Elounda Beach, Crete
4.4 / 5 Calm bay beside a pretty harbour town in Elounda, Lasithi, Crete
Photo: Deror_avi, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Elounda has several small beaches of sand and gravel along a calm, sheltered bay on the northeast coast of Crete. The water is clear, the village has a pretty harbour, and boats leave from nearby for the island of Spinalonga.
Practical info for Elounda Beach, Crete
| Access | Easy to reach from Elounda, on foot or by short drive. |
|---|---|
| Car parking | Free parking near the harbour; paid lots near some hotels. |
| Sunbeds & umbrellas | Tavernas, sunbeds, water sports and showers in season. |
| Food & drink | Cafes, bars or restaurants are close by. |
| Good to know | Take the short boat trip to Spinalonga island and swim afterwards in the bay. |
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 Elounda Beach, Crete
Pebble beaches usually mean clear water but awkward walking. Bring water shoes and a thick towel or mat to sit on.
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.
Related guides: Best Family-Friendly Beaches · Best Time to Visit Each Country · Budget Beach Holidays in Europe · Best beaches in Crete
Featured in: Best Pebble Beaches in Greece · Easiest Beaches to Reach in Greece · Beach finder
View Elounda Beach, Crete on the map · Compare with all beaches
Best months to visit Elounda Beach, Crete
The swimming season here runs from June to September. July, August are the warmest and busiest, with the sea around 24 °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 Elounda Beach, Crete suits
Pebbles and clear water suit swimmers and snorkellers; bring water shoes for an easier entry. Easy access makes it practical for families, older visitors and anyone with a pushchair. Food and drink close by make it easy to stay for the whole day.
Getting there and nearby
Free parking near the harbour; paid lots near some hotels. The beach sits at about 35.261, 25.726 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 Malia Beach, Crete (24 km), Hersonissos Beach (32 km), Vai Beach (49 km).
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Elounda Beach, Crete?
Elounda Beach, Crete is best visited June to September. The sea is typically around 24 °C in season. Take the short boat trip to Spinalonga island and swim afterwards in the bay.
How do I get to Elounda Beach, Crete?
Access is rated easy. Free parking near the harbour; paid lots near some hotels.
What facilities does Elounda Beach, Crete have?
Tavernas, sunbeds, water sports and showers in season.
Where is Elounda Beach, Crete?
Elounda Beach, Crete is in Elounda, Lasithi, Crete (approx. coordinates 35.261, 25.726).
Is Elounda Beach, Crete good for children?
Access is rated easy, so check that it suits young children before you go. Our family guide lists easier options.
What should I bring to Elounda Beach, Crete?
Facilities: Tavernas, sunbeds, water sports and showers in season. Water shoes help on the pebbles. Bring water and snacks if there is no kiosk or restaurant.
Is there parking at Elounda Beach, Crete?
Free parking near the harbour; paid lots near some hotels. Fees and rules change, so confirm locally.
Are there sunbeds at Elounda Beach, Crete?
Tavernas, sunbeds, water sports and showers in season. Prices are approximate and change by season.
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Beaches near Elounda Beach, Crete
Malia Beach, Crete
Malia, Crete · 4.0 / 5 · 24 km away
Hersonissos Beach
Hersonissos, Crete · 4.0 / 5 · 32 km away
Vai Beach
Sitia, Crete, Greece · 4.5 / 5 · 49 km away
Matala Beach
Matala, Heraklion, Crete · 4.5 / 5 · 93 km away
Triopetra Beach
Rethymno, South Crete · 4.4 / 5 · 108 km away
Preveli Beach
Rethymno, Crete, Greece · 4.6 / 5 · 114 km awayBrowse all beaches in Greece or compare every beach.
Scores are editorial ratings from the EuroShores team. Last updated 2026-10-21.