If you’re in Crete and looking to enjoy some of the island’s most beautiful beaches without the hassle of driving yourself, this guided day trip from Rethymno might be just what you’re after. It’s a well-structured outing that combines stunning scenery, relaxing stops, and a taste of local flavor. We’ve gathered insights and real traveler reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect.
What we particularly like about this tour is how it balances picturesque locations like Preveli Beach and Kourtaliotis Gorge with convenient transportation and a friendly guide. Plus, the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters and see lush palm forests adds a memorable touch.
That said, the boat trip to Preveli can be a bit choppy, which might not suit everyone, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer smooth sailing.
Wonderful way to spend the day! The first part of the tour was the Gorg/Waterfall. It is not recommend if you struggle walking. It is a bit far and step/high/rocky! It is a good idea to wear a comfy shoe! Make sure to bring a debit card or have your phone because the 5euro fee to enter cannot be paid in cash! We didn't have lunch until after 3oclock so it's a good idea to have a big breakfast or snack along the way. I would have liked more time at the first beach although the Palm Beach was pretty the water was not so clear and it was rocky. Gorgeous views. Barbara and staff were great. Wonderful coordinator and communication.
Great day trip, very well organised. Made sure everyone knew what was happening and what time to be back to the coach. Would reccomend!
Not much to say..just amazing experience overall! The weather was great and everything went well from the beginning to the end!
Another thing to consider is that food and drinks are at your own expense, so it’s good to plan ahead or bring snacks. The tour is ideal for those who want to explore multiple beaches and enjoy scenic views without the stress of navigating on their own. If you’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and some walking, this trip can be a great addition to your Crete adventure.
It’s a tour best suited for travelers who want a mix of natural beauty, light activity, and laid-back beach time. Families, couples, and solo explorers who enjoy outdoor scenery will find plenty to love here. Just keep in mind the boat ride’s choppiness if that’s a concern.
- Key Points
- The Full Itinerary Breakdown
- From Rethymno to Kourtaliotis Gorge
- Preveli Beach: The Jewel of the Tour
- Damnoni Beach and the Boat Trip
- Lunch and Shopping at Plakias
- The Practical Details
- Limitations and Considerations
- Authentic Traveler Feedback
- Who Should Consider This Tour?
- FAQs
- Final Thoughts
- More 1-Day Tours in Chania
- More Full-Day in Chania
- More Tour Reviews in Chania
Key Points
- Includes hotel transfers for a hassle-free experience.
- Scenic stops at Kourtaliotis Gorge and multiple beaches.
- Boat trip to Preveli Beach offers a unique perspective—though it can be rough.
- Time for swimming and relaxing at some of Crete’s most iconic beaches.
- Flexible options to explore or skip certain activities, like the boat ride.
- Cost-effective price considering transportation, guide, and scenic stops.
- Good for outdoor lovers who enjoy natural landscapes and a relaxed pace.
- Not ideal for travelers seeking luxury or a quiet, calm boat ride due to reported choppiness.
The Full Itinerary Breakdown
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Chania
From Rethymno to Kourtaliotis Gorge
The day kicks off with hotel pickup (covering Rethymno, Panormo, Scaleta, and nearby areas). You’ll hop into an air-conditioned vehicle and head south towards Kourtaliotis Gorge—a highlight for many.
The drive itself offers scenic views, and once you arrive, you can walk down to see the waterfalls and springs that flow toward Preveli Beach. This stop sets the tone for the day: lush, dramatic scenery with a peaceful vibe.
It was a lovely experience , beach was so clear , you can see the river and the beach in the same time in palm beach
We absolutely loved this day trip which took us to a gorge and then three beaches. The best part of the trip is travelling to Preveli beach which you access via a (very choppy) 30 min boat trip. It was absolutely stunning! The sea, which then leads to a river flanked by a palm tree forest – so peaceful and beautiful. The tour company is Klados Panagiotis, who we'd happened to have taken a local trip with two days before, and they're fab – especially the very informative tour guide Barbara.
Une journée qui s’est globalement bien passée, même si elle n'a rien eu d'extraordinaire, à l'exception de la plage de Preveli et des gorges, qui étaient magnifiques (attention, il faut compter plus de 200 marches pour y accéder). Les autres plages visitées (Diamoni Beach et Plakias) étaient sans grand intérêt. Nous avons eu un guide très pressé, presque militaire dans son approche. L’organisation et la répartition du temps laissaient à désirer : nous avons eu très peu de temps aux gorges alors que nous sommes arrivés largement en avance à la plage de Diamoni, où nous devions prendre le bateau. Nous avons eu l’impression que cela était fait exprès pour prendre un …
Traveling through the gorge, we loved the way the landscape transitions from rocky cliffs to the green palms near Preveli. The reviews mention the beautiful waterfalls and the peaceful ambiance of the river and beach, which is exactly what you’d hope for.
Preveli Beach: The Jewel of the Tour
The star of the trip is Preveli Beach, famous for its unique combination of sandy shores, palm forests, and a river that flows into the sea. To get there, you'll take a boat (at your own expense) across the water, which many say is an exciting way to arrive.
One traveler noted, “the boat ride was very choppy, but the scenery was absolutely stunning.” So, if you're sensitive to rough waters, prepare accordingly.
Once there, you’re free to swim, relax, and soak up the peaceful setting. The water’s clarity and the lush greenery create a striking contrast that’s great for photos or just unwinding. We loved the way the river flows toward the palm-lined beach—such a rare, memorable sight.
Damnoni Beach and the Boat Trip
Next, the tour continues to Damnoni Beach, where a boat awaits to take you to Palm Beach Preveli at the river’s mouth. The boat ride offers a different perspective of the landscape and is often described as a highlight, despite some reports of choppiness. During the trip, you'll get time to swim in the turquoise waters and explore the tropical forest nearby.
Some reviews mention that the boat ride was “very choppy,” but most agree it adds to the adventure. The boat trip is an hour long, so if you're prone to seasickness, it’s worth bringing some remedies or considering whether this part suits you.
Lunch and Shopping at Plakias
After the boat adventure, you'll visit Plakias, a charming coastal village nestled in a bay. Here, you can enjoy lunch at your own expense. Many travelers opt for local tavernas offering traditional Greek dishes, which are often appreciated for their freshness and flavor. The reviews mention doing some shopping or taking another swim—an ideal way to relax before heading back.
You’ll also have about two hours here, giving you plenty of time to wander, dip into the waters, or pick up souvenirs. The scenic drive back takes you through Kotsifou Gorge, offering yet another stunning landscape.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Chania
The Practical Details
This tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting with hotel pickup, so expect an early start. Transportation is in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, making the long day more bearable. The group size caps at 50 travelers, which helps keep the atmosphere friendly and manageable.
The cost is about $28.91 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the scenic stops, guide, and transportation. However, the boat ticket to Preveli Beach isn’t included, so budget around a few extra euros for that. Food and drinks are also at your expense, so consider bringing snacks or planning to dine in Plakias.
The guide is noted as professional and speaks English and German, which adds clarity and comfort, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
Limitations and Considerations
- The boat ride’s choppiness is a common concern—be prepared for potentially bumpy waters.
- The pickup points are central, but remote hotels, like Grand Rimondi, aren’t included, so check your location.
- The entrance fee for Kourtaliotiko Gorge isn't included, so budget accordingly.
- Since the tour involves some walking and water activities, bring comfortable shoes and swimwear.
Authentic Traveler Feedback
From reviews, we see a mix of enthusiastic praise and some frustrations. Several travelers call it a "great day trip," praising the scenic views, well-organized schedule, and friendly guides. One reviewer said, “the weather was great, and everything went well from start to finish,” which speaks to the reliability of the trip.
On the flip side, a few mention communication issues or missed pickups, so making sure your arrangements are confirmed beforehand is wise. As one traveler noted, “we weren’t able to participate because we didn’t get the pickup info,” so double-check your details.
Others highlight the beauty of Preveli Beach and the crystal-clear waters, with one describing it as “absolutely stunning.” If your main goal is to see this iconic spot and enjoy some beach time, this tour delivers.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience suits outdoor lovers eager to see Crete’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning logistics. It’s great for those who want a mix of scenic drives, short hikes, and beach relaxation, with a guide to handle the details.
It’s also ideal if you don’t mind a boat ride that might be choppy and are comfortable with a full day of activity. Families with older children may enjoy it, but younger kids might find the boat ride or walking a bit tiring.
If you’re on a budget but still want a rundown of some of Crete’s most stunning beaches and gorges, this trip offers good value.
FAQs
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from several central locations including Rethymno town and nearby areas. Be sure to confirm your hotel details to receive your pickup time and point.
How long is the boat trip to Preveli Beach?
The boat ride is about 30 minutes and can be quite choppy, so bring seasickness remedies if needed.
What’s not included in the price?
The boat ticket to Preveli Beach isn’t included, nor are food and drinks, personal expenses, and the entrance fee for Kourtaliotiko Gorge.
Can I skip the boat ride?
The tour description suggests reaching Preveli Beach by boat, but it’s at your own expense. You might choose to explore other parts of the area if you prefer, but the boat ride is a key part of the experience.
Is this suitable for children?
The tour involves some walking and a boat ride, which might be tiring or unsuitable for very young children. Older kids who enjoy outdoor adventures could find it enjoyable.
How much does the tour cost?
It runs at around $28.91 per person, offering a pretty decent deal considering the transportation and scenic stops.
What should I bring?
Bring a swimming suit, sunscreen, water, comfortable shoes, and some cash for lunch or extras.
What’s the pace of the tour like?
It’s a full-day experience, roughly 10 hours including transfers, with several stops and some walking, so be prepared for a day filled with sightseeing and relaxation.
Preveli Beach and Plakias Full-Day Trip From Rethymno
"Wonderful way to spend the day! The first part of the tour was the Gorg/Waterfall. It is not recommend if you struggle walking. It is a bit far and..."
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a day that combines dramatic landscapes, beautiful beaches, and a taste of local life, the Preveli Beach and Plakias trip stands out as a practical choice. You’ll appreciate the convenience of hotel pickup, the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle, and the spectacular scenery along the way.
While the boat ride can be a bit bumpy and it’s a longer day, many travelers find it totally worth it for the chance to see Preveli’s iconic palm-lined shores and enjoy the quiet beauty of Kourtaliotis Gorge. Just remember to bring your swimwear, some snacks, and a sense of adventure.
Ultimately, this tour is best suited for those who want a well-organized, scenic day out with plenty of opportunities for swimming, relaxing, and taking in some of Crete’s best natural sights. It’s not great for those seeking a hassle-free, luxury experience or who are sensitive to choppy waters, but for the rest of us, it’s a solid way to explore Crete’s south coast.
