Beaches
From Bali to Panormo — crystal-clear waters, peaceful coves.
Mylopotamos offers visitors something that few destinations can promise: clean and peaceful beaches, away from tourist crowds, with waters ranging from emerald green to deep blue. A northern coastline with small picturesque coves, fishing boats in the harbor, and tavernas by the sea — this is the seaside soul of Mylopotamos.
From the lively yet always charming bay of Bali to the undisturbed sandy beaches of Panormo and the natural formation of Geropotamos — each beach has its own personality and its own story.
Beaches by Area
Bali – The Four Bays
Bali is the most well-known seaside resort of the Municipality, located 30 km east of Rethymno. The large natural bay forms four different beaches — Livadi, Kouskouras, Varkotopos, and Monastery Beach — with emerald waters that are almost always calm thanks to their western orientation. Boat cruises depart from the small harbor, revealing enchanting caves along the coastline.
Panormo – The Traditional Little Harbor
Panormo’s small natural cove, 22 km from Rethymno, preserves the charm of an authentic fishing village. The sandy beach, with shallow and calm waters, is ideal for families with children. Fishing boats, tavernas by the water, and the smaller beaches around the settlement create an atmosphere reminiscent of earlier times.
Geropotamos – The River Beach
Unique of its kind: Geropotamos Beach is located exactly where the fresh waters of the river meet the sea, forming a natural lagoon. Right below the historic stone bridge, the pebbled beach offers a landscape rich in vegetation — ideal for those looking for something different.
Kouskouras & Varkotopos
Two small, less organized coves in Bali, ideal for those seeking peace and undisturbed waters. Here, the sea remains truly crystal clear, and the atmosphere preserves something of old, untouched Crete.
Beach Information
- Types: Sandy beaches (Panormo, Livadi) and pebbled beaches (Geropotamos).
- Facilities: Organized beaches with sunbeds and lifeguards at Livadi & Panormo.
- Water sports: Diving schools, jet ski, and paddleboarding in Bali.
- Blue Flag: Varkotopos Beach, Bali
- Access: Intercity bus from Rethymno & Heraklion – or by car via National Road
ℹ Bali was ancient Astale — the port of Axos — and its name comes from the Turkish word “balli,” meaning honey.