Visit Spinalonga

Spinalonga, or Kalydon, is a small island off the coast of Crete by Elounda that has an interesting past. There was a time when Spinalonga actually wasn’t a separate island – it was attached to Crete. However, over time, the water levels rose and it became an island of its own. During the Venetian occupation of Crete, the area was commonly used to harvest salt. It was also used as a leper colony. Now, the island is a top residence for tourists, who love exploring the pebbled beaches and old fortress that once housed Greece’s lepers.

Spend Time at the Beach

Elounda has some of Crete’s most beautiful beaches, which means that when you visit here, you’ll want to find time to enjoy at least one. Elounda Beach, Plaka Beach, and Kolakitha Beach are all worthwhile choices because they each have their own, unique scenery. If you want a beach that is on the quieter side, you may want to consider Elounda Beach, which tends to have a quiet, family atmosphere.

Take the Happy Train

Are you looking for a fun way to tour the surrounding area? The Happy Train tours are a great option. Each of the tours have you riding through the surrounding area on a small train, and they’ll give you a nice overview of some of the major tourist attractions. You’ll also have plenty of opportunities to take photos and some of the tours even stop so that you can eat some traditional Cretan cuisine.

Visit the Sunken City of Oulos

The area surrounding Elounda has some interesting geographical features, as well. One of the most unique is Oulos, which is also referred to as the “Sunken City.” At one time, the city was well above sea level, but this is no longer the case. It’s interesting to view some of the historical buildings in the city, such as the fortress walls, which currently stand only a few inches above the sea. Much of it is difficult to see on land, though, but this is considered to be an excellent location for snorkeling.

Enjoy Water Sports

Are you tired of sitting at the beach and lounging in the sun? If you want a change of pace, consider engaging in some water sports! Elounda is a perfect place to do things like snorkel, scuba dive, wakeboard, water ski, and more. Your best bet is to hire a guide to help you find all the best spots. Many of the adventuring companies in the area have packages for beginners, as well.

While in Elounda, Crete you won’t want to miss these activities!

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Elounda has a Mediterranean climate. The summers are dry and warm and the winters are mild. Elounda sees a fair amount of sunshine year round. July is the most sunny month. August is the driest month and January is the wettest month.

This weather forecast in Elounda, Greece, will vary from year to year. The averages that you see below represent historical weather data. Here is the typical weather forecast throughout the year for Elounda, Greece:

January 

• Temperature: 48.2° F (9° C) – 59° F (15° C)
• Precipitation: 89 mm
• Climate: 17 days of rain on average, 116 hours of sunshine, water temperature 60.8° F (16° C), cool, dry air, clear/overcast
• Humidity: 71%

February

• Temperature: 48.2° F (9° C) – 59° F (15° C)
• Precipitation: 45 mm
• Climate: 12 days of rain on average, 121 hours of sunshine, water temperature 59° F (15° C), cool, dry air, clear/overcast
• Humidity: 72%

March

• Temperature: 48.2° F (9° C) – 60.8° F (16° C)
• Precipitation: 35 mm
• Climate: 12 days of rain on average, 178 hours of sunshine, water temperature 60.8° F (16° C), cool, dry air, clear/overcast
• Humidity: 70%

April  

• Temperature: 53.6° F (12° C) – 68° F (20° C)
• Precipitation: 21 mm
• Climate: 8 days of rain on average, 227 hours of sunshine, water temperature 60.8° F (16° C), comfortable, 90% clear, overcast
• Humidity: 69%

May

• Temperature: 57.2° F (14° C) – 73.4° F (23° C)
• Precipitation: 14 mm
• Climate: 6 days of rain on average, 301 hours of sunshine, water temperature 66.2° F (19° C), comfortable, 95% clear, overcast
• Humidity: 68%

June 

• Temperature: 66.2° F (19° C) – 80.6° F (27° C)
• Precipitation: 4 mm
• Climate: 2 days of rain on average, 351 hours of sunshine, water temperature 71.6° F (22° C), warm, 97% clear, 25% muggy, beach/pool score 8
• Humidity: 68%

July

• Temperature: 69.8° F (21° C) – 82.4° F (28° C)
• Precipitation: 1 mm
• Climate: 1 day of rain on average, 372 hours of sunshine, water temperature 75.2° F (24° C), warm, 45% muggy, 100% clear, beach/pool score 9.6
• Humidity: 67%

August  

• Temperature: 69.8° F (21° C) – 82.4° F (28° C)
• Precipitation: 1 mm
• Climate: 2 days of rain on average, 346 hours of sunshine, water temperature 77° F (25° C), warm, 51% muggy, 100% clear, beach/pool score 9.6
• Humidity: 67%

September

• Temperature: 66.2° F (19° C) – 78.8° F (26° C)
• Precipitation: 12 mm
• Climate: 7 days of rain on average, 281 hours of sunshine, water temperature 75.2° F (24° C), warm, muggy, clear/overcast, beach/pool score 8
• Humidity: 67%

October

• Temperature: 60.8° F (16° C) – 73.4° F (23° C)
• Precipitation: 69 mm
• Climate: 15 days of rain on average, 198 hours of sunshine, water temperature 73.4° F (23° C), warm/comfortable, clear/overcast
• Humidity: 69%

November

• Temperature: 55.4° F (13° C) – 68° F (20° C)
• Precipitation: 59 mm
• Climate: 10 days of rain on average, 149 hours of sunshine, water temperature 68° F (20° C), comfortable, clear/overcast
• Humidity: 71%

December

• Temperature: 50° F (10° C) – 62.6° F (17° C)
• Precipitation: 77 mm
• Climate: 14 days of rain on average, 121 hours of sunshine, water temperature 62.6° F (17° C), cool, dry air, clear/overcast
• Humidity: 71%

Elounda, Greece has a climate that is known as a local steppe climate, which means there is little rainfall throughout the year.

Find the current weather forecast for Corfu, Greece here:

Weather.com – Corfu, Greece Weather Forecast

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If shopping is what you’re in the mood for when visiting Elounda, Greece, you’ve come to the right place.

Shop in Agios Nikolaos

The center of Agios Nikolaos city is the perfect place for a shopping trip. Agios Nikolaos is only 12 km from Elounda, so it’s not far out of your way, especially if you’re looking to spend a day shopping. You will find the best selection of shops here. In the city of Agios Nikolaos you will find designer labels, high-quality leather goods, beautiful jewelry, food items, and even local cosmetics.

Agios Nikoloas is where you’ll also find bookstores, art galleries, and kiosks that provide local and foreign press. You can’t go wrong spending a day in the charming city of Agios Nikolaos. Between browsing the wide selection of shops, you will find many taverns, restaurants, and cafés where you can relax.

Visit Local Boutiques

Elounda is home to some lovely boutiques where you can buy clothing and accessories. Each boutique is unique from the others. Every owner brings their own sense of style and taste into their shop to share with others. Some boutiques may have jewelry, handmade accessories, or local products.

Shop for Souvenirs

You will probably want to take souvenirs home with you to remind you of your trip to Elounda, Greece and to give as gifts to friends and family. Visit some of the souvenir shops in the area and you will find items ranging from clothing and other accessories to smaller items that you can display at home. If you enjoy seashells and other more unique items, such as hand-made ceramics and shark tooth necklaces, you can take home as souvenirs, you shouldn’t miss a visit to Paris Shells Shop.

Shop for Local Products

Around Elounda you will find shops that sell local products. Herbs, spices, and oils are just some of the products that may interest you. Imagine taking a taste of Elounda back home with you. Take home herbs from the Cretan hillsides and you’ll return to the area every time you smell and taste them. You may prefer to buy locally made soaps, which are made with olive oil and gentle on the skin. You can even buy utensils that are made from the wood of Cretan olive trees. Elounda, Greece is rich in local products for you to take home and enjoy.

There is no shortage of shopping in and around Elounda, Greece.

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Elounda Beach

Elounda Beach is one of the most beautiful and cleanest beaches on the island of Crete. The beach is located behind the Kolokytha Peninsula, 10 km from Agios Nikolaos. Watersports equipment including pedal boats, crazy sofas, and jet skis are available at Elounda Beach. You can even enjoy snorkeling in the shallow water of the beach to see the small fish. The sand of the beach is fine and light. The shallow water of the beach makes this an ideal destination for families with young children. Another attraction to draw in families with children is the large playground. Organized activities are also available at Elounda Beach.

Kolokitha Beach

Kolokitha Beach can be found on the Elounda Peninsula. The beach is actually a secluded cove with white sand and crystal clear waters that are calm. During the summer months, Kolokitha Beach is especially popular. Surrounding the beach are wheat crops and olive groves. Close to Kolokitha Beach is another small beach that sits next to the ruins of the 5th or 6th century early Christian basilica of Kolokytha. These ruins were discovered in 1971 by an archaeologist. You can see a pulpit and gates as well as mosaic floors that have been worn down by the sea. The church is thought to have been dedicated to St. Catherine or St. Helena. Kolokitha Beach in Elounda is a wonderful spot to visit and explore.

Schisma Beach

Located in the small town of Schisma in Elounda, is Schisma Beach. This is one of the most popular beaches in the Elounda area. It is well-organized and located close to hotels and taverns. Schisma Beach features lovely sand and has been awarded the Blue Flag for its wonderful waters, which are calm thanks to the lagoon of Korfos. Also at the beach you will find a playground, water sports center, and beach volley ball nets. It is the ideal beach for visiting with a family.

Driros Beach

Driros Beach in Elounda, Greece is located across from Spinaloga Island. The beach features pine trees that provide natural shade. Water sports are available at Driros Beach. From Driros Beach you can enjoy an impressive view of the well-known Spinaloga Island. During ancient times, the island guarded the port of ancient Olous. The Venetian fortress on Spinaloga Island is an important archaeological site and rare example of island fortification.

Plaka Beach

Plaka is 16 km north of Agios Nikolaos across from the entrance of the lagoon of Korfos. The lagoon is also known as the lagoon of Elounda. The view from Plaka Beach of Kalydon Island is worth the visit. This pebbly beach sits in front of a large hotel.

Visit these lovely beaches in Elounda, Greece. The represent some of the best that Greece has to offer!

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About Elounda Beach

Greece consists of a mainland attached to Europe and a series of islands that jut into the Mediterranean Sea and reach across to both Africa and Asia. Many people come here to get to know this ancient culture better. Crete is the largest of the Greek isles and one of the most visited. Visitors admire the lovely beaches, wonderful food and plentiful sun. Of all the many towns in Crete, Elounda is one of the most enjoyable.

This small town lies on the northern coast of Crete. It’s easily accessible from the mainland. The town is renowned for many things. One of the most delightful is Elounda Beach. Protected by the Korfos lagoon, the beach has tranquil shores that stretch to the horizon and beyond.

What to Do at Elounda Beach

You can do many wonderful things right at the each. Visit the nearby town. Have a delicious meal of local vegetables and freshly caught fish. You can also find lots of places to eat right next to the beach. Head out on the water to go fishing for your own dinner on one of many available boats.

There’s a lifeguard next to beach so you can swim safely. That makes it easy to bring your kids with for a day in the sun. Shallow, clear waters are next to the shore. That makes it easy to dip your feet in the water and cool off quickly. It also makes it easy to create a beautiful sand castle. The turquoise waters that you see initially gradually give way to darker navy blue waters.

You’ll find lots of lounging that is well kept along with umbrellas that offer shelter from the sun. Rent them for a small daily fee. Or, bring your own towel and stretch out on the soft sands. Well-kept sanitary facilities make it easy to have a full day at the beach. When the sun goes down, it’s time to party. There are lots of taverns a short distance away. Grab a drink and watch the beautiful sun set across the shore with friends and family.

Getting to Elounda Beach

One of the best things about Elounda Beach is that it’s very easy to get to from many other places. Elounda is in the northeastern side of the island, and is in close proximity to Agios Nikolaos. First, however, you need to get to the island itself.

Many travelers choose to fly here from mainland Greece. There are lots of flights from Athens that fly to Crete several times a week. Heraklion airport in Crete lies on the north shore of the island. This is the most convenient of the island’s airports. Many airlines offer nonstop service from major destinations. You can also hop on a charter flight.

There also many boats that go Elounda Beach. Daily ferries deport from Piraeus. You have five to eight hours to sit back and enjoy the view. Summer is the most popular time to visit Elounda Beach. That means you can find as many as four daily ferries that will bring you to nearby Heraklion. Elounda is an easy hour’s drive.

Source #1

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The whole point of a vacation is to relax, right? Don’t worry; we’ll get to the beaches in a moment, but I would be doing you a disservice if I didn’t tell you about this place first. No matter how busy your schedule might be when you’re in the area, you need to set aside some time to go to Six Senses Spa at Porto Elounda Crete. The actual spa looks as amazing as you’ll feel after you walk out of here. Enjoy a heavenly massage with a massage oil of your choosing, and go for a swim in their infinity pool that looks out over the water. It’s an experience that you will never forget.

As promised, the beaches. You have two main beaches to choose from, that being Elounda Beach and Kolokithia Beach. Elounda Beach is a nice beach that doesn’t often draw large crowds. It’s not that far of a taxi ride from the hotels, and it’s within walking distance of the restaurants and shopping areas. The crystal-clear blue water is what you would come to expect from a gorgeous beach on the island of Crete. Kolokithia Beach does tend to get crowded, but you’ll see why so many people love to gather there once you lay eyes on it. Crowds can really ruin the experience on Kolokithia Beach, because it’s fairly small compared to other beaches on the island.

If you’re looking to go sightseeing, check out the Happy Train. I know it may seem like it’s for children, but this is a great excursion for travelers of all ages. This tour has plenty of great information, and provides a really fun atmosphere while you check out what Elounda has to offer.

While the Happy Train is a great excursion, there’s one thing it can’t do, and that’s go in the water. That’s where Elounda Boat – Cruises To Spinalonga comes in, as you’ll take a boat trip to the island of Spinalonga and take a tour of the island. You will learn all about the fascinating history of this island, both ancient and modern. Dress accordingly, as the island is very rocky.

If just sailing on the water isn’t enough for you, and you want to check out what’s down there, you’ll have to look up Diving Centre Blue Dolphin. Whether you’re looking to do shore dives, boat dives, day dives or boat dives, Diving Centre Blue Dolphin does it all, and they do it better than anyone else in Elounda. The company keeps all of their equipment up to date to ensure both the safety and the quality of their dives, and they are extremely professional and knowledgable about their craft.

One last thing to explore when you’re in Elounda is the sunken city of Olous. People are often disappointed when they travel here on foot to see the sunken city, but you really have to plan for a day when you can go snorkeling, weather permitting. If the weather is favorable for snorkeling, you will be able to see some ancient ruins from the city of Olous beneath the waters of Elounda Bay. Bring your waterproof cameras!

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Tips for Shopping in Agios Nikolaos

A lot of shops can be found on the perimeter of Lake Voulismeni. While the central shopping area is around the street Oktovriou, there are shops scattered throughout the city all of which are worth a visit. Don’t worry about having the right currency as Agios Nikolaos is essentially a tourist town, there are many ATMs and currency-exchange machines that line the streets leading into town away From the harbor. The shopping streets are often lined with outdoor merchandise, so make sure you plan enough time for your shopping excursions, as there is plenty to see.

What to Look For:

Jewelry

Agios Nikolaos has many jewelry and handicraft shops featuring items from local artisans. Historically the Greeks are known for their jewelry and the local shops continue the tradition by featuring original Greek jewelry at competitive prices.

Textiles

While the city does offer some designer label clothing stores, look instead for clothing and textiles that are locally made. You will find racks of clothing lined up along the shopping streets. Look for a store named Xeiropoito , which sells homemade rugs, or Chez Sonia that offers both jewelry and textiles including woven tablecloths and scarves.

Art and Artifacts

There are many shops in Agios Nikolaos that sell reproductions of ancient Greek vases and other famous Greek works of art. Additionally you may find similar items at the Archaeological Museum or Folk Museum for purchase. Stop by Ceramica to browse through reproductions of ancient Greek vases and frescoes. Stepping just outside of the city into the village of Elounda, you’ll find the Petrakis Workshop for Icons. Here Georgia and Ioannis Petrakis have a studio and a gallery to purchase icons, that many Orthodox churches in North America purchase. Besides religious icons the store also carries jewelry, ceramics, and even blown glass.

The Street Market

If you find yourself in town on a Wednesday, be sure to check out the street market. Be sure to go early, as the market is only open from 7am to 12pm. Even if you aren’t an early bird, a trip to the market will allow you to rummage through piles of clothing and other merchandise that are usually available at bargain prices. Much like many of the outdoor markets in the United States, the street market also features local food items including locally grown spices, fruits, vegetables, and honey.

Be Sure Take A Break!

Interspersed between all of these shops are countless tavernas and coffee shops, many with outdoor seating. If hopping from store to store takes a toll, take a break and enjoy local Cretan cuisine or get a caffeinated recharge from one of the many coffee shops.

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In the cozy seaport town of Agios Nikolaos on the island of Crete, you will find four of these 400-plus Blue Flag Beaches. All of these beaches are located right within the town, so feel free to visit every single one of these beaches in Agios Nikolaos during your stay.

Beaches in Agios Nikolaos

Kitroplatia

Named Kitroplatia, which in English means Citron Square as the Citron fruit was cultivated in Agios Nikolaos. In fact Kitroplatia beach used to host a Citron marketplace. Kitroplatia beach is a popular beach as it is only minutes from the town center of Agios Nikolaos. The beach is located in front of a small stone-paved square, which hosts many taverns that offer views of the water. Just beyond the square you’ll find a booth for umbrella and lounge rentals and showers, which then give way to the sandy shoreline.

Ammos

Like Kitroplatia, Ammos beach is just minutes from the town center and also has lounge and umbrella rentals for visitors. Located a little past Kitroplatia on the south side of Agios Nikolaos, Ammos beach is a great beach in the center of town, which is near the major shopping area in town. Ammos translated to English means sand as the shore is covered in pristine, smooth sand. There are plenty of restaurants surrounding the beach and hotels if you are looking for a central location in town that offers beach views.

Ammoudi

Head just one kilometer north of the city center and you’ll find Ammoudi beach. The beach is located in a large, well-protected bay. It has a small sandy beach and clear waters making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Thanks to its location in the bay and the fact that large Tamarisk trees surround it, the beach is sheltered from the strong north winds. The beach also has a water sports facility. However, it is important to note that due to its ideal location and smaller size, this beach often gets crowded rather quickly.

Municipal Beach of the Greek National Tourism Organization (EOT)

While this beach doesn’t sound like it is the most glamorous seaside destination thanks to its long, rather clinical name, the Municipal Beach of the Greek National Tourism Organization (commonly referred to as EOT), the beach is well worth a visit. Unlike most beaches in the area, EOT is a pebble beach. However, there are large lawns of grass just above the shoreline that are well maintained and offer plenty of places to lounge and enjoy the sun. The trees nearby offer shade for hot days, and there is a mini-golf course should you bore with the traditional beach activities of sunning and swimming.

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