Kalathas Beach, Chania
4.5 / 5 Shallow sandy bay with a view of the Akrotiri hills in Kalathas, Akrotiri, Chania, Crete · Hidden gem
Photo: Jules Verne Times Two, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Kalathas is a sandy bay on the Akrotiri peninsula near Chania in Crete, with shallow turquoise water and bare hills around the shore. The water is calm and clear, and the beach is popular for sunsets. A few tavernas and rooms stand behind the sand.
Practical info for Kalathas Beach, Chania
| Access | Easy to reach from Kalathas, on foot or by short drive. |
|---|---|
| Car parking | Free parking near the beach. |
| Sunbeds & umbrellas | Sunbeds, parasols, tavernas and a water sports stand in season. |
| Food & drink | Cafes, bars or restaurants are close by. |
| Good to know | Stay for sunset, and go in the morning in July and August to find a place on the sand. |
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 Kalathas Beach, Chania
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. We flag this beach as a hidden gem, so it is quieter than the headline beaches nearby, but it is no secret: arrive early in peak summer.
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View Kalathas Beach, Chania on the map · Compare with all beaches
Best months to visit Kalathas Beach, Chania
The swimming season here runs from June to September. July, August are the warmest and busiest, with the sea around 26 °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 Kalathas Beach, Chania 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. It is flagged as a hidden gem, so it suits travellers who prefer quieter places over the headline beaches. Food and drink close by make it easy to stay for the whole day.
Getting there and nearby
Free parking near the beach. The beach sits at about 35.553, 24.086 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 Seitan Limani (5 km), Stavros Beach, Crete (5 km), Marathi Beach (10 km).
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Kalathas Beach, Chania?
Kalathas Beach, Chania is best visited June to September. The sea is typically around 26 °C in season. Stay for sunset, and go in the morning in July and August to find a place on the sand.
How do I get to Kalathas Beach, Chania?
Access is rated easy. Free parking near the beach.
What facilities does Kalathas Beach, Chania have?
Sunbeds, parasols, tavernas and a water sports stand in season.
Where is Kalathas Beach, Chania?
Kalathas Beach, Chania is in Kalathas, Akrotiri, Chania, Crete (approx. coordinates 35.5532, 24.0862).
Is Kalathas Beach, Chania 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 Kalathas Beach, Chania?
Facilities: Sunbeds, parasols, tavernas and a water sports stand in season. A hat and sun protection are useful. Bring water and snacks if there is no kiosk or restaurant.
Is there parking at Kalathas Beach, Chania?
Free parking near the beach. Fees and rules change, so confirm locally.
Are there sunbeds at Kalathas Beach, Chania?
Sunbeds, parasols, tavernas and a water sports stand in season. Prices are approximate and change by season.
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Beaches near Kalathas Beach, Chania
Seitan Limani
Akrotiri, Chania, Crete, Greece · 4.6 / 5 · 5 km away
Stavros Beach, Crete
Akrotiri, Chania, Crete · 4.6 / 5 · 5 km away
Marathi Beach
Kato Marathi, Chania, Crete · 4.3 / 5 · 10 km away
Georgioupoli Beach, Crete
Georgioupoli, Chania, Crete · 4.4 / 5 · 27 km away
Agia Roumeli Beach, Crete
Agia Roumeli, Sfakia, Crete · 4.3 / 5 · 38 km away
Glyka Nera Beach
Sfakia, Crete · 4.6 / 5 · 39 km awayBrowse all beaches in Greece or compare every beach.
Scores are editorial ratings from the EuroShores team. Last updated 2026-10-24.