Chania Elafonisi beach

General information

Elafonisi Beach is a true treasure on the southwestern side of Crete, only 5km away from the southwesternmost end of the island. It is famous for its unique pink sand, whose color was created by the thousands of tiny parts of shattered seashells. Its dazzling turquoise waters are truly magical, and the fact that they’re warm and shallow during the summer makes them perfectly suitable for children.

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Across the coast, you can find different beaches, with the one on the eastern side being fully organized. It provides showers, umbrellas, changing rooms, and a canteen. Additionally, during the summer, there are lifeguards supervising the area, making sure everyone is safe, and intervening whenever it’s needed. Behind the organized beach, there is a parking space, and a little further, you can find some rooms to let. You can also find taverns and restaurants nearby. If you prefer to enjoy a peaceful swim, you can walk across the coast and find quiet, less crowded, unorganized beaches. By swimming a little deeper, you have the chance to explore some beautiful small caves as well!

More about Elafonisi Beach

The exotic landscape and natural charm of the place are truly remarkable. Its ecosystem is full of life, with the most widely known animals living there being the Carreta Carreta turtles. Thus, in order to protect the rich flora and fauna of the area, Elafonisi has been declared under protection by the EU Natura program.

On your way to Elafonisi, you can stop by the Monastery of Panagia Chrissoskalitissa. It lies on a white cliff right above the beach, and it’s dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is open to the public and also houses a museum with traditional household items, as well as tools and memorials from the Cretan Revolution.

If you enjoy watersports, don’t miss the chance to have an awesome surfing experience! Watersports centers there offer various activities, including windsurfing, kitesurfing, surfing, and SUP rentals, as well as lessons for those who are inexperienced.