Plantanias, located on the northwestern coast of Crete, keeps a small town vibe while offering visitors activities in water sports, relaxing and dining. A string of 13 villages and small hamlets in the Chania region of Greece, the city is one of the busiest and most wealthy areas of Chania, despite having a population of only about 5,000 people. Plantanias is one of the most popular places to visit in the region, and it's common to see locals and tourists relaxing side-by-side on the golden pink sand of Platania and Afrata beaches.
Go Diving
- Scuba enthusiasts have a bevy of diving locations from which to choose, including the Elephant Cave -- which was previously home to a herd of wild elephants and possibly mammoths before sea levels rose and submerged the cavern. Or you can explore Anchor Bay, which hosts a collection of ship anchors, each a haunting tribute to ships that were sunk in the area. Beginners can take a two-day PADI scuba diving course and make two open-water dives, or get fully certified in the four-day PADI Open Water course. Experienced divers can take specialty courses in deep water, underwater photography and videography, night diving, wreck diving and even search and recovery.
Take a Boat Tour
- Depart from Platanias harbor for a tour around nearby Theodorou Island with SeaStar’s classic tour. You’ll see unique geological formations, archaeological sites and an immense biodiversity. You’ll also have the opportunity to snorkel and see fish, starfish, octopuses and shells, or take the snorkeling trip to a sunken German airplane that was shot down during World War II. As an alternative to the snorkeling trip, you can choose a one-hour cultural tour where you’ll hear the mythical origin stories of the area’s animals, birds and caves, and see a Venetian castle built in 1574.
Indulge in Cretan Cuisine
- Try authentic regional cuisine at the Kyano Beach Restaurant, where you can order plates of grilled meats and souvlakis, or fresh seafood with the daily octopus and fish options. Those who want a slightly more upscale take on Cretan and Mediterranean food can try Cosmos Restaurant and Piano Bar, which serves up its cuisine with stunning views of the island and surrounding waters.
Relax at the Day Spa
- After a day of diving or swimming, make a stop to pamper yourself at the Senses Day Spa at the Summertime Boutique Hotel. The spa menu includes massages in addition to manicures, pedicures, facials and other exotic body treatments. While waiting for your appointment, take advantage of the indoor heated swimming pool, sauna and fitness center.
