The beach forms part of the peaceful holiday resort of the same name, Agia Pelagia, which lies on the banks of a picturesque bay in the northern part of Crete. The bay protects most of the resort and the adjacent beaches from strong northerly winds (called meltemi winds), while its rocky walls create ideal conditions for abundant underwater life.

Agia Pelagia beach is the main and largest beach of the bay. It is covered with fine golden sand and the shoreline drops very gently into the water in this area, making the beach very popular with tourists and families with smaller children. The sea here is clean and in the summer months it is also very warm. Agia Pelagia is one of the most organised beaches, equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas, and there are several tavernas serving tasty Greek and international food right next to the beach. It also pays to be a centre of entertainment, as there is a wide range of adrenaline-pumping water sports on offer, including diving and sailing. Agia Pelagia is one of Crete's diving centres and there is a sports diving club (Agia Pelagia Diving Center) on the main beach.

The coastline here is very rugged and the resort has several beaches including small natural beaches and hidden coves. If you head west from the main beach, you'll reach Filakes beach (a tiny and quiet beach below the Capsis hotel), Kladissos beach (a smaller beach that can be resorted to in the high season when the central beach is crowded with tourists) or Mononaftis and Psaromoura beaches (also tend to be emptier, but unlike the others, they are more exposed to the northern winds). On the other hand, to the east of the main beach is Ligaria beach (a nice beach in the neighbouring bay, well protected from the wind) or Mades beach (a small beach with a few shops, the large luxury hotel Athina Palace can be seen from here).

More touristic destinations of Crete

Close beaches: Lygaria Beach, Mononaftis Beach, Psaromoura Beach

Most favourite beaches of Crete: Amoudara Beach (Heraklion), Balos Beach, Elafonisi Beach, Falassarna Beach, Glyka Nera Beach (Sweet Water), Matala Beach, Platanias Beach, Preveli Beach, Stalis Beach, Stavros Beach, Vai Beach, Voulisma Beach, Xerokampos Beach

Resorts, beaches, sights or trips - clearly listed on the map of Crete.