Golf in Crete
Golf in Crete: Where to Play, What it Costs, and How to Gear Up
Updated for the current season • Save this guide for tee-time planning
Crete isn’t packed with courses—but what it lacks in quantity it makes up for with sun, scenery and year-round play. Below are the best places to tee off, what you’ll pay, local tips, and where to buy or rent clubs on the island.
Best Places to Play
1) The Crete Golf Club (Hersonissos)
Crete’s only full 18-hole championship course, set in a dramatic mountain-style layout with sea and hillside views. Expect modern facilities, a driving range, putting/chipping greens, on-site hotel and a well-stocked pro shop.
- Where: Roussos Lakkos, Hersonissos (≈25 min from Heraklion Airport)
- Green fees: Typical 18-hole rates are roughly €85–€110 depending on season and offers; 9-hole and twilight options available.
- Practice: Full driving range (range balls sold by basket).
- Hire: Club sets, trolleys, electric trolleys & carts available.
- Book: Crete Golf Club – official site
- Extras: PGA instruction & golf academy; frequent events and pro-am tournaments.
2) Porto Elounda Golf Club (Elounda)
A scenic 9-hole par-3 course with an excellent Golf Academy—ideal for beginners, juniors, or a short tune-up while staying in Elounda. It’s primarily for resort guests; outside access can be limited/appointment-only.
- Where: Porto Elounda Resort, Elounda (Mirabello Bay)
- Good for: Short game, lessons with PGA pros, family-friendly sessions
- Book/Enquire: Porto Elounda – golf page
What It Costs (Quick Guide)
- 18 holes (Crete GC): ~€85–€110 by season; juniors & twilight cheaper.
- Range balls: Sold per basket; small practice fee may apply.
- Club hire: Full sets available on site at Crete GC (standard & premium).
- Lessons: Both clubs offer tuition (Crete GC academy; Porto Elounda PGA team).
Always check the club’s price page or email before you go—rates vary by season, events, and packages.
Local Tips for a Great Round
- Book tee times early in peak months (May–Oct). Weekday mornings are calmest.
- Beat the heat: Aim for early morning or late-afternoon/twilight tee times in summer.
- Wind & terrain: Mountain-style holes can play longer with breezes—take an extra club.
- Hydrate & sun care: Light layers, hat, SPF 30+, and plenty of water.
- Etiquette: Register at the pro shop, repair pitch marks, and keep pace.
- Non-golfers in the group? Elounda’s beaches & Spinalonga boat trips are perfect side adventures.
Where to Rent Clubs & Buy Gear in Crete
- Crete Golf Club Pro Shop (Hersonissos): Club rental plus balls, gloves, apparel & accessories. See pro shop
- Nike Factory Store (Heraklion): Apparel/footwear; occasional golf basics. Store info
- INTERSPORT (Heraklion branches): Island-wide sports retailer; check local stock for gloves/balls. Locations
- Sports Direct Greece (online): Ships golf clubs/sets and accessories in Greece. Browse golf
- Porto Elounda Golf Academy: Lessons, practice access and on-site rentals for resort guests. Details
Getting There & Booking
Fly into Heraklion (HER). Crete Golf Club is ~25 minutes by car; Porto Elounda ~1 hour. Pre-book tee times online or by email, especially in high season and if you need rental clubs.
• Crete Golf Club — tee times & prices
• Porto Elounda — golf & academy
Quick FAQ
Can I play year-round? Yes—Crete’s mild winters make golf possible most months. Expect the calmest conditions in spring and autumn.
Do I need a handicap certificate? Not usually, but standard pace-of-play and etiquette apply.
Can non-golfers join? Check with the club—riding along can be limited at busy times.
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