Preveli Beach

Preveli Beach & Lagoon is a ‘must-visit’ destination – located about 35km south of Rethymno and 10km east of Plakias – featuring a paradise scenery, that makes it to be worth its reputation. Also, called “Palm Beach” or “Phoenix”, due to the palm trees that spread over the Great River's shores, which exit the Kroutaliotiko Gorge flowing at Preveli's sandy beach. Is not an organized beach, because the area is protected. At the eastern part of the sea, there is a great stone shaped like a heart, which is complex with a view of the Libyan Sea, the river, and the gorge, making Preveli one of the most romantic sights in Crete.

Preveli is also popular for its Patriarchal Monastery, which comprises two main chapels, the ruined monastery of St John the Baptist and the Monastery of St John the Theologian.

There are two ways to access there, by small boats from Agia Galini and Plakias or by car from the Monastery of Preveli on the west side or from Drimiskiano Ammoudi on the east side. The most popular way is the boat, as driving there by car is more adventurous, due to the fact that you need to go down to the beach, on a rough footpath. Also, the return is tedious as the ascent is rather steep.