- Region
- West of Rethymno
- Distance
- 14 km from Rethymno, 45 km from Chania
- Beach
- About 3.5 km of sand
- Facilities
- Organised west end; quiet east end
Pick your section
The western part, near where the Mouselas river reaches the sea, has umbrellas, lifeguards and snack bars. Walk or drive east along the old road and the beach becomes emptier, until it ends at the rocky coves of Petres.
The seabed is sandy and shallow, but this is an open north coast: on windy days waves and currents build quickly. Swim near lifeguards when the flags are up.
Turtles
Loggerhead turtles nest along this shore from May to September. Look out for marked nests and keep the beach dark and clean at night.
Getting there and nearby
Frequent buses on the old Rethymno–Chania road stop along the beach. Episkopi village, 2 km inland, has tavernas and a traditional centre. Lake Kournas is about 6 km away, and the springs of Argyroupoli a short drive further.
Questions before you go
Is Episkopi beach crowded?
Not usually. It is long, and the eastern end is quiet even in summer.
Is Episkopi beach safe for children?
On calm days, yes: it is sandy and shallow. On windy days stay near the lifeguards.
Is there a bus to Episkopi beach?
Yes, buses on the old national road between Rethymno and Chania stop along it.
