Schinaria Beach
A secluded pebble beach on Crete's south coast, famed for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant underwater life, perfect for snorkeling.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Schinaria Beach
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded pebble beach on Crete's south coast, famed for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant underwater life, perfect for snorkeling.
"Stunning beach! We absolutely love this beach, but you need a car to get here. It’s quiet and really lovely."
🚗 Drive with Caution
The road to Schinaria is narrow and winding. Take your time and be mindful of oncoming traffic.
🤿 Bring Your Snorkel Gear
This beach is fantastic for snorkeling with abundant underwater life.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crystal-Clear Turquoise Waters
Schinaria Beach
Dive into incredibly clear, deep blue waters perfect for swimming and exploring.
Vibrant Underwater Life
Schinaria Beach
Discover a rich marine ecosystem, ideal for snorkeling and observing diverse sea creatures.
Dramatic Coastal Cliffs
Schinaria Beach
Admire the rugged beauty of the coastline and enjoy cliff jumping for the adventurous.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Scenic Route
Embrace the Underwater World
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive with Caution
The road to Schinaria is narrow and winding. Take your time and be mindful of oncoming traffic.
🤿 Bring Your Snorkel Gear
This beach is fantastic for snorkeling with abundant underwater life.
☀️ Sunbeds & Umbrella
Sets typically cost €10-€25 for the day. Arrive early for the best spots.
🍽️ Enjoy the Taverna
A beachside taverna offers reasonable prices for food and drinks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive with Caution
The road to Schinaria is narrow and winding. Take your time and be mindful of oncoming traffic.
🤿 Bring Your Snorkel Gear
This beach is fantastic for snorkeling with abundant underwater life.
☀️ Sunbeds & Umbrella
Sets typically cost €10-€25 for the day. Arrive early for the best spots.
🍽️ Enjoy the Taverna
A beachside taverna offers reasonable prices for food and drinks.
🌸 Spring Wildflower Show
Visit in April for a unique display of blooming wildflowers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Schinaria Beach is lauded for its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling, and a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the convenience of the beach taverna and the scenic drive, though some note the roads can be challenging. While generally positive, occasional mentions of rude staff or jellyfish encounters are present.
"Very nice beach, it was worth the drive. You should be careful on the road though because it is narrow two ways. There is a bar restaurant on the beach with reasonable price of drinks and free toilet."
Mo Msh
"Stunning beach! We absolutely love this beach, but you need a car to get here. It’s quiet and really lovely. It’s served, and a set of beach beds with umbrella will set you back €15 for the day. There is a nice taverna and toilets. My daughter was stung by a jellyfish, and the taverna gave her a sting stick to help ease the sting. Really lovely beach for snorkeling."
Cherene Kruger
"A truly wonderful beach, with incredible waters and surroundings! There is a canteen there as well and a café with a wide parking. Although the place is magical, there is a guy with sunbathing sets who is really rude."
Athina Maniadi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Schinaria Beach is best accessed by car. The drive involves narrow, winding roads, so proceed with caution. It's located on the south coast of Crete, near Plakias.
The roads can be narrow and challenging, especially for inexperienced drivers. It's recommended to drive slowly and be aware of other vehicles.
Yes, there is a wide parking area available at the beach, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Public transport options are limited for reaching more remote beaches like Schinaria. Renting a car is the most practical way to visit.
From Rethymno, head south towards Plakias. The final stretch of road to Schinaria Beach is scenic but requires careful navigation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Schinaria Beach is a public beach and does not require an entrance fee.
Schinaria Beach is accessible at all times, as it is a natural beach. The taverna and sunbed services will have their own operating hours, typically during daylight.
Yes, sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent, usually costing between €10 to €25 for the day.
Advance booking for sunbeds is generally not mentioned. It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.
Yes, there are toilet facilities available, often associated with the beach taverna.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
Schinaria Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and especially snorkeling due to its rich marine life. You can also enjoy the stunning views and relax at the beach taverna.
Absolutely! Schinaria Beach is highly recommended for snorkeling, with clear waters and plenty of underwater life to discover.
While jellyfish can be present in the sea, one reviewer mentioned their daughter was stung and received help from the taverna, suggesting they can occur.
Yes, it's a great spot for families looking for a quieter beach experience. The clear waters are good for swimming, and the taverna provides amenities.
Schinaria Beach is characterized by fine pebbles, offering a unique texture underfoot.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a beach taverna that serves food and drinks at reasonable prices. It's a convenient spot for lunch or refreshments.
The taverna offers typical Greek dishes and refreshments. It's a great place to enjoy a meal with a view of the sea.
While specific vegetarian options aren't detailed, Greek tavernas usually offer a variety of salads, vegetable dishes, and dips that can cater to vegetarians.
Yes, the taverna offers drinks and likely snacks, making it easy to stay refreshed throughout your beach day.
Reviews suggest the prices at the taverna are reasonable, making it an affordable option for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light for stunning photos. Sunrise can also be magical, though less commonly mentioned. 
The combination of turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and the rugged coastline makes Schinaria Beach incredibly photogenic. Aerial shots are particularly impressive.
The cliffs offer elevated perspectives, and drone footage captures the beach's beauty from above.
Yes, the clear waters are excellent for underwater photography if you have the right equipment.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastline. An underwater camera or waterproof phone case is ideal for snorkeling shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the drive can be a bit challenging, the reward is a less crowded beach experience compared to more popular spots. The availability of sunbeds offers comfort for parents, and the natural beauty provides a captivating backdrop for family memories. Just be mindful of the sun and ensure everyone stays hydrated.
🐠 Snorkel Enthusiasts
Remember to bring your own snorkeling equipment, as rentals are not widely advertised. The underwater cliffs also add an element of adventure. Be prepared for the possibility of jellyfish, but don't let that deter you from experiencing the rich aquatic ecosystem.
🚗 Road Trip Adventurers
Embrace the drive, take your time, and enjoy the unfolding scenery. The destination is well worth the effort, offering a tranquil beach experience away from the usual tourist crowds. Just ensure your vehicle is comfortable with winding roads.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey to Schinaria
Having a car is almost essential for visiting Schinaria Beach, as public transport options are scarce for this remote location. The availability of a wide parking area at the beach makes the arrival process smoother once you've navigated the scenic route. Consider this drive part of your exploration of Crete's wilder side.
+1For those who appreciate a journey that complements the destination, the drive to Schinaria offers a glimpse into the rugged beauty of Crete's southern coast. It’s a reminder that some of the most rewarding places require a little extra effort to reach.
Underwater Wonders: Snorkeling at Schinaria
While specific rental services aren't highlighted, bringing your own snorkeling gear is highly recommended to make the most of this natural aquarium. The underwater cliffs also provide interesting formations and potential hiding spots for marine life, adding another layer of exploration. Be aware that jellyfish can be present, as noted by one visitor who received assistance from the beach taverna.
Whether you're an experienced snorkeler or a beginner, the accessible underwater environment at Schinaria Beach offers a rewarding experience. It's an opportunity to connect with nature and witness the beauty of Crete's marine ecosystem firsthand.
+1The Charm of Schinaria's Amenities
Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent, typically costing between €10 to €25 for the day. These provide essential shade and comfort, allowing you to fully enjoy your time by the water. While booking in advance isn't usually necessary, arriving earlier in the day is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred spot.
The presence of toilets further adds to the convenience, making Schinaria Beach a comfortable destination for a full day of relaxation and exploration. These amenities, combined with the beach's natural beauty, create a balanced experience for visitors seeking both tranquility and comfort.
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