My journey into the heart of Crete’s vibrant surfing scene was an exhilarating adventure beyond the usual sun, sea, and sand. Known for its rich history and stunning landscapes, Crete also hides a thrilling secret—it’s a fantastic destination for surfers. From gentle waves for beginners to challenging breaks for the seasoned, the island’s diverse coastlines offer something for every surfer.
For this kind of active getaway, I chose to stay at Olive Green Hotel in the heart of Heraklion—not only for its central location with easy access to the island’s top surf spots, but also because its eco-conscious philosophy and modern comforts offered the perfect place to unwind after a day on the waves.
Accessing Crete’s Surf Spots
Local Beaches from Heraklion
If you’re starting your surfing adventure from Heraklion, several beaches suitable for different skill levels are conveniently accessible. Here’s a guide to the nearest surf spots around the city:
Komos Beach: About a 1-hour and 20-minute drive from Heraklion. This beach is favored by experienced surfers for its less crowded waves.
Stalida Beach: Approximately 30 minutes by car. This beach offers rental equipment, making it easy for travelers to get right into the water.
Gouves Beach: Located around a 20-minute drive from Heraklion, where you can also rent surf equipment.
Malia Beach: A 35-minute drive and another great spot with available equipment rentals for a hassle-free surfing experience.
Hersonissos Beach: Just a 25-minute drive from Heraklion, offering equipment rental facilities.
Karteros Beach: Only about 15 minutes east of Heraklion, Karteros is perfect for those looking to escape the city quickly.
Agia Pelagia Beach: Situated approximately 25 minutes northwest of Heraklion with equipment rental available.
Amoudara Beach: Amoudara Beach, about a 15-minute drive from Heraklion, is ideal for beginner surfers.
Exploring Beaches Beyond Heraklion
Crete’s surfing locations are scattered along its vast coastline, offering unique waves and experiences. Here’s how you can reach a few of the key surf spots:
Falassarna Beach: Located on the west coast of Crete, about an hour’s drive from Chania, Falassarna is easily accessible by car. From Chania, take the E65 towards Kissamos. Continue on the main road, following signs for Falassarna as you approach the coast. There’s a parking area close to the beach, making it convenient for surfers carrying gear.
Falassarna is known for its big waves and stunning sunsets. The waves here can reach impressive heights, making it a perfect spot for those looking to test their skills.
Kouremenos Beach: Situated near Palekastro on the island’s eastern side, Kouremenos is about a 20-minute drive from Sitia. From Sitia, head east on the main road (E75), then turn onto the local road following signs for Palekastro and Kouremenos. This spot is popular among windsurfers and surfers and offers facilities such as a few taverns and a place to rent surf equipment. Kouremenos is favored by windsurfers due to its strong and consistent winds. However, its long beach breaks are also ideal for surfing, especially in the early morning.
Agios Pavlos Sandhills: Agios Pavlos is in the remote south of the island. Drive from Rethymno towards Agia Galini to get there, then follow the signs to Agios Pavlos. The journey might take around 1.5 hours from Rethymno (2 hours from Heraklion), involving some winding roads. Parking is available near the beach, a short walk down a path from the main road. I found Agios Pavlos in the south to be a hidden gem with its sandy hills and natural coves. The waves are beautiful and offer a challenging ride suited for more experienced surfers.
Surf Spots and Experiences
Learning to Surf in Crete
For those new to the sport or looking to improve their skills, Crete is home to several surf schools that offer lessons and equipment rentals. One of the most renowned is Heraklion Windsurfing Club, located in Amoudara beach, offers private SUP and SURF courses for both adults and children aged 6 to 14 who are proficient swimmers. The club is a nonprofit, volunteer-driven organization exclusively dedicated to promoting surfing and environmental stewardship in Greece. It organizes beginner schools, advanced training, competitions, and social gatherings annually. Their friendly instructors are knowledgeable and passionate about surfing, making learning a fun and engaging experience. More information about their courses and services can be found on their website.
For directions to the club, visit Google Maps. To schedule lessons or for more information, email [email protected]
What to Expect
Surfing in Crete is best enjoyed in autumn and spring when the strong winds and tourist crowds have thinned. However, during the summer months, the Heraklion area experiences north winds at a consistent 4-5 Beaufort, creating excellent conditions for windsurfing and surfing. The water remains warm, and wave conditions vary from mild, perfect for beginners, to challenging, ideal for experienced surfers. Always check the local surf forecast before heading out, as conditions can be dynamic.
Local Surf Culture
The surf community in Crete is welcoming and spirited, with locals and visitors alike sharing a deep respect for the ocean and the sport. I was lucky enough to attend a local surf competition in Chania. This event showcased the skill, sportsmanship, and camaraderie that define the surfing culture here.
Practical Tips When Surfing
Equipment: Many surf spots have nearby rental shops, so there’s no need to bring your board unless you prefer your gear. Prices are reasonable, and the equipment is well-maintained.
Safety: Always surf within your limits and consider local advice and conditions. Lifeguards are present at the more popular beaches, but remote spots require extra caution.
Respect the Environment: Keep the beaches clean and respect the natural surroundings. Crete’s beauty makes surfing here so special, and maintaining this environment is essential.
Surf Excursions and Tours
Several local agencies and surf schools offer guided tours and excursions, which can be an excellent option for those unfamiliar with the area or without transport. These often include transport, equipment, and even instruction, making them a hassle-free way to enjoy surfing in Crete.
Public Transport and Other Options
While public transport in Crete can get you close to many popular locations, reaching specific surf spots like Kouremenos or Agios Pavlos might require a combination of bus and taxi due to their remote locations. For Falassarna, there are more direct bus routes from Chania during the tourist season, which makes it a more accessible option for those not renting a car.
Tips for Drivers
Rental Cars: Renting a car allows you to explore multiple surf spots quickly. Car rentals are available at airports and in major towns.
Driving in Crete: Be prepared for narrow, winding roads, especially when traveling to more remote beaches. Always have a map or GPS handy, as mobile service can be unreliable in secluded areas.
Where to stay
Lato Annex Boutique Rooms, is an ideal choice for adventure travelers who love action and nature. Travelers pursuing surfing, skiing, hiking, cycling, diving, bird watching, caving, mountain and rock climbing, during the day, Lato Annex Boutique Rooms accommodation is best suited to meet their need to relax and rest. It is an elegant lodging of 25 rooms, offering good-value accommodation in a quiet and safe neighborhood, minutes away from the city’s key attractions. It is located only 15 15-minute drive from Nikos Kazantzakis Airport and 10 10-minute walk from the port of Heraklion.
Concluding The Surfing Trip
As the sun set on my last day in Crete, I reflected on the incredible waves and the even more incredible people I met. Surfing in Crete isn’t just about catching the perfect wave; it’s about immersing yourself in a vibrant culture and connecting with the sea in a uniquely Cretan way.
For anyone looking for an adventure that combines sport with stunning natural beauty, surfing in Crete is a must-try experience. Whether you’re riding your first wave or your hundredth, the island’s shores will leave you enchanted.