Crete, Greece

Gournes Beaches

Overview

Gournes, Crete, offers a delightful coastal escape for beach enthusiasts. Visitors often ask about the local shores. Here, you'll discover a pleasing variety of sandy beaches and some rockier sections, with generally shallow, clear blue waters ideal for swimming. Many beaches are particularly suitable for families, and small artificial piers along the coast create calmer coves, contributing to the area's relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

The Gournes coastline presents a range of experiences. For ultimate convenience, Gournes Beach serves as the town's central seaside spot. If an iconic day trip calls, the historic caves and lively ambiance of Matala are easily accessible. For sheer scenic beauty, Paralia Agia Pelagia boasts stunning clear waters and a charming village backdrop. Nearby, Karteros Beach is a popular choice among locals, offering an energetic atmosphere. Our guide details even more beaches for you to discover.

Gournes provides a tranquil setting for a Cretan beach holiday, especially for those who prefer a more laid-back environment than some larger, bustling resorts nearby. Its strategic location also makes it an excellent base for exploring other attractions in central Crete. Whether you're looking for a quiet cove or a more organised stretch of sand, Gournes has diverse seaside options, with our comprehensive list offering further choices.

FAQ

What are the beaches in Gournes like?

Gournes offers a mix of sandy beaches and some rockier areas. Many beaches are organized with sunbeds and umbrellas. The waters are generally shallow and blue, making them suitable for swimming. Small artificial piers have been built along parts of the coast, creating calmer coves.

Is Gournes a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Gournes is considered suitable for families. The beaches often have shallow waters, and many are organized with amenities like sunbeds and lifeguards. The nearby Cretaquarium is also a popular family attraction.

Can you swim in the sea at Gournes, and what is the water like?

Yes, swimming is popular at Gournes beaches. The water is generally clear and blue, with shallow areas suitable for families. Some areas can be wavy, especially when the north winds (Meltemi) blow, but small piers help create calmer spots.
Gournes Beach
Gournes Beach

When is the best time to visit Gournes for a beach holiday?

The best time for a beach holiday in Gournes is generally from May to October when the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea temperature is pleasant for swimming. July and August are the hottest and busiest months.

Are there hotels or accommodations right on the beach in Gournes?

Yes, there are several hotels and apartments located very close to the beaches in Gournes, with some offering direct beach access or sea views. Options range from hotels to self-catering apartments.
See the full list of accommodation options here.

Are the beaches in Gournes windy?

Like many beaches on the north coast of Crete, Gournes can be affected by the Meltemi (north winds), especially during July and August. This can result in some wave activity. However, small artificial piers along the coastline help to create more sheltered coves.

What amenities are available at Gournes beaches?

Many beaches in Gournes are organized, offering sunbeds, umbrellas, and lifeguard services. Showers are often available, and there are typically tavernas and cafes nearby for food and refreshments.
Gournes Beach
Gournes Beach

Are Gournes beaches sandy or pebbly?

Gournes beaches are predominantly sandy. Some areas might have small pebbles or rockier sections, particularly towards the east.
Gournes Beach
Gournes Beach

People Also Ask

How do Gournes beaches compare to those in nearby Gouves?

Both Gournes and Gouves offer sandy beaches popular with families and tourists, with similar amenities. Gouves is a larger resort with a longer continuous beach area, while Gournes has a series of coves and beaches, some of which can be quieter. Both are exposed to north winds.

Is it easy to get to Gournes beaches from Heraklion?

Yes, Gournes is relatively easy to reach from Heraklion, being about 16 km (10 miles) to the east. It's approximately a 20-25 minute drive. Public buses also run regularly from Heraklion to Gournes.

Are there quiet or less crowded beaches in Gournes?

While the main beaches can get busy, especially in peak season, it's possible to find quieter spots. The eastern part of the Gournes coastline tends to be rockier and may offer more secluded coves. Some sources suggest that Gournes, in general, can be less crowded than larger nearby resorts.

Are there watersports available at Gournes beaches?

Yes, some watersports are available at Gournes beaches, such as jet skiing and paddleboarding. Snorkeling is also popular, especially in the rockier areas.
Gournes Beach
Gournes Beach

What is the atmosphere like in Gournes for a beach holiday?

Gournes offers a more relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere compared to some of the larger, more party-oriented resorts nearby like Malia or Hersonissos. It's a developed tourist area but aims to maintain some authentic Cretan charm.
Malia
Malia

Is Gournes a good base for exploring other parts of Crete, or is it mainly for a beach stay?

Gournes can serve as a convenient base due to its proximity to Heraklion and the main national road. This allows for easier day trips to explore other attractions in central and eastern Crete, in addition to being a beach destination itself.
Gournes Beach
Gournes Beach

What is there to do near Gournes beaches besides sunbathing?

Besides beach activities, a major attraction near Gournes is the Cretaquarium, one of Europe's largest aquariums, located within the former American airbase. The area also has some historical significance, and you can find local tavernas and cafes.

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The fastest way to find the best Gournes Beaches

Gournes Beaches Map

Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Gournes: Weather Today

📅 Friday, July 4, 2025
Today is shaping up to be a fantastic beach day in Gournes! The sun will be shining with hardly any clouds. The air temperature will reach a high of 27.1 °C, perfect for soaking up the rays. The sea temperature is a pleasant 25.2 °C, ideal for swimming. Expect a moderate breeze and some stronger gusts. With a UV index of 8, remember to apply sunscreen regularly. The waves should be moderate, adding a touch of liveliness to the sea.
🌬️

Air

Low / High23°C/27.1°C
Feels Like (High)27.8°C
🌊

Sea

Sea Temperature25.2 °C
Wave Height1.1 m
🌧️

Rain

Rain Chance0%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
🌞

Sun

Sunrise / Sunset06:09/20:37
Sunshine Hours13.1 hrs
UV Index8.45
Cloud Cover0%
💨

Wind

Speed22.2 km/h
Gusts40 km/h
DirectionNW

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