In This Guide
Planning Your Visit
Chania prefecture has some of the most photographed beaches in Greece. The west coast is defined by two exceptional lagoons — Balos and Elafonissi — while the Akrotiri peninsula and the south coast offer quieter alternatives for those willing to explore further.
Elafonissi
A shallow lagoon at the southwest tip of Crete, about 75 km from Chania. The sand has a faint pink tint from crushed shells, and the water is exceptionally calm — ankle-deep for much of the lagoon. Very popular in July and August; arrive early or visit in shoulder season.
Recommendation status: Locally recommended
Balos
Accessible by boat from Kissamos or by a rough track from the Gramvousa peninsula road. The lagoon has white sand and shallow turquoise water. The boat trip (around 45 minutes each way) is part of the experience. Busy in high season.
Recommendation status: Visitor-reviewed and locally confirmed
Falasarna
A wide, open beach on the northwest coast, roughly 60 km from Chania. One of the longer sandy stretches in western Crete, with reliable wind — popular with kitesurfers in the afternoon. Several tavernas along the beach road.
Recommendation status: Locally recommended
Akrotiri peninsula beaches
Stavros
A sheltered bay on the Akrotiri peninsula, 15 km north of Chania. The circular bay creates calm water and a theatrical backdrop — the cliffs here featured in the film Zorba the Greek. Compact beach, popular with families.
Recommendation status: Locally recommended
Marathi
A quieter bay on the south side of Akrotiri, with a small fishing harbour. Less visited than Stavros, calmer water.
Recommendation status: Locally recommended
South coast (Sfakia area)
Sweetwater Beach (Glyka Nera)
Only accessible by boat or a short cliff path from Chora Sfakion. Named for the freshwater springs that seep through the pebbles at the shoreline. No facilities — bring everything you need. One of the more unusual beaches in Crete.
Recommendation status: Locally recommended
Frangokastello
A long, flat beach below a 14th-century Venetian fortress, about 75 km from Chania. Wide and sandy, shallow water, good for families. The fortress adds an unusual backdrop.
Recommendation status: Visitor-reviewed
Practical information
Getting there: Elafonissi and Balos require a car or organised tour. Akrotiri beaches are accessible by car or local bus. South coast beaches require a car and mountain driving.
Best for: First-time visitors (Elafonissi, Balos), families (Stavros, Frangokastello), independent travellers wanting fewer crowds (Falasarna, Sweetwater Beach).