Exploring Crete’s south coast can feel overwhelming with so many beaches and hidden spots. This tour from Plakias offers a balanced way to see some of the island’s most iconic and beautiful beaches without spending hours planning or driving yourself. We haven’t personally taken this trip, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it looks like a thoughtfully designed experience that delivers both scenic beauty and authentic moments.
What immediately catches the eye are the stunning beaches like Ammoudi and Preveli, the knowledgeable guides who keep things lively and informative, and the value for money—all for just $47 per person. A potential downside? The tour is only six hours, so if you’re craving more beach time or a more secluded experience, it might feel a bit rushed. Still, for those seeking a well-organized, scenic day trip, especially if you’re new to Crete or short on time, this tour should fit the bill nicely.
This experience suits travelers who love beach days with a bit of exploration, enjoy guided trips that handle transportation and logistics, and are open to relaxing, picnicking, and taking photos in some of Crete’s most famous spots. It’s perfect for those wanting to see diverse landscapes, from crystal-clear waters to lush palm forests, without the hassle of self-driving.
Key Points
- Visit two of Crete’s most renowned beaches: Ammoudi and Preveli
- Includes transport in a VIP-limo style van, making the journey comfortable
- Flexible booking options with pay later and cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
- Authentic experiences with free time to relax, swim, and explore
- Guided by knowledgeable locals, ensuring meaningful commentary
- Cost-effective at $47 per person for a full-day adventure
The Itinerary Breakdown
Looking for more options in Plakias? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Starting Point and Transport
The tour begins with convenient pickup points in Plakias, either at the central bus stop or at the Plakias Resorts/Alegria Hotel. The use of a VIP-limo van with seven leather seats suggests a comfortable ride, especially compared to standard tour buses. Reviewers praise the driver’s professionalism and punctuality, with one noting the “very pleasant” driver who maintained a smooth ride and played good music—small touches that elevate the experience.
Ammoudi Beach: The First Stop
After a short drive, you arrive at Ammoudi Beach, just 4 km east of Plakias. With approximately two hours here, you’ll have time to sunbathe, swim, or enjoy some snacks at nearby taverns. This beach is slightly organized, providing umbrellas and sunbeds for those who prefer comfort, which is a boon for travelers wanting a relaxing break. Its white sand, rocky seabed, and vivid green waters make it ideal for snorkelers and divers.
One reviewer highlights Ammoudi’s charm: “The characteristic green slippery rock in the middle is what makes it so special,” and many appreciate the shade under tamarisk trees—great for escaping the midday sun. The nearby smaller beaches, Klisidi and Ammoudaki, are within walking distance and offer more secluded, pristine spots for those wishing to explore.
Preveli Beach: The Iconic Destination
Next, the tour heads to Preveli Beach, also called Lake Preveli or Phoenix Beach. Located at the exit of Kourtaliotis Gorge, this spot is a favorite for its dramatic scenery—a lush river, palm forest, and rocky canyon converge to create an almost tropical vibe.
Reviewers note the calm waters reflecting the palm trees and describe the area as “nothing to envy tropical seas,” emphasizing its unique beauty. The protected status (Natura 2000) means it’s less commercialized, with no sunbeds or umbrellas spoiling the natural landscape. Instead, visitors can enjoy the tranquil waters, walk along the river, or climb into the canyon to find cold ponds.
The large palm forest and the exotic atmosphere make this spot a highlight. As one reviewer states, “You can walk along the river, under the palm trees, and start ascending the canyon, having the chance to swim in the cold ponds.” There’s a small tavern for refreshments, but the emphasis remains on the natural scenery.
More Great Tours NearbyTiming and Flexibility
Your free time at each location is roughly 2 hours, providing enough opportunity to relax, take photos, and enjoy the environment without feeling rushed. The tour’s scheduling aligns well with reviews that mention punctual pick-up and drop-off, as well as the thoughtful addition of snacks like fruit salad and water.
Return to Plakias
At the end of your exploration, the van waits at the Preveli exit point to bring you back to Plakias. The reviews echo a smooth, hassle-free experience, with many travelers appreciating the organized nature and the friendly guide. It’s a manageable day trip that leaves you with plenty of stunning pictures and memorable moments.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
Guided Experience with Local Knowledge
Many reviews highlight the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. One reviewer mentions that “the driver was very pleasant and drove well,” and others appreciate the relaxed, no-hassle atmosphere. Guides likely share insights about the beaches and scenery, enriching your understanding of Crete’s natural beauty.
Scenic Beaches and Unique Landscapes
Both Ammoudi and Preveli offer distinctly different but equally captivating environments. Ammoudi’s white sands and blue-green waters provide a classic beach day, while Preveli’s palm-lined river and canyon scenery offer a more adventure-filled, nature-centric experience.
Value for Money
At $47 per person, inclusive of transport, snacks, and free time, the tour offers excellent value. It’s especially appealing given the high quality of the scenery and the ease of logistics. The included fruitsalad and water are thoughtful touches that add to the overall experience.
Authentic and Less Commercialized
Preveli’s protected status means you won’t find rows of sunbeds or loud music. Its natural beauty shines through, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful time immersed in nature—something many travelers cherish.
Considerations for Potential Participants
While this tour covers a lot of ground in a short time, it might feel hurried for those wanting a more leisurely or secluded beach experience. The organized nature means less flexibility than if you were to explore independently, but for most visitors, the convenience outweighs this.
Plus, the absence of umbrellas and sunbeds at Preveli means you should come prepared with your own shade or plan to enjoy the natural surroundings as they are. The tour is conducted in English, suitable for international travelers, and the booking process is flexible, with the option to reserve and pay later.
Final Thoughts
This trip offers an engaging and scenic way to experience some of Crete’s most famous beaches without the hassle of self-driving or detailed planning. The combination of stunning scenery, friendly guides, and good value makes it an excellent choice for travelers short on time or wanting a guided overview of the south coast’s highlights.
If you’re after a comfortable, well-organized trip that balances beach relaxation with natural exploration, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s especially well-suited for first-time visitors or those eager to capture beautiful photos and create lasting memories of Crete’s diverse landscapes.
It’s worth noting that the quality of the guides and the authentic environment are often praised, adding a layer of local insight that enhances the experience. The only caveat? You’ll need to accept the limited time at each stop if you’re looking for a more laid-back, unhurried beach day.
FAQ
Is there a need to bring anything for the tour?
You might want to bring your own towel, sun protection, and perhaps a snorkel if you’re keen to explore underwater. Pack light, as the tour includes fruitsalad and water but no umbrellas or sunbeds at Preveli.
How long is the drive between stops?
The itinerary doesn’t specify exact driving times, but the relatively short distances between Ammoudi and Preveli suggest a comfortable, scenic ride in a well-maintained van with a friendly driver.
Are the beaches crowded?
Ammoudi tends to be quieter, especially in the morning, while Preveli can get busy during peak summer hours. The tour’s scheduled timing helps avoid the earliest crowds but expect some foot traffic at the more popular sites.
Can I swim at Preveli?
Yes, the calm waters of the lake and the Libyan Sea at Preveli are suitable for swimming. You’ll have about 2 hours to enjoy the water and the scenery.
Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, given the comfortable transport and laid-back pace, it’s suitable for most age groups. Just keep in mind the walking involved at Preveli if mobility is an issue.
What’s the best time of day to take this tour?
The morning departure helps you beat the crowds and enjoy the beaches in a more peaceful setting. Afternoon visits might be busier, especially at Preveli.
This Beach Safari from Plakias offers a compelling way to see Crete’s south coast highlights with ease, comfort, and a dash of adventure. Whether you’re after picture-perfect landscapes, a relaxing swim, or just a break from driving, this tour hits many of the right notes.
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