Potamos Beach lies east of Malia, close to the archaeological zone, and is usually the better beach for travellers who want sand and sea without being swallowed by the resort strip. The water is clear, the beach is broad enough to breathe, and the palace is nearby.
It is still a popular north-coast beach, so do not expect solitude in August. But compared with the central resort beach, Potamos has a more relaxed feel and makes a sensible pairing with a morning visit to the Minoan palace.