The Best Chania Beaches

Posted on June 13th, 2025

Chania sits in the west part of Crete, and is known for its beautiful coastline. Here, you will find some of the best beaches in Europe. If you want quiet moments or are after fun and adventure, Chania has all that. You will see sandy beaches, peaceful places, and breathtaking natural landscapes all around. Chania beaches include famous ones like Balos and Elafonisi Beach to visit. But you will also find spots that few people know, in small coastal villages. This makes every trip feel new. The region gives you amazing views and memories that will stay with you. So, get your things, and get ready to see the wonders of Crete. When you arrive in Chania, you witness into the real beauty of Crete. All this makes it a place to think about when you look for top beaches, peace, and great times in Europe.

How to Get to Popular Chania Beaches

Traveling to the best beaches in Chania is both easy and very pretty. Some beautiful beaches, like Balos Beach, are easy to reach by car. You just need to drive and then take a short walk. For example, Balos Lagoon is about 53 km from Chania. You drive on a curvy road and then walk for the last bit on a simple dirt path. There is also a ferry you can take from Kissamos port. The ferry takes you straight to Balos and to Gramvousa Island. Beach tours let you relax and enjoy great views of the Crete coast. Elafonisi Beach is 75 km southwest of Chania. You can get there by a pretty car ride through the mountains or by catching a cheap bus from Chania’s public station. If you do not want to walk much, you can visit sandy places like Falassarna and Marathi Beach. These have easy car access and plenty of parking spaces. If you take the ferry, bus, or car, Chania beaches have some of the most beautiful spots for you to explore.

Month-by-Month Beach Experience in Chania

Beach lovers will find the best beaches along Chania’s coast all year long, but what you get changes with each season. The high season, especially from June to August, brings warm water and a busy vibe. It is great for families and those who like water sports facilities. Balos Lagoon and Elafonisi Beach are most popular during these summer months. You get clear water, soft sand, and lots of people having fun. If you want some peace and quiet, try going in late September or even in October. The weather is still warm then, but there are fewer people around.

So, whenever you visit, each month has something to offer. You will always find a good time to enjoy Chania’s best beaches, like Balos and Elafonisi Beach, if in high season or in October or June.

Discover the Best Chania Beaches

Chania has a great mix of beautiful beaches. Balos Beach is one of Greece’s most beautiful beaches. You will love the turquoise water and the light pink sand there. Elafonisi Beach is also counted among the most beautiful beaches. It has calm, shallow water and safe, rare plants you can see up close. Some spots, like Seitan Limania Beach, need a short adventure to reach. These places have quiet lagoons. At the same time, Falassarna and Marathi Beaches offer good services and outstanding views. If you want to see a world-famous spot or search for secret beaches, Chania beaches in Greece give you the best beach days.

Balos Beach

Balos Beach sits in a stunning natural spot. This organized sandy beach is close to Gramvousa Island and is known for its white sand and bright turquoise water. You can get there by ferry or go for a short hike. The beach offers a break from busy tourist areas. It has good amenities like umbrellas and sunbeds. Both families and people traveling alone can have a great time, if you just want to relax or try out some water sports facilities. If you are looking for some solitude or want more adventure, Balos is one of the best beaches in Greece. The place will give you an experience you will always remember.

Elafonisi Beach

Elafonisi Beach is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in Chania. Many people love the rare pink sand, which comes from crushed seashells. This beach is about 75 km southwest of Chania, and it has calm and shallow water. It is a good place for families and anyone who just wants to relax. The place is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes. Many visitors say it feels like walking into paradise. On the east side, Elafonisi Beach offers organized amenities such as sunbeds, beach bars, and changing cabins. Because of this, it is a popular spot for many people. The south side has quiet coves where people can find peace if they want to get away from the crowds. If you like to be with the water, you can also try windsurfing or rent a SUP board there. Elafonisi is home to endemic plants and animals, like the Caretta Caretta turtles. This area is part of the Natura 2000 program. If you want a quiet visit to this beautiful beach, try to go early in the day or choose the off-season. This will give you a calm and wonderful time at this pink haven.

Falassarna Beach

Falassarna Beach is a beautiful spot on the coast. It is known for its clear blue water and wide golden sand. Many people say it is one of the best beaches in Greece. The beach has places with umbrellas and sunbeds, so you can relax in comfort. You will love the view, with stunning natural landscapes all around. It is a good place for families and for people who want some adventure. You can find water sports facilities there, too. You can swim in the sea, try water sports, or take a trip to Gramvousa Island nearby.

Seitan Limania Beach

Seitan Limania Beach is known for its bright turquoise waters set between high cliffs. It sits in the middle of one of Crete’s most beautiful spots. To get here, you need to follow a short path. Once you arrive, you can feel the private mood of the place. This makes it a good find for anyone who wants some solitude and wants to get away from the crowds, notably when it is the high season. The organized sandy beach offers just a few amenities. Because of this, you should bring all the essentials you need for your day out. Seitan Limania is a good choice for people who like adventure. Here, you can swim and check out the caves close by. Many say it is one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Chania, and even in Crete, thanks to its breathtaking natural landscapes.

Kedrodasos Beach

Kedrodasos Beach is close to Elafonisi in Greece. This beach has breathtaking natural landscapes and a peaceful feel. The turquoise water looks beautiful and is a big part of why people come here. You will often find it is not as crowded as some other beaches, so it is good for those who want some solitude. There are sandy areas on the beach that are set up for comfort. You will find amenities here like sunbeds and umbrellas, which help you relax during your stay. The beach has many cedar trees all around, giving the place a calm feeling. This makes it a great spot for people to relax or explore along the famous coastline of Greece.

Marathi Beach

Marathi Beach in Crete is a great place for families with young kids, or for anyone who wants to relax. The shallow water at this organized sandy beach makes it very safe and good for children. There are handy amenities like sunbeds and umbrellas, so you can make your day here more comfortable. When you get hungry, you can visit the nearby tavernas and enjoy good Greek food while looking at the nice views. If you want some fun, there are water sports facilities too. You can try new activities and still enjoy the peaceful feel of this beach.

Stavros Beach

Stavros Beach is a lovely place in Crete that draws people in with its beauty and calm feeling. If you want to visit an organized sandy beach, this is a great choice. You will find comfortable sunbeds and umbrellas set up, so you can relax and enjoy your day. The water is clear, so you can swim or just take it easy, and the high mountains behind the beach look amazing. A short walk away, you can find local tavernas that serve tasty Greek food. It’s nice to get some lunch there after spending time in the sun. All in all, Stavros Beach has everything for the perfect beach trip.

Nea Chora Beach

Nea Chora Beach is very close to Chania’s lovely old town. This organized sandy beach is a great place for locals and tourists. The beach has clear blue water and a warm, welcoming feel. People can find many amenities there, like sunbeds, umbrellas, and water sports facilities. A pretty walkway runs by the beach and is lined with many restaurants and cafes. This makes it a good place for a walk or to sit and relax. It is easy to spend your day here, if you want calm moments in the sun or fun on the water. Nea Chora Beach gives you a perfect mix of peace and fun near Chania.

Koum Kapi Beach

Koum Kapi Beach in Chania is a calm and pretty place to visit. This organized sandy beach is close to the old town. It has useful amenities like sunbeds and umbrellas that make your stay easy and comfortable. The water here is calm, so it is good for families and people who travel alone. There are also cafes nearby where you can get tasty Greek food. You can reach breathtaking natural landscapes within a short walk from this beach. So it’s a great place to relax after you spend time exploring the history of the area. If you like to sunbathe, it is good to visit early in the morning. This way, you can avoid the high season crowds and have a quiet time. Koum Kapi Beach shows the beauty of Crete’s coastline and lets you enjoy the best local spots with all the amenities you need.

Chrissi Akti (Golden Beach)

Chrissi Akti, also called Golden Beach, sits by the pretty coastline. It welcomes people with its golden sand and clear blue water. On this beach, you will find many amenities like umbrellas and sunbeds. These help you relax in comfort. The area also has water sports facilities if you want some adventure. The beach is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes that make every visit appealing. This destination is close to Chania, which adds to its comfort. With a calm setting, it is great for families and solo travelers. Everyone can enjoy some quiet time and the simple beauty that Greece has to offer.

Agia Marina Beach

Agia Marina Beach is just a stone’s throw from Chania. The area is full of life and it has some of the most beautiful beaches. There are sunbeds and umbrellas on the sandy parts of the beach. Many people, mainly families and those who want to relax, come here. The water is clear, so it is good for swimming. There are many water sports facilities for the people who like to have fun in the sea. Along the beach, there is a busy walkway with shops and cafes. This makes it easy to get both rest and fun. Because of all these things, Agia Marina stands out as one of the most beautiful beaches near Chania.

Platanias Beach

Platanias Beach is one of the best beaches in Chania and is known for its lively feel and beautiful views. There are sandy spots that are well-organized, with sunbeds and umbrellas to make your day at the sea easy and nice. It has many good amenities as well. The beach is close to fun tavernas and water sports facilities, so you can have both quiet moments and exciting times. This place is great for families, groups, or anyone who wants to meet new people. At Platanias, you get a good mix of fun things to do and breathtaking natural landscapes all around you.

Paleochora Beach

Paleochora Beach can be found on the southern coast of Crete. It is a quiet spot that feels calm and peaceful. The soft sands and clear water make it one of the most beautiful beaches in the area. You can come here to relax or enjoy some adventure. There are many water sports you can try at this beach. The beach is set up well with sunbeds and umbrellas. This makes your visit more comfortable. It is close to many amenities too. When you want a break, you can head to local shops or stop at a nearby tavern. Here, you can taste Greek food and get a feel for the culture and people.

Sougia Beach

Sougia Beach sits on the southwestern coast of Greece. It is a quiet spot and great for people who want some peace and solitude. The beach has an organized sandy beach with sunbeds and umbrellas, so you can relax in comfort. The water is so clear and nice to swim in. Around the beach, you will see tall mountains that make the view amazing. This natural beauty gives the place a calm feel. There are only a few water sports facilities, so it’s never too busy here. Because of that, Sougia Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. People come to enjoy these breathtaking natural landscapes and have a break from noisy crowds. If you want to get away, you will love it here.

Glyka Nera (Sweetwater) Beach

Glyka Nera (Sweetwater) Beach sits quietly by the Chania coast. It is a spot that is perfect for people who want peace and want to be around breathtaking natural landscapes. The beach gets its name from the fresh water that comes from springs nearby. The water here is very clear, and it feels cool on a hot summer day. To get there, you need to hike a short distance. This short walk adds to the feeling of adventure, and it gives you time alone, away from other busy tourist places. The beach stays clean and feels untouched, so it is easy to see why both sunbathers and those who love to swim come here. If you want to enjoy a true Greek paradise, this is the place for you.

Frangokastello Beach

Frangokastello Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete. It has soft sands and clear waters that draw people in. The beach sits next to a historic castle, and it is a great place to look at the breathtaking natural landscapes. You can enjoy the sun and relax in a calm setting. There are not many water sports facilities, so the area is quiet. This makes it good if you want some solitude or need a break from busy spots. The beach also has all the main amenities you need. You can use umbrellas and sunbeds, so you get comfort all day. If you are visiting Chania, this beach it is worth your time.

Menies Beach

Menies Beach sits on the stunning coastline of Chania. It is the place to be if you want peace and quiet. The beach is very close to Gramvousa Island, and you can get there by boat or by walking on a rough path. The area has few amenities, which makes it one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. The natural views are breathtaking, and the water is a deep blue. You can swim, relax, and take in all this beauty around you. Menies Beach gives you the chance to enjoy true solitude. People come here to escape noise and crowds. It really is one of the beautiful beaches to visit if you are in the area.

Kalathas Beach

Kalathas Beach is a lovely organized sandy beach a few kilometers from Chania. The place has soft sand and clear, green water that makes you want to dip right in. You will find all the basic amenities you need here, like umbrellas and sunbeds. It is a good spot for families because the water is shallow and safe for kids to play in. There are tall cliffs around that make the beach look even more nice. If you get hungry, there are restaurants close by with Greek food. You can just relax or try water sports. Kalathas Beach is a great choice if you are looking for something fun or just a relaxing day during your time in Chania.

Afrata Beach

Afrata Beach is a great spot to get away from it all on the Chania coastline. You will see beautiful views and feel a calm, peaceful vibe here. This Greek beach has warm sand and clear water. It is the place to relax and take it easy. There are sunbeds and umbrellas for you to use, so you can just lie back in the sun. If you want something to eat, the small village near the beach has a few Greek tavernas. These are great for trying tasty, real Greek food after your time on the sand. You will also see breathtaking natural landscapes all around Afrata Beach. This is one shore you will want to visit.

Loutraki Beach

Loutraki Beach is a calm place to get away in the stunning natural area of Chania. This organized sandy beach has some of the clearest water and smooth waves, so it is great for families and couples. Visitors will find umbrellas for shade and can rent sunbeds to be more comfortable as they spend the day by the sea. There is a village close by that gives you choices for food and local things to do. If you are after solitude and want to get away from crowds, there are quieter spots just a stone’s throw from the main area. Here, you can truly relax and enjoy the peaceful setting.

Kalyves Beach

Kalyves Beach sits on the northern coast and is known for its pretty views and easy-to-reach white sand. The calm shore makes it a good place for families. You can spend your time sunbathing or try out some water sports facilities here. There are nice tavernas and shops very close to the beach that add to its laid-back feel. The beach is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes, giving people a beautiful spot to look at while they relax. If you want to enjoy some quiet solitude or you hope to find a taste of local life, this beach has something for everyone. It offers both a place to relax and chances for some fun and adventure.

Tersanas Beach

Soft sands and clear blue water make Tersanas Beach a quiet spot on Crete’s coast. The organized sandy beach is great for families and for people who want a calm place to relax. There are many helpful amenities, like sunbeds and umbrellas, so you can have a good day under the sun. The beach is just a stone’s throw from the village of Tersanas. The breathtaking natural landscapes here add to the peaceful feeling. The water is shallow when you walk in, which makes it nice for swimming and relaxing. You can enjoy this spot without big crowds all around you.

What to Know Before Visiting Chania Beaches

Exploring the beautiful coastline in Chania is something you will always remember. There are some things you can do before you go that will make your trip easier and more fun. The best time to swim or relax in the sun is from late spring to early fall. These months have the best weather. Some beaches, like Koum Kapi, are made for everyone, but there are beaches that do not have as much to offer. You should get to know the water sports facilities nearby before you go. It is also good to look at the types of accommodation around the beaches, so you can pick what works best for you. Every time you go out to the beach, you will see some breathtaking natural landscapes. There is so much for people to see, wherever they go in Chania.

Best Time to Visit for Swimming and Sunbathing

You can enjoy the best swimming and sunbathing in Chania from late May through early October. This is when the weather is warm and the water feels good. These months are great for water sports, too. If you come in June or September, you get beautiful beaches close by and fewer people, because it’s not the high season. Each beach has good amenities like sunbeds and umbrellas, so you can relax even more. All these spots are just a stone’s throw from where you stay.

Tips for Getting Around Chania’s Coastline

Exploring Chania’s coastline can be fun and easy. If you use local buses, it is a low-cost way to get to many beautiful beaches in the area. You can visit places like Elafonisi and Balos this way. If you want more freedom, you can rent a car or scooter. This lets you go to breathtaking natural landscapes at your own speed. It is perfect if you want to find quiet spots on your own. It is good to know the main routes, particularily in high season. There can be a lot of traffic then. You may also want to try organized tours. These often give you extra information and take you by bus to different beach locations near Chania. This part of Greece really has something for everyone who wants to see beautiful beaches, Balos, and many amazing views.

Best Chania Beaches for Families

Finding family-friendly beaches in Chania can help you make good memories with your family. Balos Beach is a nice place for kids. The water is shallow and the sand is soft. Kids can play and explore here. Nea Chora Beach is also great for families. This beach in Chania has water sports facilities and important amenities like umbrellas and sunbeds. Your family can use these so you all can relax and have fun. If you want to get away from others and like solitude, Kalathas Beach is a good pick. This beach has gentle waves. You will see breathtaking natural landscapes and your kids can build sandcastles while you relax. With so many choices, families can enjoy the sun and sea together in Chania.

Best Chania Beaches for Snorkeling and Windsurfing

Exploring the best beaches in Chania is great for people who love snorkeling and windsurfing. Balos Beach is well known for its clear, beautiful waters. It attracts those who want to see bright marine life up close. Elafonisi Beach has crystal-clear water and steady wind. This makes it perfect for both water sports. If you like windsurfing the most, you should try Falassarna Beach. It often has strong winds and plenty of space on the waves, so you get an exciting time there. These spots not only have breathtaking natural landscapes but also offer water sports facilities and other good amenities for every adventurer.

Accessible Beaches in Chania for Visitors with Disabilities

Chania works hard to make sure everyone feels welcome, and the beaches are set up so all visitors can enjoy them. Nea Chora Beach has an organized sandy part and the people there make it easy to get around. There are ramps and special sunbeds for people who have trouble moving around, so it is a good place for them. Kalathas Beach has a lot of good things, too. There are wheelchair paths that let anyone get out to see the beautiful nature around them. When you visit, you can take in the lovely views and use important beach amenities, like bathrooms that everyone can use and spots with shade. All these things help make the beach a good place for all people.

Beach Tours and Recommended Itineraries in Chania

Exploring the beautiful coastline of Chania gives you many choices for beach tours and plans. You can take a day trip that lets you visit some of the most beautiful beaches, like Balos and Elafonisi. Many tours have everything planned for you, including transportation and amenities such as umbrellas and sunbeds, so you can have a good and relaxing time. If you want something more personal, you can make your own route. You can pick beaches with great views, try different water sports, and see some breathtaking natural landscapes. All of this will help you get the most out of your stay in this Greek paradise.

Chania Beach Experiences Beyond Swimming

Exploring the Chania coastline is not just about swimming. You can enjoy water sports facilities like windsurfing at Falassarna Beach. Paddleboarding around Gramvousa Island is also a highlight. These things show how much fun you can have in the water here. But Chania is not only about the sea. There are hiking trails that take you into the breathtaking natural landscapes. These places are great if you want some solitude or a bit of adventure. You will also find cultural things to do. Local tavernas let you try tasty Greek food. There are lively markets too, where you can see and buy real Greek crafts made by hand. Chania has something for every type of traveler—there is always something new to see or do, by the water or on land.

Enjoying the Chania beaches in Greece is a great way to relax and have some fun. This place has some amazing nature and you get to see both quiet spots for solitude and busy areas with different amenities. Every piece of coastline shows off something new. You can go to the well-known sandy beaches like Elafonisi or find places such as Seitan Limania. Many beaches have water sports facilities, so you can get active or just sit back and take in the breathtaking natural landscapes. If you want to explore or just rest, Chania will give you good times and memories to keep forever. Come and see the beauty of Greece’s coastline!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you walk to a beach from Chania Old Town?

Yes, you can get to some beautiful beaches by walking from Chania Old Town. Two of the most popular ones are Nea Chora Beach and Koum Kapi Beach. Both are not far and are easy to reach on foot. When you go there, you will find stunning views. The beaches also have amenities nearby, so you can enjoy your time and have what you need. Take some time to stroll along the coast and take in the sights.

How do Chania’s beaches compare to other destinations in Crete?

Chania has some of the most beautiful beaches you can find. The area gives you a mix of quiet spots and busy sandy areas to relax at. These beaches stand out from others on Crete because you get a calm mood. This is great for families and people looking for some fun and adventure on their trip. In Chania, you can have a little bit of everything and really enjoy your time at the beach.

Can you swim comfortably in Crete in April?

In Crete in April, the sea is not very warm. The water is usually about 18°C (64°F). A few people do swim at this time and say it feels fresh. However, most people like to wait for warmer water if they want to swim for a long time. If you want better swimming, try to go in late May or June. This is when the water gets nicer and more people swim in the sea.