Gournes beach (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Gournes beach?
What makes it 87% Kids-Friendly: Kids up to 12 enjoy shallow guarded water, sandcastle space, banana rides and quick walks to Dinosauria Park and Cretaquarium; parents must supervise sea-urchin areas and pay for shade.
Positives:
- Lifeguard on duty: Beach has a lifeguard during summer hours for added safety.
- Easy access: A paved promenade runs along the shore—good for strollers and little legs.
Challenges:
- Limited shade: Umbrella rentals fill up by late morning—bring your own if visiting off-season.
- Seasonal services: Water-sports and food outlets may close outside June–Sept.
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 kids?
- Calm, shallow waters with lifeguards
- Soft sand perfect for castle building
- Fun paddle boat and kayak rentals
- Quick snorkeling near rocky inlets
- Stroller-friendly promenade and beach bars
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for swimming, sand play and a beachside snack without tiring the kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Gournes beach
Safe shallow swimming:
Kids can splash in calm waters near the shore under lifeguard watch.
Tip: Set up near the main lifeguard station for extra peace of mind.
Sand-castle building:
Use soft golden sand to build turrets and moats.
Tip: Bring small buckets and spades from home to save rental fees.
Paddle boat and kayak rental:
Explore the bay and nearby rocky inlets on paddle boats or kayaks.
Tip: Book your gear by 10 AM to avoid waiting during peak season.
Snorkeling for small fish:
Discover sea life around the rocky east end.
Tip: Bring kid-size masks and fins to fit smaller faces.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Gournes beach
- Arrive early: Come before 10 AM to secure shaded spots and avoid queues for rentals.
- Pack beach essentials: Bring hats, reef-safe sunscreen and snacks for quick breaks between swims.
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)?
In summer (June–Sept), amenities run daily but the beach gets busy mid-day; in spring and fall, bring an umbrella as rentals may close.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Sunbeds & umbrellas (2 sets) | EUR 12 |
| Paddle boat hire (1 hour) | EUR 25 |
| Family lunch at taverna | EUR 44 |
| Snacks & drinks | EUR 10 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 91 |
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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