From Rethymno: Exotic Preveli Palms, Damnioni & Plakia Beach

Exploring the Rethymno: Exotic Preveli Palms, Damnioni & Plakia Beach Tour

If you’re eyeing a laid-back way to see some of Crete’s most beautiful spots without the hassle of planning every detail yourself, this day-long tour from Rethymno might just fit the bill. It promises a mix of lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and charming villages, all wrapped into a neat 9-hour package. From what we’ve gathered, it’s a good option for those who want to combine relaxation with some spectacular scenery.

What really catches our eye about this experience is how it manages to balance several highlights—like the rare Preveli Palm Forest, the inviting Damnoni Beach, and the quaint Plakias village—into one affordable trip. Plus, its inclusion of a scenic drive through Kourtaliotis Gorge offers a taste of Crete’s rugged natural beauty. Another plus? The price point, at just $19 per person, makes it accessible for most travelers.

That said, there are a few things to consider. The tour is quite packed, with multiple stops and activities, which can feel a little rushed—especially if you really want to soak in each place. And if you’re not into wind or windy beaches, some stops might be less enjoyable, as noted by past travelers. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a flexible, scenic day with some time to relax and explore.

This tour is a solid choice if you’re after a balance of natural beauty, good value, and a guided experience that takes care of the logistics. It’s perfect for travelers who want to tick off Crete’s southern highlights without spending a fortune or organizing everything themselves.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $19, it’s a budget-friendly way to explore some of Crete’s top natural spots.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines beaches, a scenic gorge, and a charming village, giving a well-rounded experience.
• Scenic Highlights: Enjoy stunning views of Kourtaliotis Gorge and the lush Preveli Palm Forest.
• Flexible Attractions: Includes swimming, walking, and snorkeling opportunities, plus plenty of free time.
• Guided Comfort: Led by knowledgeable guides who are praised for their helpful tips and commentary.
• Potential Windy Days: Some reviews mention strong winds, especially at Damnoni Beach and Plakias, which can affect swimming and lounging.

A Deep Dive into the Crete Coastal Experience

When you first hear about this tour, what’s likely to draw you in is the promise of seeing Preveli’s famous palm forest. This spot is quite the picture—tall palms growing right into the beach, surrounded by rocky cliffs, creating a tropical vibe in the middle of the Mediterranean. We love the way the tour makes it easy to access, with a boat ride that adds a dash of adventure and helps you avoid the hassle of navigating yourself.

The Journey to the Palm Forest

The trip kicks off early enough, with pickup from designated locations like Skaleta, Adelianos Kampos, or Rethymno. You’ll then hop on an air-conditioned bus, which makes the 80-minute drive comfortable. The scenic route alone offers some nice views of the countryside, and the guide’s commentary (usually in English or German) helps pass the time with interesting tidbits about Crete’s landscape.

Damnoni Beach: A Perfect Start

Your first stop is Damnoni Beach, known for its clear waters and relaxed atmosphere. It’s a solid choice for a few hours of lounging, swimming, or just soaking up the sun. The beach is equipped with rental umbrellas and sunbeds, so you can settle in comfortably. There are also a handful of tavernas and snack vans, so grabbing a snack or cold drink is easy.

A quick boat ride—about 20 minutes—takes you to Preveli Beach. This part of the tour gets high marks from travelers. One reviewer noted the timing was perfect for avoiding crowds (“the palm beach was slowly getting really busy”), and the boat adds a fun element that breaks up the day.

More Great Tours Nearby

Preveli Beach: The Highlight

Once at Preveli, you’re free to walk around, swim, or even try snorkeling if you’re feeling adventurous. The natural shade from the palms and the rocky surroundings make it a peaceful spot to chill for around two hours. The lack of rental umbrellas or sunbeds means bringing your own sun protection is wise if you plan to stay long.

Travelers often describe this as the most memorable part of the trip. Lena from Germany shared how the timing was “well planned” and called it “the highlight” of the day. The unique scenery and easy access make it a must-see for nature lovers.

Return to Damnoni & Then to Plakias

After the initial visit, you head back by boat to Damnoni Beach for another couple of hours. This gives you a second chance to relax or take a quick swim in the calmer waters. The flexibility to swim or just unwind by the sea is a real plus.

Next, the journey continues to Plakias, a quaint seaside village ideal for lunch, strolling, or just enjoying the view. Realistically, this part of the trip is more about soaking in the laid-back vibe than ticking off major sights. Past travelers have enjoyed the local tavernas, especially with their Greek specialties, described as a perfect way to refuel after a morning of beach hopping.

The Scenic Drive through Kourtaliotis Gorge

The final treat is a scenic drive through Kourtaliotis Gorge. The guide usually makes a brief stop at a lookout point, perfect for photos. The gorge’s natural grandeur provides a fitting end to a day full of natural wonders. The stop is brief—about 10 minutes—but the views are appreciated and often cited as a highlight.

The Logistics & Overall Experience

The day is quite full, with the itinerary scheduled to maximize your time at each stop. You’ll spend roughly 2 hours at Preveli, 2 hours back at Damnoni, then about 75 minutes in Plakias, plus the scenic drive. The total duration is about 9 hours, including travel, which means you’ll be on the move most of the day.

Transport-wise, the group size is manageable, and the bus is air-conditioned, making the long drives comfortable. The included pickup and drop-off from Rethymno make logistics simple, removing the stress of finding your own way.

Value & Practicality

At just $19 per person, this tour offers excellent value when compared to more expensive private excursions. The inclusion of hotel pickup, guide service, and all taxes adds to the ease of the experience. The closest comparison might be more expensive private tours, but for the price, you’re getting a well-organized day with plenty of natural highlights.

Regarding the boat cruise to Preveli, it’s priced separately (~€11 for adults, less for children), but the tour package makes it straightforward to include without fuss. Many reviews mention that the timing of the boat rides is well thought out, allowing travelers to enjoy the beaches at their best.

What to Pack & Bring

Since Preveli Beach has no rental umbrellas or sunbeds, bringing your own shade equipment, snacks, and water is wise—especially if you plan to stay for the full two hours. The beaches are free for swimming, but Damnoni Beach has rentals and tavernas, so you can decide whether to bring supplies or buy on location.

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and windy days might limit swimming or lounging, as some travelers experienced. Still, most found the day rewarding, especially given the stunning scenery.

Authentic Traveler Insights

One traveler from France mentioned that the guide was excellent and noted how the timing was perfect for seeing the palm forest before it got crowded. Others highlighted the scenic views and the value for money, emphasizing that it’s a good way to see a variety of landscapes without having to organize multiple trips.

But not everyone loved every aspect. A reviewer pointed out that the last stop in Plakias was a bit windy, which affected swimming and made the stop less enjoyable. So if wind is a concern, it’s worth considering the weather forecast before booking.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want an easy, guided day full of natural beauty without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s ideal if you’re interested in beaches, scenic landscapes, and local villages, rather than intense hiking or cultural sites. It’s also a good pick for those watching their budget but still wanting a memorable Crete experience.

Since the tour involves boat rides, some walking, and outdoor activity, it’s best for those who are reasonably mobile and comfortable with a full-day schedule. If wind or windy beaches bother you, you might want to plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-oriented, children who enjoy beaches and boat rides typically find it enjoyable. Just keep in mind that the boat ride may be bumpy if it’s windy, and some stops involve walking or swimming.

How long is the boat ride to Preveli Beach?
The boat ride to Preveli is approximately 20 minutes each way, adding a fun element to the trip and helping you avoid a longer hike.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned bus, an experienced guide, all legal taxes, and the boat rides. The boat cruise itself is priced separately (€11+ for adults), but many travelers find it convenient to have it included or organized as part of the trip.

Are there any food options?
Yes, in Plakias Village, you can enjoy local Greek cuisine at a seaside tavern, perfect for a relaxed lunch. You might want to bring some snacks or water for the beaches, as amenities are limited or pricier at the beaches themselves.

Is there much walking involved?
At each stop, there’s some walking—mainly at Preveli and the gorge viewing points. The tour isn’t overly physical, but if mobility is an issue, this is something to keep in mind.

What if the weather is windy or rainy?
Windy conditions can make swimming and lounging less comfortable, especially at Damnoni Beach and Plakias. Rain isn’t mentioned as a concern, but weather can always affect outdoor plans. The tour might be rescheduled or canceled with a full refund if weather conditions are severe.

Final Thoughts

This Rethymno day trip to the south coast of Crete delivers a lovely mix of scenery, relaxation, and local charm—all at a surprisingly reasonable price. The combination of beaches, scenic drives, and easy access to one of Crete’s most iconic palm forests makes it a good pick for travelers wanting a low-stress, photo-worthy day.

If you appreciate knowledgeable guides and well-organized trips that don’t break the bank, this tour offers genuine value. The beaches and landscapes are genuinely stunning, and the boat rides add a fun twist that many travelers enjoy. It’s not perfect—wind can be an issue, and some stops might feel a bit rushed—but overall, most guests leave with plenty of memorable moments.

Ideal for those seeking a balanced day of sightseeing and relaxation, this experience is especially suitable if you’re short on time but want a taste of Crete’s natural beauty beyond the usual beach day. Just pack your sun protection, maybe a snack, and get ready for a scenic adventure.

Remember: Always check the weather forecast closer to your trip, and don’t forget to bring some cash for optional extras like snacks or boat cruise upgrades. Enjoy your trip—Crete’s southern shores are truly something special!

You can check availability for your dates here: