Adelianos Kampos Beach (Adele Beach) — A Complete Guide to Rethymno’s Relaxed Seaside Escape
Located 6 km east of Rethymno, Adelianos Kampos Beach is a long, sandy stretch known for its clear waters, lively atmosphere, and excellent tourist facilities. Whether you’re looking for watersports, beachfront dining, or a relaxing escape, this beach offers something for everyone.
Adelianos Kampos — often called Adele Beach — is the long stretch of sand and sea just east of Rethymno town. It’s a classic northern-crete shoreline: wide, easily accessible, and built for visitors who want a mix of comfort and activity. Whether you’re travelling with family, staying in one of the beachfront hotels, or want a convenient beach day while exploring Rethymno, Adelianos Kampos is a smart, low-stress pick.
What Makes Adelianos Kampos Special
While Crete is full of beautiful beaches, Adelianos Kampos stands out because of its accessibility and atmosphere. It’s not remote, and it’s not overly crowded either. The area stretches for nearly two kilometers along Crete’s northern coast, forming part of a longer bay that continues toward Platanes and Skaleta.
Here, you’ll find a mix of family-run hotels, resorts, restaurants, and beach bars, all lining a road that runs parallel to the sea. Most accommodations offer direct access to the beach — you can literally walk from your room to the sand in under a minute.
What truly defines this beach, though, is its balance. You can enjoy full comfort and services if you want a lazy beach day, but you can also explore quieter corners if you crave a bit of peace.
The Beach & Water Conditions
The sand is light golden, soft in places, and mixed with small pebbles near the shore. The water is clear and turquoise, with a gentle slope that makes swimming easy for most people. On calm days, it’s excellent for families and non-swimmers.
That said, this is the north coast of Crete, which means occasional waves and wind (especially in July and August). Lifeguards are usually present on organized sections, and colored flags are used to indicate swimming conditions — always check before entering the sea.
Because the bay is long and open, beach walks are a highlight here. You can walk for over an hour eastward toward Skaleta, passing through quieter patches of sand, rocky coves, and little beach cafés.
Beach Facilities & Comfort
Adelianos Kampos is one of Rethymno’s best-equipped beaches. You’ll find:
- Sunbeds and umbrellas available for daily rental (usually around €10–12 for a set).
- Showers, toilets, and changing cabins near organized areas.
- Lifeguards during summer months.
- Beach bars and tavernas for meals and refreshments.
- Water sports including jet skis, parasailing, SUP, and pedalos.
Families will appreciate the easy access, gentle entry into the sea, and proximity to shops, bakeries, and mini markets.
Getting to Adelianos Kampos
Reaching the beach is simple. From Rethymno town, it’s just a 10-minute drive heading east. Follow the coastal road or take the local KTEL bus that runs frequently between Rethymno and the eastern resorts (look for buses toward “Adele” or “Skaleta”).
If you’re coming from Heraklion Airport, the drive takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes (roughly 80 km). From Chania Airport, expect about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Parking is available along the main road and near hotels, though it can get busy in peak season, so arrive early if you’re driving.
Dining by the Sea
Food is part of the experience here. Adelianos Kampos has a mix of traditional tavernas, casual eateries, and international restaurants. Most places sit right on the beach, so you can enjoy fresh seafood while watching the waves.
Try:
- Taverna Kellari for grilled fish and Cretan specialties.
- Adele Beach Restaurant for relaxed, sea-view dining.
- Beach bars like Café Paradise for cocktails and sunset drinks.
You’ll also find gyros shops, bakeries, and cafés for quick bites or coffee breaks. And if you want to stock up for a picnic, supermarkets are just a short walk away.
Things to Do Around Adelianos Kampos
Although sunbathing is the main draw, there’s plenty more to experience in and around the area.
1. Water Sports & Fun
In summer, water-sport operators offer a variety of options:
- Jet skiing for adrenaline lovers.
- Banana boats and tubes for groups or families.
- Parasailing to take in sweeping views of the Cretan coastline.
- Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) for a calmer adventure.
2. Explore Rethymno Town
After your beach day, head back to Rethymno’s Old Town — just 10 minutes away. Wander through its Venetian alleys, visit the Fortezza Castle, and enjoy dinner at a harbor-side restaurant as the sun sets.
3. Visit Nearby Beaches
If you’re exploring the coast, you can continue east to Skaleta Beach for a quieter setting or west toward Platanes, which has more nightlife.
4. Day Trips from Adele
Adelianos Kampos is well-located for exploring inland Crete. Visit:
- Arkadi Monastery, a historic symbol of Cretan resistance (about 15 minutes away).
- Margarites Village, known for its pottery workshops.
- Eleftherna Archaeological Site, one of Crete’s oldest settlements.
When to Visit
The best months to enjoy Adelianos Kampos Beach are May to October.
- May–June: Warm but not too hot, with fewer crowds.
- July–August: Peak season, lively atmosphere, all facilities open.
- September–October: Warm sea, mild weather, and a calmer vibe.
Winter months (November–March) are quiet, and while the sea remains beautiful, most beach facilities are closed.
Families, Couples & Solo Travelers
Families: Kids love the shallow entry, soft sand, and plenty of space to play. Several hotels offer playgrounds, kids’ clubs, and shaded dining terraces.
Couples: Walk hand-in-hand along the beach at sunset, sip cocktails by the sea, or dine under the stars at a seaside taverna.
Solo travelers: The area is safe and sociable, especially in summer. You can join water-sport activities, chat with locals, or simply enjoy a peaceful day in the sun.
Accessibility
Most of the organized beach sections have wooden pathways, and some hotels provide wheelchair-friendly access. Beach bars and restaurants are generally accessible, though the sand itself can be tricky in unpaved areas. If accessibility is important, look for the blue “SEATRAC” access system installed in certain parts of Rethymno’s beaches, which allows independent sea entry for wheelchair users.
Where to Stay Near Adelianos Kampos
You’ll find a variety of options ranging from family-run apartments to all-inclusive resorts.
Popular stays include:
- Adele Beach Hotel: Directly on the sand, with a pool and restaurant.
- Maravel Star Art Hotel: Great for couples, modern design.
- Golden Beach Hotel: Affordable and central.
- Private villas and studios: Perfect for those who want a quiet, independent stay.
Staying directly in Adelianos Kampos means you can roll out of bed and onto the beach — ideal for short stays or relaxing holidays. If you prefer more nightlife, Rethymno town is close enough for evening visits.
Practical Information & Tips
- Sunbed rentals: Prices range from €8–12 per set. Some hotels include them for guests.
- Waves: On windy days, the sea can be rough; always pay attention to lifeguard flags.
- Shade: Bring a hat and sunscreen — some areas have limited natural shade.
- Safety: The beach is patrolled, and swimming zones are marked.
- Evenings: The beachfront glows at sunset. Perfect for photography or a walk before dinner.
Nearby Attractions
If you’d like to explore beyond the beach, here are a few nearby highlights:
- Rethymno’s Venetian Harbor: 10 minutes away, ideal for shopping and dining.
- Monastery of Arkadi: One of Crete’s most historic landmarks.
- Cretaquarium (Heraklion direction): Great family stop if you’re driving east.
- Rimondi Fountain: In Rethymno Old Town, a must-see for history lovers.
Why You’ll Love It
Adelianos Kampos offers the best of both worlds — the simplicity of a beach vacation with all the comforts of nearby Rethymno. You can enjoy lazy mornings on a lounger, swim in the clear blue water, and still be minutes away from city life, museums, and local markets.
It’s the kind of place where everything feels easy: parking, food, swimming, and access. The atmosphere is friendly, relaxed, and perfect for travelers who want a blend of convenience, beauty, and authentic Cretan warmth.
Local Insight
The name “Kampos” in Greek means “plain” or “field.” Decades ago, this entire stretch was covered in farmland before it slowly developed into a coastal resort. Despite the modern hotels, you’ll still spot olive groves and vineyards inland — a reminder of the region’s roots. Early morning walks often reveal locals fishing or jogging along the shore, enjoying the same timeless beauty that keeps visitors returning year after year.
If you’re planning your Rethymno itinerary, don’t overlook Adelianos Kampos. It may not have the dramatic cliffs of Preveli or the remote serenity of Triopetra, but it shines in its own way — comfortable, easy, and endlessly welcoming.
It’s where convenience meets natural beauty: soft golden sand, sparkling water, friendly service, and just enough buzz to keep things interesting. Whether you stay for an hour or a week, Adele Beach will leave you relaxed, sun-kissed, and happy you made the stop.
Getting to Adelianos Kampos? See Map Below:
Your Ultimate Rethymno Travel Guide — Insider Tips & Maps
90+ pages of local-tested tips: best beaches, hidden tavernas, transport hacks & Google maps + QR Code — perfect for a stress-free trip.
- Hand-picked beaches with access notes
- Step-by-step “Getting Around Rethymno”
- Local tavernas & what to order