Beachfront hostel on Crete's south coast with pool, bar, and water sports. Social atmosphere and direct beach access at budget prices.
Youth Hostel Plakias is a beachfront budget accommodation property situated directly on Plakias Beach on the southern coast of Crete, in the Rethymno regional unit of Greece. The hostel occupies a beachfront setting in the village of Plakias, approximately 40 kilometres south of Rethymno town via a mountain road that descends through the Kotsifou and Kourtaliotiko Gorges. This position on Crete's less-developed south coast makes the hostel both a destination in itself and a base for exploring one of the island's most rewarding natural landscapes — a stretch of gorges, sea cliffs, hiking trails, and secluded coves largely untouched by the resort development concentrated on Crete's northern coast.
The hostel is a low-rise building set in gardens, with Plakias Beach extending immediately alongside. Accommodation options range from dormitory beds to private rooms, with an outdoor swimming pool serving as the communal hub during daytime hours. The architecture is functional and utilitarian, reflecting the property's budget positioning and emphasis on outdoor living over interior décor. Common areas are social by design, with communal tables, hammock spaces, and easy flow between indoor and outdoor zones.
An on-site bar operates through the day and into the evening, serving drinks, snacks, and light meals. A shared self-catering kitchen enables guests on extended stays to cook for themselves. Free WiFi is available throughout the property. Water sports equipment including sea kayaks and snorkelling gear can be arranged through the hostel. Regular social events and bulletin boards facilitate connections among the international community of travellers that Plakias consistently attracts.
The hostel earned the Hoscar award for Best Hostel in Greece in 2015 and 2016, recognition that reflects consistent standards across value, cleanliness, atmosphere, and location. Staff provide advice on hiking the Kotsifou Gorge, reaching Preveli Palm Beach and Monastery (15 km east), exploring the nearby Damnoni coves, and transport connections to Rethymno. The hostel is particularly popular with hikers, divers, and backpackers spending several days or weeks on the south Cretan coast. Advance booking is essential for July and August, when all bed types fill quickly.
Amenities
- beach access
- pool
- bar
- kitchen
- WiFi
- water sports
- common areas
Location
Plakias Beach, Rethymno, Crete 740 60, Greece
35.1833, 24.4000 View on map
Highlights
- Direct access to Plakias Beach, one of southern Crete's longest and least crowded sandy beaches
- Outdoor swimming pool in hostel gardens for guests preferring freshwater
- Double Hoscar winner for Best Hostel in Greece (2015 and 2016)
- Proximity to Kotsifou Gorge, Preveli Palm Beach, and dramatic south-coast hiking trails
- Social bar and communal areas fostering a community atmosphere among long-stay travellers
Tips for visiting
- Arrive before June or after mid-September for the best balance of warm weather, smaller crowds, and available beds
- The mountain road from Rethymno via Kourtaliotiko Gorge is one of Crete's most spectacular drives — worth doing in daylight on arrival
- Bring sufficient cash as the ATM in Plakias village is the only one for many kilometres; the nearest town is Rethymno 40 km north
- Book dormitory and private rooms at least two to three weeks ahead for July and August — availability disappears fast
- Preveli Beach and Monastery, 15 km east, is one of Crete's most photographed landscapes; reachable by hire car or organised boat trip departing from Plakias harbour
When to visit
May to early October is the viable season on the south Cretan coast. June and September are ideal: warm enough for swimming, but less intensely crowded than July and August when the hostel and beach operate at full capacity.
Accessibility
Youth Hostel Plakias is a low-rise property at beach level with relatively flat access between most common areas. The beach and outdoor pool areas include some uneven or sandy terrain. The budget nature of the property means specialist accessibility provisions are limited. Guests with mobility requirements should contact the hostel directly before booking.
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Frequently asked questions
Does Youth Hostel Plakias have private rooms?
Yes, the hostel offers both dormitory beds and a limited number of private rooms. Private rooms book out faster than dorms; advance reservation is strongly recommended for any stay from June to September.
Is food available at the hostel?
The on-site bar serves drinks, snacks, and light meals through the day and evening. A shared self-catering kitchen is available for guests who prefer to cook. Several tavernas in Plakias village are a short walk away.
How is Youth Hostel Plakias reached without a hire car?
A KTEL regional bus service connects Rethymno and Plakias several times daily, with reduced frequency outside peak season. A hire car or scooter greatly increases flexibility for reaching Preveli, the gorges, and other south-coast spots where public transport does not run.