Things To Do Around

Plakias

Plakias is a charming coastal village located on the southern coast of Crete, renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant atmosphere. Among the highlights are Souda Beach, known its clear waters; Fotinari Beach, Limanaki, a picturesque spot ideal for families and Paligkremnos Beach, famous for its natural beauty and unique scenery. Each of these beaches provides a perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the serene Mediterranean environment.

In addition to its natural beauty, Plakias is well-equipped with essential services. In the village you can find pharmacies, doctors, a post office and supermarkets, and many restaurants, cafés and beach bar. Plakias offers a harmonious blend of relaxation and convenience, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Beaches

Nearby Plakias you can explore more beaches and astonishing landscapes having a relaxing daytime near the sea.

Ammoudi Beach (about 4 km from Plakias) features fine sand and is partially organized, offering sun umbrellas and a small canteen. Damnoni Beach (3 km away) is well-known for its soft sand and turquoise waters and is fully organized with sunbeds, umbrellas, and restaurants. Schinaria Beach (around 7 km from Plakias) boasts clear waters ideal for snorkeling, with a mix of sand and pebbles; it is semi-organized having also a taverna.

Ammoudaki Beach (4 km from Plakias) is a smaller, charming beach with fine sand, popular among those looking for a more tranquil and natural spot; it has umbrellas and a snack bar. Korakas Beach (9 km away) in the nearby village of Rodakino features a long sandy shoreline and is partly organized, with a few tavernas nearby. Peristeres Beach, slightly further out, is more secluded with a mix of sand and pebbles, ideal for those seeking privacy; it is less organized, so visitors should come prepared.

These beaches add variety to the Plakias experience, offering a mix of organized spots with facilities and more untouched, natural settings. Of course, beaches and tavernas are not ending here. Willing to drive further you can explore more such as Preveli palm beach, Frangokastelo, Ligres beach and other.

Activities

There is plenty of choice if you want to engage in activities to relax body and mind:

Walking / Cycling / Jogging

Walkers and cyclists can follow beautiful routes through magnificent scenery and enjoy the feeling of freedom within the unlimited nature. Joggers will be happy to jog along the coast of approximate 3km even level, and even longer distances if enjoying uneven routes.

Exploration / Gastronomy
Meet the astonishing wild nature of South Crete while passing by or hiking through gorges, climbing up on mountain tops, wandering by rivers and in between palm trees. Take a culinary journey among the wide variety of traditional dishes offered by tavernas and kafenia or wine tasting in the area. The olive oil and overall the Cretan cuisine is famous around the world.

Scuba Diving / Water Sports / Boat trips
Join local diving schools and discover the majestic beauty of the underwater world. The area is also ideal for water activities such wind surfing or sea kayaking. Right beside the hotel, there is a newly built marina and from the little port in town there are daily boat trips to nearby beaches.

Horse Riding
Horse riding is offered within olive groves or along the beach under the guidance of professionals.

Bird Watching
Birdwatchers will find a rich landscape around this area to observe most of the birds of the Cretan wildlife.

Preveli Monastery

Preveli Monastery, located approximately 17 km east of Plakias, is one of the most significant religious sites on Crete. This historic monastery is perched on a hillside with panoramic views of the Libyan Sea and is divided into two main complexes: the Lower Monastery of St. John the Baptist and the Upper Monastery of St. John the Theologian. Known for its rich history, dating back to the 16th or 17th century, Preveli played an important role during various periods of resistance, including during World War II. Visitors can explore its beautiful church, museum with religious artifacts, and peaceful courtyards, while also appreciating the stunning views and spiritual atmosphere that make it a unique and memorable site.