Elafonissi Beach
Elafonissi Beach
4.5
About
Located on the southwest coast of Crete, this remote beach is best known for its pink sand. However, temper your expectations as the amount of pink on display varies with conditions and the season. Regardless, the crystal clear waters make this a popular summer vacation spot, attracting sunbathers and watersport enthusiasts alike. Also, hike up to the neighboring cedar tree reserves for a change of scenery. Visit in the morning to beat traffic and secure a chair and umbrella before the crowds arrive. Or come in the evening for a stunning sunset when most people have left. – Tripadvisor
Duration: More than 3 hours
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4.5
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Travel07165362596
3 contributions
Aug 2024 • Family
Very nice beach. You can get there easily by car. Parking is charged 5€, then there are about 15 min walk Recommendation put comfortable sneakers, rough terrain. It is necessary to arrive early in the morning between 8:00 and 9:00 then you will no longer find the parasol, essential. The cost is 20€ (umbrella + 2 sunbeds) if in the main beach everything is busy, immediately to the right there are 2 other equipped beaches. The umbrella brought from home unfortunately flies away easily, the area is very ventilated and under the sand, because of the stone slabs, it is difficult to pitch the umbrella, better a tent. The pink sand is visible but not much, you will have to move on foot to the islet in front where it is most visible. Unfortunately, the impact of man on the environment can also be seen here!!
Shallow water almost everywhere, crystal clear (it looks like a swimming pool) unfortunately very cold so I RECOMMEND the shirts those special for water.
A nice experience accessible even with children!!!
Shallow water almost everywhere, crystal clear (it looks like a swimming pool) unfortunately very cold so I RECOMMEND the shirts those special for water.
A nice experience accessible even with children!!!
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Written 19 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Laure G
13 contributions
Jun 2024 • Family
Be careful, on arrival you will necessarily be guided to Parking, the track is to go down and up on foot, it is not long and hard, about 10 min, but to plan in case of small children for example.
At the beginning of the trail there is a supermarket that sells beach items, cremesolar etc...
Paradise beach, to see early in the morning 9am max, before the massive arrival of buses,
The water is crystal clear, this Pink sand is really original, there is foot far, the fish are numerous and not fierce to the rocks.
The umbrella + deckchair is 20 €, then 5 € per additional deckchair.
There is something to eat on site, a snack; where the staff is very friendly; offers sandwich, pizza, gyros, ice cream cold drinks...
There are cabins to change and showers to rinse.
The toilet is 1 € per person.
ET!!! Once you get back to the car park, a person will stand in front of the car, asking you to pay 5 euros for parking.
BUT it is a beach to see in his life!
Happy holidays!! 🇬🇷
At the beginning of the trail there is a supermarket that sells beach items, cremesolar etc...
Paradise beach, to see early in the morning 9am max, before the massive arrival of buses,
The water is crystal clear, this Pink sand is really original, there is foot far, the fish are numerous and not fierce to the rocks.
The umbrella + deckchair is 20 €, then 5 € per additional deckchair.
There is something to eat on site, a snack; where the staff is very friendly; offers sandwich, pizza, gyros, ice cream cold drinks...
There are cabins to change and showers to rinse.
The toilet is 1 € per person.
ET!!! Once you get back to the car park, a person will stand in front of the car, asking you to pay 5 euros for parking.
BUT it is a beach to see in his life!
Happy holidays!! 🇬🇷
Automatically translated
Written 4 July 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kate L
4 contributions
Aug 2024 • Family
We decided to visit for the sunset and arrived at 6pm as people were leaving, so after parking up at the final car park before the beach (€5 for the day) we strolled down and it wasn’t too busy at all.
We waded through the lagoon on the left and after a quick dip we then walked to the right on the path that takes you to a much quieter part of the beach and is best for seeing the sunset.
The pink sand on this side was outstanding all the way along, the water was super clear.
We finished our evening there feeling very happy and as we were walking back, we captured further pictures of a magnificent sunset.
We are all happy that we chose to go for the evening rather than the full day and would recommend this option if you don’t want crowds.
There is a toilet for €1, options for buying food and drinks and also a changing cubicle which was very helpful.
All in all it was a 5 star experience.
We waded through the lagoon on the left and after a quick dip we then walked to the right on the path that takes you to a much quieter part of the beach and is best for seeing the sunset.
The pink sand on this side was outstanding all the way along, the water was super clear.
We finished our evening there feeling very happy and as we were walking back, we captured further pictures of a magnificent sunset.
We are all happy that we chose to go for the evening rather than the full day and would recommend this option if you don’t want crowds.
There is a toilet for €1, options for buying food and drinks and also a changing cubicle which was very helpful.
All in all it was a 5 star experience.
Written 30 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Adelina H
1 contribution
Jul 2024 • Family
Nice beach! The water is clean, the sand isn't as pink as the Internet photo, but it's still beautiful very. There are places with puddles for children where the water is very shallow and warm. Sunbeds are 20€ for 2 pcs, on the beach cafe with food (pizza, baguette, burger and snacks) drinks and ice cream. Before going down to the beach cafe, restaurant and shops with food and inflatable toys, large parking (5€ day), the possibility to rent a room and tp in the shop drinks and food are of course cheaper than on the beach. It is better to arrive in advance, because sunbeds and places under umbrellas are dismantled very quickly. Toilet on the beach 1€.
It was easy and easy from Chania, good road.
It was easy and easy from Chania, good road.
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Written 6 July 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
claire07
Milan, Italy547 contributions
Jul 2024 • Family
Elafonisi is a beautiful and unique beach that they are trying to preserve from the crowds. so the parking has been set back about 500 m from the beach. do not stop at the first parking lots, the last one before the bar is huge and costs only 5 euros per day. then the descent is easy even for children, you get to the beach with umbrellas , two bars, the bathroom (1 euro) and the shower (free). Respect the rules, throw the waste in the many bins and do not make noise. The wind can be strong so you will need the beach umbrella, you will find it free only if you arrive by 9.30 (but already at 14 some leave). 20 euros in July umbrella and two sunbeds. of course this is the busiest part and the peak of crowds you have between 11 and 16. after it returns to be livable and is a paradise. if you can walk to the end of the islet in front there are benches and a church. the colors of the sea are beautiful change depending on where you are and the passing of the day and the direction of the wind. when we were there the wind was 20 knots in the middle of the day and is unbearable but if you go to the left there are more sheltered coves (I wrapped myself in the towel and slept). We loved it, it's worth the wake up call at dawn, expect big crowds (it's a bit like going to Mont Saint Michel and then complaining).
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Written 18 July 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nikolas N
Athens, Greece64 contributions
Aug 2024 • Family
Paradise literally. Reading a lot of reviews from Greeks for a lot of walking , narrow streets etc. I had a little scared but really what the people write. The road from Chania to Elafonisi is really very good. The route is just magical, you pass through mountains, villages etc and the landscape enchanting you. At some point, it's okay, it's narrow but without any danger. Once you get there from the first car park they try to put you inside and well that the others are full but just ignore them and park at the last one called mega parking and costs 5€ all day.From there it is exactly 8 minutes walk with a timetable on a very normal road with sea fields I was okay and didn't slip half a time. As soon as you arrive at the beach there are sunbeds with 20€ the set if you will hardly find it is few. We arrived at 11:30 and although the beaches were full the people were beautifully shared and we sat right in front of the water with our umbrella. The waters are crystal clear, warm and clear and the landscape simply enchanting you.We liked it so much that we walked and swam in all points. For the unorganized there are several canteens right on the beach that offer all the cafes, food and drinks at very normal prices.No reviews are read from grinarides who have consistently parked in the water and parked them for distances etc.
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Written 8 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Silvia T
Rome, Italy69 contributions
Aug 2024 • Couples
Definitely the most beautiful beach I have seen in Crete. I was there twice just as much as I liked although I had to make a journey of about 1 h and a half. Convenient parking and a short walk to the sea. The beach is equipped with various points with umbrellas and sunbeds and the cost for the set (umbrella + 2 sunbeds) is 20€. My husband and I chose the right side where there are 2 small points with a few umbrellas close to 2 lagoons... in our opinion the
Best point. We had the pleasure of meeting a beach attendant who in our opinion is a lovely person. Tourists are provided with detailed information on the beach and its surroundings. He shows attention to the cleanliness of the beach by picking up here and there what is left by the patrons through neglect or distraction. His kindness shines through in every little attention he places on customer service. His name is Ioannis. There were such people around who demonstrate love and respect for the environment around us. An example to follow. Discounted tip: you have to arrive early to find free umbrellas otherwise be equipped on your own to guarantee a little shade.
Best point. We had the pleasure of meeting a beach attendant who in our opinion is a lovely person. Tourists are provided with detailed information on the beach and its surroundings. He shows attention to the cleanliness of the beach by picking up here and there what is left by the patrons through neglect or distraction. His kindness shines through in every little attention he places on customer service. His name is Ioannis. There were such people around who demonstrate love and respect for the environment around us. An example to follow. Discounted tip: you have to arrive early to find free umbrellas otherwise be equipped on your own to guarantee a little shade.
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Written 24 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ross G
London90 contributions
Jul 2024 • Couples
What an incredible place! We stayed overnight at the Elafonissi resort by Kalomirakis near the entrance to the beach so were able to see the beach at sunset and early morning.
The water is beautifully clear, the pink grains of sand dance around at the waters edge and the water is shallow enough for far enough to walk around in the water.
Yes, it's quite a long, winding drive down to the beach especially if you are staying around the Heraklion area but if you're only visiting the island once and plan on seeing other parts of the world before you come back, you MUST get down to Elafonissi. Easily in the top 3 beaches I've ever been to!
Naturally you'll have to pay for a sunbed if you want to be there for the day but do it. Just do it. You won't regret being there!
The water is beautifully clear, the pink grains of sand dance around at the waters edge and the water is shallow enough for far enough to walk around in the water.
Yes, it's quite a long, winding drive down to the beach especially if you are staying around the Heraklion area but if you're only visiting the island once and plan on seeing other parts of the world before you come back, you MUST get down to Elafonissi. Easily in the top 3 beaches I've ever been to!
Naturally you'll have to pay for a sunbed if you want to be there for the day but do it. Just do it. You won't regret being there!
Written 13 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jordan
West Sussex, UK804 contributions
Jul 2024 • Couples
What an absolutely lovely beach on the western side of Crete! With most popular destinations that tourists will flock to, getting here early to make the most of the beach and getting a good spot is paramount here.
This review is based on our visit here in early July 2024.
1) It is quite a long and windy road to get here, if you are driving, you’d need to be a confident driver to navigate the narrow roads.
2) Parking - do not go to the first two places that will try and entice you in, go to the third parking place on the right where you pay €5 for the day upon leaving.
3) Sunbeds / Parasol. There’s plenty of choice if you get here early! We decided to opt for the parasols to the right and managed to get a sun lounger and the parasol at the front near the beach for €20 for a pair (it’s €5 extra if you want any more than two)
4) It will get busy so if you do arrive early, make the most of the water and empty space, busses and coaches full of people will eventually arrive - the beach is big enough to accommodate them all.
5) The water is very clear and has some warm parts, it’s very child friendly as it goes up to knee hight, with the deepest park within the cove going up to roughly waist height.
An absolutely beautiful beach with some elements of pink sand (not as pink as the heavily edited photos) and you can catch a wonderful sunset here. You can venture over to the other side, make sure you do, to discover another beach and pinkish sand!
There is a bar which serves food and drink but will charge a lot more, I’d advise bringing your own food and drink and maybe use the bar/kiosk to buy an ice cream.
There are toilets on site but they do charge €1 - we didn’t use them so I cannot say if they’re clean or not.
This review is based on our visit here in early July 2024.
1) It is quite a long and windy road to get here, if you are driving, you’d need to be a confident driver to navigate the narrow roads.
2) Parking - do not go to the first two places that will try and entice you in, go to the third parking place on the right where you pay €5 for the day upon leaving.
3) Sunbeds / Parasol. There’s plenty of choice if you get here early! We decided to opt for the parasols to the right and managed to get a sun lounger and the parasol at the front near the beach for €20 for a pair (it’s €5 extra if you want any more than two)
4) It will get busy so if you do arrive early, make the most of the water and empty space, busses and coaches full of people will eventually arrive - the beach is big enough to accommodate them all.
5) The water is very clear and has some warm parts, it’s very child friendly as it goes up to knee hight, with the deepest park within the cove going up to roughly waist height.
An absolutely beautiful beach with some elements of pink sand (not as pink as the heavily edited photos) and you can catch a wonderful sunset here. You can venture over to the other side, make sure you do, to discover another beach and pinkish sand!
There is a bar which serves food and drink but will charge a lot more, I’d advise bringing your own food and drink and maybe use the bar/kiosk to buy an ice cream.
There are toilets on site but they do charge €1 - we didn’t use them so I cannot say if they’re clean or not.
Written 4 July 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Vitalba P
5 contributions
Aug 2024 • Family
Beautiful beach with fabulous sea. Pink sand may not be what will catch your eye but the color is phenomenal. We went on Sunday (and I was told that buses organized on this day do not arrive) at 9 am I was already at the beach, the available stations end by 10 am (not after). 20€.on the far right, entering the beach , there is another small place where they rent umbrellas, it is not visible as soon as you enter and then you have to look out (there should be a flag flying). If you go in the afternoon you can try renting instead of leaving. Facing west you have to calculate that there is no unfavorable wind.
Recommendation to park at the last parking at a cost of € 5, provides the bathroom at a cost of € 0.50 . You pay at the exit. You have to stay until sunset and enjoy the beauty of the place. To eat there is immediately a kiosk attached to the beach, and one with a quick kitchen just above. Bathrooms for a fee of 1€.
The road from Kissamos is not short and you have to go slowly, narrow roads, hairpin bends and beautiful canyons. Local produce vendors on the street.
Recommendation to park at the last parking at a cost of € 5, provides the bathroom at a cost of € 0.50 . You pay at the exit. You have to stay until sunset and enjoy the beauty of the place. To eat there is immediately a kiosk attached to the beach, and one with a quick kitchen just above. Bathrooms for a fee of 1€.
The road from Kissamos is not short and you have to go slowly, narrow roads, hairpin bends and beautiful canyons. Local produce vendors on the street.
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Written 14 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Does Elafonissi beach have toilet facilities ????
Written 2 July 2023
Yes. There are facilities located near the entrance at the beach level. Cost is 2 Euro per person. There are also changing rooms on the beach with no charge.
Written 3 July 2023
Gentile Martina,
Si c'è un area dove ci sono bagni e docce.
Written 27 June 2023
Hi, we are arriving Chania next week and want to visit elafonisi. What’s the easiest way to get there ? By boat possibly? Ideally having available toilet for the route !
Written 26 June 2023
I'm not sure their is a boat. We drove. It was about 1 1/2 hours and is pretty windy. Their are also drive services that will take you.
Written 27 June 2023
I am travelling to Crete in August and looking to visit the beach. Is there much to do whilst at the beach? I am not one for lying on a sun bed all day but want to visit as it looks beautiful. Would I be better off just visiting after 4pm when most people have left? Is it still worth visiting in the evening rather than during the day?
Written 13 May 2023
Hi.
To begin from, I think you are my "type of animal" - I am not a fan of idle sunbathing either.
The area around the beach is picturesque enough and you can have a walk to some local landmarks (remains of lighthouse and old little church), after crossing strip of water and getting to the Elafonissi island. It is not a long walk, however some (including myself) may find it better than sitting on the beach. If you decide to have a walk, be sure that you have proper shoes - the first part of walk is easy (just on the beach) but you may need to go cross some rocky areas, before reaching the end of island.
As to the time of visiting the place: August is probably the most unfortunate month (unless you enjoy crowded places) - in order to reduce the misery, I highly recommend later hours for visiting the place. You will still enjoy sun and sea but will be able to avoid (hopefully) the hordes of noisy people.
Written 14 May 2023
bonjour j aimerais savoir si c est possible de faire elafonissi Matala en bus ?
Written 1 May 2023
Bonjour ce depons où se trouve votre hôtel. Il y a un bus que vous pouvez prendre depuis La Canée à 9h00 tous les matins, ce qui prend environ 2 heures pour se rendre à la plage. Il quitte la plage lors de son voyage de retour à 16h
Written 1 May 2023
We're staying in the Royal and imperial belvedere hotel in hersonissos and we're wondering how to get to and from elafonisi beach on a day trip.
Thanks.
Written 11 January 2023
Did a day trip from Chania to Paleochoro and Elafonisi.
Departing at 8.45am from Chania to Paleochoro in a 2 hours bus ride. After a fabulous lunch at Galaxy Family Restaurant, we head for Elafonisi in a taxi for €20.
Catching the last bus at 4pm back to Chania.
Written 12 January 2023
Staying in Agia Marina. Bring a ca and wondering which it the best for an early visit 8am-12 noon…Balos or Elafonisi?
Written 11 September 2022
Would advise taking the boat, its cheaper, quicker and v relaxed. Why tyer yourself walking. Not even worth the car trip or even walking
Written 13 September 2022
Bonjour, est ce que l’on pourrait me confirmer s’il y a bien une route praticable qui rejoint Elafonissi et Paleochora SVP ? (Route sans repasser par le nord de l’île) Si c’est le cas, combien de temps faut il pour rejoindre les 2 villes ? Merci pour vos réponses
Written 1 August 2022
I took a bus from the city center in Chania. It dropped off right at the parking lot which was a 3 minute walk to the beach. Actually driving to the beach isn't recommended because of the roads being so narrow and winding.
Written 4 August 2022
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