Top beaches in Crete

Elafonissi beach is the cream of the crop when it comes to relaxing in beautiful surroundings. Even the most hard-to-please beachgoers will be mesmerised by the pink-tinged sands and cerulean waters of this heavenly peninsula. It's easy to see why it's been one of Crete's most Instagrammable sites - the unfiltered resort is the epitome of magic.

More than 5,000 tropical trees line Vai beach, colouring the landscape an emerald green that outshines its powdery white sand. You might recognise this beach from a Bounty chocolate advert filmed in the 1970s, which remains the reason most travellers visit Vai to this day. This Blue Flag beauty is less developed, just the way we like it, and offers an irresistible environment for nature lovers, couples and day-trippers.

It's fair to say that Balos Beach is a strong contender with Elafonissi for the crown of best beach in Crete. Situated within the perimeter of a nature reserve, Balos offers extraordinary views of sandy strips and rocky promontories that harmonise with the turquoise tides of the shallow lagoon. This magical cove draws visitors for its breathtaking walks along cinematic paths and its desert island setting. Arriving early on this beach, before midday, will give you a moment to yourself before the crowds arrive.

Part of a luxury resort complex, Elounda beach is a holiday destination in its own right. Here you'll find rolling mountains, Santorini-style windmills and panoramic views across the entire inlet. To the east of Elounda, you'll find heavenly spots where warm waters plunge into the tranquil lagoon of Korfos. Afterwards, treat your stomach with a delicious Mediterranean meal at the Vritomartes restaurant; freshly prepared grilled prawn salad.

In the 1960s and 1970s, Matala was a popular destination for hippies, who would spend days or even months in the secluded caves above the beach. Today, it's a small seaside hamlet that attracts family travellers for its long stretch of sand and multitude of water-based beach activities.

The incredibly clean, azure waters of Falassarna are the hallmark of this heavenly peninsula. Lying near the village of Platanos, 58 km west of the city of Chania, in the Kissamos region, Falassarna is the ideal bay to unwind in a peaceful, tranquil atmosphere, complete with sun loungers and deckchairs on its golden sands. Above the beach is the ancient archaeological site of Falassarna.

Crete Istro Lassithi is a long stretch of road south of Agios Nikolaos in Crete, home to five remarkable beaches. One of them, Istro, is a beach in a league of its own. This tropical paradise has the trademark features of crystal blue waters and snow-white sand. Luminous olive-green foliage adds an extra touch of magic around the beach.

It's no surprise that another of Chania's great beaches is on our list for Crete, and Marathi is no exception. The locals call it Marathi or Old Souda. This majestic beach is peppered with flowering bushes and is set against a backdrop of mountains that shield the cove from the winds. The shallow waters of Marathis are extremely popular with families with children, making it perfect for toddlers. For a hearty brunch and delicious cocktails, head down the beach to the Metaxy Mas Beach Bar.