Georgioupolis, about 40 minutes east of Chania, is a former fishing village that has become a relaxed resort: a square shaded by eucalyptus trees, a river with pedal boats and terrapins, a white chapel on a rocky jetty, and a sandy beach that continues for kilometres towards Kavros. It is touristy, but it handles it well, and it is an excellent base for both Chania and Rethymno.
| From Chania | About 38 km, 40 minutes |
|---|---|
| Beach | Sand, many kilometres long; calmest by the harbour |
| Facilities | Sunbeds, lifeguards on main sections, showers, beach bars |
| Bus | KTEL Chania–Rethymno, frequent |
| Nearby | Lake Kournas 4 km, Argyroupoli about 20 km |
| Watch out for | Waves and currents on the open beach in wind |
The Beach
By the harbour (west): the most sheltered part, sloping gently, with sunbeds and the promenade. Good for children. East towards Kavros: wider, emptier, and fully open to the north wind (meltemi) in July–August. Kalyvaki, west of the river mouth, is calmer, but cold where the river water mixes with the sea.
Warning: currents. On windy days the open beach east of the village gets waves and strong currents, and over the years swimmers have got into serious trouble there, including fatal cases. Respect the red flag, swim near a lifeguard, and on windy days choose the harbour end or Kalyvaki. With children, never go beyond your depth on the open beach.
What Recent Visitors Keep Saying
- “Lovely square and atmosphere”: under the eucalyptus trees, even in August.
- “Windy and wavy in summer” on the open beach.
- “Touristy but relaxed”: many come back year after year.
- “Great base” for Kournas, Argyroupoli, Chania and Rethymno.
The Village
The square, shaded by tall eucalyptus trees, is the heart of the village; have a coffee there in the morning before the beach. Walk to the chapel of Agios Nikolaos at the end of a rocky jetty by the harbour, which looks as if it floats on the water, especially at sunset. On the river you can rent pedal boats and see terrapins and ducks. The village is named after Prince George, High Commissioner of autonomous Crete around 1900, and stands near the ancient port of Amphimalla.
Day Trips
- Lake Kournas (4 km): pedal boats, turtles, tavernas.
- Argyroupoli (about 20 km): springs, waterfalls and trout taverns, cool even in August.
- Vamos and Gavalochori: traditional villages and a folklore museum.
- Horse riding through olive groves to the lake, and jeep tours into the mountains, run locally in season.
Local tip: Drive up to Exopoli on the hill above the village in the evening. The view over the bay towards Rethymno is excellent, and few beach visitors go.
Getting There
By car, take the national road east and exit for Georgioupolis; parking is generally easy except near the square in August. KTEL Chania–Rethymno buses stop at the village frequently (about 45 minutes). By taxi, it is fine for arrival with luggage, expensive for a day trip. No Uber or Bolt.
Where to Stay in Georgioupolis
From small apartments by the square to large beach hotels. In July–August the big hotels fill up, so book early. Within walking distance of the square is best.
FAQ
Is it good for children?
Yes, at the harbour end and in calm conditions. On windy days, the open beach is not for children.
Best month?
September: the sea is warm, the wind eases and the crowds thin.
Combine With
- Apokoronas guide: all the villages and beaches of the area.
- Vrisses: shade and yoghurt on the way to Sfakia.
Local tip: Walk out to the Agios Nikolaos chapel 30 minutes before sunset, when the beach empties and the low light turns the water orange.
