From the Rock Formation Beaches to Golden Sandy Shores of Crete

Start your route with a visit to a local Chania spot, Katholiko Beach. You'll have to park at Gouverneto Monastery and walk to the beach. The Monastery is a beautiful building which you can quickly see from the outside before walking to the beach too.

While you can definitely swim here, it's not the best spot for relaxing. Instead, it's got a beautiful rock formation with gorgeous green water beneath, and you can relax on the rocks and jump into the water to get your day started right.

Seitan Limania is a one-of-a-kind beach and just down the road from stop one. Here, you'll find large volcanic rock structures that drop into fluro blue waters - it's enough to shake your head in disbelief.
There's more room to relax on the shore here, so you can swim in the beautiful water, marvel at the rocks or chill on the shore for a bit longer.

After your second swim, it's likely too early for lunch, but make sure you grab a coffee and a small snack like a pastry or cake here because you'll have another significant stop and lunch will be a little later than usual.

The Archeological Ste of Aptera felt like a hidden gem when I arrived here, most people were focused on the beach, but this beautiful, ancient site has lots of enriching culture to offer too.
Crete was used by many ancient village sand empires, and at Aptera you can find a well-preserved amphitheater along with other artifacts. They're open every day of the week except for Tuesday.

Along the coast, you'll find many great views, and you can make the most of it by stopping at Provlita Restaurant for lunch by the sea. What this place provides in the gorgeous scenery, they match in their friendly service and delicious food. I was a bit tired at this point, so it was a great spot to extend my lunch and stare off into the ocean's horizon.
They're open every day of the week for lunch except for Monday when they open at 5 pm. There's no need to make a reservation but you can check out their details on their Facebook.

After a busy day and lunch to re-energize, it's time for a more restful beach trip to Episkopi beach. Here, there are umbrellas and beds to rent or plenty of room on the sand to park up and relax for an hour or two. The stretch of beach offers a more quiet experience where you can read a book or listen to some music.

Drive to Rethymno, where you'll enjoy a tasty dinner, but first, visit Rethymno Park, which features beautiful greenery and forestry, making for the perfect stroll through nature before dinner.

A day of world-class beaches deserves a world-class dinner, and Nostos is the place to get it. I was blown away with my experience here; from the informative and helpful waitstaff, the beautiful sunset drinks to the amazing food, it's hard to be disappointed.
They're open for dinner every night of the week, and you can make a reservation on their website.

Top off a spectacular day with a wonderful stay at Onar Superior Suites. You'll be met with a friendly team and an incredibly comfortable stay overnight in the heart of Rethymno.