
North Heraklion
Analipsi – Sandy Resort Beach Between Gouves and Hersonissos
A well-organised sandy beach 20 km east of Heraklion, popular with families and watersports enthusiasts in the Analipsi resort area.
Analipsi Beach is a pleasant sandy beach located approximately 20 kilometres east of Heraklion, in the small resort village of Analipsi situated between Gouves and Hersonissos. The beach is well organised with sunbeds and umbrellas, watersports facilities, and a selection of beach bars and tavernas nearby. The waters are shallow and clear, making it suitable for families with young children, and the calm conditions attract paddleboarders and kayakers. The resort of Analipsi is smaller and less developed than its neighbours, giving the beach a somewhat more relaxed and authentic atmosphere. The village itself has a small harbour and a selection of traditional tavernas serving fresh seafood and Cretan specialities. The beach is accessible by car via the coastal road, and public buses connect the area to Heraklion. The surrounding landscape is typical of the northern Cretan coast, with low hills covered in olive groves and vineyards descending to the sea. The combination of good facilities, calm waters, and a relatively relaxed atmosphere makes Analipsi a good choice for families and those seeking a quieter alternative to the busier resort beaches of Hersonissos and Malia.