Paralia Pantanassas (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Paralia Pantanassas?
What makes it 66% Kids-Friendly: Guarded swimming zone, toilets, shade and ice-cream bar welcome kids, yet sudden depth, coarse pebbles and absence of playground or water slides demand close adult watch and shorten fun.
Positives:
- On-site facilities: Free toilets, showers, and a lifeguard in high season add convenience for families.
- Easy parking: Adjacent marina parking is free and steps from the beach entrance.
Challenges:
- Pebbly shore: Small pebbles can be hard on bare feet; water shoes help protect children.
- Limited natural shade: Pine grove offers spots but arrive early to secure a shaded area.
What is Paralia Pantanassas?
- A pebbly-sand coastal beach beneath the 19th-century Panagia Pantanassas monastery on Crete’s northern shore
- A sheltered bay in Agia Pelagia, featuring a small marina for pleasure boats and local fishing vessels
- A stretch of shoreline backed by pine-clad cliffs, complemented by a snack bar, sunbed rentals and car parking
What is so special about Paralia Pantanassas for with kids?
- Pebble and sand mix ideal for rock pooling and shell hunting.
- Calm, clear water perfect for safe family swims.
- Rent sunbeds and umbrellas close to the snack bar.
- Snack bar offers kid-friendly ice cream and drinks.
- Explore the nearby Panagia Pantanassa monastery and pine grove.
Recommended visit duration: 3–4 hours
Why 3–4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Families can swim, build pebble towers, rest under pines, and explore the monastery without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Paralia Pantanassas
Rock pooling and pebble play:
Kids build pebble towers and hunt shells in the shingle-sandy mixed shore.
Tip: Bring a small bucket and shovel for easy collecting.
Calm water swimming:
Swim in the clear, calm sea close to shore.
Tip: Use life vests for younger children and supervise at all times.
Sunbed & umbrella rental:
Rent shaded loungers at the organized section.
Tip: Book early in peak season to get a spot near the snack bar.
Snack bar treats:
Grab ice cream, soft drinks, and light snacks on site.
Tip: Try the local yogurt ice cream; kids love it.
Monastery grounds exploration:
Walk around the 19th-century Panagia Pantanassa above the beach.
Tip: Follow the small path behind the beach to avoid steep steps.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Paralia Pantanassas
- Early arrival: Get to the beach by 10 AM to choose a shaded spot and avoid crowds.
- Bring water shoes: Protect children’s feet from pebbles and slippery rocks.
Reviews of Paralia Pantanassas
Day Dortmans
Really big and quiet beach. Just locals and only a handful of people. Beds and umbrellas available. If you want a picturesque beach, opt for one of the smaller beaches nearby, but for chilling in the sun and swimming this one’s great.
Martin Jelínek
Nice and calm beach. Only few people there. Sunbeds are for 10€ but there is a lot of space to lay on the ground. You can park your car beside the beach in the harbor.
George Zaharieff
It’s the only beach nearby. There are much better beaches on Crete, but if you’re in the area, this is your easiest option. Keep in mind the water is really deep and you have less than 1.5m in the sea before going deep. I’d say it’s a bit dangerous for children. The beach cafe and staff are really friendly and positive people trying to make your stay pleasant.
Michalis Zacharakis
Close to heraklion ,with a small cantine and reasonable price
Athina Maniadi
A free and organized beach that offers wonderful seaview, cheap sunbeds and lot of sunkissed memories. Animals are also allowed. There is a beach bar present fully equiped with water, coffee, snacks or even alcohol
When is the best time to visit Paralia Pantanassas (Heraklion, Greece)?
Visit between June and early September for warm waters, lifeguard service, and full café hours. Shoulder seasons may have limited amenities.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Sunbed & umbrella rental (2 sets) | EUR 20 |
| Snacks & drinks | EUR 20 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 40 |
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
Map of Paralia Pantanassas
Address: Paralia Pantanassas, Gazi 715 00, Greece
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