Malia is a beautiful coastal town in northern Crete, famous for its long white stretches of beach. Malia beaches are most well-known for attracting younger crowds due to the loud nightlife and modern beach clubs, which make for an exhilarating and memorable vacation.
They are also affordable and ideal for a budget-friendly holiday. However, there are much quieter and more elusive beaches in Malia that should not be overlooked.
Loud and Lively Malia Beaches
Glozanie Beach
One of the most popular beaches in Malia is Glozanie Beach. This beach is the life of the party, where every teenager, couple, and young adult swarms to celebrate with the huge crowds.
The beach itself is a 2km long stretch of white sand and sunbeds, dotted with cafes and beach clubs. These include Paradise Beach Club and Bikini Beach Bar.
There are also exciting water sports facilities such as jet-skiing, banana boarding, and parasailing. You should also consider taking a quick stroll through the Old Town, where there are many small streets to gander and romantic restaurants to choose from.
Pyrgos Beach Hotel is within walking distance of Glozanie Beach and the center of Malia. There are several apartments available accommodating up to six guests, perfect for staying with friends.
Malia Beach
Malia Beach is a 6km long organized stretch of white sand loved by the younger generation. This is because the beach is packed with activities such as beach sports, bars, and clubs.
The waters are shallow and warm therefore ideal for swimming with friends and enjoying the hot Cretan sun. When the heat becomes blistering, there are taverns nearby to enjoy a refreshing cocktail and wait for the breeze.
Although it may be too loud to lounge and read a book, there are other ways to relax, such as taking a walk along the coast and visiting the local stores dotted around. A characteristic of all Malia beaches is that there is something to do for everyone.
Akrogiali Beach Hotel is beachfront and only a short walk away from the center of Malia. Rooms are designed with a modern finish and are spacious. Family rooms are also available.
Calmer Malia Beaches
Potamos Beach
Potamos Beach is a great beach to visit to escape from the loudness of other Malia beaches. It is a long white stretch of sand protected by trees and rocks, making the waters calm with gentle overlapping waves.
If you are traveling with family, it is great to take advantage of the tranquil atmosphere, as there are no loud beach bars or nightclubs around. Instead, there are local taverns such as Taverna Kalyva serving traditional Mediterranean meals, and a beach restaurant.
Set up your beach tent and enjoy nature in peace. Additionally, nearby is an archaeological site that is worth visiting if you are interested in seeing the historical ruins of Malia.
Cretan Malia Park is located 800m from Potamos Beach. It is a family-friendly resort with a children’s playground, spa center, and several swimming pools. There are many rooms, suites, and bungalows which all come furnished with a contemporary style.
Alexander Beach
Alexander Beach is a great family-friendly option for relaxing on a quiet, beautiful sandy beach. Like other Malia beaches, it is bursting with activities, but is mostly inhabited by hotels and therefore more private.
On Alexander Beach are various water sports opportunities, crystal clear waters for swimming, and freshwater swimming pools nearby. There are also plenty of amenities such as restaurants and café’s so that you can relax knowing everything is provided and available at the beach.
Alexander Beach Hotel is situated facing the beach. It is a great option if you are traveling as a large group because the complex is large and offers a variety of large rooms. There are also seven swimming pools!
Stalis Beach
Stalis Beach, although mostly in Stalida, is directed west just before you leave Malia. It is a clean organized beach with many taverns and bars nearby, but in a quieter area than most Malia beaches.
The sea is warm and shallow, and the shore is sandy, making it a great beach for children to play on. Bring along a sandcastle building kit to take advantage of the shoreline. It is also situated close to an aquapark and open-air museum, so there are many activities to partake in nearby.
Minois Boutique Hotel is 300m from Stalis Beach and also has an airport shuttle service for easy transportation. There are budget and deluxe rooms available with the option to experience sea views.
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Enjoying The Beautiful Malia Beaches
Malia has a beautiful coastline with nice beaches to explore. Malia beaches all have something different to offer whether you want a lively atmosphere or somewhere more relaxed to enjoy the sun. Whichever Malia beach you choose, make sure you take advantage of the stunningly clear waters and Cretan sun.
