The Amazona Aparthotel is approached by steps and away from the main road. It is 300 metres down a fairly steep hill to the beach, with plenty of shops and tavernas nearby. Agia Pelagia is 12 miles west of Heraklion and has a narrow beach running around the bay edged with tavernas. Shopping consists of souvenirs, gold and silver shops, internet cafes, an ATM and supermarkets.