Voulisma beach — Attraction in Municipality of Agios Nikolaos

Went there in mid-September late afternoon on a Saturday. Managed to find a car parking space in a nearby car park, and accessed the beach via some steps (don't think there was wheelchair access - unfortunately - like most places in Crete).

Upon first glance, the water was turquoise blue which looked amazing (see my photos). However, after going a few meters into the sea, there were millions of small plastic pieces floating around. While the sea was relatively calm, the large amount of plastic pieces ruins it, did manage to find a small strech of watee which didn't have a lot of plastic pieces (by the lifeguard area). Overall it was not very clean water. If you swallowed some sea water - which can often happen if there is a bit of wave above you, then it is likely that you would have swallowed some plastic pieces. I saw some small fish swimming in the shallower part of the sea, and it was heartbreaking to see that they are surrounded by plastic and rubbish.

The sunbeds (the renting company located to the left hand side of the lifeguard area) are divided into 3 categories: 10, 20 or 25 Euros for 2 benches plus an parasol/sun umbrella (see my photos), the closer to the sea, the higher the price basically. The 20 and 25 Euro ones come with a little lockable box attached to the parasol where you can store your valuables. They also come with larger coffee tables. I opted for the 10 euro one which was ok, I didn't really need the mattress/foam (see my photo).

The beach feels a bit commercial with lots of sun benches tightly packed together. It seems that the area covered by the bench rental company - located to the right hand side of the lifeguard as you face the sea - is likely to be exposed to longer hours of sunlight due to its location in relation to the sunpath. That's my personal observation.

Personally I think this is a nice spot for photos, but not suitable for swimming. I also hope that the local government/relevant authority can educate the public about the need to protect our seas/natural resources, and come up with a plan to clean up the water, to improve the tourism offer and to make the sea a safer environment for...

Voulisma Beach, nestled near Agios Nikolaos in Crete, is a picture-perfect slice of paradise that caters to every kind of beachgoer. Split into two distinct areas, it offers something for both families and those seeking a more refined, laid-back atmosphere.

On one side, you’ll find the larger public beach — lively, open, and ideal for families with kids. The shallow, calm waters are perfect for little swimmers, and the wide stretch of soft sand leaves plenty of room for sandcastle-building or a spontaneous game of beach paddle. The atmosphere here is relaxed and cheerful, with sunbeds and umbrellas available, but plenty of open space for those who prefer a towel under the sun.

Cross over to the smaller cove, known as Macrame Beach, and you’ll feel the shift. With a more curated, upscale vibe, Macrame offers a boho-chic setting that feels tailored for adults looking to unwind. Think stylish loungers, tasteful music, and cocktails delivered to your seat — all set against the same crystal-clear turquoise waters and stunning natural views. It’s peaceful, elegant, and perfect for a more tranquil beach day.

Whichever side you choose, the water at Voulisma is the star — shimmering shades of blue and green, incredibly clear, and wonderfully inviting. The surrounding cliffs and lush greenery complete the postcard-worthy view. Whether you’re after playful family fun or a serene seaside escape, Voulisma Beach captures the best of both worlds in one...

An absolutely beautiful beach with sand and clear blue sea, on the outset. However on closer inspection, you can't get to virtually any of the beach unless you rent sun loungers, which come with a cost. There's a sliver of sand left to share between any of us other people, who can lie on the sand with a towel! Great if you want to splash out every day for a sun lounger dumped on the sand.

The other disappointment, which is the big one, plastics in the sea at an abundant level. Whilst the tide was going out, there was not much. However when the tide was coming in there was about 10 metres ish deep from the shore of broken down plastics floating as you wade through to get to deeper depths. When you get past this band you were then free of the small plastic particles. Then you were greeted with bigger particles randomly floating around, however not as much.

There is free parking, the one advantage we found in our visit.

There are plenty of other beaches which are not under attack from the pollution of plastics, like...