Beaches

Top Chania Beaches

Elafonisi

Elafonisi is a small islet connected to the rest of Crete by a shallow reef that can be crossed when the sea is calm. This islet lies 82 km northwest of Chania town and can be reached by boat from Paleohora or by car from the village of Vathi, until a point and then cross the reef. We also organize a daily tour to Elafonisi (as we do for many other beaches) with pick up and drop off service directly from the hotel. Elafonisi (Island of Deer) is like paradise on earth and has a wonderful beach with pink coral sand and crystalline waters. It is considered as one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. This magical place was deserted for a long time but now it has become a popular sight and can get pretty crowded during the high summer season.
If you would like to discover a small island covered with sand dunes and small trees, sandy beaches and tropical waters, then you must visit Elafonisi, one of the most exotic beaches of Crete. A protected natural reserve by the Natura 2000 European Act, Elafonisi is a peninsula which breaks in two parts by water giving the impression of being a separate island.

Balos Lagoon & Gramvoussa

Known as “The Most Photographed Beach in Crete”, Balos is located on a small peninsula on the western side of the island. It is seen as a lagoon from the hills above the beach. Opposite the beach, there is a rocky island called Gramvoussa and on top of this island, there is a steep Venetian castle with a gorgeous view of the region and the sea.
The lagoon of Balos has white sand and exotic white, vivid blue and turquoise waters. The sea is very shallow and warm, ideal for young children. In many places, the sand has a lovely pinkish color because of millions of crushed shells. Beyond the rocks at the boundaries of the lagoon, the water is deeper and colder, ideal for snorkeling.
The lagoon and the wider area, with rare species of flora and fauna, are protected under the Natura 2000 European Act. The area is a refuge for sea turtles and certain rare seal species.

Falassarna

Falassarna is one of the best beaches of Crete located in a beautiful fertile plane near the village of Platanos and 58 km west of Chania town. It consists of pure and soft golden sand and incredibly clean and turquoise waters. Falassarna’s beauty lies in its fine white and golden sand. This gives the water a turquoise appearance which feels like one is swimming in a tropical paradise. This is truly an idyllic and quiet place and has been declared as one of the cleanest beaches in Greece. During windy days it is better to avoid swimming. From the beach the view is astonishing and the sunsets are really magical. Falassarna is part of the Natura 2000 European Act, both due to its variety of flora and fauna and as an area of outstanding natural beauty.

Seitan Limania

A spectacular beach known as a hidden gem among locals is located on the Akrotiri peninsula, relatively close to our hotel. It is a narrow cove ideal for swimming, scuba diving and snorkeling. Although the beach is slightly hard to access (via a rugged path) it is well worth visiting it. It is shielded from waves due to its location but is an excellent choice due to its slight isolation. The rough rocky landscape is idyllic and impressive and the water is crystal clear. You can also jump into the deepening water from some rocky outcrops. The small area of the beach consists of light sand, pebbles and stones and does not offer much space. Because of the difficult accessibility, you meet mainly young people and hardly any families with children on the beach.

Marathi

Marathi is a small cove located in the Akrotiri area of Chania. This cove has crystal water and is protected by strong winds. It is one of the beaches of Chania awarded with the Blue Flag. The sandy beach in conjunction with the shallow water and protection from the wind – due to the location – make it ideal for families and children. The beach is well-organized offering guests the possibility to enjoy Cretan food and drink and facilities for swimming (umbrellas, shower, etc.) and lifeguard services. The beach has access for disabled people and infrastructure. The small port offers shelter for fishing and excursions boats.