Greek authorities have transported more than 500 migrants to a port on the mainland in an effort to relieve strain on the island of Crete after a surge in arrivals from Libya.

A group of migrants arrived directly onto a beach in southern Crete amidst bewildered bathers, highlighting the escalating migration crisis.

Greece is temporarily suspending asylum applications for migrants arriving on Crete due to a surge in arrivals from Libya, with over 2,000 migrants landing since the weekend. The government plans to build a detention site and seek collaboration with the Libyan coast guard to deter boats.