Agia Pelagia is a lively seaside village on Crete’s north coast, known for its crystal-clear waters, lively atmosphere, and stunning sunsets. But beyond lounging on the beach, this area offers an impressive selection of tours and experiences that let you see Crete from different perspectives. Whether you’re craving an adrenaline rush, exploring historic sites, or trying your hand at scuba diving, Agia Pelagia has a lot to offer. We’re especially fond of the Sunset or Morning Quad Tour & Ghost Town Visit for its combination of scenic off-road adventure and eerie historical sights, and the Private sailing to Dia Island with Lunch for a luxurious, relaxing day on the water. These activities stand out for their unique itineraries, excellent reviews, and authentic feel.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we cover a variety of tours, including high-energy quad safaris, cultural explorations with visits to ghost towns and traditional villages, immersive scuba diving experiences, and scenic boat cruises. Each offers something different: some are perfect for adventure seekers, while others suit those wanting a tranquil day at sea or a taste of local history. For a full list, visit our curated selection of the best tours and experiences in Agia Pelagia: Agia Pelagia Tours & Experiences, Crete Quad Safari, and more.
1. Agia Pelagia: Sunset or Morning Quad Tour & Ghost Town Visit
This 4.9/5-rated tour offers a thrilling 3-hour quad bike adventure through Crete’s countryside, combined with a visit to a hauntingly beautiful ghost town. Starting at ELA Quad Safari, you’ll ride off-road through rugged trails, enjoying spectacular scenic views and catching the sunset from a vantage point overlooking the sea. The highlight is exploring the architectural remnants of an abandoned town, which feels like stepping into a ghost story. Afterward, relax with a local shot of raki and a sweet—a perfect way to end the day.
This tour is praised for its friendly guides, well-maintained quads, and a balance of adventure and cultural sights. Guests mention that even solo travelers have a great time, with plenty of opportunities for photos and historical insights. It’s ideal for active travelers who want to combine nature, history, and a dose of adrenaline. Keep in mind, the tour runs for about three hours, so be prepared for some physical activity.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who love off-road adventures with a side of local history and unforgettable sunset views. Booking early is advised as this tour is very popular.
2. Crete: Quad Safari with Ghost Town Exploration
At number 2 on our list, this 4.9/5-rated 200-minute quad safari offers a detailed journey through Crete’s countryside, blending scenic off-road riding with cultural discovery. Starting from ELA Quad Safari, the tour takes you through rocky terrain with panoramic views of Agia Pelagia, Fodele, and Achlada. You’ll explore a traditional village, sample local products, and visit the ghost town, where you can walk among abandoned buildings and imagine life in bygone days.
The guides are noted for their friendliness and explore local stories and plant life, enriching the experience. Guests love the balance of adventure and cultural insight, describing it as super fun and educational. The tour’s highlights include off-road riding, picturesque villages, and a relaxed pace suited for those interested in authentic local life.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice if you want a mix of scenery, culture, and off-road fun, with an emphasis on local traditions and natural beauty.
3. Agia Pelagia: Introduction to Scuba Diving Experience
This 2-7 hour experience introduces you to scuba diving in the clear waters near Agia Pelagia. You’ll receive a briefing from a professional instructor, then head into waters no deeper than 6 meters, where you can marvel at the colorful marine life. With a focus on safety and fun, this experience allows you to breathe underwater for the first time and learn about a world of fish, sea urchins, and perhaps a curious octopus.
Guests consistently rave about the friendly instructors and the peaceful weightlessness of the experience. It’s ideal for beginners who want a hands-on introduction to diving without committing to a full course. The session includes 45 minutes of underwater exploration, making it a memorable highlight of any trip to Crete.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a gentle yet exciting taste of underwater exploration, especially first-timers.
4. Heraklion: Private sailing to Dia Island with Lunch
Number 4 on our list is a luxurious 4.5-hour private sailing trip that offers an escape into Crete’s waters. You’ll be transferred to a large, comfortable yacht with an expert crew, who will guide you to the stunning Dia Island. The day includes swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, a chance to learn about local biodiversity, and a freshly prepared organic lunch onboard.
This experience stands out for its personalized service and flexibility. Many guests mention how relaxing and scenic it is, especially during sunset, which makes for just the right romantic or family-friendly outing. It’s a great choice if you prefer a private, intimate experience away from crowded tours.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking comfort, privacy, and a leisurely day on the water with excellent food and scenic views.
5. Heraklion: Try Scuba Diving
For those curious about the underwater world, this 3-hour try-dive guarantees a safe introduction. You will breathe underwater for the first time, with plenty of supervision and support from experienced instructors. Dive depths reach up to 5 meters, and you’ll swim in calm waters perfect for beginners.
Guests highlight the friendly team and the well-organized nature of the experience. It’s a solid option for travelers who want to test the waters (literally) without a long commitment. Expect to have fun swimming among fish and gaining confidence in your scuba skills.
Bottom Line: Ideal for first-time divers wanting a low-pressure, safe introduction to the underwater world.
6. Agia Pelagia: PADI Open Water Diver International Course
If you’re serious about diving, this 3-day PADI Open Water Course offers a comprehensive training program. Led by a qualified instructor, you’ll learn all the essential skills and safety procedures to become a certified diver. The small, family-run dive center provides personalized attention, ensuring you feel confident underwater.
Participants appreciate the high-quality instruction and the convenience of completing the course locally. The certification is valid worldwide, making it a great investment for future diving adventures. While it requires a time commitment, the knowledge gained is invaluable for independent diving.
Bottom Line: The best option if you’re looking to get certified and dive independently during your trip.
7. Agia Pelagia: Introduction to Scuba Diving (2 Dives)
This 2-dive introduction allows you to explore two separate underwater sites under professional supervision. The experience is suitable for beginners and includes diving to -6m and -12m, with 45-minute dives that reveal a colorful marine environment.
Guests rave about the friendly instructors and the chance to see fish, coral, and underwater formations up close. It’s a perfect option if you want to maximize your underwater time and experience multiple sites in one day.
Bottom Line: Excellent for first-timers who want to see more of the underwater world in a relaxed, guided format.
8. Heraklion: Basic Diver for Beginners
Designed for newcomers to scuba, this 3-6 hour program combines theoretical lessons with practical dives. You’ll breathe underwater and practice basic skills with a focus on safety and confidence. The experience is tailored for those who want a gentle introduction or refresh their skills.
Guests note the efficient transfer service and patient instructors who make beginners feel comfortable. The dives reach a maximum of 10 meters, offering a safe environment to enjoy the underwater scenery.
Bottom Line: Suited for absolute beginners or anyone wanting to try scuba in a supportive setting.
9. Heraklion: Boat Safari with Guided Snorkeling Tour
This 3-4 hour small-group boat trip provides personalized snorkeling along Crete’s coast. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll visit a hidden coastline, snorkel around marine life, and relax on deck, sipping water and snacks. It’s a great way to see Crete from the sea with intimate group size for a more customized experience.
The tour’s highlights include snorkeling at a protected site and enjoying the scenic coastline. Reviewers praise the friendly crew and the beautiful, calm waters perfect for snorkeling.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families or solo travelers eager to snorkel in less crowded spots and enjoy a peaceful day at sea.
10. Private Heraklion Active Sailing to Hidden Beaches
This private sailing experience combines scenic sailing, swimming, snorkeling, and lunch onboard in a relaxed, comfortable setting. The tour visits calm turquoise waters and secret beaches, with options for paddleboarding and food tasting.
Guests love the personalized attention and the chance to explore crevices and coves inaccessible by land. It’s perfect for those who want a customized, intimate experience with scenic sailing and water activities.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking privacy, active water fun, and a peaceful day away from crowded tours.
11. Crete: Scenic Coastline Cruise with Swimming Stop
This 4-hour cruise offers a relaxing journey along Crete’s coast, with stops for swimming, notably at Agia Pelagia. You’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Venetian port of Heraklion and Palaiokastro Fortress from the water.
Guests appreciate the comfortable boat, the moderate pace, and the beautiful scenery. The tour is well-suited for those who want a leisurely cruise with swimming opportunities, especially if you’re interested in combining sightseeing with water fun.
Bottom Line: A good choice for travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic cruise with a swim.
12. Agia Pelagia: Scuba Diving Activity for Children
This 1.5-hour experience is tailored for children, offering a safe introduction to marine life. Conducted at Ligaria Beach, the protected bay ensures good visibility and calm waters. The small group setting enables personalized attention as kids learn to snorkel and explore marine creatures.
Instructors are available in English, French, and German, making it accessible for international families. Many parents highlight how much fun their children had and how they gained confidence underwater.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families with young children eager to introduce their kids to marine environments in a safe, supervised setting.
13. Agia Pelagia: Sunset Motorboat Tour with Soft Drinks
Ending our list is a 2-hour sunset motorboat ride that captures the magic of Crete’s bay. With soft drinks and a scenic route, you’ll glide past enchanting coastal scenery and watch the sunset from the water—a romantic and peaceful way to finish your day.
Guests describe it as an unforgettable experience with a dreamlike atmosphere. It’s a great activity for couples or anyone wanting to enjoy Crete’s coastline at dusk.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a romantic evening or a memorable way to wind down after a day exploring Agia Pelagia.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour in Agia Pelagia
When selecting among these options, consider your interests, fitness level, and how much time you have. Adventure lovers might prefer the Quad Safari & Ghost Town or the Scuba Diving Experiences, while those seeking relaxation will enjoy the Private Sailing Trip or the Sunset Motorboat Tour. For families, the Scuba for Children offers a safe, fun way to introduce kids to the sea.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular activities like the Sunset Quad Tour and the Private Sailing, which fill fast during peak season. Think about combining a boat trip with snorkeling or a cultural visit for a well-rounded experience—and check availability ahead of time.
Final Thoughts
Agia Pelagia offers a diverse range of tours and experiences that cater to travelers of all kinds. For an adrenaline rush, the Quad Tours stand out, blending scenic off-road riding with cultural stops. For a more serene day, the sailing and boat cruises provide scenic water-based relaxation that’s hard to beat. And for the curious, the scuba diving trips let you explore Crete’s vibrant underwater world.
Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, a cultural exploration, or a laid-back day on the water, Agia Pelagia provides options. We recommend booking early to secure your spot, especially in the busy summer months, so you can enjoy these authentic experiences without stress.
Enjoy your time in Agia Pelagia, and make sure to try at least one of these memorable tours during your stay!