Agios Nikolaos isn’t just a pretty face with its lively harbor and charming streets—it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy authentic barbecue amid stunning scenery. The town’s proximity to Spinalonga, its inviting beaches, and crystal-clear waters make it a natural setting for outdoor dining and memorable food experiences. We especially like the Spinalonga & Agios Nikolaos with BBQ tour, which combines a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and a delicious barbecue, all in one seamless adventure. It’s perfect for those who want a balanced mix of history, nature, and good food.
If you’re craving a more relaxed boat cruise with a side of history and a tasty BBQ, the Crete: Spinalonga Boat Tour with BBQ & Agios Nikolaos offers a fantastic alternative. Both tours highlight Agios Nikolaos’s charm and include stops at beautiful beaches and the famous island of Spinalonga, making them valuable picks for any visitor wanting authentic outdoor dining with a Greek twist. Below, we explore each tour in detail so you can choose the best BBQ experience for your trip.
1. Spinalonga & Agios Nikolaos with BBQ
This full-day guided tour offers a comprehensive taste of Crete’s natural beauty, history, and cuisine. Starting with pickups from 11 locations, including Heraklion and Malia, the tour includes a boat trip on Mirabello Bay and a visit to the famous island of Spinalonga, the former leper colony turned tourist attraction. It’s a popular choice, with a solid 4.4/5 rating from 22 reviews, and often praised for the lively day packed with sightseeing, swimming, and, of course, a delicious BBQ at Kolokytha Beach.
What makes this tour stand out is its well-paced itinerary—a guided tour of Spinalonga, a swim stop in Mirabello, and plenty of time to explore Agios Nikolaos’s streets and shops. The BBQ is served at Kolokytha Beach, where you can relax after snorkeling or swimming in the clear waters. The full day’s activities are balanced to appeal to those wanting a rich experience without feeling rushed. The price of around $50.82 offers good value for a full day of varied activities.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive day combining history, water fun, and authentic Cretan BBQ, with the convenience of multiple pickup points.
2. Crete: Spinalonga Boat Tour with BBQ & Agios Nikolaos
At number 2, this boat-based experience offers a more relaxed vibe, focusing on sailing, swimming, and enjoying a tasty BBQ onboard. With a rating of 3.9/5 based on 11 reviews, it’s slightly less popular but still highly regarded. The tour runs for about 11 hours, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a full-day outdoor adventure that’s heavy on water-based fun.
The highlight here is the sail to Kolokytha Beach, where you can swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters before enjoying a barbecue feast on the boat. The tour includes a guided visit to Spinalonga, giving you insights into its history without the full-on walking tour. Many reviewers comment on the comfortable boat, and the efficient service from guides and crew. For around $33.88, it’s a more budget-friendly option that emphasizes relaxation and scenic beauty.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who prefer sailing and swimming over walking, and want to combine beach days with some cultural sightseeing and a flavorful BBQ.
$33.88 per person
3. SPINALONGA-AGIOS NIKOLAOS-ELOUNDA (WITH BBQ)
The third option offers a 9-hour tour exploring east Crete’s highlights, including Agios Nikolaos, Spinalonga, and Elounda, with a focus on swimming, sightseeing, and dining. This tour is especially family-friendly and offers frequent pickups from 19 locations, including Heraklion and Koutouloufari, making it very accessible.
What makes this tour unique is its combination of cultural exploration and beach relaxation. It features a guided tour of Spinalonga, a visit to Kolokytha Beach for snorkeling and BBQ, and scenic boat cruises through the bay of Mirabello. The itinerary also includes free time in Agios Nikolaos, allowing travelers to stroll through shops and cafes. Priced similarly to the first tour, this option excels for those who want a well-rounded day with cultural, culinary, and aquatic elements.
Guests appreciate the friendly guides and the variety of activities, especially families looking for a fun day out that mixes history with beach time.
Bottom line: This tour is suited for travelers seeking a cultural and scenic experience with plenty of opportunities for swimming and enjoying local cuisine.
How to Choose Your Best BBQ Experience
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, your interest in history or water activities, and whether you prefer a full-day guided tour or a more relaxed sailing experience. For those interested in more sightseeing and walking, the Spinalonga & Agios Nikolaos with BBQ offers a balanced mix. If your priority is sailing, swimming, and a laid-back day, the Crete: Spinalonga Boat Tour with BBQ & Agios Nikolaos is ideal. For families or those wanting a comprehensive east Crete day, the SPINALONGA-AGIOS NIKOLAOS-ELOUNDA (WITH BBQ) covers many bases.
Booking early is advised, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment.
In summary, Agios Nikolaos offers diverse options for enjoying authentic Greek BBQ in scenic settings. Whether you prefer a full-day land and sea adventure, a relaxing boat cruise with onboard grilling, or a cultural exploration combined with beach lounging, there’s a tour to match your style. For a balanced experience blending history, water, and delicious food, the first tour gets our top recommendation. But if budget or sailing appeals more, the second is a fantastic choice. For family-friendly and comprehensive sightseeing, the third delivers plenty of variety. Whatever you choose, booking early will help ensure you get the most out of your time in this delightful part of Crete.