The main beach of Malia is located in front of the town and is crowded with thousands of people. Thus, those who cannot stand the crowds and congestion prefer to go to one of the sandy beaches located east of the port of Malia, very close to the site of the Palace of Malia. The easternmost beach is known as Potamos (i.e. River), because a small stream flows in its east part, next to the Wetland of Malia.

Potamos is a long sandy beach, very well organized, but usually less crowded than the main beach of Malia. The region, particularly its eastern part, is not developed due to the archaeological site. However, in the west of the beach, there are several hotels with small sandy coves in front of them.