Opposite the famous island of Spinalonga lies Plaka, a small fishing village which is 16 km from Aghios Nickolaos and 5 km. approx. from Elounda. In front, there is a beach sheltered from the winds, with white pebbles, clear waters and a number of tamarisks for shade – it is ideal for swimming and also fishing.
At Plaka, many tavernas work, where you can sample Cretan cuisine, as well as plenty of cafeterias and bars. Rent-rooms and hotels exist here, and of course more a few kilometers off at Elounda. A local community clinic exists at Schisma (closer to Elounda), open to locals and visitors alike.
If you come to Plaka, you simply have to visit Spinalonga: between 1903-57, this was a leper colony. Today the island, still a spectacular Venetian fortress, is but in ruins, including the sanatorium and the church.
During the summer season, each day regular boat trips are made to the island from Plaka, Elounda and Aghios Nikolaos. The crossing from Plaka takes but a few minutes.
East and south of Elounda, but still on the Spinalonga peninsular, lies the beach of Kolokytha.
