Beaches in Malia
Malia Beach
If you want pure summer energy, this is it. Malia Beach is the long sandy strip right in front of the main resort — beach bars, music, cocktails in plastic cups, and sunbeds basically in the water. It’s busy from morning till sunset and perfect if you want to tan all day and then roll straight into nightlife without even changing. Water is shallow and usually calm, so it’s also fine for less confident swimmers.
Yes, it’s crowded. That’s kind of the point.
Potamos Beach
Potamos is where you go when you still want Malia… but not the speakers. It’s a wide, quieter beach on the eastern side of town, past the small archaeological site. Fewer crowds, cleaner vibe, more “Greek summer” and less “day party.” The sand is good, the water is clear, and there’s actual space to breathe.
There are sunbeds and a couple of tavernas on the beach, so you can spend the whole day here without going back into town. Great for couples, families, or just “leave me alone, I’m on holiday.”
Stalis Beach
Technically next door in Stalis (Stalida), but so close that everyone staying in Malia ends up here at least once. Stalis Beach is softer, calmer, and a little older in personality — more relaxed cafes, sunset dinners on the promenade, and a slower pace. Still totally organized with sunbeds and umbrellas, but the vibe is “easy daytime” instead of “shots at 2pm.”
If you’re here as a couple or you just want a low-stress swim after a long night out, this is the one.
