Aghios Pavlos Beach, named after the small whitewashed chapel of Saint Paul (Agios Pavlos) perched on the rocks overlooking the bay, lies on Crete's southern coast in the Platanias region of Rethymno prefecture. Local tradition holds that the Apostle Paul may have sought shelter in this secluded cove during his journeys across the Mediterranean, though historical evidence is limited. The beach remained largely isolated until the late 20th century, accessible only by rough dirt roads through the rugged Cretan landscape, which preserved its pristine character while nearby villages served as bases for shepherds tending flocks in the surrounding hills. The dramatic geological formations—including a distinctive sand dune that rises 15 meters behind the main beach—were formed by centuries of wind action and coastal processes, creating a landscape unique among Cretan beaches.
The main beach is a small crescent of fine golden sand approximately 70 meters wide, sheltered by steep rocky cliffs that protect it from northern winds and create an intimate, enclosed atmosphere. The crystal-clear waters, typically calm due to the bay's protected position, reach depths of 3-4 meters within 20 meters of shore, making swimming accessible for all abilities while snorkeling along the rocky sides reveals underwater caves, colorful fish, and occasionally sea turtles feeding on seagrass beds. A challenging but rewarding 20-minute hike over the eastern headland leads to a secondary beach called 'Aghios Pavlos Sand Dunes,' where a massive dune meets the sea and provides opportunities for sandboarding and panoramic coastal views. Cave exploration is possible in several sea caves accessible by swimming or careful rock scrambling, though caution is advised as there are no lifeguards or safety facilities. The beach has minimal development—a single taverna provides basic amenities—and the absence of beach clubs or water sports operators maintains the location's tranquil, unspoiled character. The dirt access road, while improved in recent years, still requires careful driving and deters casual visitors, preserving Aghios Pavlos as a destination for those willing to venture off the beaten path.
Taverna Aghios Pavlos, the only beachfront establishment, serves fresh grilled octopus with capers and ouzo, slow-cooked goat with potatoes and lemon, and horiatiki salad with local tomatoes and barrel-aged feta. Kritamon Restaurant in the village of Aghios Pavlos, 2 kilometers inland, offers Cretan specialties including snails (chochlioi) in tomato sauce with rosemary and stuffed zucchini flowers with rice and herbs. Taverna Faros in Agia Galini, 15 kilometers east, specializes in grilled sea bream with wild mountain greens and ntakos with twice-baked barley rusks topped with chopped tomatoes, olive oil, and crumbled mizithra cheese. Taverna Karavostasi in Plakias, 35 kilometers west, is renowned for its lamb kleftiko slow-roasted in parchment, gemista (stuffed tomatoes and peppers), and local cheese pies with wild greens gathered from nearby hillsides.
