Nightlife in Crete: 7 Must-Party Bars On Greece’s Big Isle

Crete’s nightlife scene extends far beyond its ancient history and beautiful beaches, offering a surprising diversity that many travelers overlook. You’ll find everything from 24-hour beach clubs in Malia to sophisticated sunset lounges in Falasarna that rival Mykonos establishments. Whether you’re a dedicated party-seeker or someone who prefers relaxed cocktails with ocean views, the island’s largest Greek destination balances energetic hotspots with laid-back venues. The perfect Cretan evening awaits, but knowing where to go makes all the difference.

Key Points

• Candy Club Malia transforms from a daytime restaurant to a 24/7 nightclub featuring vibrant events and Dutch DJs.
• New York Beach Club in Hersonissos offers 20 hours of daily service with affordable menus and TripAdvisor excellence certification.
• Liokalyvo Beach Club combines Mykonos luxury with affordability, famous for stunning sunset views and Mediterranean fusion cuisine.
• Mojo Bar in Analipsi features rock-focused playlists and hosts Jutta and Yannis who create a welcoming atmosphere rated 4.9/5.
• Almira Beach Bar in Agia Marina blends cocktails with laid-back coastal vibes, popular for panoramic sea views and sunset scenery.

Candy Club Malia: The Ultimate 24/7 Party Paradise

When exploring Crete’s nightlife scene, Candy Club in Malia excels as the ultimate party destination that never sleeps. This versatile venue transforms from daytime restaurant to pulsating nightclub, offering exceptional value for budget-conscious travelers.

You’ll find popular events like “Whoops Night” featuring discounted drinks and high-energy techno sets from renowned Dutch DJs. For bass lovers, don’t miss performances by “The Drum n Bass Father” during special themed nights. The club’s Instagram profile showcases their vibrant visual content that captures the electric atmosphere of their events. Unlike Mykonos Town’s exclusive beach clubs, Candy Club offers a more accessible yet equally thrilling party experience.

The doors typically open around midnight, but you can maximize your experience by booking skip-the-line tickets or table reservations in advance. Entry fees vary by event, so check ahead.

Candy Club’s friendly staff and international crowd create an electric atmosphere that epitomizes Malia’s reputation as a global party hotspot.

New York Beach Club: Hersonissos’ Beachfront Dance Haven

Moving from Malia to Hersonissos, you’ll find another Cretan nightlife gem worth your attention. New York Beach Club offers a versatile experience with its prime beachfront location on Agias Paraskevis Street.

This venue brilliantly transforms from a relaxing daytime spot with sunbeds to a vibrant dance floor as night falls. You’ll appreciate the 20-hour service (open daily except Sundays) and budget-friendly day menu of toasties and salads. For daytime relaxation, two sunbeds with umbrellas cost 10 EUR for the day. Families visiting Crete might seek more tranquil accommodations away from the pulsing nightlife scene of Hersonissos.

Sip cocktails while enjoying stunning bay views from the open-air club.

As Crete’s first nightclub to earn TripAdvisor’s certificate of excellence, New York Beach Club delivers quality entertainment with diverse music for both chilling and dancing. With a 25-year legacy, it remains Hersonissos’ premier party venue where you can dance until sunrise.

Liokalyvo Beach Club: Falasarna’s Mykonos-Style Sunset Experience

Located on the stunning Falasarna Beach in western Crete, Liokalyvo Beach Club offers a slice of Mykonos-style luxury without the hefty price tag. This vibrant venue combines Mediterranean fusion cuisine with crystal-clear waters and soft sand for a complete sensory experience. Many visitors agree that Crete is 100% worth visiting for experiences like this alone.

You’ll find comfortable seating options from beach loungers to private cabanas with full service. Operating from noon until late night, it’s perfect for shifting from daytime relaxation to evening entertainment. The club’s popularity comes from its setting among imposing sandy dunes that create a dramatic backdrop for parties.

What makes Liokalyvo special is its legendary sunset views rivaling those of Mykonos. During summer, the club hosts lively music events and parties that transform this historical coastline into a celebration hotspot.

For practicality, there’s ample parking available, and families are welcome. Contact them at +30 6945297345 to reserve your spot in advance.

Almira Beach Bar: Cocktails and Coastal Vibes in Agia Marina

Nestled in the vibrant coastal town of Agia Marina, Almira Beach Bar distinguishes itself among Crete’s beachside haunts with its perfect blend of invigorating cocktails and laid-back coastal atmosphere.

Where coastal charm meets crafted cocktails in Crete’s most inviting beachfront sanctuary

While joining the ranks of popular venues like Level Cocktail Bar and Kahlua Cocktail Bar, Almira offers that quintessential Cretan beach experience without breaking the bank.

You’ll find the venue most lively during summer months when both locals and travelers flock to enjoy refreshing drinks with panoramic sea views.

Like nearby Cabana Mare and Ilios and Ammos, expect a mix of daytime relaxation that seamlessly shifts into evening entertainment.

The area’s beach bars typically host summer events and themed parties, making Agia Marina a reliable nightlife destination for travelers seeking authentic coastal vibes at reasonable prices.

Visitors consistently praise these establishments for their friendly staff and service, which enhances the overall experience and keeps patrons returning throughout their stay.

For the ultimate experience, visit during the sunset hours when the colorful sky creates an unforgettable backdrop for your evening festivities.

Aria Club: Where House Music Meets International DJ Talent

Despite its name suggesting a dedicated nightclub experience, Aria Club functions primarily as part of Aria Del Mar, a Mediterranean dining hotel in Chania Town rather than a house music hotspot.

Located on Crete’s northwest coast, this venue offers coastal views and a pleasant dining atmosphere rather than the DJ-driven nightlife its subtitle might imply.

With a 4.3/5 rating from 30 reviews, visitors appreciate the restaurant’s ambiance and Mediterranean cuisine.

The venue hosts entertaining events including salsa parties and karaoke, adding an element of nightlife to its primarily dining-focused atmosphere.

Unlike Ikos Aria in Kos (an unrelated venue), there’s no confirmed late-night programming or international DJ schedule here.

If you’re seeking authentic Cretan nightlife, you’ll find better options around Chania’s Venetian Harbor.

The walls feature Greek quotes that add cultural authenticity to the dining experience.

Aria Del Mar serves better as a dinner destination than a dancing hotspot.

Notis Beach Place: Sunset Cocktails on Agii Apostoli’s Shore

Stretching along the pristine shores of Agii Apostoli Beach in Chania, Notis Beach Place offers a straightforward beachfront experience where you’ll find cocktails and casual refreshments served directly to your lounger.

Located just 1.6km from Agioi Apostoli center, it’s a convenient stop during your coastal exploration. This unverified hotel is situated at Nearchou 426, Daratsos, making it easily accessible for beach-goers exploring the area. While not as wild as Mykonos party hotels, Notis still delivers a pleasant social atmosphere for visitors wanting to enjoy Crete’s more relaxed nightlife scene.

• Expect a chill atmosphere with curated background music rather than club-style DJs
• Signature sunset cocktails are available, though recent visitors note service quality concerns
• Your alternatives include roughly 10 nearby eateries if you’re seeking more substantial dining
• Enjoy the Mediterranean views without paying premium prices for basic beach drinks

The relaxed vibe shifts from daytime lounging to sunset socializing, making it worth considering despite mixed recent reviews on service and plastic cup usage.

Mojo Bar: Eclectic Beats for Every Party Personality

Hidden away in Analipsi, Hersonissos, Mojo Bar distinguishes itself from Crete’s usual club offerings with its rock-focused playlist and genuine community vibe. You’ll find hosts Jutta and Yannis creating an atmosphere that makes visitors feel like family rather than travelers.

The bar’s strength lies in its perfectly chilled beers and diverse cocktail selection, complemented by complimentary snacks that enhance your experience without stretching your budget. With an impressive 4.9 out of 5 rating based on over 150 reviews, it’s clear that visitors consistently leave impressed.

While sipping your drink, you’ll enjoy an eclectic mix of classic rock tunes that appeal to various musical tastes. The bar embodies the same unforgettable adventures that make Greek island nightlife so renowned.

Located conveniently for those staying in Hersonissos, this café-music bar hybrid provides a welcoming retreat where you can socialize with fellow travelers and get insider tips on exploring Crete from the knowledgeable staff.

The Sum Up

Whether you’re drinking in Falasarna’s sunset magic at Liokalyvo or dancing till dawn at Candy Club Malia, Crete’s bar scene delivers without emptying your wallet. These seven spots balance beachfront luxury with budget-friendly options. You’ll find both high-energy clubs and laid-back lounges where locals mingle with travelers. Pack comfortable shoes and stay hydrated—Crete’s nightlife marathon starts at sunset and often ends with breakfast.