Some of Crete’s most beautiful beaches are on the remote south coast extending to the Libyan Sea. Hidden away below Preveli Monastery, this fine pebble beach lies at the mouth of a river and is backed by a lush palm grove. If you walk up the gorge, through the palms, you’ll find a small waterfall. The beach itself is quite difficult to reach, with a narrow, rocky path leading along the coast from the car park and then a long flight of steps. A small taverna on the beach sells snacks and rents sunbeds. The palms were seriously damaged by fire in 2010, but have naturally regenerated since.