Preveli Beach and Damnoni Kourtaliotikowaterfalls from Rethymno

Exploring Crete’s South Coast: Preveli Beach and Damnoni Waterfalls Tour

Imagine a day filled with sun, sea, and nature’s most striking sights, all wrapped into a single trip from Rethymno. For just under $30 per person, this full-day tour takes you along Crete’s scenic southern coast, visiting the iconic Preveli Palm Beach, the charming Damnoni Beach, and the dramatic Kourtaliotiko Waterfalls. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll get insights, stunning views, and enough time to soak in the natural beauty — all with the convenience of hotel pickup.

What we love about this experience is how smoothly it combines different highlights — from the lush palm forest at Preveli to the rugged waterfalls, offering a varied view of Crete’s landscape. We also appreciate how the tour includes free time at Preveli Beach, giving you the chance to swim, stroll, or simply relax in this famously scenic spot. The guide’s commentary, as shared in reviews, adds a layer of local authenticity that makes the day truly memorable.

A possible consideration is that boat tickets are extra, which means you’ll need to budget an additional €13 for adults or €7 for children if you want to take the boat from Damnoni to Preveli. Also, the two-hour free time at Preveli may not be enough for those wishing for a longer beach day, but it’s plenty for a quick swim and exploration.

This tour is perfect for travelers who love nature, scenic drives, and authentic spots rather than just lounging on busy beaches. If you’re looking for a well-organized, value-packed day that offers insight into Crete’s natural gems, this trip will suit you well.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Day Trip: Combines beaches, waterfalls, and scenic gorges, providing a well-rounded experience.
• Expert Guidance: Tour guide offers engaging commentary, as highlighted in reviews praising Anastasia’s friendliness and knowledge.
• Flexible Free Time: Ample opportunity to swim, explore, or relax at Preveli Beach.
• Extra Expenses: Boat tickets are optional but recommended to fully enjoy the trip; budget accordingly.
• Convenient Pickup: Starts right from your Rethymno hotel, saving you time and effort.
• Limited but Sufficient Duration: About 9 hours, balancing sightseeing and travel comfortably.

A Detailed Look at the Crete South Tour

Starting Point and Set-Up

The journey begins early at Markidis Travel in Rethymno, with pickups available from most hotels, making logistics simple. We appreciate how the tour starts promptly at 8:00 am, giving you a full day to enjoy Crete’s scenic south coast. The group size is capped at 49 travelers, ensuring a comfortable atmosphere with space to ask questions and interact with your guide.

Scenic Drive and Gorge Views

As you leave Rethymno, expect to enjoy views of the Kourtaliotiko Gorge — a highlight in itself. The gorge’s steep cliffs and rushing waters create a dramatic backdrop, setting the tone for nature’s grandeur. Your guide will likely share stories about the gorge’s geology and local legends, making the ride educational as well as picturesque.

Damnoni Beach: The Gateway to Preveli

The first stop is Damnoni Beach, a cozy stretch of sand with clear, inviting waters. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs, take pictures, or dip your toes in the sea. Some reviews mention the boat ride from Damnoni to Preveli as an extra expense, but it’s considered worth it for many travelers because it offers a scenic, breezy crossing that adds to the adventure.

Preveli Palm Beach: The Main Attraction

The star of the tour is Preveli Palm Beach, famed for its lush palm forest that descends right to the sea. Once there, you’ll have about two hours of free time, which travelers say is just enough to swim, relax, or explore the trails leading into the forest. We loved the way the guide’s commentary brought the place alive, sharing stories about its history and ecology.

Authentic experience: One reviewer, Eleanor, raved about her guide Anastasia, praising her for making solo travelers feel included and enlightened. This personal touch can turn a standard sightseeing trip into a genuine, memorable experience.

Waterfalls and Natural Beauty

After exploring Preveli, the tour includes visits to Kourtaliotiko Waterfalls — a highlight for nature lovers. The waterfalls cascade down rugged cliffs, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to get close to the pristine surroundings. The trail from the waterfalls provides a glimpse into Crete’s rugged terrain and lush vegetation, making this a satisfying stop for outdoor enthusiasts.

Return Journey

After a full day of sightseeing, the return to Rethymno is relaxed. The tour ends back at the starting point, giving you plenty of time to discuss your favorite moments with fellow travelers or plan the evening ahead.

The Value of This Tour

At $29.70, this tour offers impressive value, especially considering the expert guidance and the opportunity to visit Crete’s most photogenic spots. While the extra boat tickets cost around €13 per adult, many find it worthwhile for the scenic ride and ease of access. The flexible free time at Preveli means you can tailor your visit to your pace, whether that’s quick swimming or a leisurely walk through the palm forest.

The inclusion of hotel pickup simplifies logistics, making this an easy way to see Crete’s natural wonders without renting a car or planning logistics yourself. The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere, which many reviews highlight as a plus.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

From the reviews, it’s clear that travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides who provide engaging commentary and make the trip more meaningful. The overall organization and the chance to see a variety of landscapes — rivers, waterfalls, beaches, and gorges — make it a well-rounded experience.

Considerations

This tour is primarily outdoor-focused, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and watching the weather. Since boat tickets are extra and not included in the base price, budget accordingly if you want to ride across the water. Those seeking a longer beach day or more relaxed pace may find the two-hour free time at Preveli somewhat limiting.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers and photographers looking for authentic Crete scenery. It’s perfect if you enjoy small-group tours with a guide who enriches your understanding of local landscapes. Families with children, active travelers, and solo explorers all find value here — especially those eager to see Crete beyond the typical tourist spots.

Final Note

This tour strikes a good balance between organized sightseeing and free exploration. It’s a solid choice if you want to maximize your day with minimal hassle, all while soaking in some of Crete’s most captivating natural sites. Be prepared for some extra expenses if you wish to take the boat, but know that even without it, the landscapes and guide’s insights make this a worthwhile day out.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from your Rethymno hotel is offered, making the start of your day convenient and hassle-free.

How long is the total tour?
The entire tour lasts approximately 9 hours, providing plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What are the main highlights?
The tour visits Damnoni Beach, Preveli Palm Beach, and Kourtaliotiko Waterfalls, with scenic drives and photo opportunities along the way.

Are the boat tickets included in the price?
No, boat tickets from Damnoni to Preveli cost extra (about €13 per adult), but many travelers find it worthwhile for the scenic crossing.

What’s the best time to go?
While specific weather details aren’t provided, good weather is necessary for the tour to operate smoothly. Check your local forecast before booking.

Can I extend my time at Preveli Beach?
The tour allows about two hours there — enough for swimming and a quick walk. Longer stays are not possible within the scheduled itinerary.

Is this tour suitable for families or solo travelers?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers, including families and solo visitors, especially since guides make the experience engaging and inclusive.

Do I need to be physically active?
There’s some walking involved, particularly at waterfalls and trails, but overall it’s accessible for most travelers with moderate fitness.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of scenic variety, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to experience authentic natural Crete renders it a memorable value for anyone seeking outdoor adventure.

To sum it up, this tour from Rethymno offers a well-organized, scenic day filled with natural beauty and local charm. The combination of beaches, waterfalls, and guided insights makes it well worth considering if you want a meaningful, active day out. Perfect for those who value authentic experiences, this trip provides a wonderful taste of Crete’s wild, lush landscape.