Lassithi Vai beach

General information

Crete Vai Lassithi: The beautiful Vai beach, known as Palm Forest, is located 25 km east of Sitia and 94 km east of Agios Nikolaos town. It is the only indigenous wild date palm grove of Greece, extending over an area of 250 square kilometres and consists of 5000 palm trees which make it the largest known palm tree forest throughout Europe. The incredible scenery makes Vai one of the most impressive beaches in Greece.

This forest was first mentioned during the Classical period and its existence is attributed to Phoenician merchants who threw away the seeds of the dates they were eating. In front of this unique forest, kilometres of pure and soft golden sand are extending, boarded by an azure sea.

The magic and tropical aspect of the place attracts thousands of visitors which makes it very crowded during high season. The main entrance to the beach is open from sunrise to sunset to avoid fires and camping is prohibited. Snack bars and coffee places can be found on the beach.