Chania Beaches
Elafonisi Beach
- Distance from Kolimvari 50km (1 hour by car)
- Distance from Chania 72km (1.5 hours by car)
Elafonisi Beach, located on the southwestern coast of Crete, is renowned for its unique pink sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The pink hue of the sand results from crushed shells and coral fragments, creating a stunning contrast with the sea. This natural beauty has earned Elafonisi recognition as one of the world’s top beaches.
The island of Elafonisi covers an area of 0.3 square kilometers and lies just 150 meters off the mainland. When weather conditions permit, visitors can reach the small island by walking across the shallow waters that separate it from mainland Crete. The island is a protected natural refuge, recognized for its extraordinary beauty, and is part of the Natura 2000 network along with the adjacent coastline. The area features sand dunes with sea daffodils and junipers, and is a habitat for the endangered loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta).
Features
Elafonisi is family-friendly, featuring a shallow lagoon that is often knee-deep, making it ideal for families with children. For those seeking adventure, the area is also well-suited for windsurfing and kite surfing, as it often enjoys windy conditions. Additionally, visitors will find sunbeds, umbrellas, and canteens in designated areas of the beach, catering to all visitors’ needs.
Accessibility
The drive to Elafonisi is scenic, passing through small villages and olive groves. Although some parts of the route can be challenging due to narrow, winding roads, the stunning scenery makes it worthwhile. Along the way, visitors travel through the Topolia gorge and pass by a historic tunnel built during World War II.
Starting early in the morning is recommended, especially in summer, to avoid traffic, secure parking, and beat the crowds. Public buses run routes to Elafonisi, particularly during the summer months.
Elafonisi Beach is generally accessible for visitors with limited mobility, though certain challenges remain due to its natural terrain. Some areas of the beach are equipped with ramps leading to the sand. However, the condition of these paths can vary, and assistance may be needed to reach the shaded areas. It is also advisable to visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds. Additionally, contacting local tour operators or facilities beforehand can provide information on available services and ensure a more comfortable experience.
Regarding the parking, there are designated parking areas near the beach, although it may require some walking. It’s recommended to check the proximity and availability upon arrival.
Falassarna Beach
- Distance from Kolimvari 30km (35 min by car)
- Distance from Chania 58km (1 hour by car)
Falassarna Beach, located on the west coast of Crete, is one of the island’s most impressive destinations. It is best known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and its long stretch of white and pink sand, creating an exotic landscape that captivates visitors. It is popular both with local residents and visitors from abroad. Falasarna beach was voted, in a CNN poll, among the best 100 beaches of the world.
Falassarna has been included in the Natura 2000 network due to the area’s rich biodiversity, as well as its unique natural beauty.
What to expect
- Breathtaking sunsets: Located on the west coast, Falassarna offers stunning views as the sun sets into the sea — sunsets that are considered among the best on the island.
- Variety of beaches: The Falassarna area consists of five consecutive beaches, with the main one — known as Platia Ammos — stretching over 1 km in length. Despite attracting many visitors daily, it never feels crowded.
- Activities: Falassarna offers a range of activities to suit every visitor’s preferences — from water sports to sunbeds and quiet corners for relaxation, it perfectly blends adventure with comfort.
- Archaeological findings: Near the beach lie the remains of the ancient city of Falassarna, featuring impressive walls, a harbor, and other discoveries from the Hellenistic period.
Accessibility
Falassarna is easily accessible by car. The route is straightforward and scenic, passing through olive groves and small villages. Public buses from Chania to Kissamos operate regularly, especially during the summer months, with some continuing directly to Falassarna. Ample parking is available near the beach, and although the area is relatively remote, it’s well signposted and easy to reach. Arriving early helps with parking and finding quieter spots.
While the main beach is wide and sandy, access points may vary for people with mobility issues— some areas are better equipped with ramps and easier terrain.
Balos Lagoon
- Distance from Kolimvari 30km (1 hour by car)
- Distance from Chania 52km (1 hour, 30 mins by car)
Balos Lagoon, part of the Gramvousa Peninsula in the northwest of Crete, is renowned for its shallow, turquoise waters, white and pink sand beaches, and the surrounding rugged landscape. The lagoon’s shallow depths create a warm, calm swimming area that’s perfect for relaxing and wading. As a protected Natura 2000 site, Balos is celebrated for both its breathtaking natural beauty and its ecological importance, making it one of Crete’s most iconic and photogenic destinations.
How to get there
1. By Car:
Traveling to Balos Lagoon by car offers flexibility, allowing you to arrive and depart at your own pace. However, there are a few important things to keep in mind. The final 7 km of the route is an unpaved, rocky dirt road with steep sections and no guardrails, so caution is advised. A small fee of €1 per person is collected at a gate before this stretch, contributing to road maintenance and environmental protection.
At the end of the road, there’s a designated parking area, followed by a 20–30 minute downhill hike to the beach. The walk offers panoramic views of the lagoon and surrounding landscape—one of the highlights of the trip. For the more adventurous, hiking routes also begin from Kaliviani village, passing through the Gramvousa Peninsula or the Geroskinos mountain. These trails are more demanding and suited to experienced hikers.
Sturdy footwear is strongly recommended, especially for the hike down and back up the slope. Be sure to bring essentials like water, snacks, and sun protection, as there are limited facilities in the area.
2. By Boat:
Another popular and less strenuous option for visiting Balos Lagoon is by ferry. Ferries depart from Kissamos Port, which is located about 40 minutes by car from Chania and 20 minutes from Kolimvari. Most ferry routes include a stop at Gramvousa Island, giving visitors time to explore its historic Venetian fortress and enjoy the island’s crystal-clear, green-blue waters before continuing on to Balos.
The ferry ride takes approximately 1 hour each way and costs around €35 per person. It’s a comfortable and scenic alternative to driving, ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed journey without the challenges of hiking or navigating dirt roads.
3. Guided Tours:
Guided tours are also available and are an excellent option—especially for those without a car. There are several tour packages departing from Chania, Heraklion, and Rethymno, which typically include bus transfers to Kissamos and a ferry ride to Balos and Gramvousa. These tours offer hassle-free transportation and the added benefit of insights from knowledgeable guides, making the experience more informative and convenient.
Seitan Limania
- Distance from Kolimvari 50km (1 hour by car)
- Distance from Chania 22km (40 minutes by car)
Seitan Limania Beach, is a hidden gem located on the northeastern side of the Akrotiri Peninsula, about 8 km from Chania International Airport . This secluded beach is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, featuring a narrow, fjord-like inlet with crystalline turquoise waters surrounded by towering limestone cliffs . The challenging access and the feeling of a hidden paradise have increased its popularity in recent years.
The difficulty adds to the appeal for many different reasons. People on the adventurous side often seek “hidden gems” that aren’t overrun with tourists. The steep, rocky descent acts as a natural filter, attracting more adventurous visitors.
On the other hand, the dramatic cliffside views and surreal turquoise waters have made Seitan Limania a social media hotspot. Many people are willing to make the tough hike for that perfect photo. As more people discover it and share their experiences online, it gains even more attention despite, or even because of the difficulty. But how does this impact the visitors? Even though it’s a relatively small beach, you will find increased crowds during peak months (especially June–August). Be aware that safety is more important than ever, as some visitors underestimate the difficulty of the trail, especially in flip-flops or without enough water. Arriving early is also recommended as parking can be limited, and you can secure a spot in the narrow beach.
What to Expect
The beach is small and unorganized, there are no umbrellas, sunbeds, or restrooms. There is a snack van at the parking area, but it’s best to bring your own water, snacks, and sunscreen. The place is ideal for swimming, relaxing, and photography, but it is not recommended for families with small children.
Marathi Beach
- Distance from Kolimvari 46 km (50 mins by car)
- Distance from Chania 18 km (30 mins by car)
Marathi Beach is a picturesque and family-friendly destination located on the southeastern coast of the Akrotiri Peninsula in Crete. It is renowned for its tranquil ambiance and clear waters. The beach consists of two sandy coves separated by a small pier, offering calm, shallow waters ideal for children and less experienced swimmers.
Highlights of Marathi Beach
The beach’s orientation protects it from the northern winds, ensuring calm seas even when other areas are windy. It also offers stunning views of Souda Bay and the White Mountains, enhancing the overall experience. Just offshore lies the small island of Palia Souda, accessible by swimming. The island features a pine grove and is popular among scuba divers. Visitors can find sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and toilets. Several seaside tavernas serve fresh seafood and traditional Cretan dishes.
How to get there
There is no direct public transportation to Marathi Beach. Visitors typically reach the beach by car or taxi, with the drive from Chania taking approximately 30 minutes.
Tips for Visiting
To avoid crowds, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon, especially during weekends and peak summer months. Also, ensure you have adequate sun protection, including sunscreen, hats, and umbrellas, as the area offers limited natural shade. Having plenty of water to stay hydrated is a must, particularly during the hot summer days.
Marathi Beach combines natural beauty with convenient amenities, making it a must-visit spot for those seeking relaxation near Chania.
Menies Beach (Diktynna)
- Distance from Kolimvari 27 km (1 hour by car)
- Distance from Chania 51 km (1 hour, 20 mins by car)
Menies Beach (also known as Diktynna) is a stunning hidden gem on the northeastern edge of the Rodopou (Rodopos) Peninsula. It is a small beach of smooth pebbles, crystal-clear deep blue-green waters, which is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
The area has natural and historical charm. It is located near the ruins of the ancient temple of Diktynna, with impressive caves and wild goats grazing nearby. The untouched vibe adds to the appeal since everything is unorganized and free, there are no sunbeds, umbrellas, or lifeguards. Visitors must bring everything that they need (i.e. water, snacks, shade)
Menies beach is sheltered from common Cretan winds, it offers calm seas even when other beaches are choppy.
How to get there
This beach is accessed by car, mostly via paved and unpaved/dirt roads, although some sections are rough, requiring careful driving and a higher endurance vehicle.
Another alternative is by the sea. Many boat tours and private yacht charters that do daily cruises with routes from Kolimvari, Platanias or Chania include Menies as a stop, offering a smooth and scenic day trip.
What to do
The rich marine life and clear waters make it a top spot for underwater exploration, with snorkeling or scuba diving for more experienced divers. Additionally, the nearby caves and rocky cliffs offer opportunities for light hiking. Visitors can spot wild goats and enjoy the deserted, serene Cretan landscape
Tips for Visiting
Bring all the necessary supplies since there are no facilities in the area, so make sure to pack water, snacks, shade, towels, and snorkels. Appropriate footwear is also recommended, like beach shoes that are helpful for pebbles and rocky entry.
Make sure to arrive early via land or schedule a calm-morning boat trip, as you may find more visitors midday. The recommended months to visit are May – October with July and August being the busiest. Menies Beach is perfect if you’re seeking a quiet, off-the-beaten-path experience near Kolimvari—immersed in natural beauty, solo exploration, and historic ambiance.
