From Chania: Day Trip to Preveli Beach & Damnoni Beach

A full-day adventure exploring Crete’s south coast, with visits to Preveli and Damnoni beaches, waterfalls, and the iconic Kourtaliotiko Gorge for $40.65.
This guided trip from Chania offers a chance to see some of the most stunning natural sights the island has to offer—think palm-fringed beaches, a lush tropical forest, and rugged gorges. What we love most is the mix of relaxing seaside moments with invigorating short hikes through scenic landscapes. It’s a chance to connect with nature and history all in one day.

One standout feature is the visit to Preveli Beach, renowned for its palm forest that surrounds the river and meets the sea—an image that stays with you long after the trip ends. Another highlight is the stop at Damnoni Beach, a quieter stretch perfect for taking a breath away from crowds.

A key consideration is the short amount of time allocated at each stop, especially at Preveli, where reviews mention feeling rushed—sometimes just over an hour for swimming and exploring. If you’re after a leisurely pace, this might be a bit of a challenge. Still, if you enjoy a full schedule with diverse sights, this trip is ideal.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of scenic beauty, light activity, and cultural highlights. If you’re comfortable with a packed itinerary and want to see some of the best south coast spots with included transport and a guide, you’ll find it rewarding.

Key Points

Stunning natural scenery: Palm forest at Preveli, waterfalls, and gorges provide breathtaking views.
Convenient transport: Air-conditioned buses and hotel pickup make for a smooth day.
Short hikes and free time: A chance to walk through tropical forests and relax at beaches.
Authentic experience: Knowledgeable guides share stories and history along the way.
Value for money: For around $40, you get pretty full access to multiple sites.
Some time constraints: Short visits at key locations mean you’ll need to move quickly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

This tour, offered by PLATANOS TOURS, starts with an early morning pickup from 16 options around Chania, including popular spots like Agia Marina, Platanias, and Kalyves. This flexibility makes it easier to fit into your travel plans. The journey begins with a 100-minute bus ride in comfortable, air-conditioned coaches—warm enough to appreciate the scenic views but cool enough to stay comfortable.

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Damnoni Beach: A Quieter Coastal Charm

Your first stop is Damnoni Beach, a hidden gem just a few kilometers from the busier Plakias resort. Here, you’ll have about 1.5 hours to relax, take photos, or dip your toes in the calm waters. The beach is less crowded most of the year, making it a peaceful start to your day. You might find the setting idyllic for a quick swim or a scenic walk along the shoreline. There’s also time to visit the local café for a coffee or snack, as the tour includes a scenic drive along the coast.

The Ferry to Preveli: A Short, Scenic Ride

From Damnoni, you’ll hop on a 30-minute ferry crossing to reach Preveli Beach. The ferry adds a sense of adventure, giving you a fresh perspective of the coastline. It’s a simple, fun way to get to the highlight of the trip, especially if you’re traveling with kids or just love boat rides.

The Iconic Preveli Beach: Nature’s Masterpiece

Once ashore, you’re free to explore Preveli’s stunning natural surroundings. The highlight here is the palm forest that lines the river, which comes from the gorge and winds down to the sea—a sight that has captivated visitors and locals alike. Legend has it that Odysseus himself stopped here en route to Ithaka, adding a touch of myth to the place.

You’ll have around 2.5 hours to swim, snorkel, take photos, or simply bask in the beauty of the beach. However, some reviews point out that this is a short window—just over two hours—so you’ll need to plan your time wisely. The area is protected under Natura 2000, which helps preserve its delicate ecosystem, so it’s not just beautiful but also ecologically significant.

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The Return: Scenic Drive and Stop at Plakias

After returning by ferry, the bus takes you to Plakias, a charming seaside village. With about 75 minutes here, you’ll have time for a relaxed stroll, lunch, or a quick swim. Many travelers enjoy this stop for its laid-back vibe and local charm. You might also get a chance for some dune bashing or shopping if that interests you.

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Return Journey: Back to Chania

The last stretch involves a 100-minute bus ride back to your starting point, giving you the chance to reflect on the day’s sights or chat with fellow travelers. The tour concludes with drop-offs at your hotel or nearby location, making it easy to wind down after a full day.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews echo the beauty of Preveli—“Preveli beach was great, it was worth to visit,” but also highlight some frustrations. One traveler noted, “We had 2.5 hours at Preveli but only 1 hour 15 minutes for lunch,” which suggests that some might feel hurried, especially if they want to linger. Another review mentioned, “We had to hurry at all stops,” and felt the time at each location was tight.

The tour’s guide, according to reviews, provides plenty of historical and cultural commentary, though some travelers found her accent a bit difficult to understand. Still, the general consensus appreciates the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery.

Value and Practicality

At $40.65, the price offers good value considering the transportation, guide, ferry rides, and access to multiple sites. Keep in mind that food, drinks, and entrance fees (like the €5 for Kourtaliotiko Gorge) are extra, which adds a bit to the overall cost. Still, many find the organized logistics—hotel pickup, included ferry, and guided commentary—well worth it for a hassle-free experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who want a comprehensive look at Crete’s natural beauty without worrying about logistics. If you’re comfortable with a full, packed schedule and don’t mind moving quickly between spots, you’ll enjoy the variety of sights and the stories behind them. It’s especially good for those who appreciate a mix of beach time, scenic views, and light walking.

However, if you’re seeking longer, more relaxed visits or want to explore each site at your own pace, you might find this tour a bit rushed. It’s perfect for travelers who want to cover a lot in a single day and are happy with shorter stays at each location.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour overall?
The tour lasts around 10 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon or early evening, with a full schedule of stops.

What’s included in the price?
Your fare covers bus transfers, guide services in English, hotel pickup and drop-off from many locations around Chania, and ferry rides between Damnoni and Preveli.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included. The tour provides a lunch break at Plakias, where you can find food options, but you need to purchase your own.

How much time do I have at Preveli Beach?
Officially, you get about 2.5 hours there, but some travelers say it feels rushed, especially when factoring in time for the ferry and travel.

Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
While the tour involves some walking and a short hike through the gorge, most children and active seniors should find it manageable. However, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Essentials include sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, and swimwear if you want to swim. Also, bring some cash for optional extras or snacks.

Is there any free time?
Yes, there’s free time at Damnoni Beach and Plakias, giving you chances to relax, explore, or take photos at your own pace.

Can I swim at Preveli?
Yes, swimming is possible in the calm waters of Preveli, especially near the beach where the river meets the sea.

Are there any hidden costs?
Yes, entrance to Kourtaliotiko Gorge (€5) and boat tickets to Preveli (€15) are extra. Be prepared for additional expenses if you plan to explore more or buy food.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural stories, and beach relaxation—a good choice if you’re short on time but want to see some of Crete’s best natural sites. The inclusion of transportation and a guide makes it especially practical for visitors unfamiliar with the area or those who prefer a structured day.

It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to experience iconic beaches and stunning gorges without the hassle of planning each detail. If you’re prepared for a fast-paced day and want to maximize your time on Crete’s south coast, this trip delivers plenty of memorable moments.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely approach or want to spend longer at each stop, consider whether the limited time at Preveli and other sites might be a drawback. Ultimately, for its price and scope, this tour offers a genuine, scenic overview of Crete’s natural charm—well worth considering for your southern adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: