea.
☀️ Bring Sun Protection
The beach can be windy with blowing sand. Consider a beach tent or umbrella.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Footwear for the Stairs
Wear sturdy shoes for the steep stairs. Flip-flops are manageable, but good grip is key!
🚤 Boat Alternative
If the stairs are too much, take a boat from Plakias for easier access.
💧 River Water is Cold!
The river water is refreshingly cold, a stark contrast to the sea.
☀️ Bring Sun Protection
The beach can be windy with blowing sand. Consider a beach tent or umbrella.
💰 Parking Fee
Parking costs around €3, which is quite reasonable.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Preveli Beach is undeniably beautiful with its unique palm forest and river meeting the sea, but visitors often find it overcrowded, especially with tour boat arrivals. The steep stairs for access can be challenging, and while there's a cafe, prices are typical for a tourist spot. Despite the crowds, many still find the scenery spectacular.
"We visited this place yesterday, and it turned out to be a reminder not to rely too much on tourist guides, suggestions, or popular tips. The beach itself is, of course, beautiful, but it was so crowded and chaotic that it really took away from the experience.
The parking lot is located a few hundred meters above the beach, and to get there you need to go down very steep stairs. One definitely has to be careful, especially for elderly visitors or those with small children. I actually witnessed a little boy falling and scraping his knees badly on the way down.
On site, there is a bar, some chairs, and a toilet. The scenery is undeniably stunning – the rock formations, including the famous heart-shaped rock, are impressive. However, the sheer number of people, along with the constant arrival of boats unloading tourists, completely robs the place of its natural charm. There is no harmony, no energy, no peace.
Despite the undeniable beauty, the river mouth is simply overcrowded with visitors. After about two hours we left, climbing back up the steep path to the parking lot (currently €3). Afterwards, we found another beach just 7 minutes away, where we were completely alone – and as the locals say, everyone can find their own beach here."
Mateusz Dwornikowski
"Gorgeous small beach with lovely tavern and access to the palm forest.
Didn’t find it ‘overcrowded’ like all the moaning reviews said - and we went on a busy Sunday.
The river water is naturally murky as it’s a river but wasn’t unclean.
Tavern/cafe charges €3 per soft drink can which is quite normal for a tourist trap. Cafe has toilets and a changing room too.
The walk back up to the closest parking is incredibly challenging and not advised with babies or if unfit. There’s a boat that’s advised instead.
Parking was very cheap - only €3!
Because of where it is, it’s a very windy beach and the sand can blow up into your eyes and face. Because of this it’s best to either set up camp in the trees (this was popular) or to bring shelter such as a beach tent. The sand can also be quite hot so both suitable walking footwear for the walk and sandles is advised.
Don’t regret going and the views from the walk up and down are beautiful!"
Jesse H
"Just no. That’s what comes to mind when I think about this beach. Overhyped, overcrowded, too much effort to reach and too little reward once you get there.
The famous palm grove isn’t physically blocked off, but there are signs saying you can’t enter because of fire hazard. Of course, people ignore them and walk up the river from its mouth to snap photos of the palms. The water here is also colder than on most southern beaches, which doesn’t exactly make it inviting.
Getting there is another issue. It’s a solid 15-minute walk each way, with the return being steep uphill. I’m a hiker, and even for me it was effort — I timed it. Expect uneven rocky stairs and a frustrating climb back if you’re not steady on your feet.
If you’re absolutely set on visiting, skip the hike and use the boat service from Plakias. Otherwise, there are so many better options for your day. Souda Beach in the south, for example, is a far more enjoyable choice."
Ira Hoyer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Driving to Preveli Beach involves heading south from Rethymno. The main parking area is located a few hundred meters above the beach. Follow signs for Preveli Beach. The drive itself offers scenic views, especially as you approach the Kourtaliotiko Gorge. +1
The most common route is via the road south of Rethymno, leading towards Plakias. You'll then turn off towards Preveli Beach. The road winds through impressive landscapes, giving you a taste of the Kourtaliotiko Gorge.
Public transport options to Preveli Beach are limited. While buses may go to nearby villages like Plakias, you'll likely need to arrange a taxi or walk the remaining distance. Self-driving or joining an organized excursion are more common.
Yes, you can take a boat to Preveli Beach, often from the nearby village of Plakias. This is a popular alternative for those who wish to avoid the steep walk down.
The walk involves descending a significant number of steep stairs. It takes about 15-20 minutes and can be challenging, especially on the return trip uphill.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no entrance tickets required for Preveli Beach itself. However, there is a parking fee of approximately €3 for vehicles at the designated parking lot.
Preveli Beach is a natural attraction and is accessible at all times. However, facilities like the cafe and toilets will have operating hours, typically during daylight.
The palm forest is part of the natural landscape and does not have a separate entry fee. However, signs may indicate restrictions due to fire hazards, though visitors often still access it.
While the beach is generally open, be mindful of signs regarding fire hazards in the palm forest. The steep stairs require caution, and it's not recommended for those with significant mobility issues or very young children without careful supervision.
Yes, many organized excursions visit Preveli Beach, often combined with other attractions. This can be a convenient way to visit if you prefer not to drive or navigate the access yourself.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
There is a cafe/tavern on-site offering drinks and snacks, as well as toilets and changing rooms. Sunbeds and umbrellas are also available for rent.
Preveli Beach is primarily a pebble beach, with some sand. The riverbed area is also composed of pebbles.
Yes, you can swim in the river where it meets the sea. The river water is significantly colder than the sea, offering a unique and refreshing experience.
Snorkeling at Preveli Beach is generally not considered a highlight. The water clarity can be affected by the river, and the main draw is the unique landscape rather than underwater marine life.
The heart-shaped rock is a natural rock formation visible from the beach, adding to the picturesque scenery. It's a popular spot for photos.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a tavern/cafe located at the beach that serves drinks and light snacks. Prices can be typical for a tourist spot.
Prices at the on-site cafe are generally higher, as is common for beachside establishments in popular tourist areas. Expect to pay a premium for drinks and snacks.
Bringing your own food and drinks is generally permitted, which can be a good way to save money, especially if you plan to spend a significant amount of time there.
Yes, there is a bar as part of the tavern/cafe facility, offering various beverages.
The cafe typically offers refreshments like soft drinks, coffee, and some light snacks. It's more of a place to grab a drink and a quick bite rather than a full meal.
📸 📸 Photography
The palm forest, the river mouth where it meets the sea, and the heart-shaped rock are prime photo opportunities. The views from the top of the stairs are also spectacular.
The main challenge can be the crowds, which can make it hard to get unobstructed shots. The steep stairs can also be tricky to navigate with camera gear.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric glow. It also helps avoid the peak crowds.
Yes, the palm trees are a major attraction. While there are signs about not entering certain areas due to fire hazards, visitors often still photograph them from accessible points.
Drone regulations can vary and are often subject to local restrictions. It's advisable to check current rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Once at the beach, the shallow river area can be fun for kids to splash in, but the water is quite cold. The sand can also get hot, so appropriate footwear is recommended. Consider bringing a beach tent for shade, as sunbeds can be expensive. While the natural beauty is appealing, the crowds and the challenging access might make other beaches more family-friendly if ease of access is a top priority.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Adventurers
The walk through the Kourtaliotiko Gorge on the way to the beach is also a scenic part of the journey, offering dramatic views. +1If you're looking for a more extensive hike, consider exploring the Kourtaliotiko Gorge itself. Some visitors have inquired about self-guided hikes through the gorge to Preveli, which is feasible with offline maps and careful planning.
📸 Photographers
+1To capture the best images, aim for the 'golden hours' – early morning or late afternoon – when the light is soft and atmospheric. This also helps avoid the crowds that can clutter your frame.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Accessing Preveli Beach: The Hike vs. The Boat
On the return journey, the uphill climb can be particularly strenuous. For a more comfortable experience, consider taking a boat from the nearby village of Plakias. This option bypasses the steep stairs entirely and offers a different perspective of the coastline. While it comes with an additional cost, many find it a worthwhile trade-off for convenience and ease of access.
Regardless of your chosen method, the journey to Preveli Beach is an integral part of the experience, offering dramatic views of the Kourtaliotiko Gorge and the surrounding landscape. Planning your access in advance will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable visit.
The Unique Ecosystem of Preveli
+1The Theophrastus palm (Phoenix theophrasti) is native to Crete and is a significant feature of the Preveli palm forest, which is one of the largest in Greece. Visitors can walk along the riverbank, often wading through the cool, shallow water, to explore the dense palm groves. The contrast between the verdant palms, the clear turquoise sea, and the rugged surrounding cliffs is visually striking.
+1While the natural beauty is undeniable, it's important to be mindful of the environment. Signs often remind visitors to avoid disturbing the flora and fauna. The river water, though refreshing, is noticeably colder than the sea, offering a unique swimming experience for those brave enough to take a dip.
Navigating Crowds and Finding Serenity
To experience Preveli with fewer people, strategizing your visit is key. Arriving early in the morning, shortly after sunrise, is often the best way to have the beach largely to yourself. This allows for peaceful exploration of the palm forest and a more tranquil swim. Alternatively, visiting in the late afternoon, as day-trippers begin to depart, can also offer a more relaxed atmosphere.
Some visitors have found that even on busy days, the experience can be managed by setting up camp within the shade of the palm trees, which offers a sense of personal space. If the main beach feels too overwhelming, exploring nearby, less-visited beaches can provide a more secluded experience, as some locals suggest.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit