The beaches are lovely, and there is a kind of beach for every taste. Personally Ii loved Agia Ppelagia Beach. My favorite things on Heraklion were the waters-ports and motorbiking. The food can be delicious if you stay away from the tourist places where they serve the same things everywhere, and the prices are rediculous. Eat the greek plates as much as you can. They are quite ok. Don't stay at just one place. Crete has something new to offer for every mile you go. Go around the island and you'll be pleased.