This page may contain affiliate links, see our disclaimer here.

Plaka Crete Greece

By Katia Luz

Plaka Crete Greece - a seaside village on Elounda Bay in eastern Crete which sits opposite Spinalonga Island.

Plaka in the East

Plaka Πλάκα is a seaside fishing village on Elounda Bay in the east of Crete. It sits just 5 km north of Elounda Village and opposite the Island of Spinalonga.

This tiny fishing village has come to great fame since a novel was set here. In the novel 'The Island' and the TV series of the same name, the history of Crete is interwoven with drama and romance all around the sad stories of Spinalonga.

This village is not to be confused with another village in Crete called Plaka in Chania. This is an inland village in the region of Apokoronas near Chania town in the west of the island.

Plaka Beaches

Plaka Crete Greece - to either side of the village lie long pebbly beaches with sweeping curves and clear waters. On the southern side, the beach is home to the beautiful and extensive Blue Palace Resort, however visitors can access the beach by a path near the Church of Agia Marina and visit Plaka Water Sports on the northern end .

In the very centre of the village is a tiny rocky cove with steep steps down to it, and Giorgos Fish taverna sits right up above it.

To the northern side of the village is the longest and most accessible beach, with gorgeous views to the island, and space for everyone.

Spinalonga Island

The island of Spinalonga draws you in. It has such a rich and intriguing history. Like it almost encapsulates the history of Crete. Stories of pirates, Venetians, fortresses, battles and stories about when it was home for many years for those with leprosy. The last patient left here in 1957.

The word 'spina-longa' is Italian for 'long spine'. The island is popular with visitors for boat tours to enjoy its unusual history and its aqua marine bays.

Experiences

Plaka Crete Greece - come to Plaka to experience an authentic and historic old village, see the sweeping views across the harbour, and to take a trip to Spinalonga.

You can find plenty of boats down by the sea shore to take you out to the island during the spring, summer and autumn months. Just stroll down to the harbour and ask.

To book an organised experience in advance, see below.

Visit the Island of Spinalonga by boat from Agios Nikolaos. Enjoy a swim and BBQ as well as an interpretative visit to this island full of stories.

This is a 5.5 hour half day experience.

Plaka Crete Greece
Accommodation

Plaka Crete Greece - in and around Plaka you will find many different types of accommodation, from small traditional apartments to modern villas and luxury resorts. In nearby Elounda Village and the town of Agios Nikolaos you also have plenty of accommodation options.

Plaka Beach Cottages - set directly on the sea with private beach. Enjoy your terrace overlooking Spinalonga Island. Just so simple and beautiful. These three cottages welcome 2 adults each. An easy walk from the hamlet of Plaka.

"Superb location by the water, quiet, small village of Plaka is very nice. Apartment with complete equipment and private parking. Great bed!"

Check Rates & Availability at Plaka Beach Cottages

The view from The Island Sea View Apartment is why you choose this lovely place. Convenient to the cafes and tavernas of this seaside village, and of course in walking distance to its two lovely beaches. Accommodation for 3 adults and a child.

“The view is fabulous, the location is exceptional and the history of the building is very interesting. The host is very communicative and helpful.”

Check Rates & Availability The Island Sea View Apartment

This is the luxury symbol on We Love Crete

The Phaea Blue Palace Resort and Spa is a luxury resort in one of the most beautiful locations in Crete. Stay here directly on Plaka beach. Choose from a variety of restaurants, cafes and bars. Enjoy swimming at the beach or at the pool. Luxuriate at the spa.

“Exceptional hotel in a stunning location. Staff were wonderful and the food at all the restaurants was superb.”

Check Rates & Availability at the Blue Palace Resort

Aegean Ode Villa - set in the hills behind Plaka in its own private garden, this beautiful villa is full of local character. Welcoming 4 guests in 2 bedrooms with 5 beds, this quiet haven offers 2 bathrooms and a full kitchen. Best to visit with a vehicle. Enjoy magnificent sea views. Dine in style on your private terrace.

Check Rates & Availability at Aegean Ode Villa

Tavernas

Plaka Crete Greece - stunning fresh seafood by the sea. Nothing beats it. Sit looking over the bay with sweeping views and dine on the tastiest seafood - this is a true Greek experience...

Marias Old Taverna - traditional Cretan cuisine
Giorgos Fish Taverna (above the little beach)
Captain Nicolas Taverna (on the waterfront)
Taverna Gorgona (which means Mermaid - right on the marina)
Thalassa Seafood Taverna (which means sea)

Agios Nikolaos

Plaka Crete Greece - enjoy the town of Agios Nikolaos on your day trips from Plaka - we recommend strolling around the lake and harbourside to soak up the atmosphere.

While you are in Agios Nikolaos explore:

Lake Voulismeni
boutiques and studios
Folk Art Museum
Boat Harbour
artesanal workshops
art galleries
museums
Kitroplateia Beach, the Horn of Amalthea and the Marina
Archaeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos
Sea and lakeside restaurants, cafes and tavernas galore
Sailing, water sports and boating on Mirabello Bay

Elounda Village & Beaches

Plaka Crete Greece - Elounda Village sits around its fishing port on the tranquil Bay of Elounda protected by Kolokitha Island. There are lovely sandy beaches, and a thriving, stylish village which has been welcoming luxury guests for many years.

Stroll towards the isthmus with Kolokitha Island to find the ancient sunken town of Olous, or to eat fresh seafood by the bay.

Exploring the Region

Plaka Crete Greece - around this region you will find many places to visit in the east of Crete. Take day trips to discover this mountainous terrain with superb beaches.

Vrouchas Village
Vrouchas windmills
Kolokitha Island
Kolokitha Beach
Kritsa Village
Kritsa Gorge
Ancient Lato
Pachia Ammos Beach and Ha Gorge
Mochlos Beach and Richtis Gorge
Ierapetra
Sitia
Beaches of Lasithi
Lasithi Plateau
Dikti Mountains

Plaka Crete Greece Map

Plaka Crete Greece - see the location of this beach in the east of Crete, north of Agios Nikolaos and Elounda.

Plaka Crete Greece
Getting Here

Plaka Crete Greece - to get to Plaka - arrive by flight or ferry into Heraklion, then hire a car. The drive east is around 76 km, drive via Agios Nikolaos and allow at least 1 and a half hours for the journey.

Local buses are frequent on this route, you will need to change in Agios Nikolaos to take a bus to Elounda and Plaka.

Take a 1 hour flight from Athens to Heraklion with Aegean Airlines or Olympic Air, with many flights available per day.

Or take a 9.5 hour overnight ferry from Pireaus port of Athens to Heraklion port.