There are many restaurants and tavernas in Stalis, as well as tourist shops, travel agencies for daytrips, car and motorbike hire agencies and, of course, minimarkets.
Stalis is a coastal resort town located 30 kilometers east of Heraklion, 8 kilometers after Hersonissos and 5 kilometers before Malia. It is considered to be a part of the heart of Cretan tourism, along with the neighboring towns of Malia and Hersonissos. These three towns form a 15 km long stretch of coastal resorts, which are full of hotels, apartments and other accommodations. According to Booking.com, there are over 100 apartments available in Stalis, mostly owned by the local villagers, and many of them are just a stone’s throw away from the beach.
Cretan tourism experienced significant growth in the 1980s and Stalis was no exception. It became a popular holiday destination in the center of Crete. Prior to this, it was mainly the beach where the inhabitants of Mohos, a village located on a mountain south of Stalis, would spend their summer holidays.
Stalis has a beautiful central square and an ancient church, which was built in 1600. It also boasts a fantastic beach road that is lined on both sides with shops, tavernas, and hotels. Unlike neighboring Hersonissos and Malia, Stalis does not have the same wild nightlife. Instead, it is considered to be more suitable for family holidays, but if you’re looking for a more energetic night out, you can always head to Hersonissos or Malia, which are both just a short distance away.
However, this does not mean that Stalis is devoid of bars and cafes. There are plenty of them along the beach, so you can still have fun, but at a quieter pace. Many people consider this to be an advantage, rather than a disadvantage.
The main Hersonissos-Malia road passes right by Stalis, which makes it easily accessible by car or bus. Local buses run very frequently, and there are underpasses at various points for pedestrians and normal-sized cars. However, double-check before driving through.
When it comes to accommodation, there are plenty of hotels and apartments in Stalis, which are all located near the beach. You can choose to stay right by the seaside, or if you prefer quieter surroundings and a panoramic view, you can choose one of the hotels located on the hillsides above Stalis. These are within easy walking distance, just 0.2 to 0.5 km from the beach.
There are many restaurants and tavernas in Stalis, as well as tourist shops, travel agencies for day trips, car and motorbike hire agencies, and minimarkets. There are banks in Hersonissos and Malia, while Stalis has various cashpoints. From Stalis, you can take regular buses to Heraklion, Hersonissos, Gouves, Malia, and Agios Nikolaos, making it easy to visit many towns and cities along the north coast of Crete. Thanks to our partners, you can find online to suit every preference and budget, from budget to top-of-the-range super stylish models.
The beach at Stalis is a beautiful long sandy beach that extends from the western corner of the bay to the Anthoussa Hotel (now I resort) and the other from the I resort Hotel to Malia. The water becomes deeper very gradually, making it ideal for small children to enjoy the sea. The beach is an organized one with lifeguards, umbrellas and sun loungers. Some beachside restaurants also have special offers that combine beach umbrella and lounger hire with lunch or drinks.
If you’re into water sports, you’ll have no trouble finding what you’re looking for. For those who want to explore the area, a walk on the beach to
admire the sunset or a walk along the main (coast) road of Stalis is a must-do. On summer evenings, the road is closed to traffic, making it a safe place to walk. Roughly halfway along the road, you’ll find the small Byzantine church of Agios Ioannis. This church is mentioned on seventeenth-century Venetian maps, even though there was hardly anything in Stalis at the time.
Another popular activity is to visit neighboring Malia and stroll through the picturesque alleyways in the old part of town (above the main road), or visit the archaeological site of Malia and admire the Minoan Palace ruled by Sarpedon, brother of Minos. Visitors can also head to neighboring Hersonissos to experience the lively nightlife.
For those who love history and culture, the town of Mohos, located on the mountain south of Stalis, is worth visiting. There, you can see the remains of an ancient Minoan settlement, as well as the church of Agios Giorgos, which dates back to the 17th century.
In summary, Stalis is a fantastic coastal resort town that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday, a cultural experience, or a lively night out, you’ll find it all within easy reach. With its beautiful beach, charming town center, and convenient location, Stalis is an ideal destination for your next holiday.
Another great thing to do in Stalis is to take a boat trip to discover the nearby islands and beaches. The crystal clear waters around Stalis are perfect for snorkeling and diving, and you can see a variety of marine life, including colorful fish and sea turtles. Some of the most popular boat trips from Stalis include visits to the island of Dia, the beach of Vai, and the island of Spinalonga.
For those who prefer to stay on land, there are also plenty of hiking and cycling routes in the area. The nearby mountains offer stunning views and a chance to explore the natural beauty of Crete. There are also several horse riding centers in the area, where you can take guided rides through the countryside.
When it comes to food and drink, Stalis offers a wide variety of options. You’ll find traditional tavernas serving delicious Cretan cuisine, as well as international restaurants and beach bars. The local wine and raki (a traditional Greek spirit) are also worth trying.
Finally, don’t forget to take some time to visit the local shops and markets, where you can buy souvenirs, traditional crafts, and local products such as olive oil, honey, and herbs.
In conclusion, Stalis is a charming and versatile destination that offers a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors of all ages and interests. Its beautiful beach, rich history and culture, and proximity to other popular tourist destinations make it an ideal place to spend your holiday.
