5 Stunning Cretan Beaches You Can Only Reach by Boat
Crete is full of beautiful beaches—but let’s be honest, some of the most breathtaking ones are far from the crowds and completely off the road map. These aren’t the kind of places you stumble upon with a rental car. You’ll need to take to the sea.
Whether you’re into sailing, prefer a relaxed boat tour, or are ready to charter a yacht and cruise the Cretan coast in style, these five beaches are absolutely worth the effort. They’re peaceful, unspoiled, and only accessible by boat—which is part of what makes them so special.
1. Glyka Nera Beach (Sweet Water Beach)
📍 Between Loutro and Chora Sfakion#
Tucked beneath towering cliffs, Glyka Nera is a quiet pebble beach where freshwater springs bubble up right under your feet—hence the name “Sweet Water.” There’s no road, no crowds, and no noise. Just clear blue water and the sound of waves.
How to visit:
You can rent a small boat from Chora Sfakion or hop on a local water taxi. If you’re on a chartered sailing yacht, it makes a fantastic stop for a swim and a picnic on shore.
2. Domata Beach
📍 West of Agia Roumeli
This one’s a real gem. Domata is wild, remote, and totally untouched. It’s surrounded by dramatic rock formations, and the beach itself has smooth stones layered like a mosaic.
The catch? There’s no way to hike here, and no roads in sight. That’s why most people never make it — unless they’re lucky enough to arrive by boat or cruising yacht.
Best way to get there:
Hire a local rental boat, or add it to your route if you’re sailing along the southern coast. No facilities here, so bring what you need and leave only footprints.
3. Agios Pavlos Beach (Sfakia Region)
📍 West of Agia Roumeli
Agios Pavlos isn’t just another quiet beach—it’s home to a centuries-old stone chapel sitting right at the water’s edge. It’s peaceful, spiritual, and ridiculously scenic.
You’ll need to:
Get there by renting a boat in nearby Loutro or Chora Sfakion, or stop by during a yacht charter trip along Crete’s south coast. The crystal water here is perfect for snorkeling.
4. Hidden Coves Near Seitan Limania
📍 Akrotiri Peninsula, near Chania
Seitan Limania has become a bit of a social media star — but most people don’t realize there are several secret coves and caves nearby that can’t be seen from the road or trail. You’ll need a boat to find them, and trust us, it’s worth it.
Your options:
Rent a boat from Kalathas or Marathi and cruise along the rugged coastline, or explore by kayak if you’re adventurous. These little inlets are perfect for a private dip or a peaceful hour away from the crowds.
5. Tripiti Beach
📍 Between Paleochora and Sougia
Tripiti is a beautiful, quiet beach sitting at the mouth of a gorge — and unless you’re coming by sea, you won’t find it. No trails, no traffic, just clear water and total calm.
Getting there:
Sail in from Sougia or Paleochora with a boat rental, or include it in your yacht charter itinerary. It’s a fantastic lunch stop if you’re spending the day cruising the south coast.
🧭 How to Make It Happen
Even if you’re not an experienced sailor, these beaches are still within reach. Here’s how:
- Boat rentals: Easy to arrange from local marinas. Small boats (often no license needed) are great for exploring nearby spots.
- Organized boat trips: Perfect for visitors who want a guide and less hassle.
- Yacht charter: Want to travel in style? Chartering a sailing yacht—with or without a skipper—lets you explore the coastline at your own pace.
🌊 Final Thoughts
Crete isn’t just about what you see on land—some of its most magical places are only visible from the sea. With a rented boat, an organized cruise, or your own chartered yacht, you can discover a whole different side of the island—one that most people never get to experience.
If you’re up for an adventure (and a bit of salt water), these boat-only beaches should be at the top of your list.