Chania Agia Roumeli beach

General information

Located 56 kilometers south of Chania Town, at the exit of Samaria Gorge, Agia Roumeli Beach (also known as Gialos) combines stunning views of the White Mountains with the crystalline azure waters of the Libyan Sea.

It is covered with a mixture of coarse grey sand and fine black pebbles, and, though it deepens quite quickly, it is generally safe for children as there are hardly ever any waves. The stretch right in front of the village taverns is organized with some umbrellas and sunbeds, while visitors can also rent water bikes. During the afternoon, between 13:00 and 17:00, it is flooded with people as hikers complete their long tour of the Gorge and arrive at Agia Roumeli, eager to cool off at the beach and enjoy a delicious meal at one of the local traditional taverns. However, the western side of the beach is generally quiet and peaceful, which makes it ideal for those who seek to avoid large crowds.

From Agia Roumeli, you can also explore other nearby secluded beaches. To the east, right at the point where the stream crossing the Gorge meets the sea, lies the enchanting Zeromouri beach, while, to the west, you will soon come across three caves forming tiny pebbled beaches. Known as Spilies sto Marmaro (Caves in Marble), they are only accessible by sea, so you can either swim there or rent a kayak at Gialos.

Agia Roumeli Beach is not reachable by car. The most common way to get there is by trekking through the Samaria Gorge or by taking a boat from Sfakia, Loutro, Paleochora, or Sougia. Alternatively, you can follow the path that leads to Agia Roumeli from Chora Sfakion (22km) or Sougia (20km).