The variety and extent of Crete's coastline make it possible for bathers to enjoy an infinite number of different places to swim, all of them lapped by warm, crystal clear water. On the north coast, west of Hania, one beach in particular stands out; It stretches from the town to just outside Kolimbari. On the west coast of the district, one has the sandy beach of Falassarna and, further south, Lafonissi (the road is asphalted as far as Elos). Other beaches are: Stavros at Akrotiri, Almirida east of Souda and the long sandy coast from Georgioupolis all the way to Rethimno, Panormos, Bali, Agia Pelagia. The coast from Agios Nikolaos to Plaka, the beach at Sitia and the eastern beach with the famous palm grove at Vai, and kato Zakros. On the south side of the island are the fine beaches of: Sougia Paleohora, Loutro and Frangokastello in the district of Hania, and Plakia, Preveli (dirt road up to a point, then a path to the sea)/ and Agia Galini in the district of Rethimno. Then there are the superb beaches of Matala. Kali Limenes and Lendas (dirt road) in the district of Iraklio, and Mirtos, Ierapetra and Agia Fotia in the district of Lassithi. The bigger resort areas and the Naval School of the Hania Yacht Club have the equipment for water skiing. One can play tennis at the Hania and Iraklio tennis clubs The island is ideal for sailing, windsurfing. hiking and mountain climbing. The mountains of Crete make these last two a real pleasure and a challenge for nature lovers. The Greek Mountaineering Association operates refuges in the White Mountains (at Kallergi, refuge tel.: 0821/54.560 and Volika) and on Psiloritis (Prino and Asites). Camping in the open is not permitted. Nudism in permitted only in nudist colonies. Shopping Crete's rich tradition in hand-woven fabrics, embroideries wood-carvings and jewellery-shopping is a real temptation to the visitor. Examples, old and new, are to be found in the marketplace of the large cities and also in the villages, where you may have the chance to see these age-old crafts being practiced.
