Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare
Region of Crete, Greece: Excellent water quality
Agios Georgios is a sandy beach in the rural village of Anissaras, 3km from Hersonissos resort and 23km from Heraklion airport. To reach it, turn left just before entering Hersonissos when traveling from the airport or port. The beach stretches 800m long and 15m wide,…
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare?
Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare is an 800-metre sandy beach located in Anissaras, about 3km from Chersonisos and 23km from Heraklion. The beach stretches 15 metres wide and benefits from an eastward orientation. Its bathing water quality is rated Excellent, making it a reliable choice for swimming. The beach is framed by salt-water trees and brushwood vegetation typical of this coastal area. A lifeguard presence during peak season adds to water safety. The Aldemar Royal Mare resort and Thalasso facility sit directly on the beach, offering accommodation and services for visitors. Accessibility features mean the beach welcomes people with mobility requirements.
It sits alongside other certified beaches in Region of Crete, part of a broader network of other Blue Flag beaches in Greece certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare faces east toward Mediterranean Sea. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in September. Direct sun hours follow that facing.
Planning
When to Go: Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 12°C | 12°C | Low |
| Feb | 13°C | 13°C | Low |
| Mar | 14°C | 15°C | Low |
| Apr | 17°C | 17°C | Low |
| May | 21°C | 19°C | Low |
| Jun | 25°C | 23°C | Low |
| Jul | 27°C | 25°C | Med |
| Aug | 27°C | 25°C | High |
| Sep | 25°C | 23°C | High |
| Oct | 21°C | 21°C | Med |
| Nov | 17°C | 18°C | Low |
| Dec | 14°C | 14°C | Low |
The best time to visit Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare is September. Air temperatures peak around 26.5°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 25°C in July.
How crowded does Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare get?What actually happens at Ag. Georgios 3 depends entirely on the season. From May through early June, the beach is manageable, you'll find hotel guests, some day-trippers from Chersonisos, and reasonable space on the sand. By mid-July through August, it becomes noticeably busier. The hotel's presence means families with young children are common, and the water safety from lifeguards attracts parents. The beach doesn't develop the overwhelming crush of Chersonisos town beach, but neither does it remain quiet. September often sees a shift as school holidays end elsewhere in Europe; the crowd thins and the temperature remains warm. October is genuinely pleasant, fewer people, water still swimmable at 21°C, and less intense sun. Winter (November–April) sees very few swimmers, though the Aldemar resort continues operating. The proximity to Chersonisos means the beach pulls some overspill from the busier resort town, but never becomes chaotic. The 800-metre length helps distribute people naturally.
Is Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (01-07 – 15-10). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare
Is Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare safe to swim?Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is rated Excellent. Lifeguards are on duty during the official season.
What is the water temperature at Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare?Peak water temperature at Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare reaches around 25°C in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 11.8°C.
What is the beach like at Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare?Ag. Georgios 3 is a straightforward working beach with genuine character rather than resort polish. What makes it practical for swimmers is the sandy bottom and the consistent water quality, officially rated Excellent. The beach itself is neither crowded nor isolated; it sits between day-trippers from nearby Chersonisos and hotel guests from the Aldemar properties. The water temperature ranges from 12.3°C in January to 25.2°C in August, making the May-to-October window the realistic swimming season. Water in May sits at 19.4°C, warming through June and July before cooling again in autumn. The beach faces east, catching morning light and offering some shelter from afternoon winds that can develop along this coast. The 800-metre length means you can find quieter spots during peak season if you walk. Salt-water trees and brushwood provide some natural screening and shade, useful during the intense Cretan summer heat. The 15-metre width is modest; at midday in July and August, the sand can feel compressed with people, particularly near the hotel facilities. The beach allows bicycles to be rented, which is practical for exploring the immediate area or cycling along the coastal path. Sports facilities are available through the adjacent resort. During summer, the Aldemar organization runs environmental activities (beach cleanups, lectures, and competitions) which add community character to the beach. Accessibility for people with disabilities has been addressed, with appropriate facilities in place. The beach functions as a genuine local-to-tourist mix rather than a purely tourist product.
Does Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Trained lifeguards are on duty during the season. Toilet facilities are on site. Parking is available nearby.
Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare sits on the Mediterranean Sea: explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Mediterranean.
Planning a trip to Greece? How Greece earns the most Blue Flags , our editorial guide to certified beaches across the country.
While You're Here
Beyond Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare
The village of Anissaras itself is quiet and rural, offering little beyond the beach itself. Chersonisos, 3km away, is a larger resort town with restaurants, shops, supermarkets, and tourist facilities. Heraklion, 23km to the west, is Crete's main city, with historical sites including the Archaeological Museum and Venetian fortress. The Cretan countryside inland from the coast offers traditional villages, tavernas, and agricultural landscapes. Cycling is feasible from the beach using rental bikes to explore the immediate area. The nearby Aldemar resort complex includes a thalasso (seawater spa) facility, which may be accessible to non-residents depending on current policies.
Transport
Getting to Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare
How do I get to Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare by car?Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare is approximately 6.26 km from Chersonisos Municipal Unit. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare?The nearest airport is Heraklion International "Nikos Kazantzakis" Airport (HER), approximately 18.8 km away. Heraklion International "Nikos Kazantzakis" Airport (HER) is 18.8km away. Car rental is the most practical option for this journey, drive west toward Chersonisos, then turn left just before entering the resort to reach Anissaras and Ag. Georgios beach. The drive takes approximately 25–30 minutes depending on traffic. Taxis are available at the airport; agree on a fare beforehand or use a metered service. Some hotels arrange transfers if you book accommodation. Public transport exists but involves multiple changes and takes longer than driving.
Can I get to Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare by public transport?Public buses operate from Heraklion toward Chersonisos, but the final leg to Anissaras and Ag. Georgios requires either a connecting local bus or a taxi from Chersonisos town. The journey is slower and less convenient than driving. Check current schedules with local transport authorities, as services can change seasonally. The nearest recorded bus stop is 245 m from the beach.
Nearby
Near Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare
Mapped toilets, bus stops, cafés, parking, and shops within about 500 m of Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare. Distances are walking-line estimates from the beach pin.
Map loads when you ask. Tiles stay off the first paint.
Map: OpenStreetMap (ODbL)
Toilets near Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare
- Public toilets Public toilets 106 m
- Public toilets Public toilets 254 m
Bus near Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare
- Bus stop Bus stop 245 m
Cafés near Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare
- Restaurant Restaurant 45 m
- Restaurant Restaurant 94 m
- Restaurant Restaurant 100 m
- Restaurant Restaurant 180 m
- Restaurant Restaurant 204 m
Parking near Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare
- Parking Parking 194 m
- Parking Parking 243 m
Supermarket near Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare
- Super Creta market Supermarket 217 m
- Supermarket Supermarket 410 m
Source: © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL). Names and positions come from mapped OSM features. Confirm on site.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free: no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✓ On duty during official season |
| Disabled Access | ✗ No dedicated disabled access listed |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✓ Available during season |
| Official Season | 01 Jul – 15 Oct |
| Beach Type | Sandy beach |
| Parking | ✓ Available nearby (surface parking) |
| Nearest supermarket | 150 m from the beach |
| Nearest bus stop | 245 m from the beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 35.3256°N, 25.3869°E |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Greece |
Frequently Asked Questions
Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare FAQ
Is Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare worth visiting?
Yes, if you want reliable swimming with Excellent-rated water quality and lifeguard cover in a less intensely crowded setting than central Chersonisos. It suits people staying at the Aldemar resort or seeking a practical family beach. The water remains swimmable from May through October. It's not a scenic highlight of Crete, but it functions well as a working beach with decent facilities. The accessibility features and sports offerings add practical value.
How do I get to Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare?
From Heraklion airport (18.8km away), rent a car and drive west toward Chersonisos; turn left just before the resort to reach Anissaras. The journey takes 25–30 minutes. Taxis are available but more expensive. Public buses run to Chersonisos, from where you need a local bus or taxi to Anissaras. Driving gives the most flexibility and control over timing.
What is the best time of year to visit?
May and September–October offer the best balance: warm water (19–23°C), fewer crowds than summer peak, and pleasant air temperatures (24–26°C). June through August have warmer water (23–25°C) but the beach becomes busy, especially mid-July to mid-August. Water is too cold (12–14°C) November through April for most swimmers, though the Aldemar resort remains open.
What facilities are available at the beach?
The adjacent Aldemar Royal Mare and Thalasso facilities offer accommodation, food, and spa services. The beach itself has sports facilities and bicycle rentals. Lifeguards are on duty. The beach is accessible for people with mobility requirements. Chersonisos, 3km away, provides additional restaurants, shops, and tourist services if needed.
Is Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare suitable for families?
Yes. The lifeguard presence, Excellent water quality, sandy bottom, and family-focused Aldemar resort environment make it safe for children. The beach is accessible for people with disabilities. There's space to spread out, and activities like bicycle rentals and environmental programs add variety. Avoid mid-July to mid-August if you prefer quieter conditions.
Are there toilets near Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare?
Yes. OpenStreetMap maps 2 toilet locations near Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare, including 106 m away and 254 m away. Distances are walking-line estimates within about 500 m of the beach pin. Confirm opening hours on site; some facilities are seasonal. © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).
Is there a bus near Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare?
Yes. OpenStreetMap maps a public-transport stop 245 m from Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare (Bus stop). Check current timetables before you travel. © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).
Are there cafés near Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare?
Yes. OpenStreetMap lists 5 cafés or restaurants near Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare, including 45 m away, 94 m away, 100 m away, and 180 m away. Hours and seasonal opening are not verified here. Check on the day. © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).
Is there parking near Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare?
Yes. OpenStreetMap maps parking 194 m from Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare, with 2 lots or spaces inside about 500 m. Charges and time limits are not recorded here. © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).
Is there a supermarket near Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare?
Yes. OpenStreetMap maps a supermarket 217 m from Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare (Super Creta market). Walking-line distance; confirm opening hours locally. © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).
Explore More
Nearby Blue Flag Beaches
Editorial
From the Zeach Blog
Everything you need to know about what makes a beach qualify for Blue Flag status, from water quality to environmental education.
Read moreOur editorial team's pick of the standout Blue Flag beaches in Greece, rated for family friendliness, scenery, and facilities.
Explore GreeceWhat the flag actually means, how certification works, and why a Blue Flag is a genuinely reliable signal, not just a marketing tool.
Read moreSources
- Foundation for Environmental Education: Blue Flag programme
- FEE site listing for Ag. Georgios 3/Mitsis Royal Mare
- Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature (EEPF)
- European Environment Agency: bathing water quality
Last verified September 2026. National operator pages and FEE listings are the primary certification sources.