ITANOS - ERIMOUPOLI
A few miles away from Vai you will find the archaeological site of Itanos, right next to the three consecutive bays of Erimoypolis that plunged into the bluest and crystal-clear waters. You could readily combine visiting the archaeological spots of the area with a quick dive in the turquoise crystalline waters.
VAI BEACH
At the very tip of the eastern side of Crete lies Vai Beach also known as Palm beach and home to the Cretan Date Palm (Phoenix theophrasti). This exotic sandy beach with white sand is formed at the end of the palm forest and boasts beautiful cobalt waters, ideal for snorkeling. It is preferable to visit early or late summer as this beach can be very busy during high season.
CHRISSI ISLAND
Located 8 miles south of Ierapetra, the island of Chrissi is a Wildlife Refuge and boasts crystal clear waters and the protected forest of juniper trees. Taking its name from the pinkish-golden colour of its fine sand, Chrissi (meaning golden in Greek) island is also known as a paradise for geology enthusiasts due to the thousands of dead sea shells that have gathered over time and fossilized here.
RICHTIS GORGE
Richtis Gorge is a gorge that starts at the traditional village Exo Mouliana which is located on the national road between Agios Nikolaos and Sitia and ends at the secluded Richtis beach just east of the village Kalavros. The hiking trail is about 4 km. Rich vegetation (mainly platanus trees, wild berries and local flowers and herbs) and animal life (mainly local species of butterflies, small reptiles, birds and small mammals) can be observed along the way as well as old stone bridges and water mills before it culminates with the Richtis Waterfall and beach making the Richtis gorge trail one of the most diversified hiking experiences in Crete.
MOHLOS
Situated 35 kilometers from Sitia it is an ideal beach for those seeking for tranquility and peace. It is rocky and wild but the crystal-clear waters reward the visitor. Daring swimmers can swim to the little island across to see the ancient sites of the Minoan era.