After spending almost six hours exploring the Richtis Gorge and its waterfall trail, we were completely exhausted. The combination of summer temperatures, rocky paths and hours on our feet had drained the last reserves of energy from our legs. Instead of starting another adventure, we decided that the rest of the day should be dedicated to one thing only: the sea.
Our destination was Vai Beach, a place our landlord had recommended several times. From Richtis Gorge, the drive took roughly 45 minutes. As the road carried us through the eastern landscape of Crete, the anticipation slowly grew. We had already heard about Vai's unique atmosphere and hoped it would be the perfect place to recover from the longest hike of our holiday.
First Impressions of Vai Beach
Upon arrival, we found a large parking area. At least at the time we visited, parking was free, which was a pleasant surprise. We also noticed facilities such as toilets and changing areas that appeared to be available without additional charges.
The first thing that immediately caught our attention was the number of palm trees. They seemed to be everywhere. Their green crowns swayed gently in the breeze and created a very different atmosphere from many other beaches we had visited on Crete. Combined with the bright sunlight and the deep blue sea, the scenery almost felt tropical.
Between the parking area and the beach stood a restaurant, making it easy to grab food or drinks without leaving the area. Further along the beach, roughly in the middle, we discovered a small kiosk-style bistro and mini market serving visitors throughout the day.
Three Distinct Beach Areas
The beach itself appeared to be divided into three recognisable sections. Closest to one side was an area dedicated to organised sunbeds and umbrellas. Visitors could rent loungers and spend the day in comfort. Next came a narrower section focused on watersports, bringing movement and activity to the shoreline. Beyond that stretched the larger free beach area where everyone could spread out their towels and enjoy the sand.
Directly in front of the bay, a small mountainous island rose from the sea. Its rugged shape created an impressive backdrop and added depth to the view across the water. No matter where we looked, there seemed to be another postcard-worthy scene waiting.
The sea was exactly what we had hoped for: crystal clear and inviting. Near the shoreline, the entry was somewhat rocky and partly reinforced with concrete structures, so we entered carefully. Once in the water, however, visibility was excellent. Sunlight penetrated deeply, creating shades of turquoise, blue and silver beneath the surface.
Swimming and Watersports
While we preferred a relaxing swim after our demanding hike, others clearly came for more active adventures. The watersports section remained busy throughout the afternoon. Jet skis carved white trails across the surface while swimmers and sunbathers watched from the shore.
For us, simply floating in the clear water was enough. The contrast to the effort of the morning could not have been greater. Instead of climbing over rocks and navigating narrow paths, we could now drift gently in the sea and let our tired muscles recover.
The palm trees, the sound of the waves and the relaxed atmosphere made the hours pass surprisingly quickly. What had started as a recovery stop gradually became one of the most enjoyable beach afternoons of the trip.
A Sunset to End the Day
Eventually it was time to leave. As we started the journey back, the sky began to change colour. The bright afternoon light softened into warm golden tones. During the drive we were treated to a beautiful sunset, the perfect ending to a day that had begun in a dramatic gorge and finished beside one of Crete's most distinctive beaches.
- If you arrive later in the day, parking may be easier and temperatures more comfortable.
- Water shoes can be useful because parts of the beach entry are rocky.
- The beach offers both organised and free sections, making it suitable for different travel styles.
- Bring enough time to enjoy both the sea and the surrounding scenery.
After six demanding hours in Richtis Gorge, the combination of palm trees, clear water and a glowing sunset felt like the perfect reward.
