Gournes beach (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Gournes beach?
What makes it 69% Baby-Friendly: Babies can paddle safely and nap under hired umbrellas, and promenade is stroller-friendly, but no dedicated changing rooms, hot sand and limited shade mean extra planning for parents.
Positives:
- Safe shallow waters: Gentle slope and lifeguard on duty make water play secure.
- Free baby entry: Infants under 3 enter Cretaquarium and Dinosauria Park for free.
Challenges:
- Limited baby facilities: No dedicated changing rooms or nursing areas on the beach.
- Strong sun exposure: Sand and pavement get very hot; sunshade and sunscreen are essential.
What is Gournes beach?
- A sandy and pebbly bay on Crete’s northern coast at Gournes, east of Heraklion
- A nearly one-kilometer stretch of shoreline partially sheltered by breakwaters, creating calm, shallow Mediterranean waters
- A coastal promenade edged with beach bars, tavernas and lifeguard-supervised sunbed areas
What is so special about Gournes beach for with baby?
- Knee-deep water and soft sand ideal for baby play
- Promenade path allows easy stroller walks
- Free infant entry at nearby Cretaquarium
- Affordable sunbed rentals keep parents shaded
- Early morning or late afternoon visits avoid heat
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: A short beach visit plus light activities keeps baby happy and rested.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Gournes beach
Shallow water wading and sand-play:
Baby can splash safely in knee-deep water and play with soft sand.
Tip: Bring small buckets and spades and go early to avoid peak sun.
Seafront promenade stroll:
Walk the paved path along the beach with a stroller.
Tip: Use a sunshade on the stroller and walk after 4 PM when it’s cooler.
Cretaquarium visit:
Explore marine life with free baby entry under age 3.
Tip: Buy adult tickets online in advance and use a baby carrier inside.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Gournes beach
- Pack your own shade: Bring a pop-up beach tent or umbrella as backup if rentals sell out.
- Use a beach stroller: Wide wheels work better on sand; fold easily for boardwalk sections.
Reviews of Gournes beach
Milos Doderovic
The beaches are huge, the sea is beautiful... I will share one of my experiences and a warning to people... Avoid swimming in the sea when the wind is blowing strongly and when there are waves, no matter how harmless they look... The waves move the sand in the sea, make huge holes and small hills, under the pressure of the waves at the speed of light you can find yourself in a huge problem... ...
Lisa LaForge
Sandy, shallow water. €6 for two lounge chairs and an umbrella. We came in October and had no trouble finding a spot but I imagine it’s busy in the summer.
Greta Mantuškevičiūtė
It's Beech next to our home. And it's not the best beach of course but it's very good with kids, shallow waters, soft sand to play with. We love to come here also of the season just to play relax and watch the sea
Andrea Montuschi
Though not one of the best beaches in Crete, this one is a good beach for families, with lots of space, a good sea and reasonable prices. Several options for food are just across the road and parking is quite easy too (and free, on the road). If you want to get an umbrella and sunbeds, better get there before rush hour, which in August starts around 1130/1200.
Demetrios L.
It's a long beach with many taverns, small hotels and cafes. Go to the blue sky area where the service is perfect. Ideal for families as the sea is not so deep.
When is the best time to visit Gournes beach (Heraklion, Greece)?
Visit June–September; go before 11 AM or after 4 PM to avoid heat. In shoulder seasons, some beach bars may be closed.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Umbrella & sunbed rental | EUR 6 |
| Cretaquarium adult tickets (2) | EUR 24 |
| Beach snack/coffee | EUR 7 |
| Beachfront lunch | EUR 30 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 67 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Gournes beach
Address: Gournes beach, Gournes Gouvon 715 00, Greece
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About Gournes 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.
Phone Number
+30 2897 34000010 BEST nearby Activities
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