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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy calm waters and fewer crowds.

Rethymno Beach
Best Time
Enjoy calm waters and fewer crowds.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A long, golden sandy beach with clear waters, backed by a lively promenade offering cafes, shops, and stunning sunset views.
"A perfect mix of relaxation, local vibe, and convenience – definitely worth spending a day (or more!) here."

☀️ 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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

Sunset Views
Experience breathtaking sunsets over the sea, with the lights of Rethymnon town adding to the magic.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Beach Access & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ 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.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Promenade
Enjoy the lively atmosphere, grab a coffee, or find a cozy taverna for a meal.
📸 Capture the Sunset
The evenings offer beautiful light and views of the town and harbor.
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!
💰 Sunbed Prices Vary
Sunbeds can range from €15-€20 for two. Look for free areas or compare prices before settling.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Promenade
Enjoy the lively atmosphere, grab a coffee, or find a cozy taverna for a meal.
📸 Capture the Sunset
The evenings offer beautiful light and views of the town and harbor.
🚗 Consider Nearby Gems
Some find other beaches quieter and more affordable than Rethymno Beach itself.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Rethymno Beach itself is free to enter. However, renting sunbeds and umbrellas typically incurs a fee, which can vary.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Rethymno Beach features soft, golden sand, making it comfortable for lounging and walking along the shore.
The water is generally clear, warm, and shallow, making it excellent for swimming, especially for families and those who prefer gentle waves.
Yes, you can find various water sports companies offering activities along Rethymno Beach.
You'll find plenty of amenities along the promenade, including cafes, tavernas, shops, and restrooms. Sunbeds and umbrellas are also available for rent.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
Yes, there are beach bars and cafes situated along the promenade that serve the beach area, offering convenient refreshments.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💰 Budget Travelers
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.
couples
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Rethymno's Coastal Charm
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.
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.
Navigating Rethymno's Beach Scene
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.
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.




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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit