Plaka
Type
Mixed
Wind exposure
Moderate
Parking
No
Kids
Not ideal
Conditions right now
Updated every 30 minPlaka is a beach in eastern Crete with pebbles. The water is blue. Water depth is generally moderate. Access is by bus services, paved road and wheelchair access. It is usually moderately busy.
Getting there by bus
- Nearest bus stop: Elounda (4.5 km)
- Bus Agios Nikolaos – Heraklion: timetables and prices →
- Bus Agios Nikolaos – Ierapetra: timetables and prices →
Distances as the crow flies.
FAQ
Is Plaka a sandy beach?
Plaka is a pebbles beach with blue water, in the east region of Crete.
Is the water clean at Plaka?
Plaka holds the EU bathing-water rating "Excellent", the highest of the four EU categories, for the 2025 season, under the European Bathing Water Directive (source: European Environment Agency).
Is the sea calm at Plaka?
The sea at Plaka is usually calm. For today's live wind and wave conditions, see our "where to swim today" page.
Is Plaka suitable for children?
The water at Plaka is of normal depth. A lifeguard operates in season.
Is Plaka crowded?
Plaka is moderately busy in season.
Are there sunbeds and facilities at Plaka?
At Plaka you will find: accommodation nearby, food and water nearby, sunbeds and umbrellas, water sports, lifeguard in season, showers, Blue Flag awarded.
Is there parking at Plaka?
No, Plaka does not have dedicated parking. Access: served by bus, paved road.
Quieter alternatives nearby
Same region, notably lower estimated crowd pressure:
Nearby beaches
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Photo: © This Photo was taken by Wolfgang Moroder. Feel / CC BY-SA 3.0 / Wikimedia Commons