Vai Palm Beach

Europe's largest natural palm grove meets a golden bay.

Vai feels like a piece of the tropics in Europe. Hundreds of Phoenix theophrastii palms – an endemic species found only here and at a few other spots on Crete – line a golden sand beach on the crystal-clear Aegean.

Walk beneath the palms, picnic in the shade and then dive into turquoise water. The contrast between green grove and blue sea is breathtaking. Popular with families thanks to the gently shelving, sheltered beach.

Nearby worth visiting: Toplou and Kato Zakros monasteries and the Itanos archaeological site. The winding drive east of Sitia is scenic.

Tip: Come early morning when the palms glow golden. Bring a parasol – little natural shade on the beach. Entry fee applies; parking nearby.