Written on : 03 September 2021 By : Leah Psaromatis
Though famous for its historical character and unique architecture, the town of Chania is also home to numerous beautiful beaches, making it a great place for holidaymakers. Located on the northwest coast of Crete, Chania boasts beautiful beaches only walking distance from the old town centre, as well as more isolated beaches just a short drive away and exotic beaches within 2.5 hours distance.
Read on to discover the most magnificent beaches around Chania and pick your choice!
Marathi beach: For a fun day in the sun with your family
Located about a 20 minute drive from the center of Chania, is the idyllic Marathi beach. Its shallow turquoise waters are ideal for snorkeling and playing, making it the perfect place to spend a relaxing day with your family. Go for a meal at the taverna right by the beach to enjoy delicious food and a beautiful sunset after your swim!
Balos beach: An exotic turquoise paradise
Without a doubt, Balos is one of the best beaches in all of Crete, offering a sensation of complete disconnection from the world. Driving from Chania to Balos will take you around 1h15m, or alternatively, you can drive 41km to Kissamos port and board the ferry, which will take just 45 minutes from there. The exotic scenery at Balos beach is spectacular, with warm turquoise waters and beautiful wilderness, a unique and magical beauty. While you are there, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the historical Gramvousa Castle, just a 15 minute walk up the hill.
This hidden jewel is nestled between two tall cliffs, where the soft white sand and clear blue waters run through and join the royal blue sea. As with most places in Crete, the easiest way to access Seitan Limani is by car. However, be prepared to drive on narrow streets at the top of the mountain, and put on your sports shoes for a 20 minute hike down to the beach. Don’t forget to take a picture with the friendly goats along the way!
Chrissi Akti and Agii Apostoli: For a local swim
Whether you want to spend a relaxing day tanning in the sun, or doing water sports all day, this is the place for you. The neighbouring beaches of Chrissi Akti and Agii Apostoli are well organised with everything you could need; umbrellas, sunbeds, cafes, water sports, a playground, as well as taverns with delicious Cretan delicacies nearby. The charming beaches are ideal for young children, with fine sand and marvelous blue shallow waters. These magnificent local beaches can easily be accessed with a very short drive from the centre of Chania, or by foot if you are feeling up to it!
Elafonissi beach: A pink paradise
Though slightly further away from Chania, the world-renowned Elafonissi beach is definitely worth visiting. Its crystal clear blue waters and soft pink sand makes it one of the most exotic and unique beaches in all of Greece, located around 1.5 hours away from Chania by car.
Sougia Beach: For a relaxing swim away from the crowds
Sougia Beach, nominated as one of the cleanest beaches of Greece, is located in the South West of Crete, around 1.5 hours away from Chania by car. As it is one of the largest beaches in Crete, it rarely gets too crowded, so you can enjoy the pure beauty of the colourful smooth pebbles, small and large, and pristine deep waters in a relaxing and peaceful atmosphere. Perfect if you are looking for a quiet beach day away from the crowds!
Matala beach: A snorkeler's paradise
Located on the South coast of Crete, this pebbled beach is known for its unusual rock formations and caves. The area has a fascinating history, and you can even see ancient ruins through the clear water, so don’t forget to bring your goggles! The drive to Matala from Chania is around 2.5 hours, but you can enjoy the scenic route along the way.
Preveli beach: The Palm Forest of the West
Preveli, located 1.5 hours away from Chania by car, is the ultimate exotic paradise. With tall palm trees of a species unique to Crete, and a freshwater stream flowing through the centre of the beach, the site at Preveli beach is nothing short of spectacular. Keep in mind, there are no sunbeds for rent, and the beach is made up of pebbles, so come prepared. While you are there, go for a visit to the Preveli Monastery, just 5 minutes away by car, and enjoy the views overlooking the deep blue Libyan Sea on your way up.
Stavros Beach: 'O Zorbas'
Stavros beach, located on one of the most northern points on the island of Crete, is easily accessible by car. The beach has become a popular destination from the scenes of the 1964 film ‘Zorba the Greek’, where the famous Sirtaki Dance was filmed. The circular bay and tall mountains protect the beach from the wind, while creating a scenic contrast between the wild mountains and tranquil turquoise sea, perfect for a postcard. The shallow waters make this yet another child-friendly beach in Chania!
Whether you want a magical exotic beach experience, a fun beach day with your children, or a local swim right by the old town of Chania, you can do it all on your holidays around Chania!
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