Is Stalis beach good for families?
Yes, Stalis Beach is considered one of the best beaches in Crete for families. The beach is sandy and the water is very shallow, making it ideal for young children to paddle and play safely. Many hotels and restaurants in Stalis cater to families, and the overall atmosphere is quieter than nearby Malia. Lifeguards are also on duty at the main beach area.
Is Stalis beach sandy?
Yes, Stalis Beach is a long, sandy beach. It stretches for about 1.6 kilometers (around a mile) and is known for its soft, golden sand.
How deep is the water at Stalis beach?
The water at Stalis Beach is very shallow, particularly close to the shore. It has a gentle slope, meaning you can often walk out 30-50 meters and the water might still only be up to your knees. This makes it especially good for families with small children.
Is Stalis lively or quiet?
Stalis offers a balance. It's lively with plenty of restaurants, bars, cafes, and shops, but it's generally quieter and more relaxed than its neighbor, Malia, which is known for its intense nightlife. Stalis is often preferred by families and those seeking a more tranquil holiday, though it still has a good selection of evening entertainment.
Are there beachfront hotels in Stalis?
Yes, Stalis has a good selection of beachfront hotels and accommodations. Many properties are located directly on or very close to the beach, offering easy access to the sea and sand. Options range from family-run studios and apartments to larger resort hotels.
What's the difference between Stalis and Malia beaches?
Stalis Beach is generally considered more family-friendly and quieter, with shallower waters. Malia Beach is longer and known for a more vibrant party scene, attracting a younger crowd. While both have sandy stretches, Stalis is often recommended for those prioritizing a relaxing beach experience, while Malia offers more energetic nightlife directly accessible from the beach area. Stalis also tends to have more beachfront hotel options.
Are there sunbeds and umbrellas at Stalis beach and how much do they cost?
Yes, most of Stalis Beach is organized with sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent. Typically, you rent a package of two beds and one umbrella for the day. Prices are generally around €6-€15, which can be lower than in nearby Malia. Some beach bars may offer free use of their sunbeds if you purchase food or drinks from them.
Can you swim at Stalis beach?
Yes, Stalis Beach is excellent for swimming. The waters are generally calm and shallow, especially suitable for children and casual swimmers. The beach has been awarded a Blue Flag, indicating clean waters.
Is Stalis beach windy?
Stalis Beach can experience windy days, as is common on the north coast of Crete. However, it is generally more sheltered than the beaches further east in Malia. There will be some days when the wind and waves might be too high for safe swimming, especially for young children.
What is the water temperature like at Stalis beach?
The sea temperature at Stalis Beach varies by season. In May, the average water temperature is around 19.3°C (66.7°F). During the peak summer months, like August, the water is much warmer, averaging around 25.8°C (78.4°F). In early spring, around March, temperatures are cooler, in the range of 15-16°C (59-61°F).
Are there any nudist beaches near Stalis?
Stalis Beach itself is mentioned in some sources as being nudist-friendly or having areas where nudism is practiced. Malia Beach, which is nearby, also has sections frequented by nudists.
What are the best months to visit Stalis for a beach holiday?
The best months for a beach holiday in Stalis are typically from May to October. During this period, you can expect warm, sunny weather and pleasant sea temperatures. May and September offer warm weather with fewer crowds than the peak months of July and August. July and August are the hottest months with the most sunshine hours and warmest sea temperatures, but also the busiest.
How do I get to Stalis beach from Heraklion airport?
Stalis is located about 30 km east of Heraklion Airport. You can reach Stalis by public bus, taxi, or rental car. Buses from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos or Malia stop at Stalis (bus stops 27, 28, and 29), and the journey takes around 30-45 minutes by car or taxi, and slightly longer by bus. The bus stop is a short walk from the beach.
What water sports are available at Stalis beach?
Stalis Beach offers a variety of water sports. Visitors can typically find options such as jet skiing, parasailing, water skiing, banana boat rides, fun-rings, flying fish, pedalos, and canoes. Several water sports centers operate along the beach.
Is Stalis a good base for exploring other parts of Crete?
Stalis can be a decent base for exploring the eastern part of Crete, with good bus connections to nearby towns like Hersonissos, Malia, and Agios Nikolaos, as well as the capital, Heraklion. However, if your main interest is visiting famous beaches on the west coast like Elafonissi or Balos, Stalis is quite far, and staying on the western side of the island would be more convenient. It's a long day trip to those western beaches from Stalis.
