The Chania region in western Crete offers a diversity of beaches that is rare in the Mediterranean. We explored its wild coves, turquoise lagoons and lively urban beaches. From the crystal-clear waters of the Akrotiri Peninsula to the long stretches of sand on the west coast, we were seduced by the variety of coastal landscapes in this part of the island.
Find our selection of the most beautiful beaches in Chania, with our own photos, tips and a map to help you plan.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Chania’s most beautiful beaches – map
Where to go in Chania for the best beaches?
Chania’s beaches are spread over 4 main areas: the city center of Chania, the west coast close to the city, the Akrotiri Peninsula to the northeast and the famous beaches further out on Crete’s west coast.
Our favorites are the beaches on the peninsula.
Visiting these beaches is one of Chania’s must-see attractions.
Map
Here’s a map of the beaches listed in this article, to help you find your way around:
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1. Seitan Limani (Stefanou)
Why we love it
Seitan Limani is a spectacular cove nestled between sheer cliffs on the Akrotiri Peninsula. We were impressed by this miniature fjord with its deep blue waters. The view from the top, before descending, is breathtaking. This small beach offers a dramatic setting: vertical rock faces plunge into the sea, creating a striking contrast.
You’ll be surprised by the clarity of the water, which is particularly deep here. We find that the effort of the descent is well worth the spectacle that awaits you below. This is one of the most photogenic beaches in Crete.
Access and useful information
- Akrotiri peninsula, northeast of Chania
- From the center of Chania: about 20min drive
- Parking at the top of the cliff
- Steep, slippery descent to the beach (bring good shoes)
- Small beach with sand and pebbles
- Unsupervised beach
- No on-site installation
- It is very busy in high season
- Deep water, ideal for snorkeling
2. Kalathas
Why we love it
Kalathas is a quiet, protected beach set in a bay on the Akrotiri Peninsula. We appreciated its shallow waters and family atmosphere, far removed from the hustle and bustle of tourism. The small islet visible in the middle of the bay adds character to the setting.
Here you can enjoy a peaceful setting while remaining only 15min from the center of Chania. We also like the fact that this beach remains relatively discreet compared to other more well-known spots on the peninsula. The turquoise reflections of the water in this sheltered bay are well worth the detour.
Access and useful information
- Akrotiri peninsula, northeast of Chania
- From the center of Chania: about 15min drive
- Parking close to the beach
- Sand beach
- Shallow water, suitable for families
- A few deckchairs and parasols in season
- Small tavern nearby
WHERE TO STAY IN Chania
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
The old town and the Venetian port
Hotel Azade – See prices, photos and availability
Halepan quiet area
Lagon Life Spirit Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
Nea Chora, with the long beach
AeliosDeign Hotel- See prices, photos and availability
3. Hrisi Akti (Chrissi Akti / Golden Beach)
Why we love it
Hrisi Akti, whose name means “golden beach”, lives up to its name. It’s a long stretch of fine sand, bordered by Claire water, to the west of Chania town center. We found a good balance between organized beaches and quieter areas. Its orientation offers pleasant conditions for swimming, even when the wind is blowing on other beaches along the coast.
You’ll appreciate the easy access from Chania and the presence of beach bars for a refreshing break. We recommend this beach to those seeking a compromise between comfort and authenticity, just a few minutes from the old town.
Access and useful information
- West coast of Chania, between Nea Chora and Agii Apostoli
- From the center of Chania: about 5min drive
- Parking nearby
- Golden sand beach
- Supervised beach in season
- Showers, deckchairs and parasols in season
- Beach bars and restaurants nearby
4. Koum Kapi
Why we love it
Koum Kapi is the nearest beach to the old Venetian port of Chania. We found its location ideal: after a morning strolling through the narrow streets of the old town, it’s just a few steps to put your towel down on the sand. The atmosphere is pleasant, between local families and visitors.
You can alternate between swimming and seaside tavernas. What we really like here is the ability to combine a cultural visit with seaside relaxation all in one place. The sunset from this beach also offers a beautiful view of the city skyline.
Access and useful information
- Downtown Chania, east of the old Venetian port
- 5-minute walk from the old port
- No dedicated parking, parking in town
- Sand beach
- Calm waters, most of the time
- Showers on the beach
- Several beachside taverns and cafés
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5. Marathi
Why we love it
Marathi is a pretty beach nestled in a well-protected bay on the Akrotiri Peninsula. The water is calm and clear, making it an excellent choice for families. We appreciated the natural setting of this bay, bordered by hills, which offers a feeling of privacy. Fish swim just a few meters from the shore and are easy to spot.
The beachside tavernas offer fresh fish specialities. We had lunch with our feet almost in the sand, a simple and pleasant experience.
Access and useful information
- Akrotiri peninsula, northeast of Chania
- From the center of Chania: about 15min drive
- Parking nearby, may be limited in high season
- Sand beach
- Shallow, calm waters
- Deckchairs and parasols in season
- Beachside fish taverns
6. Nea Chora
Why we love it
Nea Chora is the beach in the western quarter of Chania, and a favorite with locals. Accessible on foot from the historic center, it offers a relaxed, authentic atmosphere. We liked to go there at the end of the day to enjoy the golden light on the water. The nearby fishing port adds to the charm of the place. You’ll also find some of the city’s best fish taverns right on the waterfront. We particularly appreciate this mix of local life and seaside fun, far from the hustle and bustle of the tourist beaches.
Access and useful information
- Downtown Chania, west of the old port
- 10 minutes on foot from the old port
- Parking available on adjacent streets
- Sand beach
- Shallow, calm waters
- Showers on the beach
- Famous beachside fish taverns
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7. Balos Lagoon (remote)
Why we love it
The Balos Lagoon is without doubt the most emblematic seaside resort in the whole of Crete. This shallow lagoon, where shades of blue and turquoise mingle, left us speechless.
The white and pink sandbanks that emerge between the transparent waters create an almost unreal landscape. You can walk in the lagoon’s warm water for dozens of meters before getting knee-deep. Note, however, that the area is very busy in summer, especially with boat excursions from the port of Kissamos.
Access and useful information
- Far north-western Crete, Gramvousa peninsula
- From the center of Chania: about 1h30 drive + 20min walk
- Access by car via an unpaved track (approx. 8km), then descent on foot,
- The easiest option is by boat from Kissamos
- White and pink sand, shallow water
- Unsupervised beach
- A few street vendors in season, no on-site restaurant
- Very busy in July and August, prefer the early morning hours.
Be careful, this is a popular excursion, so book in advance to secure a place on a boat! See the options
8. Agii Apostoli
Why we love it
Agii Apostoli is a beautiful bay with character. We particularly liked the rock formations to the northeast, with the chapel on top of the promontory.
The water is remarkably clear. We also appreciated the proximity of shops and restaurants, which made for a very comfortable day on the beach.
Access and useful information
- West coast of Chania, seaside district
- From the center of Chania: about 7min drive
- Parking nearby
- Supervised beach in season
- Showers, deckchairs and parasols in season
- Restaurants and convenience stores nearby
9. Stavros Beach
Why we love it
Stavros is a beach with a cinematic setting. The film “Zorba the Greek” was shot here in 1964, and the imposing rocky mountain overlooking the bay hasn’t changed since. We were struck by the almost circular shape of this cove, which gives the impression of a natural swimming pool.
The water is very calm and shallow, perfect for children. You may even recognize the distinctive mountain silhouette. We recommend a visit at the end of the day, when the light gilds the rock faces and the crowds thin out.
Access and useful information
- Akrotiri peninsula, north of Chania
- From the center of Chania: about 20min drive
- Parking nearby
- Sand beach
- Very calm, shallow waters, ideal for families
- Supervision, deckchairs and parasols in season
- Taverns and cafés nearby
10. Agia Marina
Why we love it
Agia Marina is one of the most popular seaside resorts in the Chania region. Its long sand and gravel beach stretches for several hundred meters, lined with hotels and restaurants. We loved the energy of this place, more lively than the isolated coves of the peninsula.
The island of Thodorou, just opposite, adds a touch of character to the landscape. Here you can take part in a variety of water sports or simply enjoy the fine sand. We’ve found it to be a good option for those looking for a well-equipped beach with easy access and all amenities.
Access and useful information
- West coast, seaside resort west of Chania
- From the center of Chania: about 15min drive
- Parking available but often overcrowded in summer
- Long beach
- Supervised beach in season
- Showers, toilets, deckchairs and parasols in season
- Numerous beachside restaurants, bars and hotels
- Water sports activities available
11. Iguana Beach
Why we love it
Iguana Beach is a popular spot for young travelers and beach bar enthusiasts. Situated on the west coast of Chania, this sandy beach offers a relaxed atmosphere, punctuated by the music of the bars lining its shores.
The water is Claire and the beach well-maintained. You can sip a cocktail on a deckchair while enjoying the view of the Cretan Sea. We’ve noticed that the place is livelier than the coves on the Akrotiri Peninsula, which will appeal to those who like a festive atmosphere by the sea.
Access and useful information
- West coast of Chania
- From the center of Chania: about 10min drive
- Parking nearby
- Sand beach
- Deckchairs and parasols (linked to beach bars)
- Beach bars and on-site catering
- Festive atmosphere, daytime music
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12. Elafonissi (remote)
Why we love it
Elafonissi is world-famous for its pink sand and turquoise waters. This natural lagoon, located in the extreme south-west of Crete, is a Natura 2000 protected area. We were captivated by the pink hues of the sand, caused by fragments of shell crushed by the sea. The water is shallow for much of the beach, making it easy to walk across to the islet of Elafonissi.
You’ll be able to stroll through a landscape of dunes, wild plants and secluded coves. We’ve also found that the site is very busy in summer: to get the most out of it, it’s best to come early in the morning or out of season.
Access and useful information
- Extreme south-west Crete
- From the center of Chania: approx. 1h30 to 2h drive (winding road)
- Large pay parking lot at entrance
- White and pink sand, shallow water
- Supervised beach in season
- Showers, toilets, deckchairs and parasols in season
- Snack bar on site and taverns nearby
If you don’t want to drive, excursions explore the east coast of Crete with the pink beach – See options
13. Falassarna (remote)
Why we love it
Falassarna is one of the region’s largest beaches. This huge expanse of white sand faces due west and offers some of the most beautiful sunsets in Crete. The water is Claire and the beach is large enough for everyone to find their own space, even in high season.
We were surprised by the intensity of the colors at the end of the day. You can feel that the atmosphere changes completely between the calm, luminous morning and the golden, peaceful evening. We stayed until sunset, and the spectacle was well worth the wait. Nearby are the remains of an ancient Greek port city.
Access and useful information
- West coast of Crete
- From the center of Chania: about 1 hour’s drive
- Free parking nearby
- Large white sand beach
- Beach partially supervised in season
- Showers, deckchairs and parasols in some sections
- A few taverns and snack bars in season
- Nearby archaeological remains
14. Yannis Beach
Why we love it
Yannis Beach is a beach on the west coast of Chania, famous for its beach bar of the same name. The atmosphere is relaxed, with music and cocktails. We found it a pleasant setting for a lazy day out. The sand is fine and the water clear enough for a comfortable swim.
Do you fancy a beach where you can alternate between sunbathing and drinks on the terrace? Yannis Beach does just that. We had a great time there at the end of the day, when the light is softer and the atmosphere warmer.
There are also children’s facilities.
Access and useful information
- West coast of Chania
- From the center of Chania: about 10min drive
- Parking nearby
- Sand beach
- Deckchairs and parasols (linked to beach bar)
- Beach bar and on-site catering
15. Kladissos
Why we love it
Kladissos is a more discreet beach than its neighbors on the west coast of Chania. We found it to have a more relaxed, less developed atmosphere, which will appeal to lovers of tranquillity. You can enjoy a swim without the crowds of the more touristy beaches nearby.
It’s a good choice for a relaxing day away from the hustle and bustle. We appreciated the relative calm of this beach, even during the summer months, compared with the nearby beaches of Agii Apostoli or Agia Marina.
Access and useful information
- West coast of Chania
- From the center of Chania: about 10min drive
- Parking nearby
- Golden sand beach
- Undeveloped beach
- Few on-site services
DISCOVER Chania
Other beaches in and around Chania
Loutraki (Akrotiri)
Small, quiet beach on the Akrotiri Peninsula, not far from Stavros. Loutraki offers a calm setting, crystal-clear water and a few tavernas nearby. A peaceful alternative if Stavros is too busy.
Platanias
A lively seaside resort to the west of Chania, Platanias boasts a long sandy beach with deckchairs and bars. The area is very popular with tourists and is ideal for those seeking a festive seaside atmosphere.
Frequently asked questions
When to swim in Chania
The best time to swim in Chania is from June to September. During this period, the water temperature is at its most pleasant. In July and August, the sea reaches temperatures of up to 25°C, ideal for swimming.
Note, however, that these 2 summer months also mark the peak season for the region and its beaches. To avoid the tourist rush and still enjoy comfortable water, October is a very pleasant month, with slightly lower but still bearable temperatures for swimming.
In winter, the water is colder, but the walks along the beaches are magnificent whatever the season. In fact, we were surprised by the beauty of the coastal scenery out of season, when the colors are softer and the beaches deserted.
Are Chania’s beaches family-friendly?
Several of Chania’s beaches are very family-friendly, thanks to their calm, shallow waters. Stavros Beach, Kalathas, Marathi and Koum Kapi are excellent choices for children. Elafonissi is also a first choice because of its lagoon area. Equipped beaches such as Agia Marina and Agii Apostoli also offer comfortable conditions for a family day out.
Please note that although some beaches are supervised, it’s essential to keep an eye on your children at all times. Sea currents and waves can come quickly. Remember, too, to protect yourself and your children from the sun.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Crete
- Best of
What to do in Crete
Most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful cities
Most beautiful beaches in Crete
Best archaeological sites
Best museums
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When to go?
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- The must-dos
Attractions in Chania
Attractions in Rethymnon
Attractions in Heraklion
Matala
Balos Lagoon
Spinalonga Elafonissi
