The area embraced by this name includes the modern settlement, about a kilometer back from the beach and some 40 m higher .. Mesa/Middle Psari to the locals, and the sea-side hamlet of Sidonia, at the site of the old city of that name, or Kato/Lower Psari.
How the name of Psari Forada came into being is the subject of several opinions. The most prevalent states that the name belongs to the time of the Arab Occupation of Crete. The Byzantine state sent a fleet under general Theophilos to wage war on the Saracens. Theophilos brought with him a white mare (psari=leukos=white and forada=mare), his beloved steed. But she became injured and could not be moved. Since he could not take her along nor did he wish to kill her, Theophilos asked that they should tether the horse in the shade of a large olive tree. The locals, to honour the general, took it upon themselves to feed her for as long as she lived.
The beach, bounded by the hill of Sendona to the west and by Cape Theophilos to the east, is a most beautiful and large one – with dark-coloured sands and deep and clear waters it is pretty-well organized, so that you will find enough sunbeds and umbrellas, as well as rent-rooms and tavernas, all within walking distance. A bit further inland from the beach are a number of tamarisks which offer their shade to the visitor.
It is a perfect place for those looking for tranquility and relaxation, especially the western segment, but also for those interested in water-sports. On the sand is a beach-volley court. When here, do not forget to swim out to Psarochorako – a small rocky island with many horizontal striations on its eastern side.
It is also famous for its beach parties and other events that the local cultural association puts on every year in August. Between this beach at the west and Tertsa to the east lies that of Vourdolakos.
