Elafonisi Beach in Crete

Elafonisi Beach in Crete

Crete, Greece

Elafonissi is one of the most popular beaches in Greece and in the whole planet. Its water color and underwater visibility are spectacular. It’s always listed as one of the most beaches of the world together with the Cretan Balos Lagoon beach (Check Balos here).

It’s located in the south west coast of the island, 1h 30’ minutes by car from Chania. Roads are good, so you can make it even with a Fiat Punto. There is a big dirt parking lot where you will easily find a spot to leave the car for free.

It’s a white fine grained sand beach, with pink sand in some areas due to the thousands of broken seashells it contains. It’s divided in two by a small waterway that can be crossed walking (it’s not very deep, ~ 0.5 m). The closest part to the parking lot is more touristy . There are less people after crossing the waterway. Actually, if you keep walking, you will pass by some remote small beaches. At the end of the beach there is a lighthouse and a viewpoint.

Looking from the parking lot, the right side is shallower and sandy while the left side is more rocky. In both areas It’s worth-mentioning the crystal clear water and its quietness, making it look like a swimming pool. The visibility is out of this world so If you like snorkeling you have to try (on the left side!). There is a rich mediterranean fauna such as white seabreams, rabbit fish, flounders, tube worms, salemas, wrasses and scorpion fish.

It’s a very popular spot. In July and August and during the central hours of the day it can turn very busy, but not as crowded as Balos Lagoon.

There are some beach stalls that offer paddleboard and kayak rental. You can see the prices in a picture below. There are also a couple of kitesurf/windsurf schools (sometimes it turns very windy).

You can buy drinks and snacks at the beach bar. They also offer sunbeds and umbrellas (the natural shade is scarce) . If it's a very hot day you can also go to Kedrodasos beach. It’s quite unknown and you will find some trees that will give you some shade.

Next to the parking lot there are showers, but if you go too late the water might be closed. You will also find toilets.

It’s a must, if you go to Crete you have to visit this beach. If you can, go earlier than 12 so you will avoid the “Domingueros”.