Tucked along the northern coast of Crete, near the town of Hersonissos, Lyttos Beach is a hidden gem for travelers seeking both relaxation and family-friendly entertainment. With the sparkling Mediterranean Sea stretching before you and the charming Cretan villages nearby, it combines a serene beach experience with easy access to modern resort comforts.
Unlike busier beaches near Heraklion, Lyttos Beach offers a calm and spacious shoreline, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the gentle sea breeze. The beach is closely associated with the Lyttos Beach Resort, a luxurious all-inclusive hotel featuring swimming pools, spa and wellness facilities, tennis and padel courts, a kids club, and a small water park. Yet, the public areas of the beach remain accessible for those not staying at the resort, allowing everyone to enjoy the sandy shore and clear waters.
Where Is Lyttos Beach?
Lyttos Beach is located in Analipsis, just a short drive from Hersonissos town in Heraklion regional unit, Crete, Greece. The beach is roughly 25 minutes from Heraklion Airport (HER), making it easily reachable for both international and domestic visitors.
The surrounding area is picturesque, with the Mediterranean Sea on one side and the rugged Cretan coastline on the other. The combination of natural beauty and accessibility makes it perfect for a day trip or a longer stay at the resort.
Entry Fees & Timings
Location: Analipsis, Hersonissos (25 min from Heraklion Airport)
Entry Fee Table (€):
| Access Type | Adult | Child (3-12) | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Beach | Free | Free | Sand/shallow water access |
| Resort Day Pass | 45 | 25 | Pools/kids club + beach service |
| All-Inclusive | 80+ | 50+ | Meals/drinks/waterpark |
Beach 24/7 public access. Resort 8 AM-10 PM daily.
Best Time: May-Jun/Sept (warm water/fewer crowds).
What Makes Lyttos Beach Special?
Several features set Lyttos Beach apart from other beaches in Crete:
- Scenic Views: The blend of soft sand, turquoise waters, and nearby Cretan villages provides a postcard-perfect backdrop.
- Family-Friendly Amenities: The Lyttos Beach Resort ensures children have plenty to do, from the kids club to the resort’s waterpark and pool facilities.
- Luxury Comforts: Guests at the resort enjoy spa treatments, multiple restaurants, and private beachfront areas.
- Peaceful Public Areas: Even outside the resort, the beach offers calm waters and spacious sand, perfect for those seeking relaxation.
Things to Do at Lyttos Beach
Whether you are staying at the resort or visiting the public areas, Lyttos Beach offers activities for all types of travelers:
- Swimming and Sunbathing: The gentle sea is perfect for a leisurely swim, while the sandy shore is ideal for sunbathing.
- Water Sports: For more active visitors, there are options for paddleboarding and small-scale water sports, mostly available through the resort.
- Beach Walks: The long stretch of sand along the North Crete coast is perfect for morning or sunset walks.
- Tennis and Padel: Sports enthusiasts can enjoy tennis and padel courts at the resort.
- Family Entertainment: The resort’s kids club, small water park, and swimming pools make it one of the best family-friendly resorts in Crete.
- Photography: With sunrise and sunset views over the Mediterranean Sea, the beach is ideal for travel photography and social media posts.
Lyttos Beach Resort – Is It Worth Visiting?
The Lyttos Beach Resort is a luxury beachfront property designed for both families and couples. While some areas are reserved for guests, the resort’s restaurants, bars, and day passes allow non-guests to enjoy select amenities.
The resort is especially appealing for travelers who enjoy all-inclusive packages, spa treatments, or access to multiple pools and sports facilities without worrying about planning individual activities.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal time to visit Lyttos Beach is from May to October, when temperatures are warm and the Mediterranean Sea is calm for swimming.
- Summer (June to August): Hot but perfect for swimming and resort activities. Early mornings and evenings are recommended to avoid midday heat.
- Spring & Fall (May and September–October): Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and clear skies make this the best time for families and photography.
Nearby Beaches and Attractions
Lyttos Beach is also an excellent base to explore the North Crete coastline:
- Hersonissos Beach: Lively beach with restaurants and cafes.
- Analipsis Beach: Small, scenic beach close to Lyttos.
- Crete Attractions: Visit nearby Cretan villages, local markets, or explore Heraklion city with its historical sites.
Practical Travel Tips
- Bring your own sunscreen, water, and beach essentials for the public areas.
- Respect resort boundaries if not staying at Lyttos Beach Resort.
- Sunrise and sunset are perfect for photography.
- Check sea conditions if planning swimming or water sports.
- Reserve activities like spa treatments, waterpark access, or day passes in advance.
FAQs – Lyttos Beach
1. Is Lyttos Beach public or private?
The beach has both public and private areas. The resort beach is reserved for guests, while other sections of the sand are open to the public.
2. Can non-resort guests use the pools and spa?
Typically, only resort guests have access, but some facilities are available via day passes or booking a meal at the hotel.
3. Is Lyttos Beach suitable for families?
Yes, the kids club, water park, and shallow water areas make it very family-friendly.
4. How far is Lyttos Beach from Heraklion Airport?
Approximately 25 minutes by car, making it easy for international travelers.
5. When is the best time to visit Lyttos Beach?
From May to October, with calmer seas and pleasant weather. Spring and early fall are ideal for fewer crowds.
6. Are there restaurants and bars near the beach?
Yes, the resort has multiple restaurants and bars, and Hersonissos town nearby offers local dining options.
7. Can I stay overnight at Lyttos Beach?
Yes, the Lyttos Beach Resort offers luxurious rooms and suites with beachfront access.
8. Is the beach good for photography?
Absolutely, especially during sunrise and sunset, capturing the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding Cretan coastline.
9. What sports activities are available?
Tennis, padel, and water sports are offered through the resort.
10. Are there other beaches nearby worth visiting?
Yes, Hersonissos Beach and Analipsis Beach are just a short drive away, along with several smaller Cretan coastal spots.
