Posted by Hidden Gems on Crete’s South Coast
Plakias in Crete is no longer a secret – and yet, there’s still plenty to discover around this small town on Crete’s south coast that many travelers overlook. Those who take a little time to explore the area off the beaten track will be rewarded with secluded coves, traditional villages, spectacular natural scenery, rustic tavernas, and genuine insider tips.
In this guide, we present over 20 true hidden gems in and around Plakias – perfect for anyone looking for more than just sun and sand. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or have been to Crete many times before, these tips are guaranteed to make your stay in Plakias an unforgettable experience.
🏝️ 1. Secluded Coves & Hidden Beaches in Plakias
Besides the well-known beaches like Plakias Beach, Damnoni, and Preveli, there are many small, little-known coves around Plakias that you’ll practically have to yourself – especially in the off-season or early in the morning.
🏖️ Micro Ammoudi – A Mini Paradise Among the Rocks
Just a few minutes’ walk west of Damnoni lies a tiny, hidden cove called Micro Ammoudi. The beach is only about 30 meters wide, surrounded by rocks, and perfect for swimming and snorkeling. There are no sun loungers, no tavernas, no infrastructure – just the sea, sun, and absolute peace and quiet. The beach is also known as One Rock Beach.
💡 Tip: Early in the morning or towards evening, you’ll have it almost entirely to yourself. Bring water and snacks.
🏝️ Fotinari Beach – Between Plakias and Souda
The small Fotinari Beach, located between Plakias and Souda, is poorly signposted and therefore often overlooked. It consists of coarse sand and small pebbles, and the water is turquoise blue and crystal clear. A particularly lovely feature: the tamarisk trees along the beach provide natural shade.
💡 Tip: Ideal for a spontaneous swim on the way back from a hike or for a peaceful picnic.
🏝️ Peristeres Beach – Accessible only by car
About 10 kilometers west of Plakias lies the secluded Peristeres Beach, one of the most isolated beaches in the region. It is only accessible via a dirt track, but offers a breathtaking view of the Libyan Sea and absolute tranquility.
💡 Tip: Perfect for those seeking peace and nature – be sure to bring food and water.
🌄 2. Nature & Hiking – Discover Spectacular Landscapes
The area around Plakias is a paradise for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. Wild gorges, verdant valleys, fragrant meadows, and spectacular views await you just a few kilometers from the beach.
🥾 Kourtaliotiko Gorge – Waterfalls in the Rocks
The famous Kourtaliotiko Gorge is a must-see for all nature lovers. It connects the mountain village of Koxare with the Preveli Valley and offers some of the most spectacular scenery in southern Crete. The small waterfalls, which even flow in summer, are particularly impressive.
💡 Tip: Early morning or late afternoon is especially atmospheric – and significantly less crowded.
🥾 Kotsifou Gorge – Less well-known, but no less beautiful
Just west of Plakias lies the Kotsifou Gorge, often overlooked but offering equally spectacular views. The gorge is smaller than Kourtaliotiko, but ideal for short hikes or a drive in a rental car.
💡 Tip: Stop at the viewpoint just before the exit towards Plakias – here you’ll have a fantastic view across the valley all the way to the sea.
🌿 Hike to Preveli – Coastal Trail with a Breathtaking View
Instead of driving or taking a boat to the famous Preveli Beach, you can also reach it on foot. The coastal hiking trail, which takes about 3–4 hours, starts near Plakias or Damnoni and leads you through olive groves, over cliffs, and past secluded coves – offering spectacular views of the coast and the sea.
💡 Tip: Start early and bring plenty of water – the trail offers very little shade.
🏡 3. Authentic Villages & Original Crete
Just a few kilometers from Plakias lie small mountain villages where time seems to stand still. Here you can experience the authentic Crete, far from the tourist crowds.
🏘️ Mirthios – Views with Tavernas
The picturesque village of Mirthios is located about 3 kilometers above Plakias and is a true hidden gem – and not just because of the views. From up here, you have a spectacular panoramic view of the entire Plakias Bay, especially at sunset.
💡 Tip: Perfect for dinner with a view – for example, at Taverna Dionyssos or Panorama.
🏡 Sellia – Traditional Village Life
Just a few minutes away lies the sleepy village of Sellia, a typical Cretan mountain village with narrow streets, old stone houses, and a handful of cozy tavernas. Here, life is much as it was 50 years ago – perfect for a stroll and a coffee with the locals.
💡 Tip: Stop at the village church and enjoy the view of the surrounding mountains and the sea.
🏡 Asomatos – Starting Point for Nature Explorations
The small village of Asomatos is located at the top of the Kourtaliotiko Gorge and is a perfect starting point for hikes or a trip to the Preveli Monastery. There’s also a small folklore museum and a very good taverna.
💡 Tip: The Agia Fotini taverna is popular with locals and serves great home-style cooking.
🍷 4. Food & Drink – Culinary Hidden Gems
Plakias has many tavernas, but some real gems remain unknown even to many regulars.
🍷 Taverna Mariou – with Sea Views Over the Bay
In the mountain village of Mariou, about 5 kilometers above Plakias, you’ll find one of the most beautiful tavernas in the region. Here, you can sit on a terrace with sweeping views of the south coast and enjoy homemade dishes made with local ingredients.
💡 Tip: The atmosphere here is especially magical at sunset – it’s best to book in advance.
All about accommodation in Plakias and buses to Plakias
🍇 Wine Tasting in the Area
Just about 30 minutes from Plakias, near Spili, there are several small wineries offering tours and tastings. A visit is worthwhile not only for wine lovers – you’ll learn a lot about Cretan wine culture and can buy wine directly on site.
💡 Tip: Combine your visit with a trip to Spili or the Kourtaliotiko Gorge.
🏞️ 5. Viewpoints & Photo Spots
If you enjoy photography or simply appreciate spectacular panoramas, you’ll find plenty to love around Plakias.
📸 Viewpoint above Mirthios
Just above the village of Mirthios lies a small parking area with one of the most beautiful views in the region. From here, you can see the entire Plakias Bay, the mountains in the background, and, on a clear day, even the southern coast as far as Agia Galini.
💡 Tip: Especially beautiful at sunset – don’t forget your camera!
📸 Lighthouse at Cape Kakomouri
At the western end of Plakias Bay, a small path leads up to the old lighthouse at Cape Kakomouri. From here, you have a fantastic view of the sea, the surrounding bays, and the setting sun.
📸 💡 Tip: Ideal for a picnic with a view or a romantic evening stroll.
🧭 6. Small Adventures & Special Experiences
🐬 Dolphin Watching by Boat
With a bit of luck, you can spot dolphins off the coast of Plakias. In summer, local operators offer small boat tours where you can not only watch dolphins but also swim in secluded coves.
💡 Tip: Your best chances are early morning or late afternoon.
🌄 Jeep Tour into the Inland
If you want to experience a different side of Crete, a guided jeep tour into the hinterland is worthwhile. These tours take you along unpaved roads through olive groves, small mountain villages, and remote valleys – often including a picnic or wine tasting.
💡 Tip: Many tours start directly in Plakias or Damnoni – book early!
🏁 Conclusion: Plakias is full of surprises
Plakias is so much more than just beaches and sunshine. Those who venture off the beaten path will discover a world of hidden coves, authentic villages, culinary treasures, spectacular landscapes, and unique experiences.
These insider tips will not only make your vacation more diverse but also more authentic – and they’ll show you why Plakias is considered by many visitors to be one of the most beautiful places in all of Crete.
Whether you discover secluded bays while snorkeling, sample traditional dishes in a small mountain taverna, or hike through wild gorges – you’ll find the real Crete here.