Malia Travel Guide

Malia offers fun, sunny days and steamy nights of partying. Situated on the north coast of Crete, its shops, cafes, hotels, kiosks and tavernas stay busy during peak season, and bright lights and pumping music are a nightly presence in its cosmopolitan clubs and pubs. Other attractions include a few glorious miles of sandy beach, Krasi village's wooded slopes and rushing streams, and the 2000 BC ruins of Malia Palace.

Shopping

This is resort shopping at its finest. Visitors can purchase flip-flops, sunscreen, jewellery and leather goods, as well as ceramics, embroidery and other handcrafts. The local wines and cheeses are very good.

Restaurants

Visitors can enjoy anything from traditional Greek food to a quick pasta or take-out burger.

Nightlife

Malia's nightlife has a reputation for being one of the Mediterranean's hottest for young clubbers, and is on a par with Ibiza and Mallorca. The main strip along the beach is thick with touts luring visitors into their establishments, promising free admission and a variety of drinks offers.

Holiday activities

Holidaymakers can enjoy watersports such as banana-boat and jet-ski rides, water-skiing, parasailing, and gentle pedalo outings, especially on the busy Dolphin and Agapi beaches. Many beaches are popular among casual football and volleyball players, and have daytime bars that play music on the sand. Travellers who explore a little further can go on forest hikes and visit archaeological sites.

Any negatives?

Although Malia has a long, wide stretch of beach, it becomes heavily crowded during the peak holiday season. The resort's popularity among young party goers means it isn't the best option for a family holiday.