Ahh, Agia Pelagia. A beautiful coastal village surrounded by three crescent-shaped bays with mint-blue waters, loved for its laid-back atmosphere and mountain valley backdrop. Nestled in the north of Crete, it exudes an authentic Greek atmosphere, with charming tavernas, vanilla-coloured beaches and a rich history - after all, it was once part of ancient Minoan civilisation and was even wiped out by a tsunami. Today, it is first and foremost an oasis of calm, bathed in sunshine, with grilled seafood specialities at sunset.
The nearest airport to Agia Pelagia is Heraklion International Airport (HER) approximately 20km away.
Most of the coast's social life takes place by the ocean, which means you can let the sound of the waves and the sight of golden sands colour your evening. You'll find plenty of bars and cafés where you can groove to the music as the sun sets. The Paradise Club offers laid-back vibes. We recommend trying the Lava Flow cocktail and the Tequila Sunrise - our favourites!
Shopping in Agia Pelagia ranges from chic boutiques to local markets. If you're looking for souvenirs and fridge magnets, the Hercules Souvenir shop is a popular choice. The Venus shop offers naturally made clothing and colourful accessories. And for authentic handmade jewellery, the Jewel Art shop is a treat. There's also no shortage of supermarkets: everything you need is right here in Agia Pelagia.
Soak up Cretan culture as you enjoy the clear blue sea and everything in between. From active watersports and golf, to watching the world go by on a lilo, to a relaxing afternoon stroll, discover what Agia Pelagia has to offer...
Shimmering seas in every shade of blue, legions of fish and colourful coral - the perfect recipe for a wonderful dive site. Diving centres for all levels of experience are dotted along Agia Pelagia's vast coastline. The Agia Pelagia Diving Centre Club is a great place to start. Operating since 1995, it is located just 20 km from Heraklion and offers spectacular house reef diving, open from April to the end of October. The waters can reach depths of up to 40 metres, with Agia Pelagia's magnificent coral reefs. A unique experience is to swim between underwater mountains, slopes and canyons, surrounded by legions of fish, including dolphins and seals.
Depending where you stay, most resorts in Agia Pelagia are rested along the azure coast boasting an idyllic fusion of sea-sports and relaxation. Most resorts offer lessons with highly-trained instructors for a multitude of watersports including water-skiing, canoeing, and wind-surfing. To capture the essence of waves and relish that first-class surfing experience, head to Falasarna Beach. Due to its drastic wind season, the waves can reach up to two-metre heights, catering to both beginner and advanced surfers.
The best time for windsurfing and kitesurfing in Crete is between June and September, when the weather conditions are ideal for all kinds of water excursions. Your resort can offer a selection of water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing on request, as well as access to lessons and group activities. The best places to go are Elafonissi, Kedrodasos, Kouremenos and Ammoudara - some of Crete's best spots for all levels of experience, with private lessons, competitions and surf schools.
From sailing and boat trips to yacht cruises and island hopping, agencies in Agia Pelagia have a wide range of charter boats to suit the needs of holidaymakers. The Blue Water Club offers relaxing sailing, from safaris to sunset cruises, and everything in between, on the turquoise waters around Crete. You can hire a boat privately or arrange to be captained by a friendly crew who will take you to hidden coves, coral beaches or the destination of your choice. Visitors describe the experience as "if you didn't know any better, you'd think you were in the Bahamas".
Fishing ports and charters abound in Agia Pelagia, which was just a small fishing village a few decades ago. Take a fishing boat trip with Fishing Trip Agia Pelagia, where you'll sail the Aegean and catch fresh local fish with Captain Andreas Vourdolas. He'll guide you to some of the peninsula's best spots and show you why his home is worth exploring. Up to six people are welcome on board, with children aged five and over. For experienced anglers, the captain offers spearfishing trips - don't forget to hire or bring your own tackle!
Kayak in the sparkling sapphire sea or along a winding river through mountain valleys at Agia Pelagia. The Blue Water Club and Seahorse Rent a Boat are boat hire services offering top quality canoeing and kayaking equipment so you can explore its turquoise waters. If you want to get closer to nature, opt for a guided kayak trip on the Almyros River, which includes a Cretan meal. Paddling along the tranquil Almyros River and natural wetlands, you can get up close and personal with local wildlife, including turtles and bird species. After admiring the panoramic views of Stroumboulas Mountain, you can sample the traditional delights of Cretan mezze.
As Agia Pelagia is a tiny coastal village, golf courses are only available in certain hotels, so it's best to head for Hersonissos. This natural and cosmopolitan destination is home to a number of mini-golf courses, as well as the 18-hole Crete Golf Club, which offers breathtaking views of the mountains and the Aegean Sea.
What better way to admire the island's breathtaking panoramas than by bike? Luckily for us, a number of bike hire services cater for all adventurous cyclists in and around Agia Pelagia. You can arrange to collect your bike from the rental stations in Panormo and Fodele, who will then deliver your road bike to Agia Pelagia. Motor Sun and Rent A Car in Agia Pelagia offer car and quad bike hire. We recommend the Peninsula Quad Bike Safari for a unique and thrilling adventure along Greek roads, lush vegetation and emerald valleys overlooking the azure sea.
Being a mountainous island certainly has its advantages. Otherworldly peaks and valleys everywhere? Tick the box. Lush flora and fauna? Double that. Breathtaking views over the vast Aegean Sea? Yes, three times as many. Exploring the island on foot is a fantastic way to enjoy the local wines, cuisine and, above all, the stunning views. The path from Agia Pelagia to Potamos is pleasant, even if from a distance it looks difficult to climb. But the 7.76 miles are well worth it, topped by the imposing summit with an olive-coloured landscape looking out to sea. For gentler slopes, take the path from Agia Pelagia towards the bay of Agia Patrikia, passing Agios Georgios church and a Byzantine house.