Maleme

Maleme offers a delightful dining experience with several excellent restaurants. The Passing! is highly rated for its great cocktails and cozy atmosphere, while Almyrikia provides a romantic setting with great cocktails as well. Mike Restaurant at Mike’s Hotel is known for its rooftop seating and sports events. Menta Seaside Bar & Restaurant offers a family-friendly environment with a variety of dishes. These restaurants cater to different tastes, offering everything from traditional Greek cuisine to modern small plates and cocktails.

Maleme is home to several excellent hotels that provide comfortable accommodations and a relaxing atmosphere. The Maleme Mare Beachside Hotel stands out for its beach access and serene environment, offering a restaurant and bar along with two pools and a hot tub. The Secret Garden Hotel is highly rated for its peaceful setting and free Wi-Fi. ALEXANDROS M HOTEL offers informal apartments with kitchenettes and an outdoor pool. Oliva Beach Studios & Apartments provide cozy studios and apartments with free Wi-Fi.

Maleme Beach offers basic amenities such as restrooms and showers, primarily connected to the few hotels along the beach. There are also several tavernas and cafes nearby, providing a convenient spot for meals and refreshments. The beach is well-suited for those looking for a peaceful retreat, with easy parking available along its length.

Visitors to Maleme can enjoy a variety of activities. Swimming and sunbathing are popular pastimes on the beach, while the surrounding area offers opportunities for hiking and exploring local vineyards and olive groves. For those interested in water sports, nearby beaches offer options like snorkeling and scuba diving. The area is also ideal for cycling and horseback riding, allowing visitors to explore the scenic countryside.

Maleme Beach and its surrounding facilities offer some accessibility features. Many of the local restaurants and hotels provide wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking lots, and restrooms. However, the pebbly nature of the beach may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. Visitors are advised to check with specific establishments for detailed accessibility information to ensure a comfortable stay.

Parking at Maleme Beach is convenient and easily accessible. There are ample parking spaces along the beach, making it simple for visitors to find a spot close to their preferred area. The parking is generally free, adding to the beach's appeal as a relaxed and hassle-free destination.

Maleme is steeped in history, particularly from World War II. The Battle of Crete, which took place in 1941, saw significant resistance from local forces against German paratroopers. This battle marked one of the first large-scale airborne invasions in history. The name 'Maleme' is believed to derive from the Greek word for 'gold', possibly due to ancient gold mines in the area. Archaeological finds, such as Minoan seals, have also been discovered nearby.

Maleme is rich in historical significance, with the German War Cemetery being a notable attraction. This cemetery honors over 4,000 German soldiers who lost their lives during World War II. Nearby, the old military airport serves as a reminder of the area's strategic importance during the war. Visitors can also explore the nearby town of Chania, known for its beautiful old harbor and Venetian architecture. Other attractions include the beaches of Elafonissi and Balos, which are accessible by car or boat.