Malia

Malia Introduction

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.

Why Go To Malia

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.

Who Is Malia Popular With

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.

When To Go To Malia

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 - The Place

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 Nightlife

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 Shopping

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 Eating

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.

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Resort Reviews

8/10

Lyndsey84 writes...

Malia is mainly a resort for nightlife. It is a young persons resort. There is lots of bars and several nightclubs, some which stay open till 6am. All bars are located around or on the main strip. There is a couple of clubs which do foam parties. You can get a ticket on the door or see you rep for these as they get discounted rates. There is a law now that the bars can only play the music so loud after 1am. There are PR people on the doors of every bar trying to get you in. You get some good deals on your first drinks with the PR's (i.e 4 drinks for the price of 1), make sure you barter with them. When on strip watch out for young children trying to sell things etc as they will dip your pockets. Malia has several shops which sell tradional greek niknaks and souvenirs. If you are wanting more shops for clothes, shoes etc you only have to go 10 mins bus journey to Hersonissos. There are also several supermarkets. There is a big one at the top of the main strip. There are many restaurants and bars which offer a variety of different foods. The restaurant opposite MacDonalds does the best steaks i have ever had. There are no restaurants along the seafront however it is only a 10min walk to Stalis where there is lots of restaurants along the sea front. Malia beach is small and can be crowded in peak times. If you go to the crossroads on Malia strip and walk towards the cemetary there is a gorgeous beach up there is only a 10min walk and is quite quiet. There is also a go-karting track and paintballing on the same road. There are two water parks in Hersonissos which is about 15mins on the bus, you can arrange these trips with your rep of the local travel agencies in Malia. The accommodation on the main strip can be basic and is mainly Club 18-30, if you go on the outskirts of Malia town there are a lot of nice hotels and self catering accommodations. Overall Malia is great for nightlife and for a young and active holiday. I would not recommend for older travellers unless you are a bit of a party animal.

7/10

maggie_may writes...

Malia is an all round party resort, I went for a girls holiday with 3 of my friends for a summer getaway. This opinion is really based on the fact that we didn't do alot apart from sun bathe, eat, party and sleep (a little)...With July temperatures averaging 85-90 degrees Fahrenheit its not practical to do much else other that sunbathe. We spent a few days on the beach and a few days at various pool bars. At the beach, people are encouraged to sun bathe in specific areas and pay for sun loungers/parasols. Whilst we were there, the cost was about £2 for the day. There are many companies offering the rental of scooters,cars and quads. Venture out on the Beach Road where you will be dragged in for "2 for 1 on cocktails” and “buy one get one free all night” Most places play similar music-cheesy pop/ classic party tunes etc. So, Malia is a definite recommendation as a groups holiday. Less expensive than Ayia Napa or Ibiza yet just as much fun. There is plenty to do during the day both independently and through the package holiday deals.

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