Sissi Beach

The coastal settlement of Sissi is located 26 km west of Agios Nikolaos and 41 km east of Heraklion on the northern coast of the island. It is a picturesque fishing village with many taverns and relatively little touristic development. The waterfront of the village is quite rocky, so the only option for swimming in the village is in the small harbour. You may also find it referred to as “Limani Beach“. It is a very narrow and scenic harbour, well protected with all the amenities visitors will need nearby. On the eastern side of the village,  you will find more swimming spots.

The first is Boufos Beach which is sandy and organized; and the second, further east, is Avlaki, which also is sandy and located in a small bay. The last beach located on the easternmost side of the bay is called Kalimera Kriti. This area has taken its name from the nearby i and has shallow waters that are perfect for families with children. You will also find sunbeds and umbrellas for reasonable prices and various other restaurants and cafes for snacking and refreshing beverages. The disadvantage of these beaches is that they are open to the northerly winds, and can often form large waves. Further east again is another small and beautiful sandy beach, the Spiliada. At Sissi, you will find all the standard tourist facilities, coffee-places and of course a lot of tavernas with fresh fish.

Even though it is located so close to the popular holiday spot of Malia and Hersonissos, Sissi retains the laid back and relaxing vibe that Crete is known for. It is easily accessible from Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos for visitors that are travelling by plane or ferry and is a great place to base yourself in to explore the nearby sites. At the same time, if you wish to leave the coast behind, the mountain range of Dikti and the lush plateau of Lassithi is less than an hours drive away to the south. Don’t miss the village of Tzermiado and the scenic drive that will take you through the monastery of Kera Kardiotissa and various hiking routes.