Malia on the north coast of Crete is considered to be the liveliest resort on the island. Young people flock here attracted by its wonderful beach and its party atmosphere. The old town has managed to retain some authenticity but the main resort is geared to the young singles group with bars and clubs lining the waterfront and is devoid of traditional Greek atmosphere. It is the perfect holiday for those who wish to party at night and spend their days recovering on the beach in glorious sunshine.
Malia is a bustling, modern resort offering a guarantee of sunshine, a magnificent sandy beach and warm clear waters. Holidaymakers will find a wide range of excellent accommodation, numerous leisure activities and a nightlife that is renowned for its vivacity.
Although Malia has widespread appeal, July and August is particularly popular with young singles drawn to the resort by its lively nightlife. Beautiful beaches with safe bathing attract families with small children and water sports with varying degrees of excitement appeal to adults of all ages.
The most popular time to visit Malia is in the summer. The season extends from Easter to October when the temperature range is from twenty to thirty degrees.
Malia, lying between Stalis and Sissi on the north coast of Crete, is one of the most popular resorts on the island. It claims to have one of the best sandy beaches and the wildest nightlife on Crete. The golden sand, framed by hills, stretches for two miles along the coast. For those with surplus energy there are numerous opportunities for engaging in water sporting activities including waterskiing, jet skiing, parascending and paragliding. There are also opportunities for the more sedate sports of snorkelling and scuba diving. The waterfront is lined with many bars, pubs, tavernas and restaurants serving a seemingly unlimited variety of menu. This is also the area where the nightlife is at its most frenetic.
The old town is much more peaceful with many traditional tavernas and restaurants.
Those looking for a quieter time can visit the nearby villages of Piskopiano, Koutouloufari and Old Hersonissos which are barely touched by tourism. The narrow cobbled streets and whitewashed houses, window boxes overflowing with vibrant blossoms and the slow pace of life are a pleasant reminder of bygone days. A short trip to the town of Rethymnon is certainly worthwhile. It is a charming place displaying both Ottoman and Venetian architecture and attracts many visitors each year.
Leisure activities in the area include the Star Beach Waterpark, go-karting and horse riding.
Malia’s nightlife caters for young energetic singles looking for a good time and one which lasts throughout the night. There are large numbers of pubs, discos and clubs that are open until six in the morning. Some venues including the Factory have very popular foam parties. The old town, to the south and slightly inland, is much quieter and there are a number of tavernas and restaurants where traditional Greek food can be enjoyed.
Malia has a large number of shops and supermarkets providing holiday basics along with gifts and souvenirs. There are many shops selling designer fakes as well as those that sell the real thing. Prices of the genuine articles are rarely cheaper than at home. . Among the local crafts for sale are ceramics, leather goods, jewellery and embroidered linens, all of which make very popular gifts.
Malia has a wide range of bars, tavernas and restaurants catering all tastes. There are many fast food outlets and English style pubs where the less adventurous can eat their familiar food. There are also many restaurants serving international cuisine.
Eating out in Greece is a pleasure that should be enjoyed in a leisurely fashion so, unless your penchant is for fast foods, try the traditional tavernas in the old town and experience fresh food, particularly fish, simply cooked accompanied by local drinks. You will not be disappointed. Children are warmly welcomed in restaurants and their tastes and portion size are usually accommodated.
