An Adventurer's Guide to Western Crete

1. Falasarna - An amazing beach with sapphire blue water situated between olive groves and apiaries. I stayed at the beautiful Kavousi Resort, where Kiki and her family offered incredibly warm and welcoming hospitality. It was the perfect place to experience the most breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.

2. Balos - Quite possibly the most beautiful beach I’ve ever seen. You can reach the beach by car — just keep an eye out for wandering goats — or take a boat from nearby Kissamos. If you opt to drive, prepare for a 30-minute trek up a mountain. The landscape feels almost otherworldly, with arid, Mars-like terrain — red earth and low shrubs stretching as far as the eye can see. But once you reach the summit, you're rewarded with a breathtaking view that makes every bump in the road worth it.

3. Loutro - A small whitewashed fishing village on the south coast. Pebbly beach with great local seafood. The town is located only by ferry so you will have to drive to the town of Sfakia and park. The ferry then is only a 15-minute trip along the rugged coast.

4. Elafonissi - Considered one of the best beaches in the world. Elafonissi boasts beautiful shallow water great for all ages to enjoy. The sand is truly pink here, making it very unique. It can get very busy so arrive early. The beach is very remote so I would suggest packing snacks to last you the day.

5. Kissamos - A perfect base for your western Crete vacation. Kissamos is a sleepy town during the day full of cafes and shops, and great restaurants and nightlife come alive during the evening. Here you’ll find local bakeries, restaurants and shops and really see how local Cretans go about their everyday lives.

1. Bird Away - Great cocktails and vibes. An amazing sunset is guaranteed. The staff are great and always have advice on where to go out or what’s happening in nearby Kissamos.

2. Elvetia Bar - Sip on expertly crafted cocktails in a chic, trendy setting. As the night unfolds, the vibe shifts — transforming into a lively nightclub that keeps the energy going well into the early hours.

3. FishTavern1960 - Authentic, old-school seafood at its finest — fresh, simple and full of flavor. This local gem is located right on the Kissamos promenade, offering a true taste of the sea.

4. Captain Nikolas Falasarna - Savor a beachfront dinner with your feet in the sand, surrounded by a relaxed, coastal atmosphere. The friendly, knowledgeable staff proudly serve dishes made with fresh produce grown right in their own garden.

5. Kouzoumama - A romantic restaurant nestled inside a beautifully restored traditional stone Greek home, offering a modern twist on classic Cretan cuisine. A very cool stepping-back-in-time experience with the luxuries of modern day all in one.