Arena beach (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Arena beach?
Couples get sunset views, side-by-side loungers, and seafood tavernas right on the sand, but crowds near bars can reduce privacy, so romance is pleasant though not completely secluded.
Positives:
- Easy parking: Free parking along the beach road keeps your car close at hand.
- Flexible beach sections: Choose between organized areas with bars and unorganized sandy spots for a quiet setting.
Challenges:
- Limited shade: Umbrellas rent quickly; bring a portable shade or arrive early.
- Basic facilities: Showers and changing cabins are basic; carry towels and a change of clothes.
What is Arena beach?
- A wide, sandy-pebbly public beach located 10 km east of Heraklion on Crete’s north coast
- Organized into a western section with sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars, showers and lifeguard service alongside an unorganized expanse of open sand
- Framed by a gently shelving seabed just south of Heraklion Airport, with low-flying aircraft crossing overhead
What is so special about Arena beach for couple trip?
- Watch a vivid sunset from an unorganized sandy spot
- Enjoy a private SUP paddle as a couple at dusk
- Dine on fresh seafood and wine on the sand
- Relax in rented loungers with umbrella shade
- Play beach volleyball together by the shore
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: A 2-3 hour visit gives time for sunbathing, a SUP session, and a seaside taverna meal.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Arena beach
Sunset on the middle beach:
Sit on the unorganized sandy section and watch the sun dip below the sea.
Tip: Bring a beach towel and pick a quiet spot before 7pm.
Rent sunbeds and an umbrella:
Relax in comfort with loungers and shade on the organized end.
Tip: Pay €7 for two loungers and shelter; ask the beach bar for available spots.
Beach taverna dinner:
Share fresh seafood and Greek wine right on the sand.
Tip: Reserve a table by the water in advance, especially on weekends.
Sunset SUP session:
Paddle together as the sky changes colors.
Tip: Rent a board for about €10–15 per hour; schedule it 30 minutes before sunset.
Beach volleyball:
Play a casual game at the western court.
Tip: Bring or borrow a ball; free to use and a fun way to connect.
When is the best time to visit Arena beach (Heraklion, Greece)?
Visit May to October for warm water and long days. Avoid July midday if you dislike crowds. Bring a windbreaker in spring for occasional breezes. SUP at sunset is best in late summer.
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Reviews of Arena beach (Heraklion)
Linda Szeliga
Easy to get there with a car. Nice beach. Many families. It’s close to the airport so you can see airplanes. Recommend it!
Jess Schönhut
Very nice and clean beach. Not much to discover here but for a few hours at the beach I would recommend it. The beach is close to a main road, but it’s very spacious and you can rent sunbeds at a low price. However, there are more beautiful beaches in Crete.
Becky T
Lovely beach that’s busy but not overly crowded. Options to rent beach chairs and umbrellas (€8-10 for two, depending on the section) or bring your own. Food and drinks available, portaloos, basic changing booth, and a few open showers. Free parking, ample even on a July Saturday afternoon.
Miriam Ott
Nice and clean beach, really sandy and easy to access. Parking and also a bus station is directly in front, so it’s super easy to get there. We spend a whole day here since two sunbeds with a sunshade were just 7€, so it’s super affordable and worth the spend.
Mark Lacroix
Best beach ⛱️ close to heraklion. We've been from heraklion to Agios Nikolaos and this is by FAR the best, wide, sandy, no stones, no pebbles. Most beaches have stones when you enter the water and don't have even slope. Trust me don't go looking for best beach on this side of the island , save your time and stay on Arena. 3E for beach chairs and 3E cofee, 3,5 E for beer, decent service. Food choic...
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Sunbeds & umbrella for two | EUR 7 |
| SUP rental (1 hour) | EUR 15 |
| Dinner for two at beach taverna | EUR 30 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 52 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Maximize Your Visit to Arena beach
- Arrive before sunset: Plan to get there 30 minutes before sunset for ideal light and fewer crowds.
- Reserve dining spot: Ask staff to hold a beachfront table before you head into the water.
Map of Arena beach
Address: Εσταυρωμένος, Βαθιανός Κάμπος, Gouves 715 00, Greece
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About Arena beach
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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