Malia has been Crete's number one party resort since the late eighties. Its reputation was, and still is, based on British 18-30s on package deals in search of sea, sand and sunshine, plus very cheap drinks and all night discos. The old village of Malia is located on the main road that connects Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos, going above but parallel to the sea. From here, there are smaller side roads leading down to the last beachside developments, including mid-range hotels, self catering apartments and rooms for rent, restaurants, bars and clubs. The long stretch of coast consists of a number of sandy beaches with the season's bars and water sports facilities. Malia Port, a bit east of downtown, is filled with excursion boats offering one-day cruises. Despite Malia's reputation for drunken young Brits, there is still a more cosmopolitan side to the resort, with plenty of restaurants and bars that are well preserved and aimed at a more sophisticated clientele.

Malia grew up along a 2 km stretch of coastline punctuated by a series of sandy beaches. The larger beaches have snack bars, beach, beach chairs and umbrellas for rent, and water sports facilities including banana boats, donut rings, jet skiing, water skiing and bungee jumping. Beaches are generally quieter tomorrow as its late-night revellers are rarely out of bed before noon. Many of the hotels have small outdoor pools, a surprising number of visitors seem to prefer the sea.

Sleeping off the effects of the night before seems to take a reasonable share of the many visitors time, but those who feel up to it may appreciate a trip to the Minoan palace of Malia, a 4,000 years old archaeological site similar to the better known palace of Minoan Knossos, near Heraklion. If you are in need of pampering just a 10-minute drive west of Malia is the Star Beach Water Park is an exclusive spa centre offers massage, hydro massage, aromatherapy, seaweed therapy, body wraps, sauna, and facials.

Malia beaches are great for kids, although some people may find the place too noisy and chaotic for the children. There are several fantastic water parks nearby. A 10-minute drive west of Malia is Star Beach Water Park, complete with swimming pools, water slides, a lazy river, bars, music with guest DJs and party foam, a large beach that offers water skiing, parasailing and scuba diving, plus a spa centre.