Elafonissi beach

Here we are at one of the most beautiful beaches on the island of Crete.

The beach of Elafonissi is for many (including us) the most beautiful ever! In fact it is named "the Caribbean of the Mediterranean".
Elafonissi is a beach of white sand, with pink shades. It is both free and equipped, with sunbeds and umbrellas for relaxing.

Elafonissi beach is located on the southwest coast of the island of Crete and is about an hour and a half drive from Chania (75 km). To reach it you will walk along the panoramic road and cross the imposing white mountains. We recommend that you arrive early (no later than 8.30 am) for a very simple reason: it is the most loved, desired and visited beach of the whole island of Crete. Within an hour, thousands of people will arrive and look for a bed and an umbrella under which to shelter from the hot summer sun.

If you arrive late but still want to relax in a quieter and less crowded area, there is a sandy path that leads to the back of the island which can be reached with a short walk in the shallow waters of the bay; here there are many wonderful coves, without any establishment. Bring your own umbrella and towel and start relaxing ... you are here for this!

As we said a little while ago, especially in the high season (which here in Crete goes from June to September) the Elafonissi beach is definitely quite crowded but we find out why and what attracts so many visitors! Elafonissi is a fabulous sea (a Caribbean sea!), Pink beach (created by the pink and red shells that undergo the pulverizing action of water), white and very fine, and a reserve where the Caretta Caretta turtles lay their eggs (an event really wonderful) and if you are lucky you can witness the birth of these magnificent turtle puppies, we assure you that it is really exciting to see them slip away!

In front of Elafonissi beach you can see a strip of sand that connects it to a small peninsula. With the phenomenon of high tide this becomes the island of Elafonissi, a small island with sand dunes, bushes and sea lilies. A sublime show! For those who prefer more strenuous and little beaten paths there is a path that leads to the lighthouse, it is quite distant and we advise you to do it in company if you wish to undertake it.

Elafonissi is a place you will certainly not forget, obviously don't leave the camera at home!

Also, 5 km from this beautiful beach is the Monastery of Chrissoskalitissa. A monastery whose legend tells that the nuns of the convent during the Ottoman domination hid treasures under a step of the entrance staircase to save them from the occupants. In fact the complex name of this place means "from the golden step". Don't forget to take a tour inside to contemplate the sacred image of the "Dormition of the Madonna", a painting painted over 1,000 years ago.
In short, if you love sacred places and ancient legends, you will certainly find bread for your teeth, so let us jump!

Elafonissi beach is a dream beach ... and if the island of Crete is your destination ... don't miss it for any reason in the world!