Crete, the beach paradise
Hello all and have a good day! Summer has finally arrived and everyone has already planned their vacation. Greece is a popular summer destination for European and many Asian citizens due to the numerous amazing beaches it offers. Many of them are considered among the most beautiful beaches in the world, such as Balos and Elafonissi.
The beaches mentioned above are found in Chania (Crete). Chania prefecture offers more than 30 magnificent beaches worth visiting. All of them have earned the Blue Flag and are known for their crystal clear waters and exceptional surroundings. In this article you will find many useful information about some of these beaches, how to get there and other tips. So, enjoy!
Beaches in Northern Chania
The first beach we are going to review is Elafonisi. It is an exotic coast of unparallel beauty. Opposite the beach there is a small islet connected to Crete by a shallow, sandy reef that can be crossed on foot. The islet lies 72 km northwest of Chania town and can be reached by boat from Paleochora or by car. The beach of Elafonisi is a tropical paradise with white and pink coral sand and turquise, crystal clear waters. The beach is well organized since it has sunbeds with umbrellas and a couple of canteens. During high season it is a very popular destination; however if you plan to visit it choose the less windy day unless if you are a fan of windsurfing.
Another exotic beach in Chania prefecture is Balos, which is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, that lies 52 km northwest of Chania town. This unique beach is like a lagoon and has white, soft sand, numerous sea-shells and crystal waters. Opposite the beach lies Gramvoussa island. Balos beach can be reached by car up to a point and then on foot. Alternative, it is accessible by boat from Kissamos.
Falassarna beach is a very popular destination for Greeks and tourists alike. Its golden, soft sand and the amazing turquoise waters will amaze you. Falassarna beach is peaceful and therefore ideal for travellers who seek serenity and it is considered as one of the cleanest beaches in Crete where every visitor will enjoy the most beautiful and romantic sunsets in Crete. You can reach Falassarna beach by car after driving for approximately one (1) hour.
We couldn’t forget to mention Agia Marina beach because it is a very popular destination for tourists (especially Scandinavians). It is a long, sandy beach, 9,5 km from Chania town and is well organized as well as caters several water sports. The multiple beach bars on this beach attract many people, so the beach is usually crowded.
Stavros beach is located in Akrotiri area, 15 km northeast of Chania town. It is a popular, organized sandy beach which provides sunbeds and umbrellas. It is worth mentioning that the famous movie “Zorba the Greek” was filmed in this very beach. Local fish taverns are located nearby where you can enjoy the delicious local cuisine.
Finally, another beach worth mentioning is Almirida that lies 28 km east of Chania town. This sandy beach is very popular with families since the waters are swallow. Along the beach you will find fish taverns, which provide excellent sea view and high quality fresh fish, as well as numerous hotels and villas for your accommodation.
Beaches in Southern Chania
Frangokastello beach is a magnificent beach you should definitely visit. Located on the southern side of Crete (80 km from Chania town, this serene beach lies in front of Frangokastello, a famous Venetian castle. According to the legend, ghost riders appear on the beach at the dawns of May.
Another exceptional beach but not so well-known is Glyka Nera. Glyka Nera is a Greek word which means “fresh water” and this beach took its name because when someone digs a hole in the sand, he finds fresh water. This pebble beach can be reached by car up to a point (it is located 97 km south of Chania town) and then on foot or by boat from Loutro or Sfakia.
Sougia beach lies 60 km southwest of Chania town, between the villages of Paleochora and Agia Roumeli. This pebble beach stretches for about 1200 meters and therefore it is rarely crowded. Its colorful, smooth pebbles and the cool, crystal clear waters make this beach a not-to-be-missed destination in Crete. It is a well organized beach and provides sunbeds and umbrellas as well as hotels and is ideal for camping lovers and nudists.
Paleochora beach is a long, sandy beach located 71 km southwest of Chania town. This lovely beach is organized offering sunbeds and umbrellas and caters water sports as windsurfing and kite surfing. Paleochora village is a popular resort offering numerous entertainment oportunities.
Loutro beach lies 96 km south from Chania town and cannot be reached by car. You can only go to this lovely beach by boat from Sfakia or on foot. Loutro village does not have any cars or motorbikes (except of one lone car, which is used to transfer supplies). Agios Pavlos beach is a pebble beach with deep, clear waters that can be reached on foot from Loutro or from Agia Roumeli.
Agia Roumeli is a stunning beach with dark pebbles. It lies at the exit of Samaria Gorge so, after a long trip crossing the gorge it feels like you have found a sanctuary! Agia Roumeli is a must!
So, what do you think?
Chania prefecture offers amazing beaches where you can relax and enjoy a peaceful environment. The crystal clear waters along with the stunning view will please even the most demanding traveler!
If you require more information about a beach to visit we would be more that happy to help you. Just comment below!
MySunnyEscapes.com Team
Wonderful Crete 