Quick answer: Souda is the last beach of the Plakias seafront, about 3 km west of the town and 41 km south-west of Rethymno. It mixes sand and fine pebbles, and behind it the year-round Finikas stream supports a colony of Cretan date palms.
- Region
- Plakias, south Rethymno
- Distance
- About 3 km west of Plakias
- Beach
- Sand, fine pebbles and rocks
- Facilities
- Umbrellas, lifeguard, Blue Flag, tavernas
The beach
Souda is usually calm, though strong north winds can sweep sand across it. There are umbrellas, a lifeguard and tavernas, and it has a Blue Flag.
The palms
The Finikas stream flows all year, and along it grows one of the important colonies of the Cretan date palm (Phoenix theophrasti), the species also found at Vai and Preveli.
Getting there
A paved road continues west from Plakias. It is also a pleasant walk along the coast. Fotinari and Pefkias beaches are within a kilometre.
Questions before you go
Are there palm trees at Souda beach?
Yes, a colony of native Cretan date palms grows along the stream.
How far is Souda from Plakias?
About 3 km west.
Is Souda beach organised?
Yes, with umbrellas, a lifeguard and tavernas.
