Planning update (October 2026): Kastelli's new Heraklion airport is under construction; the current target is November 2028. The airport is not yet available for flights or Comfy car collection. Road access, journey times and pickup arrangements may change before opening.
Crete is famous for its coast, but the island's future Kastelli International Airport is inland, in the Pediada area southeast of Heraklion. That makes planning your first drive especially useful. Some beaches suit a relaxed day trip; others belong in a two-day road trip.
This guide introduces five beaches often searched by travellers planning a future car rental at Kastelli Airport. Exact distances and driving times cannot yet be treated as final: the airport is not open, and its connecting roads are still being developed. Recheck the route after the airport opens and allow extra time in summer.
1. Balos Lagoon: a full-day adventure in western Crete
Balos is famous for its shallow turquoise lagoon, white sand and the dramatic Gramvousa landscape. Reaching it from the Kastelli area means a long westbound journey, so it is better planned as a whole-day outing or as part of an overnight stay near Kissamos.
Access matters: the land route includes a lengthy, rough, unpaved section followed by a walk. Do not assume a rental SUV is permitted to drive there. Comfy's published rental terms exclude off-road driving from insurance coverage. A practical alternative is to drive on paved roads to Kissamos and check available boat excursions to Balos.
2. Elafonisi: pink-tinged sand and the southwest coast
Elafonisi lies in the far southwest of Crete. The final approach uses winding mountain roads, and travel can feel much longer than the distance on a map suggests. For a comfortable visit, leave early, carry water and consider combining the trip with a night in western Crete.
For travellers focusing mainly on Elafonisi or Balos, arriving at Chania Airport may be more convenient than using the future Kastelli Airport.
3. Matala: beaches, caves and the south-coast atmosphere
Matala is a favourite for its beach, famous cliffside caves and relaxed village atmosphere. From the Kastelli area, a journey towards the Messara plain makes Matala a more manageable south-coast objective than the beaches at Crete's western end.
Build in time for nearby Phaistos, a major Minoan archaeological site. Red Beach is reached on foot by a separate trail; it is not a drive-up beach.
4. Vai: palm grove and the eastern coast
Vai is known for its palm forest and pale-sand beach near the eastern tip of Crete. The best approach will generally be eastward via the Agios Nikolaos and Sitia region. Expect a substantial drive from the inland airport area and keep a whole day free to enjoy it.
5. Preveli: river, palm trees and a scenic approach
Preveli combines a river, palm trees and the Libyan Sea on the south coast of Rethymno. Do not treat a short straight-line measurement as the driving distance from Kastelli. Mountain roads, route choice and the beach access walk all add time.
There are several approach and parking options. Check the walking conditions before travelling, particularly with small children or in strong heat.
Which beach fits your trip?
| Beach | Best trip style | Main route consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Matala | South-coast day trip | Drive through the Messara area |
| Preveli | Scenic full-day trip | Mountain roads and walking access |
| Vai | Eastern Crete day trip | Long drive; set off early |
| Balos | Western Crete overnight or long day | Unpaved access is not covered by standard rental terms; consider boat |
| Elafonisi | Western Crete overnight or long day | Winding roads and summer traffic |
Before you set off
Save offline maps, check seasonal boat schedules and road closures, and use actual navigation times on your travel date. If you will rent a car, choose it for luggage and passengers rather than assuming every road is suitable for every vehicle.
Explore Comfy's future Kastelli Airport car-rental guide. Travelling to Crete before the new airport opens? Check vehicles at currently available Comfy pickup locations.
