Agia Varvara beach lies just over 40km east of Heraklion, between Malia and Sissi. It takes its name from the homonym church located to its east dedicated to Santa Barbara. It is a sandy beach set in a small bay in front of a hotel, with the islet of Agia Varvara directly opposite, accessible by swimming, but with strong currents. The beach is outfitted with umbrellas and sunbeds and has several tamarisk trees nearby. Unfortunately, like many beaches in northern Crete, Agia Varvara is prone to frequent northwest winds.