Elafonisi Beach, Crete
4.7 / 5 Pale sand with a pink tint and a shallow lagoon in Elafonisi, Chania, Crete
Photo: trolvag, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Elafonisi is a protected beach on the south-west tip of Crete, where fine pale sand takes a pink tint from crushed shells. A tidal sandbar leads to a small island, and the lagoon around it is shallow and warm with turquoise water.
Practical info for Elafonisi Beach, Crete
| Access | Easy to reach from Elafonisi, on foot or by short drive. |
|---|---|
| Car parking | Large paid car park at the end of the access road; fills by late morning in summer. |
| Sunbeds & umbrellas | Sunbeds, parasols, a canteen and toilets in season. |
| Food & drink | Cafes, bars or restaurants are close by. |
| Good to know | Arrive before ten to find space, and walk through the shallows to the island for the best colours. |
Last verified: October 2026. Compiled from official tourism pages, visitor guides and recent reports. Prices, fees and rules change by season, so confirm locally before you go.
Planning your visit to Elafonisi Beach, Crete
Sand beaches are usually gentle underfoot and easy for swimmers and children, though they can be exposed to wind and waves, so check conditions on the day. Bring a hat and extra water, as shade can be scarce away from facilities.
Access is rated easy, so most visitors can reach the beach without a long walk or special equipment.
The usual season runs June–September. Visiting near the start or end of that window usually means fewer people, but the sea is cooler and some facilities may not be open yet or may have closed for the year.
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View Elafonisi Beach, Crete on the map · Compare with all beaches
Best months to visit Elafonisi Beach, Crete
The swimming season here runs from June to September. July, August are the warmest and busiest, with the sea around 25 °C, so arrive early for parking and a good spot. June and September are quieter and cooler: good for walking and photos, though some beach bars and lifeguard posts may not be open yet or may already have closed for the year.
Who Elafonisi Beach, Crete suits
Sand makes it comfortable for sunbathing, building sandcastles and long walks along the water line. Easy access makes it practical for families, older visitors and anyone with a pushchair.
Getting there and nearby
Large paid car park at the end of the access road; fills by late morning in summer. The beach sits at about 35.271, 23.539 on the map, so use the map link above for directions. If you are planning a day around it, the closest other beaches on our list are Elafonissi Beach (0 km), Kedrodasos Beach (2 km), Falassarna Beach (26 km).
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Elafonisi Beach, Crete?
Elafonisi Beach, Crete is best visited June to September. The sea is typically around 25 °C in season. Arrive before ten to find space, and walk through the shallows to the island for the best colours.
How do I get to Elafonisi Beach, Crete?
Access is rated easy. Large paid car park at the end of the access road; fills by late morning in summer.
What facilities does Elafonisi Beach, Crete have?
Sunbeds, parasols, a canteen and toilets in season.
Where is Elafonisi Beach, Crete?
Elafonisi Beach, Crete is in Elafonisi, Chania, Crete (approx. coordinates 35.2711, 23.5393).
Is Elafonisi Beach, Crete good for children?
Access is rated easy and the beach is sandy, which usually suits families. Check water and weather conditions on the day and keep children in sight near the water.
What should I bring to Elafonisi Beach, Crete?
Facilities: Sunbeds, parasols, a canteen and toilets in season. A hat and sun protection are useful. Bring water and snacks if there is no kiosk or restaurant.
Is there parking at Elafonisi Beach, Crete?
Large paid car park at the end of the access road; fills by late morning in summer. Fees and rules change, so confirm locally.
Are there sunbeds at Elafonisi Beach, Crete?
Sunbeds, parasols, a canteen and toilets in season. Prices are approximate and change by season.
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Beaches near Elafonisi Beach, Crete
Elafonissi Beach
Crete, Greece · 4.8 / 5 · 0 km away
Kedrodasos Beach
Chania, Crete · 4.4 / 5 · 2 km away
Falassarna Beach
Chania, Crete, Greece · 4.7 / 5 · 26 km away
Falasarna Beach
Chania, Crete · 4.7 / 5 · 26 km away
Balos Lagoon
Crete, Greece · 4.8 / 5 · 36 km away
Glyka Nera Beach
Sfakia, Crete · 4.6 / 5 · 52 km awayBrowse all beaches in Greece or compare every beach.
Scores are editorial ratings from the EuroShores team. Last updated 2026-10-21.