CalmBeach Greece
Potamos Malias Beach, Heraklion
See practical info for Potamos Malias in Heraklion, including location, beach type, wind exposure, map and tips to help you decide when to visit.
The wetland sands beside the Minoan palace
Potamos lies east of Malia town, on the north coast of Heraklion prefecture, a long stretch of fine sand beside the Malia wetland. Its name, meaning river in Greek, comes from the small stream that meets the sea at its eastern end, a torrent fed by the waters of Mount Selena that carries water mainly in the winter months.
Behind the shore spreads the Malia wetland, a stopover for many bird species and a refuge for rare coastal vegetation, while low sand dunes fringe the beach and bloom with sand lilies in late summer. Less than a kilometre further east stands the Minoan palace of Malia, one of Crete's great palatial centres, and thanks to the archaeological site the eastern part of the coast remains almost free of building. It is even said that fresh water rises from springs beneath the sea.
The beach is organized, with sunbeds, umbrellas, a cafe and parking, holds a Blue Flag award, and is reached by a paved road that comes close to the sand.
- Region
- Heraklion, Greece
- Beach type
- Sandy
- Access
- Easy road access
- Coordinates
- 35.2962023, 25.4863639
- Organized beach
- Sunbeds
- Parking
- Family friendly
About this beach
The bay at Potamos Malias opens to the north, so it usually has natural cover from southerly, south-easterly and south-westerly winds. Orientation only reflects which way the coast faces, not confirmed shelter, so check wind and waves in the app before you go.
Potamos Malias has sand underfoot with shallow, gently shelving water — handy for families with young children.
For amenities, Potamos Malias has an organised beach, sunbeds and parking nearby. It has a Seatrac assisted-access unit for accessibility — confirm it is in service before travelling. There is a campsite nearby (Camping Sissi, ~2166 m).
Open the app for live recommendation score, wind exposure, waves, best time of day and nearby alternatives.
View this beach in CalmBeach Greece
Heraklion beach guides
Beach guides across Greece
Nearby beaches oriented away from the Meltemi
Other beaches in Heraklion
- Matala Sand & pebbles - Easy road access
- Lygaria Sand & pebbles - Easy road access
- Kokkini Ammos Sand & pebbles - Difficult access (path)
- Kommos Sandy - Easy road access
- Karteros Sandy - Easy road access
- Agiofarango Pebbles - Easy path
- Made Pebbles - Easy road access
- Sarantari Sand & pebbles - Easy road access