Psari Forada Beach (Sidonia): Breathtaking Beach in Crete

Psari Forada Beach is a popular beach in the quiet fishing village of Sidonia, Crete. It is a long, sandy beach with dark-coloured sand and deep blue waters. Psari Forada Beach is located 74.8 km (46.5 miles)  south of Heraklion and 65.9 km (40.9 miles)  west of Agios Nikolaos.

In Psari Forada Beach people can do camping, swimming, snorkelling and hiking. Camping enthusiasts enjoy the picturesque setting and peaceful atmosphere. Swimming in Psari Forada Beach’s crystal-clear turquoise waters is a popular way to cool off during the summer months. Snorkelers can explore the vibrant marine life beneath the clear waters of Psari Forada Beach. Hiking enthusiasts can embark on a scenic adventure through the nearby Xeropharango Gorge, which offers breathtaking views of cliffs, rugged terrain, and diverse flora and fauna.

The best time to visit Psari Forada Beach is during the summer months, from June to August. At this time the weather is warm and sunny. The sea temperature is pleasant for swimming and snorkelling.

Psari Forada Beach is easily accessible by KTEL buses or car rental. Local bus services provide routes to nearby destinations, while car rental allows for more flexibility in exploring the area. Things to consider before renting a car in Crete to get to Psari Forada Beach include insurance, driver’s age and gender, car type, and necessary documents. The cost of renting a car in Crete ranges from €30 to €40 per day.

What is Psari Forada Beach?

Psari Forada Beach is a long, sandy beach located in the quiet fishing village of Sidonia, in Crete. This popular beach is famous for its beautiful scenery, with dark-coloured sand and deep blue waters. Psari Forada Beach is well-organised, featuring loungers, umbrellas, rental rooms, and tavernas within walking distance. It is an ideal spot for travellers looking for a tranquil holiday experience.

The name, Psari Forada, in Greek means “grey-haired mare”. The Psari Forada name has two versions of how it came. The first one suggests that a Turkish Aga wanted to impress others by hanging his grey mare until it died of thirst. The second one has its roots in the Byzantine Era. During this time, the Saracens occupied Crete Island, prompting the Byzantines to send a fleet under the leadership of General Theophilus to pursue them. When the fleet arrived at the present-day location known as “Thiofilo,” General Theophilus’s beloved grey mare was unable to continue walking. Rather than euthanizing the horse, the General asked his soldiers to tie her under a large olive tree and requested the locals to care for her until her natural passing. Psari Forada Beach is 850m long and 50m wide meaning it’s not too big and is close to the road making it easily accessible.

Where is Psari Forada Beach located?

Psari Forada Beach is located 74.8 km (46.5 miles) south of Heraklion and 65.9 km (40.9 miles) west of Agios Nikolaos. The driving time from Heraklion to Psari Forada Beach is 1 hour and 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the chosen route. Psari Forada Beach is 170 m (0.1 miles) away from the village of Sidonia. Sidonia Village was once a seaside settlement for fishermen and farmers from the nearby village of Kalami. The GPS coordinates of Psari Forada are 34.98497437704052° N latitude and 25.49778057601411° E longitude.

How does the Psari Forada Beach Map look?

Below is a map of the Psari Forada Beach.

What are the activities in Psari Forada Beach?

The most popular activities in Psari Forada Beach are camping, swimming, snorkelling, and hiking. Firstly, camping in Psari Forada Beach is one of the common things to do because the beach provides a picturesque setting for camping enthusiasts. Camping near Sidonia Beach with its peaceful atmosphere and natural surroundings, allows visitors to submerge themselves in the beauty of nature and enjoy a unique outdoor experience. Secondly, swimming in Psari Forada Beach is another popular activity. The beach’s gentle waves and crystal-clear turquoise waters create a refreshing and inviting environment for visitors to take a dip and cool off during the warm summer months. The presence of tamarisk trees along Psari Forada Beach also provides shade for travellers seeking to relax after a swim. Thirdly, snorkelling is another popular activity in Psari Forada Beach. The clear waters of this beach allow snorkelers to explore the underwater world and witness the vibrant marine life that inhabits the area. Snorkelling enthusiasts at Psari Forada Beach can marvel at colourful fish, and unique rock formations, and maybe even spot some hidden treasures beneath the surface. Lastly, hiking is also a very common activity because of the nearby Xeropharango Gorge which is 11.04 km (6.9 miles) away from Psari Forada Beach. Sidonia Beach serves as a starting point for hiking enthusiasts to embark on a scenic adventure through the Xeropharango Gorge. This hiking trail offers mind-blowing views of the surrounding landscapes, including dramatic cliffs, rugged terrain, and diverse flora and fauna.

When is the best time to visit Psari Forada Beach?

The best time to visit Psari Forada Beach is during the summer months, particularly from June to August. During this period, the weather in the region on the Greek Island of Crete is warm and sunny, providing ideal conditions for beach activities and outdoor exploration. The sea temperature is also pleasant, making Psari Forada Beach ideal for swimming and snorkelling. During the summer temperatures will range between 25°C- 35°C (77F-95 F)

The summer months offer longer daylight hours, giving visitors more time to soak up the sun and appreciate the beauty of the beach. However, it’s important to note that Psari Forada Beach can get crowded during peak tourist season, so visiting during early mornings or weekdays may offer a more peaceful experience.

How was the preservation of Psari Forada Beach?

Psari Forada Beach is preserved with strict regulations from local authorities. These regulations help with the preservation of the beach and its surrounding ecosystems. The regulations include restrictions on development, forbidding beach camping, waste management guidelines, and rules to protect flora and fauna. Information campaigns help visitors and locals understand how important it is to protect Psari Forada Beach. Proper waste management on Psari Forada Beach has also been essential for preserving the cleanliness of the beach. The cleanup exercise involves the provision of garbage bins, recycling facilities, and regular beach cleaning initiatives.

What are nearby attractions in Psari Forada Beach?

Listed below are the nearby attractions in Psari Forada Beach.

• Tertsa Beach: Tertsa Beach is a sandy beach located 3.25 km (2 miles) away from Psari Forada Beach. It offers a peaceful atmosphere, clear turquoise waters, and scenic surroundings. Tertsa Beach is nestled in a green valley embraced by the Tsounas River. You can enjoy various activities at Tertsa Beach, such as snorkelling to see colourful corals and fish, hiking along the sand-coloured cliffs for stunning views, cliff diving for an adrenaline rush, and sunbathing on the secluded beach.
• Myrtos Beach: Myrtos Beach is located 8.17 km (5 miles) away from Psari Forada Beach, and is known for its gorgeous landscape, golden sand, and deep blue waters. It is a popular destination for swimming and sunbathing. Myrtos Beach is a beautiful beach located on the south coast of Crete, in the Lassithi prefecture. It is known for its pristine scenery and wild beauty. Myrtos itself is a village of the earlier 20th century. The area around Myrtos has been inhabited since Minoan times, and you can see the ruins of Minoan houses in the nearby settlement of Pyrgos.
• Faflagko Beach: Faflagko Beach is a hidden gem with a secluded and serene atmosphere. It is located just 1.35 km (0.8 miles) away from Psari Forada Beach. The pebbly shoreline and crystalline waters of Faflagko Beach make it an excellent spot for relaxation.
• Agios Nikitas Monastery: Agios Nikitas Monastery is a historic religious site known for its stunning architecture and peaceful ambience. It is located 45.7 km (28.4 miles)  away from Psari Forada Beach. Visitors can explore the monastery and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

How do you get to Psari Forada Beach?

There are 2 ways to get to Psari Forada Beach. These are KTEL buses or car rental. Local bus services, such as KTEL, operate in the region and provide routes to nearby destinations. The bus option is less convenient as bus schedules in South Crete are not accurate. Travellers should check the bus schedules in advance to find the appropriate route and timings. The car rental option is the most popular when people visit South Crete.The directions to get to Psari Forada from Heraklion are the following: Head Northeast on Leof. Ikarou/Palaia EO Irakleio – Agioi Nikolaos toward Grammou for 1 km (0.6 miles) and then turn right onto Leof. Steliou Kazantzidi. Drive for about 13.6km (8.5 miles) to Archanes through to Kato then Sykogolos then to Psari Forada which is 1.5 km (0.9 miles) away from Psari Forada Beach. Car rental is also the  most selected option. A car rental in Crete costs around €30 to €40 per day. A weekly rental would cost an average of €250.

What are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete?

Listed below are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete.

• Insurance: Car rental insurance is important, as it protects a passenger against the cost of damage when renting a car. Crete car rental includes insurance for collision damage waiver and a driver’s credit or debit card is required as a guarantee.
• Driver’s age: The legal age requirement when driving in Crete is 18 years old. The driver must have a valid driving licence and essential documents like an ID or passport.
• Driver’s gender: Both women and men can drive in Crete. As long as the driver is of the legal age of 18, driving is permitted in Crete, regardless of gender.
• Car type: Travelling with groups or family members requires a much bigger car. Car rental companies in Crete offer a variety of cars to choose from. Selecting a smaller car is best when driving in Crete. The reason for that is that some Greek roads are narrow. The car type is one important factor in how to choose the right car to rent in Crete.
• Documents needed for renting a car: One important document needed for renting a vehicle is a valid driving licence. However, a credit or debit card may also be presented, including a passport or an ID card.

How much does a car rental in Crete cost?

Crete car rental costs vary depending on the number of persons, itinerary, car type, destination, and duration. The average cost of renting a car in Crete is around €30 to €40 per day. A car rented for a whole week will cost an average of €250. Renting a vehicle for the weekend will cost around €78. Car rentals in Crete vary depending on the car type. Before looking for a Crete car rental, travellers need to have all the necessary documents.

How much does it cost to get to Psari Forada Beach?

The cost to get to Psari Forada Beach is cheap. To enter Psari Forada beach is free as it is a public beach and there is no entrance fee. Visitors should consider the cost of other fees like transportation to the beach, food and drinks around the beach. Visitors using car rental services will be charged around €30 to €40 per day. A car rented for a whole week will cost an average of €250.  Food and drinks prices start from €1.85 depending on the restaurant around Psari Forada Beach. There’s free parking near the beach.

Where to stay near Psari Forada Beach?

Listed below are the best places to stay near Psari Forada Beach.

• Eirini Apartments on the Beach: Eirini Apartments give visitors a beachfront stay, stunning views and direct access to Psari Forada Beach. The apartments are well-equipped with modern amenities, and guests can unwind on the terrace overlooking the sea. This is one of the best hotels near Psari Forada Beach.
• Stella’s Beach House: Stella’s Beach House is nestled near Psari Forada beach. It provides a charming and cosy accommodation option. Guests can savour the coastal atmosphere from their private terrace, and the property offers proximity to local eateries and attractions.
• Villa Irida: Villa Irida offers a tranquil stay in close proximity to Psari Forada Beach. The villa features spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and a lush garden, providing a serene retreat for travellers seeking relaxation.

Where to eat near Psari Forada Beach?

Listed below are the best places to eat near Psari Forada Beach:

• Paraiso Beach Hall: Paraiso Beach Hall is a charming restaurant located just 400 m (0.2 miles) away from Psari Forada Beach, With its inviting ambience and picturesque seaside setting, it offers a delightful dining experience. The restaurant specialises in Mediterranean cuisine, serving a variety of delectable dishes made with fresh local ingredients. Visitors can enjoy a range of seafood, grilled meats, and traditional Greek delicacies while savouring the stunning views of the beach.
• Taverna Koufogiannis: Taverna Koufogiannis is located just 98m (0.06 miles) away, and is one of the best Restaurants Near Psari Forada Beach. This restaurant is recommended for Greek cuisine lovers. Taverna Koufogiannis is recommended because of its competent staff. Some of the recommended meals are Streaky Pork, Octopus Grilled in Vinegar, Meatballs with Zucchini, Squid Shortónned -Thrapsalo Fresh Fried and Steamed Mussels. Taverna Koufogiannis a popular choice among locals and travellers.

Is Psari Forada Beach worth visiting?

Yes, Psari Forada Beach is worth visiting as it is a hidden gem beach on the south coast of Crete. Psari Forada Beach offers a memorable experience for visitors with its beautiful scenery, well-organised facilities, and a variety of activities to enjoy. Visitors looking to relax, have adventure, or have a peaceful holiday, Psari Forada Beach has everything to create lasting memories.

Is Psari Forada Beach safe?

Yes, Psari Forada Beach is considered safe for visitors. However, as with any beach destination, it is advisable to take basic precautions. Travellers should be mindful of their belongings, follow safety guidelines, and pay attention to any warning signs or instructions provided by local authorities. It’s always a good idea to swim in designated areas of Psari Forada Beach and be aware of the current conditions.

Do you need to book in advance to visit Psari Forada Beach?

No, visitors don’t need to book in advance to visit Psari Forada Beach. For peak seasons, they need to book in advance if they need to stay in nearby accommodation. During peak tourist seasons, it is advisable to arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach, especially if you have specific preferences or requirements.  Psari Forada Beach is among the best beaches in Crete that welcomes visitors throughout the year.

Are children permitted at the Psari Forada Beach?

Yes, children are permitted at Psari Forada Beach. The beach is suitable for families with children and offers a safe and enjoyable environment for them to play and swim. However, it is important to supervise children and ensure their safety when near Psari Forada beach, especially when swimming in the deeper waters. Be on the lookout for any age restrictions and guidelines to follow.

Last updated on August 13th, 2023