Plakias is situated about 30 minutes by car to the south of Rethymno. Most of the houses lie near the small harbour in Plakias around the large half-moon shaped bay.
The route to Plakias is magical as whichever of the two you take, you will pass through either the Kourtaliotiko Gorge or the Kotsifou Gorge. As you travel through the Kourtaliotiko Gorge, you can marvel at the waters gushing from between the rocks and flowing down to Preveli Lake.
Plakias beach starts from the village and stretches eastward. It is one of the longest beaches in Crete, giving a sense of comfort and wide-open space, while at the same time satisfying all tastes as the east end of the beach is preferred by nudists. There are showers all along the beach and plenty of space to park your car.
It is also an interesting experience to travel through the Kotsifou Gorge, and to visit the picturesque little villages surrounding Plakias, such as Mirthios, Sellia and Mariou where you can take part in many cultural activities and fairs.