BEACHES IN WEST CRETE

There are many glorious beaches to explore both east and west of Chania in the tourist resorts. The following beaches are considered to be particularly worth taking the time to visit.

Falassarna

Renowned sandy beach facilities. It stretches 58 kilometres west of Chania and is a small village by the sea with a long sandy beach, dunes and blue/green crystal clear water.

Gramvoussa

At the tip of the westernmost peninsula of Crete. Magical turquoise waters, lagoons and beaches of pure white sand.

Sougia

Afine pebble beach without facilities. It is 1200m long and by a small village so it is never crowded. Nudism is tolerated on a large part of the beach. The sea and beach are very clean and the surrounding landscape is beautiful.

Paleochora

Differs from many villages on the south coast of western Crete in that it is a large village where Cretans live and work all year round. The village is not pretty but its long sandy beach is superb and there is a good choice of restaurants and bars.

Elafonissos

The ‘secret’ paradise beach of west Crete before it was discovered about 10 years ago. It’s worth a visit to this red coral sand beach, with a small island you can wade to, and nobody far and wide. Perfect for snorkelling.

Marathi

Located in the bay of Souda, on the peninsula of Akrotiri. Because it is protected from the dominant north and west winds it can still be very pleasant in winter and also has superb views from the White Mountains.

Ombrogialos

Situated between Paleloni and Kefalas villages. Crystal clear sea that is ideal for snorkelling.