Mirabello Bay
Agios Nikolaos, Greece, 72100
One of the Mediterranean’s largest bays, serene Mirabello Bay is a sight for sore eyes—and sore travelers. Lined with excellent beaches, pretty towns like Agios Nikolaos, and plenty of historic landmarks, Mirabello Bay offers a little bit of everything, with a sea breeze to top it off. If you’re anywhere near Mirabello Bay, you’re in luck.
The basics
The largest bay in the Greek islands, Mirabello Bay has calmer waters than the wide-open Sea of Crete. It’s a great spot for anyone looking to relax on golden beaches like Ammoudi or Almyros, or on the urban waterfront of Agios Nikolaos, the bay’s main hub.
Here, travelers have almost too many options for getting on the water, ranging from historic excursions to leisurely retreats. History buffs should book a tour to Spinalonga, an island-turned-leper colony until 1954, and water hounds should book a catamaran or sailing cruise, offering some of Crete’s best views.
Things to know before you go
If Agios Nikolaos isn’t your jam, Plaka and Elounda are also good bayside hubs, with plenty of tours leaving from each.
You can snorkel, scuba dive, and take part in other water activities in the bay.
If you have time/interest, venture away from the coast and into the mountains for ancient ruins, monasteries, and fabulous views over Mirabello Bay.
How to get there
Most travelers to this area base themselves in Agios Nikolaos, a cute harbor town with plenty of souvenir shopping and taverna-rich nightlife. It’s easiest to fly into Heraklion and rent a car—that way, you’ll have the freedom to explore the bay and beyond—but your hotel might run a shuttle, as well, and then you can book tours from there.
When to get there
The best time to visit and explore Mirabello Bay is from May to October, when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for enjoying the bay’s beautiful beaches, the vibrant nightlife of Agios Nikolaos, and the area’s outdoor activities. Summer is livelier with festivals, events, and larger crowds, while the shoulder seasons provide a more relaxed atmosphere.
For cheap thrills (and great views)
The simplest way to catch the area’s best views is a serious travel hack: Ride the local bus from Agios Nikolaos to Elounda. Sit on the right-hand side, and bask away on the “oceanfront” drive. What’s more, it’s a cheap way to visit Elounda, another worthwhile historic stop on the bay’s coast.
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