Preveli Beach and Plakias Full-Day Trip From Rethymno

Experience the Best of Crete’s South Coast Without the Drive

This full-day guided tour from Rethymno offers an effortless way to discover some of Crete’s most breathtaking beaches and scenic spots. For around $29 per person, you’ll spend about 10 hours exploring the wild beauty of the south coast, with stops at Preveli Beach, Damnoni Beach, and the charming resort of Plakias. Your trip is made convenient with hotel pickups, air-conditioned transport, and a professional guide who speaks English and German.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, we love the combination of scenic stops and relaxing beach time—you’re not just sightseeing from a distance but really sinking into the landscape. Second, the guided walk through Kourtaliotis Gorge offers a spectacular view of waterfalls and lush greenery that you might miss on your own. A possible consideration is that the boat trip to Preveli Beach, while a highlight, is not included in the price, so be prepared for an extra cost if you want the full experience.

This tour suits travelers looking for a convenient, well-organized day with plenty of opportunities to swim, take photos, and enjoy local food (at your own expense). If you’re eager to see some of Crete’s most iconic beaches without the hassle of driving, this trip offers a balanced mix of nature, relaxation, and local charm.

Key Points

• All-in-one scenic experience on Crete’s south coast, including beaches, waterfalls, and gorges.
• Hotel transfers simplify logistics, especially if you’re staying outside the city center.
• Flexible options like boat trips to Preveli Beach (extra cost) enhance the experience.
• Time in Plakias allows for lunch, shopping, and a swim in turquoise waters.
• Comfortable transport in air-conditioned vehicles helps beat the heat and fatigue.
• Guided commentary enriches the trip with insights into the area’s natural beauty.

Discovering Crete’s South Coast: An In-Depth Review

The Itinerary Breakdown — What to Expect and Why It Matters

This tour offers a thoughtfully curated itinerary that balances scenic drives, cultural insights, and beach relaxation. You’ll start with the convenience of hotel pickup, making early mornings less stressful. Once onboard, the air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort as you settle in for a day filled with diverse scenery.

First stop: Preveli Beach. This beach is the main highlight—and for good reason. It’s famous for its unique combination of sandy shoreline and lush river flanked by palm trees, creating a postcard-worthy scene. The journey there involves walking down into Kourtaliotis Gorge, where you’ll encounter waterfalls and springs—a perfect setting for photos and a peaceful walk.

A major perk is the option to reach Preveli by boat, which adds a layer of adventure. Though the boat ride costs extra, many reviews praise this part of the trip as “absolutely stunning,” with the choppy waters making the ride a bit lively but memorable. You’ll love the way the boat transports you directly into the true essence of the beach, cutting through the scenic gorge and arriving at the palm-fringed shoreline.

Next, Damnoni Beach. This spot is known for its wide sandy shore and crystal-clear waters. It’s a great place for a swim or just lounging under the sun. The boat trip from Damnoni takes you to Palm Beach Preveli, offering a different perspective of the area’s natural beauty. You’ll also get an opportunity for a short hike through tropical forested areas, which many find to be a refreshing change from the beach.

The final stop: Plakias. This small resort town offers a laid-back vibe perfect for lunch and some shopping. You’ll have a couple of hours here, giving you time to relax, soak in the atmosphere, or take another dip in the inviting waters. The return journey includes a drive through Kotsifou Gorge, providing dramatic landscapes on the way back.

What Travelers Love About This Tour

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, who keep the group informed and engaged. One reviewer mentioned that the trip was “very well organized,” emphasizing how clear communication about schedules and pickups made the day smooth. The stunning scenery at Preveli and the waterfalls in Kourtaliotis Gorge get particularly high praise, with one guest describing the experience as “absolutely stunning.”

Another loved aspect is the flexibility at Plakias, where travelers can enjoy a meal, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax on the beach. The overall flow of the day allows for plenty of swimming and sunbathing, which many find to be the perfect escape from daily routines.

Considerations and Tips

While the tour covers a lot in one day, it’s worth noting that the boat trip to Preveli Beach is not included in the ticket price. If you want to experience the boat ride, you’ll need to pay extra—something to consider if you’re on a tight budget or short on time. Also, the tour is limited to a maximum of 50 travelers, so while generally smooth, it can feel crowded during peak season.

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace or want to explore at their own speed, this tour offers a good balance, but keep in mind that some walking (like descending into Kourtaliotis Gorge) involves about 200 steps, which can be a bit challenging for some.

Transportation and Comfort

Transport is in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, which is appreciated, especially during hot summer days. The pick-up points are conveniently located near several hotels, though some remote hotels are excluded—so if you’re staying outside the designated areas, be prepared for a different meeting point.

Price and Value

At approximately $29, this tour offers a very reasonable price for a full day of sightseeing, especially considering the hotel pickup service. The inclusion of a professional guide enhances the value, providing insights and ensuring safety during walks and boat trips. The optional boat trip (extra cost) is a real highlight for many, and the overall experience delivers a strong sense of what makes Crete’s south coast special.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

The stops at Plakias and the scenic drives through gorges give travelers a taste of local life and natural diversity. Many reviews mention enjoying the local lunch at Plakias, which is at your own expense but gives a chance to indulge in Cretan cuisine, possibly sampling fresh seafood or local specialties.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a convenient, guided exploration of Crete’s south coast without the hassle of self-driving. If you enjoy scenic drives, swimming in clear waters, and experiencing natural waterfalls and gorges, this trip ticks those boxes. The hotel pickup and air-conditioned transport make it especially attractive for those who dislike navigating unfamiliar roads or dealing with transportation logistics.

It’s especially suited for first-time visitors who want a rundown of key beaches and landscapes, or those with limited time on the island. The flexible stops at Plakias and Damnoni allow for some personal relaxation and exploration, making it more than just a sightseeing bus ride.

While the boat trip to Preveli is a highlight, remember it is an optional extra, and some might prefer to skip it if they’re wary of additional costs. Still, many reviewers agree that the scenery and natural beauty justify the overall price, making this a worthwhile choice for an authentic, memorable Crete experience.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available from all areas?
Pickup is offered from several central locations including Panormo, Scaleta, Adele, Platanias, Missiria, Rethymno town, Atsipopoulo, Kavros, and Georgioupoli. However, some remote hotels like Grand Rimondi are excluded, so check your hotel’s location.

How long is the boat trip to Preveli Beach?
The boat trip itself is approximately 30 minutes, though it’s described as “very choppy” by some travelers. It’s an optional part of the experience and costs extra.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
Yes, the tour includes the entrance fee for Kourtaliotis Gorge. The boat trip to Preveli Beach, however, is not included and requires an additional ticket.

How much time is spent at each stop?
You’ll have around 3 hours at Preveli Beach, 1 hour at Damnoni Beach, and 2 hours in Plakias, giving ample time to swim, relax, and explore.

Is this tour suitable for families or people with mobility issues?
The walk down into Kourtaliotis Gorge involves about 200 steps, which might be challenging for some. The rest of the day involves some walking and beach time, so plan accordingly.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility if your plans shift.

In essence, this tour provides a well-rounded taste of Crete’s southern coastline—perfect for those who want an organized day with plenty of natural beauty, swimming, and photo opportunities, all wrapped up in a comfortable, guided package.