Agia Pelagia isn’t just a pretty seaside village; it’s a hub for active and memorable experiences. Whether you’re zooming around on a quad bike at sunset, exploring ancient ghost towns, or sailing to scenic islands, this lively spot offers a variety of adventures. We particularly love the Sunset Quad Tour for its combination of stunning views, off-road fun, and a visit to a mysterious ghost town—plus, ending with a shot of raki and sweet is a charming touch.
If you’re looking to explore Crete’s beautiful countryside, Quad Safaris take you through traditional villages and scenic terrains, offering authentic glimpses of local life. For those who want to get beneath the surface, the scuba diving experiences and snorkeling tours bring you face-to-face with the vibrant marine life of the Aegean Sea. Whatever your style, Agia Pelagia has a tour that’s worth your time.
1. Agia Pelagia: Sunset or Morning Quad Tour & Ghost Town Visit
At number 1, this quad bike tour offers a lively combination of off-road riding and cultural discovery. Over three hours, you’ll ride rugged trails, soaking up sweeping sea views and lush countryside while feeling the wind in your hair. The highlight is visiting a ghost town with architectural remnants that whisper stories of a vanished era, making the ride both fun and intriguing. The sunset option adds a magical glow to the landscape, perfect for photos, while the morning version gets you started early for a different perspective. The tour concludes with a shot of raki and a sweet treat, a friendly local touch. Reviewers praise guides for their friendliness and safety, saying, “Beautiful views, stunning sunset, and fun off-road adventure.” This tour is ideal for active travelers who want scenery, history, and a bit of adrenaline.
Bottom Line: For those who love a mix of scenic riding, history, and a lively atmosphere, this tour is a standout. It’s well-priced considering the comprehensive experience and glowing reviews.
2. Crete: Quad Safari traditional hidden villages – nature
At number 2, this quad safari takes you deeper into Crete’s rural life, riding on rocky terrains with spectacular panoramic views of Agia Pelagia and Heraklion. It includes visits to a ghost town and a crafts-focused village, where you’ll learn about local traditions and taste regional products. The 3-hour adventure covers scenic off-road trails, offering a quieter, more authentic experience than the busy coastal spots. Guests rave about the unique sights away from typical tourist routes, with one reviewer noting, “Exploring traditional villages and discovering Crete’s hidden side was unforgettable.” Suitable for those wanting a taste of real Cretan culture and rugged landscapes, this tour balances adventure with cultural insight.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers craving a rural escape combined with off-road excitement, especially if you want a taste of authentic Crete beyond the beaches.
3. Agia Pelagia: Introduction to Scuba Diving Experience
Number 3 on our list is the Introduction to Scuba Diving, a chance to dip your toes into the underwater world without a full certification. This two-hour experience includes a safety briefing and then a 45-minute supervised dive in waters no deeper than 6 meters. It’s ideal for first-timers curious about exploring beneath the surface, and many reviewers describe it as “surprisingly easy and magical.” The instructor will guide you through basic skills, making it accessible even if you’ve never been in the water before. The calm, warm waters of Mononaftis Bay provide a perfect setting for your first underwater adventure. Expect to see colorful fish and rock formations, and enjoy the sensation of floating weightlessly.
Bottom Line: If you want a safe, beginner-friendly introduction to scuba, this tour offers a memorable start without the pressure of certification.
4. Heraklion: Private sailing to Dia Island with Lunch
Number 4 features a luxurious private sailing trip perfect for couples or small groups. Over 4.5 hours, you’ll relax aboard a comfortable yacht, swim and snorkel in crystal-clear Dia Island waters, and enjoy organic, fresh lunch served onboard. The boat’s crew shares insights into local biodiversity and history, adding an educational touch to your relaxing day at sea. Guests comment on the personalized service and the stunning sunset views during the return sail. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking privacy, comfort, and a taste of Crete’s marine beauty without the crowds.
Bottom Line: This tour is best suited for those wanting a private, laid-back sailing day with excellent food and scenic swimming spots.
5. Agia Pelagia: Jet Ski
Number 5 is the Jet Ski experience, a 20-minute adrenaline rush on the water. Perfect for thrill-seekers, this activity lets you take the helm and try your limits with guidance from friendly staff. It’s a fast, fun way to splash around and enjoy the waves, with reviews emphasizing the full adrenaline experience. Ideal if you’re short on time but want a quick dose of fun, it’s also a great way to see Agia Pelagia from a different perspective. The tour is suitable for beginners, with safety instructions and support provided.
Bottom Line: For an energetic burst of fun on the water, this short jet ski ride packs a punch and leaves you craving more.
6. Heraklion: Try Scuba Diving
Number 6 offers the Try Scuba Diving, a three-hour introduction for those curious about exploring underwater. Under the supervision of qualified instructors, you’ll spend 30 minutes swimming freely at depths up to 5 meters. It’s a relaxed, safe way to see what scuba is all about, with many reviewers calling it “fantastic” and “well-organized.” The waters around Heraklion are warm and clear, making it easy to spot colorful marine life. You’ll learn basic skills and gain confidence to continue your diving journey.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for first-timers, this tour offers a gentle, guided intro to the underwater world with a focus on safety and fun.
7. Crete: Heraklion Snorkeling Tour with Seascooter
Number 7 combines snorkeling with a seascooter, making it a hands-free way to explore marine life. Covering Mononaftis Bay’s crystal waters, you’ll use the scooter to glide past fish and underwater formations with ease. The tour lasts about three hours, and reviews mention how friendly and helpful the guides are, saying, “We saw so much, and the seascooter made it so easy.” Suitable for those with basic swimming skills, it offers a fun, active way to discover the underwater scene without the need for complex equipment.
Bottom Line: Perfect for snorkelers who want to see more with less effort, this tour provides an exciting underwater adventure.
8. Agia Pelagia: Introduction to Scuba Diving (2 Dives)
Number 8 features a two-dive scuba experience, giving you a taste of exploring two different underwater sites. Over 2-7 hours, you’ll receive guidance from experienced instructors and enjoy two supervised dives at depths up to 12 meters. This tour suits those ready to extend their underwater experience and see more of Crete’s marine life. Reviewers highlight the professionalism and friendly nature of the instructors, with one describing it as “an unforgettable experience.” The flexibility of multiple dives makes it a popular choice for those wanting more time beneath the waves.
Bottom Line: If you’ve tried snorkeling or one dive and want to go further, this is a well-rated option to enhance your underwater skills.
9. Heraklion: Basic Diver for Beginners
Number 9 offers a Basic Diver for Beginners, a 3-6 hour program ideal for newcomers. It includes a quick introduction, a supervised 45-minute dive to a max of 10 meters, and practice of fundamental skills. The tour is suitable for those who want a thorough, beginner-friendly experience with an emphasis on safety. Reviewers call it “top notch” and mention how instructors “make you feel at ease,” which is crucial for nervous first-timers.
Bottom Line: Designed for complete beginners, this course provides a safe, structured pathway into the underwater world.
10. Heraklion: Boat Safari with guided snorkeling tour
Number 10 features a small-group boat safari that combines sightseeing with snorkeling. With a cap of eight passengers, you’ll explore creeks, coves, and coastal sights like Palaiokastro Fortress, ending with snorkeling at clear waters. The guides give educational insights into marine life, and the small group ensures personalized attention. Reviewers praise the “relaxed pace” and “incredible views,” making it suitable for families and couples.
Bottom Line: For those who enjoy scenic boat rides with a mix of snorkeling and cultural sights, this private-style tour offers comfort and a personal touch.
11. Private Heraklion Active Sailing to Hidden Beaches
Number 11 is a private sailing trip that takes you to secluded beaches and natural rock formations. The itinerary includes swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing with onboard food and drinks. The focus is on exploring lesser-known beaches, making it ideal for travelers seeking tranquility away from crowds. The trip features a sunset option, perfect for romantic or peaceful moments. Reviewers highlight the “amazing scenery” and “friendly crew,” noting that it’s suitable for all fitness levels.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a serene, personalized day on the water exploring Crete’s secret beaches, this tour delivers.
12. Heraklion: Beginner’s intro dive w/2 Dives with transfer
Number 12 offers an extended introductory dive, perfect for those wanting to experience two dives in one day. Under instructor supervision, you’ll explore depths up to 6 meters in two separate sessions, with all transfers included. Many reviews mention the professionalism and friendly instructors making beginners feel confident and safe. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to maximize their underwater experience with professional guidance.
Bottom Line: Best for those eager to extend their underwater exploration, gaining confidence and seeing varied sites.
13. Crete: Scenic Coastline Cruise with Swimming Stop
Number 13 is a coastal cruise that highlights Crete’s shoreline beauty. Over four hours, you’ll enjoy swimming at Agia Pelagia, see historic Venetian ports, and take in the coast’s rugged scenery. It’s a relaxing way to spend a day, combining light sightseeing, swimming, and scenic views. Guests appreciate the comfortable boat and smooth itinerary, making it suitable for families and those who prefer a gentle pace.
Bottom Line: If you want a laid-back boat tour with swimming and sightseeing, this cruise offers a peaceful, scenic experience.
14. Heraklion: Beginner-Friendly Snorkeling Trip
Number 14 provides an easy snorkeling trip at Mononaftis Bay. With about three hours of guided snorkeling, you’ll see colorful fish and underwater life with the support of friendly instructors. It’s perfect for newcomers or families with kids, noted for its relaxed pace and simple, safe setup. Reviewers mention enjoying the “beautiful water” and how easy it was to learn.
Bottom Line: For a straightforward, beginner-friendly underwater experience, this tour is a safe and enjoyable choice.
$51 per person
15. Agia Pelagia: Scuba Diving Activity for Children
Finally, the scuba activity for children gives young explorers their first taste of underwater life. With small groups and English, French, and German instructors, children can snorkel and try scuba in protected Ligaria Beach. It’s a gentle, safe introduction designed to spark kids’ interest in marine environments. Many reviews describe it as “fun and educational,” making it a great family option.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families with kids, this activity makes the underwater world accessible and entertaining for all ages.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Agia Pelagia
When selecting your perfect experience, consider your budget, physical fitness level, and personal interests. For adrenaline lovers, the Jet Ski or quad tours will satisfy your craving for speed and adventure. If underwater exploration excites you, the scuba diving and snorkeling options are excellent options, with easy-to-understand instructions and small group sizes. For more relaxed days, the sailing trips and coastal cruises provide scenic comfort and cultural insights.
Booking early is advisable, especially in summer months when tours fill quickly. Think about how much time you want to dedicate—most tours range from 1.5 hours to full-day adventures—plus, check if transfers are included if you’re staying outside the main village.
Agia Pelagia offers a rich selection of tours that cater to different tastes—from high-energy water sports to tranquil sailing and cultural explorations. Whether you’re seeking a quick thrill, a family-friendly activity, or a scenic boat journey, this list provides top options to make your Crete stay unforgettable. For best results, match your choice with your interests and book well in advance to secure your spot.