Travel Eye on Malia (Crete)

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Overview:

The seaside resort of Malia is built along an exquisite sandy beach, about 36 km east of Heraklion. A rich plateau, boasting a great number of watermills, surrounds the village, with cultivations of orange groves and groceries. Today, the village is characterized by great tourist development and is one of the most visited areas on the island.

Malia is becoming quite a big player in the 18-30 market, Malia is to Crete what 'San Antonio' is to Ibiza. The noise can be problem at any time of night (or day) so light sleepers should seek advice from their tour operator.

Peaceful retreats are available further along the beach away from the action where there's a large concentration of accommodation about a mile from the beach.

Local history and the cobbled streets of the original village are of no real interest to the majority of visitors who are here for the nightlife.

Locality:

Malia is situated on north coast (4 mls E of Hersonissos, 5 mls W of Sissi, 20 mls E of Heraklion airport). It is situated on the coast with a main road running through it. It is part of a sprawling holiday area that has grown to incorporate neighbouring resorts of Stalis and Hersonissos.

Entertainment/Facilities/Attractions/Things to do:

Malia features a long strip of excellent sand with bars dotted about providing drinks and lunchtime snacks. It is spacious and open-plan area lacking any natural shade, though there are plenty of parasols. Jet skiing, paragliding and ringos are among the water sports on offer. A flag system operates due to the strong undercurrents.

A few local sites including the Palace of Malia which was built around 2000 BC and features a few remains of the many royal apartments. What tempts most people away from the beach at Malia, however is the biggest water park in Greece, a 20 minute drive away. Shopping in the resort is fairly comprehensive if a little predictable.

Bars all along the main street supplemented by clubs, often with free admission. Maybe not the ultimate party package but there's as much going on at 4am as there is at 4pm. Eating out options can range from fast food to international cuisine.

This area is suited to young singles, couples, families, all fun/sun seekers who want a full-on party town at a value price. In high season appeals mainly to rowdy British youngsters anyone over 25 is likely to feel old.

The accommodation here is across the range from small, simple taverna rooms to studio blocks and most categories of hotel.