The soft, golden sands of Rethymno Beach sprawl 12 kilometers along Crete’s north coast. Recognized as both a scenic spot and a cultural hub, this beach offers more than the typical seaside experience. It’s a vibrant area studded with sunbeds and laden with bars, restaurants, and everything you need for a fun day out.
Also known as Rethymnon Beach, this is one Cretan hotspot that’s not to be missed!
Is this the best beach in Rethymno?
Boasting a total of 12 Blue Flags, it’s hard not to be impressed by this beautiful beach. But it’s not just the sparkling turquoise waters that give Rethymno its charm. The warm, welcoming locals are sure to deliver a touch of Cretan hospitality to your experience.
It’s not just about soaking up the sun. Rethymno offers a whole vibe, with lively festivals, fun bars, and super chill locals. It’s the kind of place that’ll have you coming back for more!
One fantastic feature of this beach is its SEATRAC system. This helps people with special needs easily access and enjoy the sea. It’s a thoughtful touch that reflects the inclusive spirit of Rethymno, which you’ll see reflected in the kind-hearted character of the locals.
But the wonders don’t stop there. What truly sets Rethymno Beach apart is its role as a cradle of life for the protected Carreta-Carreta sea turtles. During the summer months, these majestic creatures choose the quiet of this beach to lay their eggs. Spots along the shore are discreetly fenced, safeguarding the nests and allowing the turtles to birth in peace. It’s a rare and beautiful sight that adds to the beach’s unique charm.
What to do at Rethymno Beach
One of the area’s major attractions is the Baja Beach Club in Rethymno. Get ready to spice up your Insta feed because here, it’s all about living it up! Take a dip in the crystal-clear sea, relax by the pool, or party to world-famous DJs late into the night at this exciting seaside paradise.
If you’re more ‘thrill’ than ‘chill,’ why not hop on a Jet Ski and explore the local area? For the truly adventurous, the beach club offers parasailing for a spectacular aerial view of the coast.
Rethymno has something for everyone. Families love its safe, shallow waters and the reassuring lifeguards dotted along the shore. The soft sand is ideal for kids, and there are facilities like changing rooms and showers nearby to make life easier.
When you’re tired of the sun and sand, take some respite in the cool shops, bars, and restaurants nearby. You can look for gifts, browse traditional crafts, or simply kick back and sip on an ice-cold drink.
Keen on culture? Explore the Venetian Harbor, navigate through the tiny, narrow streets, or lose hours perusing artifacts in the museum. As medieval towns go, it’s one of the best-preserved in the country!
Where to Eat Near Rethymno's Beach
Get your taste buds ready for a flavor fiesta! The local joints around here serve up more than just food; they dish out a whole experience. Expect fresh seafood, friendly smiles, and views that’ll make your heart skip a beat.
If you want to indulge in authentic Cretan cuisine, Rethymno offers some of the island’s finest. From hearty meat dishes to colorful salads, creamy dips, and home-baked bread, you’re spoiled for choice.
After working up an appetite swimming and splashing around in the waves, it’s just a few minutes to wander into Rethymno Old Town. Thanks to the Venetian influence, here you can enjoy gorgeous dining experiences in open-air verandas and 16th-century mansions, as well as traditional tavernas.
Best Times to Visit the Beach at Rethymno
Want to avoid the crowds? If busy beaches aren’t your thing, you may prefer the fringing months like May or September.
If you like it hot, then head to Rethymno around July or August when the temperature averages over 30 degrees Celsius during the day. Just remember to wear flip-flops on the sand to protect your feet!
Book your trip to Rethymnon Beach
Is it the calm, enticing water, or the golden sand that stretches as far as the eye can see? Perhaps it’s the local town that oozes culture, or the gourmet dining that attracts people from all over the island. Whatever it is that’s captured your heart, Rethymno is the place to be this summer!
It’s all about the simple pleasures here. Dip your toes in the Med, read a book under the shade, or join in the beach volleyball games. And when hunger strikes, the aroma of fresh, local cuisine from nearby eateries promises to satisfy your cravings.
Oreo invites you to step into this picture-perfect setting and let the simple magic of Rethymno Beach do the rest. Choose from quaint traditional houses or convenient apartments to explore this fantastic destination.
