The stunning scenery, crystal clear waters, and affordable prices of Crete make it an ideal destination for beach lovers. The beautiful sandy beaches and clear water of Crete have been luring beach lovers for years now. And Chania beaches are some of the best in Greece.
With its scenic location, Chania is undoubtedly one of the most famous spots for beach lovers in Crete. The city has several beautiful beaches that are ideal for swimming, surfing or simply walking along the shore.
Here are some of the top beaches in Chania that you must visit if you are planning a trip to Crete.
Most Famous Beach in Chania Crete
Elafonisi Beach
Elafonisi is an island southwest of the Peloponnese in Greece that is also a nature reserve. Famous for its pink sand beaches, Elafonisi’s sand actually comes in many colors as it is composed of shells and coral. The island has shallow waters and plenty of space to run around and play, making it ideal for families.
If you want to visit the island but aren’t keen on getting your feet wet, there is a bridge that allows visitors to cross from the mainland to the beach without having to wade into the water. There are also plenty of sunbeds, umbrellas, or huts available for rent along the shores where you can set up shop for the day and enjoy some cold Greek beer or wine with your friends.
The water temperature can get up to 19.6 degrees Celsius (67.28 degrees Fahrenheit) during the summer months, so you definitely won’t freeze!
Most Popular Beaches in Chania Crete
Balos Beach
If you want to get out of the crowds and onto a secluded beach, Balos is one of the best beaches in Chania Crete to visit. The beach is only accessible by boat or by foot so that limits travel to it. Either way, Balos will be worth your time. The turquoise waters are famous for their beauty and are great for swimming and snorkeling.
The beach is particularly unique because of its lagoon, separated by a narrow strip of land from the open sea. There’s even a small island nearby called Gramvousa Island where people can go swimming with wild horses!
Falassarna Beach
Falassarna beach is one of the most popular beaches in Chania. It has a long stretch of white sand, and clear blue waters and offers some of the best sunset views on the island.
Getting there is easy since there are several bus routes that pass through Falassarna. Those who want to avoid tourists can walk towards the rocky side of the beach, as this area gets less crowded. In general, however, Falassarna tends to get busy during high season so it’s best to go early morning or late afternoon if you’re looking for a nice spot in the sand.
Frangokastello Beach
Frangokastello beach is located in Sfakia and it is a very popular tourist attraction. This sandy beach has a beautiful turquoise ocean, a castle, a tavern, and a cafe on the beach that is open from morning till late at night. So, if you feel like having something to eat or drink while enjoying the sun and the sea this place has got you covered!
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Other Best Beaches in Chania Crete
Pahia Ammos Beach
Travelers looking to enjoy the sun and sea at this beach can easily reach it by car, as Pahia Ammos is located just 143 miles from the town of Chania.
Once you arrive, there are several options for renting umbrellas and sunbeds in various configurations, though as one of Crete’s most popular beaches, you may have to wait in line during the high season. There are also a number of food stands serving up local fares like gyros and fresh seafood.
For those who want more than just lounging in the sand, the area surrounding Pahia Ammos offers a wide variety of outdoor activities like hiking trails through Samaria Gorge National Park or kayaking tours along the coast.
Georgioupolis Beach
Long stretches of soft white sand, a beach-side village, and clear blue water. What’s not to like? Georgioupolis is one of the most popular beaches in Crete, and for good reason.
The beach is almost 10 kilometers long and is filled with sunbeds, umbrellas, and a few beach bars along its length. If you decide to spend the day here, there are plenty of options for activities: swimming in the calm waters or trying out water sports on the northern end.
There are also a number of restaurants and cafes at either end of the beach if you get hungry. With all these amenities available along with its size, it should come as no surprise that this area gets busy in summer – but don’t let that deter you from visiting!
The beach is well-organized so there will be enough space for everyone to relax without feeling too crowded.
Glyka Nera Beach
Glyka Nera Beach, also affectionately known as Sweetwater Beach, is a rather secluded beach in Chania that not many people know about.
The water here is crystal clear and the long, narrow shore is lined with a mix of pebbles and white sand. It’s like a little slice of paradise. You can spend hours just lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, and taking in the gorgeous views.
A highlight of Glyka Nera Beach is the fact that it’s nestled by a cliff facing the ocean. This makes for some seriously epic scenery! You’ll feel like you’re in your own private cove, surrounded by nothing but nature.
The easiest way to get to the beach is by boat via the ocean. If you want to get there by land, it can be a bit of a challenge that involves a hike down a steep and rocky path. Make sure you bring plenty of water and wear some sturdy shoes.
Agioi Apostoloi Beach
This beach is only 4.8 kilometers from Chania and can be reached by bus, easily. The beach has a shallow sandy entrance which is very popular with families. There are several umbrellas and sunbeds for hire to protect you from the sun.
Water sports such as jet-skiing, waterskiing, and parasailing are available on the beach. There are many well-stocked kiosks selling food and drink along the length of this beach as well as two restaurants.
The best time to visit Agioi Apostoloi beach is during spring or autumn when it is not so crowded and temperatures are still warm enough to swim in the sea.
Loutraki Beach
Loutraki is a small beach with crystal clear waters and is located just a few minutes from the city of Chania. It is not organized, but there are a few umbrellas and sunbeds for those who do not want to sit on the sand.
On Loutraki, you will also find a taverna, where you can enjoy your coffee or your meal. If you are in Chania don’t miss to visit this small beach!
Maleme Beach
The beach of Maleme is located in the northwestern part of Crete, 18 km from Chania. The beach is organized, with umbrellas and sunbeds. Maleme is one of the most popular beaches in Chania, as it has all the necessary infrastructure for a relaxing holiday, as well as a number of hotels and restaurants. There are also water sports facilities.
There are buses to Maleme from Chania but you can also rent a car if you want to explore the area or go to other beaches around Chania that aren’t connected by public transportation. The area is full of archaeological sites and there are many things to do in Chania besides the beach!
There is no entry fee for entering the beach but do remember that it gets busier after work hours and on weekends so don’t leave too late. Also, be aware that the beach can get crowded so it’s best to go during the low season especially if you’re going with kids.
Marathi Beach
Marathi beach actually represents 2 beautiful sandy beach patches in a cove east of Chania. It’s a popular beach and is great for swimming, playing volleyball, and relaxing under the sun. There are beach umbrellas and canteens if you need them.
Tersanas Beach
This beach is known as one of the best beaches in Chania for families because it’s so clean, quiet, and safe for kids to swim in. It has an open sea view that stretches to the west coast of Crete, so you can sit back on the pebble sand and enjoy yourself with a cold beer or soft drink from one of the canteens nearby.
And don’t forget to try some fresh fish from one of the taverns surrounding this beach!
Kalathas Beach
Kalathas is also a family-friendly beach with nice sand and clean water, located about 30 minutes from Chania. You can relax or have fun using water sports equipment like SUPs or kayaks. This beautiful sandy beach offers its visitors many facilities such as umbrellas, showers, restaurants/cafes, and equipment rental service.
This is why Kalathas attract tourists in large numbers during the summer months, especially those who travel by car. However, the beach isn’t big and it can get crowded quickly in the peak season. So be sure to go early if you plan on visiting.
Visiting Chania Beaches
Chania is a paradise for those of you who want to relax and go for long walks. The beaches in Chania are suitable for relaxing, having fun, or even just laying back and gazing at the sky without any disturbance.
At certain times, there is not much activity on the beaches, perfect for a peaceful getaway. You should visit some these beaches if you are traveling to Chania, because they are really worth it. Nonetheless, don’t forget about other beautiful beaches on Crete that are just a short trip away from Chania.
