Duration
8 hours
Best Time
Any time
Price
Free
Closures
Closed on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
About Elafonisi Beach
Elafonisi is a beach on the southwest coast of Crete with pink sand from crushed seashells and water so shallow and warm that you wade 50 metres before it reaches your waist. The beach is actually a small island connected to the mainland by a sandbar that you can walk across. The colour is most visible in the morning before the sand is disturbed by feet. It is 75 minutes by car from Chania on a winding road, and the parking lot fills by 10 AM in July-August. Free entry. One cafe (overpriced). Bring food, water, and an umbrella if you do not want to rent a lounger (EUR 8-10). The water is Caribbean-clear and the setting competes with any beach in the Mediterranean.
Insider Tips
Arrive by 9 AM for parking and the best sand colours. The pink tones are most visible in early morning light. Bring food and water - the one cafe is expensive. The shallow warm water is ideal for families with children. The drive from Chania is 75 min on winding roads. Combine with Elafonisi Lighthouse if you have time.
Practical Details
Getting There
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan for about 8 hours.
Elafonisi Beach is in the Chania & West neighborhood of Crete. The address is Elafonissi Beach, Kissamos 730 01, Greece. The area is well-served by metro.
Yes, entry is free. There may be optional paid exhibits or activities, but the main experience costs nothing.
This works well at any time of day, though mornings tend to be quieter. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
Comfortable shoes are recommended. Parts are outdoors, so bring a light layer.
Closed on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday. Check the official website for holiday closures and special hours.
