Apokoronas is the inland and coastal region east of Chania: olive groves, orange orchards, stone villages, and a north coast that has some of the most pleasant swimming on the island without the density of the resort areas. The regional character is distinctly Cretan: unhurried and proud, good at producing olive oil and cheese.
5/5
Family
5/5
Atmosphere
3-7 nights
Ideal Stay
Beaches Nearby
Top Attractions
Where to Eat
Sunset Spots
🔎 Local Tip
Rent a car and spend one morning driving the back roads of Apokoronas without a plan. The stone villages, the olive groves, the long views: this is the version of Crete most visitors never see.
Half-Day Itinerary
Morning
Arrive and explore Apokoronas
Start in one of the inland villages. Vamos has a working square and a kafeneion that opens early; the drive in from the main road through olive groves takes fifteen minutes.
Midday
Visit Almyrida
Almyrida bay is the most sheltered swimming on the Apokoronas coast. The waterfront there has a good line of tavernas serving fresh fish.
Afternoon
Explore Vamos Village
Walk through Vamos village and stop at the Gavalochori Folk Museum. Then take the back roads toward Douliana for a clear view of the White Mountains.
Full-Day Itinerary
Morning
Arrive and explore Apokoronas
Start in one of the inland villages. Vamos has a working square and a kafeneion that opens early; the drive in from the main road through olive groves takes fifteen minutes.
Midday
Visit Almyrida
Almyrida bay is the most sheltered swimming on the Apokoronas coast. The waterfront there has a good line of tavernas serving fresh fish.
Afternoon
Explore Vamos Village
Walk through Vamos village and stop at the Gavalochori Folk Museum. Then take the back roads toward Douliana for a clear view of the White Mountains.
Evening
Dinner at Vamos village taverna
The taverna in Vamos village is the right choice for an inland dinner. Kalyves and Almyrida waterfront are better if you want fish.
Sunset
Drapanos cape (wide view)
Drapanos cape gives a wide view over the bay without crowds. Park near the cape and walk to the edge; the light goes on for a long time after the sun drops.
Location
Photo Gallery
🏝
🏘
📷
Have photos of Apokoronas? Share them with us.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Apokoronas?
May to October for the coast, though the inland villages work almost any time of year. The stone villages of Vamos and Gavalochori are quietest in May and October. Georgioupoli beach on the east edge of the region runs from April through October. If you want the area at its least crowded, May is the right month.
How do I get to Apokoronas from Chania?
By car is the most flexible option. Several areas also have bus connections from Chania city centre.
Is Apokoronas suitable for families?
Family score: 5/5. Yes, very family-friendly.
What are the best beaches near Apokoronas?
Almyrida, Kalyves, Georgioupoli (east edge), Drapanos Bay