Arena beach (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Arena beach?
Children up to 12 can play on soft sand, paddle in shallow water under a daytime lifeguard, and use the beach volleyball court, yet no playground or shade structures requires parents to rent umbrellas.
Positives:
- Lifeguard on duty: A professional lifeguard watches the main beach area during peak hours.
- Free parking: Ample free parking is available close to the beach access road.
Challenges:
- Limited shade: Umbrellas can sell out quickly—rent or bring your own early.
- Few changing cabins: Only one public cabin is available; bring a portable changing mat.
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 with kids?
- Safe, shallow waters perfect for kids
- Clean sand ideal for building castles
- Lifeguard on duty adds peace of mind
- Free parking keeps gear close
- Plane-spotting excites the whole family
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for swimming, sand play, snacks and relaxation without overtiring young children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Arena beach
Shallow water swimming:
Kids can splash safely in the gently sloping seabed near shore.
Tip: Stay close to the lifeguard station and keep floaties handy.
Sandcastle building:
Clean, pebble-free sand is perfect for creative castle designs.
Tip: Bring sand toys and a small bucket to save time looking for rentals.
Beach sports:
Play volleyball, paddleball or beach soccer together.
Tip: Carry a lightweight ball set in your beach bag for easy play.
Plane-spotting:
Watch planes land and take off just offshore from Heraklion airport.
Tip: Pick a spot in the western section of the beach for the best view.
When is the best time to visit Arena beach (Heraklion, Greece)?
Visit between May and June to enjoy warm water and fewer crowds. In July–August bring extra shade and sunscreen as the sun is strongest.
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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 Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Sunbeds & umbrella rental | EUR 7 |
| Snacks & drinks for four | EUR 20 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 27 |
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 early: Get to the beach by 10 AM to claim prime spots and shade.
- Pack beach toys: Bringing your own buckets and spades saves time and rental fees.
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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