Limanakia of Hersonissos is one of the most popular areas for tourists in Crete, 26 km east of Heraklion; it is composed of a string of bays to the west and a little outside the core of the settlement: with white sand and blue-green waters.
Here there is a busy atmosphere, but not to the degree as you will meet in the crowded centre, which is but a short walk away. Here and at the centre of Hersonissos, you can get whatever you require: a large number of hotel complexes, hotels of all grades, rentable rooms and apartments, tavernas, restaurants, cafeterias and bars and banks, shops and a supermarket!
The westernmost of these beaches is close to the church of Aghios Georgios. A set of steps leads down to the beach, which has a large smooth rock in it – umbrellas and wooden platforms to dive off.
Between the various coves, and a little way off the above mentioned spot is a beach which the nudists come to, even though it is rather close to the road. There is nothing here but sand and rocks (certainly not clothes!) and so it offer a degree of solitude: it is the only one hereabouts that does not have a rash of umbrellas and sunbeds.
A little past the nudist-spot, a small path leads from the road to Sarandari beach. A sandy covelet, it attracts every day hordes of people intent on a swim.
Right beside it is another beach, Giofori: it is well-organized with white sand and blue-green waters. Here, apart from umbrellas and sunbeds, you will find a full range of water-sports.
Going east, you will meet other small coves where you can enjoy a swim. The largest beach hereabouts, well organized, is attached to a large hotel complex .. it runs on up to the harbour of Chersonesos. Equipped with umbrellas and sunbeds, it also has good opportunities for water-sports and a beach volley-ball court.
Between the busy tourist Meccas of Chersonesos and Malia is the slightly less frenetic Stalida, which is a good choice for family holidays.
