Elafonissi Beach
Elafonissi Beach
4.5
About
Located on the southwest coast of Crete, this remote beach is best known for its pink sand. However, temper your expectations as the amount of pink on display varies with conditions and the season. Regardless, the crystal clear waters make this a popular summer vacation spot, attracting sunbathers and watersport enthusiasts alike. Also, hike up to the neighboring cedar tree reserves for a change of scenery. Visit in the morning to beat traffic and secure a chair and umbrella before the crowds arrive. Or come in the evening for a stunning sunset when most people have left. – Tripadvisor
Duration: More than 3 hours
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- MarialexdlCLima, Peru1,142 contributionsVery pretty, LOTS of peopleWe had high expectations regarding this pink sand beach, often listed as the best in the world. You have to spend a lot of time getting there, from Heraklion it is more than 3 hours, from Chania an hour and a half. Upon arrival it is very poorly organized, the parking lot is very far away, you have to walk quite a bit with a strong sun between stones and dirt. Now on the beach the sand is not as pink as in the photos, only in small stretches and there are a lot of people and wind. There are no services, bathrooms with queues and very few, the spaces to disturb on the beach are taken by stalls where they charge, generally very messy and expensive. We walked towards the central point and things improved a lot there. Fewer people, more depth and turquoise colors in the water and a bit of the famous pink sand. Bellaplaya but complicated, I would not return.Visited May 2023Travelled with familyWritten 27 February 2024
- Arvin ZCopenhagen, Denmark20 contributionsNice beachBeautiful beach with clean water. Beautiful surroundings and a nice place to relax, enjoy the weather and swim. However, we were just a little disappointed that the sand is nowhere near as pink as it is described and seen in pictures online.Visited April 2024Travelled with friendsWritten 3 April 2024
- janice tLondon, United Kingdom28 contributionsBeautiful beach a must see !!!Stunning beach with pink sand. Amazing shallow water which links to other parts of the island. Well worth visiting especially if you're staying in Western Crete. There's plenty of space to get away from the crowds which is what I prefer to do. If you want to avoid the crowds then best to go early in the morning before the boats of tourists arrive or and even better option would be to rent one of the nice apartments on top of the hill so that way you can have the place to yourself and take in the incredible sunset.Visited September 2023Travelled with familyWritten 3 May 2024
- BlueicebearWestwood, Massachusetts73 contributionsAbsolutely GorgeousStunning Beach. Despite cold water in early May, we loved the beach nonetheless. It’s a gorgeous beach. Anyone who says otherwise isn’t being accurate. I’d read reviews mentioning challenges parking, a long walk to the beach and crowds. In early May, we had no trouble parking our car or finding a private spot further down the beach. The walk from parking isn’t short, but it’s absolutely worth it unless you’re hauling a lot of stuff or not able to walk very well. No beach is fun when overcrowded so I can’t speak as to peak season, but I can confirm that the beach is beautiful and with warm water it must be amazing.Visited May 2024Travelled with friendsWritten 9 May 2024
- Juliana CLe Petit Quevilly, France64 contributionsBeautiful beachWe used a tour operator who took us back to this magnificent beach with translucent water. Wonderful !! The water is not pink as shown in the photos but it remains a very beautiful beach. When you arrive at the car park, it takes 10 minutes to walk to the beach. Toilets cost 50 cents near the parking lot and 1 euros on the beach. there is a bar at the entrance which is shaded which is not the case on the beach. Bring a hat, good cream and water because it can be very hot there.Visited May 2024Travelled with friendsWritten 11 May 2024
- Marie-Claude LChevreuse, France321 contributionsnice beach but sand not necessarily pinkIn May there were relatively few people but in high season it must be crowded. Still worth seeing. It's easy to access and there are still a few places with shade. The water was too cold for us but people were swimming (shallow water) We were supposed to see the beach during a plane flight but the wind did not allow us to go that far.Visited May 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 27 May 2024
- KevinHathcock6 contributionsAmazing beach.Beautiful beach. Crystal clear water and pinkish tinged sands at the shore. You can walk out a long distance, including to and around the island. Be prepared for a little walk from the parking areas. Bathrooms (1 Euro) and some food is available at the beach. Drive from Chania is pretty, but the small mountain roads can be congested. Great mountain, gorge, and small village views along the way. We took a different route along the coast back to Chania to avoid traffic. It was beautiful but full of harrowing switchbacks, so I suggest sticking with the main roads (Google map directions). A set of lounge chairs and tiki umbrella was 20 Euro, but they fill up fast.Visited May 2024Travelled with familyWritten 2 June 2024
- GRENIER HJura, France9 contributionsYes for the beach, no for the pink sandVery pretty beach, but you have to go early, it fills up quickly and we were there in May. in high season it must be crowded. if you go there for the “pink sand” on the other hand, forget it!! it is barely visible. disappointment. If you are looking for a place to eat, go without hesitation to the Taverna Kalomirakis Family, very warm welcome and very good meal at reasonable prices.Visited May 2024Travelled with familyWritten 3 June 2024
- Kristina4 contributionsOne of the best beachesOne of the best beaches we have visited. The drive was a little scary some high mountains and no barriers. Scenery is lovely though. Car park €5 for the day which isn’t too bad. Walk down to beach you needed to be careful on the rocks. Toilets were €1 Beach was busy but to be expected. Water was clear and traces off pink sand were visible. Water was lovely and you could go out as far as you wanted. Well worth the drive to see and to spend a good few hours.Visited June 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 8 June 2024
- Zisis5 contributionsFANTASTIC!It is one of the few beaches in Crete that is famous for its blue-green waters, combined with the incredible natural landscape. Prefer the small beaches located on the islet after the lagoon, as long as you have the patience to walk there. The tranquility and beauty of the landscape will compensate you to the fullest. In several places and especially in the parts of the island, you can see the pink sand from the corals. It is worth visiting at least once. P.S.: The parking of the car is done at a long distance from the beach necessarily, either at any point, or in a parking lot by paying 5 euros. It's a good idea to equip yourself with water bottles and an umbrella.Visited June 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 9 June 2024
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Travel07165362596
3 contributions
Aug 2024 • Family
Very nice beach. You can get there easily by car. Parking is charged 5€, then there are about 15 min walk Recommendation put comfortable sneakers, rough terrain. It is necessary to arrive early in the morning between 8:00 and 9:00 then you will no longer find the parasol, essential. The cost is 20€ (umbrella + 2 sunbeds) if in the main beach everything is busy, immediately to the right there are 2 other equipped beaches. The umbrella brought from home unfortunately flies away easily, the area is very ventilated and under the sand, because of the stone slabs, it is difficult to pitch the umbrella, better a tent. The pink sand is visible but not much, you will have to move on foot to the islet in front where it is most visible. Unfortunately, the impact of man on the environment can also be seen here!!
Shallow water almost everywhere, crystal clear (it looks like a swimming pool) unfortunately very cold so I RECOMMEND the shirts those special for water.
A nice experience accessible even with children!!!
Shallow water almost everywhere, crystal clear (it looks like a swimming pool) unfortunately very cold so I RECOMMEND the shirts those special for water.
A nice experience accessible even with children!!!
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Written 19 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Erica G
Padua, Italy125 contributions
Aug 2023 • Couples
Elafonissi is certainly on the podium of the most beautiful beaches in Crete, nothing to say, it deserves it!
I recommend arriving VERY early especially in the peak months, as it fills up very quickly, if you want to enjoy it without many people and walk on every side of this beautiful beach you have to be there by 9 in the morning.
Possibility of renting umbrellas and sunbeds at a cost of 20 euros, but arrive very early for these too, they sell like hot cakes!
Possibility of a free beach, there are some bars, which offer salads, clubs, sandwiches, ice creams, drinks.
The closest car park is the first one, i.e. the last one you find when arriving by car costs 5 euros, from there you will then have to walk and reach the beach, it is a stony stretch but mostly flat, it is not very tiring, if you have the better shoes.
The sand is pink and is enchanting reflected in its crystal clear waters.
Arrive early and then leave around 3pm at the latest, as especially on Sundays crowds of people will arrive, and the beach will lose its real beauty.
Elafonissi has a special place in my heart.
I recommend arriving VERY early especially in the peak months, as it fills up very quickly, if you want to enjoy it without many people and walk on every side of this beautiful beach you have to be there by 9 in the morning.
Possibility of renting umbrellas and sunbeds at a cost of 20 euros, but arrive very early for these too, they sell like hot cakes!
Possibility of a free beach, there are some bars, which offer salads, clubs, sandwiches, ice creams, drinks.
The closest car park is the first one, i.e. the last one you find when arriving by car costs 5 euros, from there you will then have to walk and reach the beach, it is a stony stretch but mostly flat, it is not very tiring, if you have the better shoes.
The sand is pink and is enchanting reflected in its crystal clear waters.
Arrive early and then leave around 3pm at the latest, as especially on Sundays crowds of people will arrive, and the beach will lose its real beauty.
Elafonissi has a special place in my heart.

Written 1 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Laure G
8 contributions
Jun 2024 • Family
Be careful, on arrival you will necessarily be guided to Parking, the track is to go down and up on foot, it is not long and hard, about 10 min, but to plan in case of small children for example.
At the beginning of the trail there is a supermarket that sells beach items, cremesolar etc...
Paradise beach, to see early in the morning 9am max, before the massive arrival of buses,
The water is crystal clear, this Pink sand is really original, there is foot far, the fish are numerous and not fierce to the rocks.
The umbrella + deckchair is 20 €, then 5 € per additional deckchair.
There is something to eat on site, a snack; where the staff is very friendly; offers sandwich, pizza, gyros, ice cream cold drinks...
There are cabins to change and showers to rinse.
The toilet is 1 € per person.
ET!!! Once you get back to the car park, a person will stand in front of the car, asking you to pay 5 euros for parking.
BUT it is a beach to see in his life!
Happy holidays!! 🇬🇷
At the beginning of the trail there is a supermarket that sells beach items, cremesolar etc...
Paradise beach, to see early in the morning 9am max, before the massive arrival of buses,
The water is crystal clear, this Pink sand is really original, there is foot far, the fish are numerous and not fierce to the rocks.
The umbrella + deckchair is 20 €, then 5 € per additional deckchair.
There is something to eat on site, a snack; where the staff is very friendly; offers sandwich, pizza, gyros, ice cream cold drinks...
There are cabins to change and showers to rinse.
The toilet is 1 € per person.
ET!!! Once you get back to the car park, a person will stand in front of the car, asking you to pay 5 euros for parking.
BUT it is a beach to see in his life!
Happy holidays!! 🇬🇷
Automatically translated
Written 4 July 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
G7725
5 contributions
Jul 2024 • Family
This beach has lots of hype surrounding it. I was rather disappointed!
No one tells you that's it's a 20min from the car park down a gravel and rocky path. Not for those with limited mobility or young child. Seen families struggle with prams.
Once at the beach it had hundreds and hundreds of people on it which kinda takes away the shine of this beach.
2 Sunbeds with a parasol and €20! To use the toilet it's €1! Food and drink was OK in price.
The tour we took advised us to buy a parasol from the shop at the car park. Some people did but it was a waste of time as the wind just blew them inside out.
You can walk across the water to the little island and this is where we seen the most pink sand at the waterline. It's also quite here. Some people carried belongings over the water to turn lie on the quieter island. We didn't as we done want to get out backs wet.
The little shop at the carpark sells souvenirs which are OK in price. Also toilets in the carpark for €0.50!
I wouldn't make this trip again but my kids are glad we went today.
Also the bus journey is up across the mountains so if you don't like heights I would recommend this trip!
No one tells you that's it's a 20min from the car park down a gravel and rocky path. Not for those with limited mobility or young child. Seen families struggle with prams.
Once at the beach it had hundreds and hundreds of people on it which kinda takes away the shine of this beach.
2 Sunbeds with a parasol and €20! To use the toilet it's €1! Food and drink was OK in price.
The tour we took advised us to buy a parasol from the shop at the car park. Some people did but it was a waste of time as the wind just blew them inside out.
You can walk across the water to the little island and this is where we seen the most pink sand at the waterline. It's also quite here. Some people carried belongings over the water to turn lie on the quieter island. We didn't as we done want to get out backs wet.
The little shop at the carpark sells souvenirs which are OK in price. Also toilets in the carpark for €0.50!
I wouldn't make this trip again but my kids are glad we went today.
Also the bus journey is up across the mountains so if you don't like heights I would recommend this trip!
Written 5 July 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
M X
Bucharest, Romania112 contributions
Jul 2024 • Family
Goin' there takes time (aprox. 3 hrs. if you come from Heraklion area), the road in the mountains is quite dangerous if you're not a good driver. A lot of cars and buses goin' there and not everybody has skills to drive on serpentines. You should arrive early (9 a.m.) to have a sunbed, only two places to have it), otherwise be prepared with your own umbrella. By the way, two sunbeds and one umbrella -20 €, extra bed 5 € :)). To eat-half gyros, some pies, not a vaiery, pricey - 4-5 €, better come with some sandwiches. Toilets 1 €, no free shower. First part of the day very crowded, in the afternoon the atmosphere became more relaxing. Conclusion: the feeling was that people try to rip you off, a little filthy, good to see but not so special as i've been told, not coming back.
Written 28 July 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kate L
4 contributions
Aug 2024 • Family
We decided to visit for the sunset and arrived at 6pm as people were leaving, so after parking up at the final car park before the beach (€5 for the day) we strolled down and it wasn’t too busy at all.
We waded through the lagoon on the left and after a quick dip we then walked to the right on the path that takes you to a much quieter part of the beach and is best for seeing the sunset.
The pink sand on this side was outstanding all the way along, the water was super clear.
We finished our evening there feeling very happy and as we were walking back, we captured further pictures of a magnificent sunset.
We are all happy that we chose to go for the evening rather than the full day and would recommend this option if you don’t want crowds.
There is a toilet for €1, options for buying food and drinks and also a changing cubicle which was very helpful.
All in all it was a 5 star experience.
We waded through the lagoon on the left and after a quick dip we then walked to the right on the path that takes you to a much quieter part of the beach and is best for seeing the sunset.
The pink sand on this side was outstanding all the way along, the water was super clear.
We finished our evening there feeling very happy and as we were walking back, we captured further pictures of a magnificent sunset.
We are all happy that we chose to go for the evening rather than the full day and would recommend this option if you don’t want crowds.
There is a toilet for €1, options for buying food and drinks and also a changing cubicle which was very helpful.
All in all it was a 5 star experience.
Written 30 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Peter
Moosburg, Germany8 contributions
Jun 2024 • Couples
Buses full of day trippers make the pilgrimage to the supposed hotspot, only to find no sun loungers or no shaded place to lie down because everything is fenced in. The parking is OK at €5, but otherwise it's only worth visiting in the evening to enjoy the sea with definitely fewer visitors. It's quite exhausting for families with children, as there is a long, unshaded path down from the parking lot to the beach. The worst thing, however, is the crowds that are already there in June. I can't imagine what it's like there in August.

Written 18 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Adelina H
1 contribution
Jul 2024 • Family
Nice beach! The water is clean, the sand isn't as pink as the Internet photo, but it's still beautiful very. There are places with puddles for children where the water is very shallow and warm. Sunbeds are 20€ for 2 pcs, on the beach cafe with food (pizza, baguette, burger and snacks) drinks and ice cream. Before going down to the beach cafe, restaurant and shops with food and inflatable toys, large parking (5€ day), the possibility to rent a room and tp in the shop drinks and food are of course cheaper than on the beach. It is better to arrive in advance, because sunbeds and places under umbrellas are dismantled very quickly. Toilet on the beach 1€.
It was easy and easy from Chania, good road.
It was easy and easy from Chania, good road.
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Written 6 July 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
claire07
Milan, Italy547 contributions
Jul 2024 • Family
Elafonisi is a beautiful and unique beach that they are trying to preserve from the crowds. so the parking has been set back about 500 m from the beach. do not stop at the first parking lots, the last one before the bar is huge and costs only 5 euros per day. then the descent is easy even for children, you get to the beach with umbrellas , two bars, the bathroom (1 euro) and the shower (free). Respect the rules, throw the waste in the many bins and do not make noise. The wind can be strong so you will need the beach umbrella, you will find it free only if you arrive by 9.30 (but already at 14 some leave). 20 euros in July umbrella and two sunbeds. of course this is the busiest part and the peak of crowds you have between 11 and 16. after it returns to be livable and is a paradise. if you can walk to the end of the islet in front there are benches and a church. the colors of the sea are beautiful change depending on where you are and the passing of the day and the direction of the wind. when we were there the wind was 20 knots in the middle of the day and is unbearable but if you go to the left there are more sheltered coves (I wrapped myself in the towel and slept). We loved it, it's worth the wake up call at dawn, expect big crowds (it's a bit like going to Mont Saint Michel and then complaining).
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Written 18 July 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nikolas N
Athens, Greece64 contributions
Aug 2024 • Family
Paradise literally. Reading a lot of reviews from Greeks for a lot of walking , narrow streets etc. I had a little scared but really what the people write. The road from Chania to Elafonisi is really very good. The route is just magical, you pass through mountains, villages etc and the landscape enchanting you. At some point, it's okay, it's narrow but without any danger. Once you get there from the first car park they try to put you inside and well that the others are full but just ignore them and park at the last one called mega parking and costs 5€ all day.From there it is exactly 8 minutes walk with a timetable on a very normal road with sea fields I was okay and didn't slip half a time. As soon as you arrive at the beach there are sunbeds with 20€ the set if you will hardly find it is few. We arrived at 11:30 and although the beaches were full the people were beautifully shared and we sat right in front of the water with our umbrella. The waters are crystal clear, warm and clear and the landscape simply enchanting you.We liked it so much that we walked and swam in all points. For the unorganized there are several canteens right on the beach that offer all the cafes, food and drinks at very normal prices.No reviews are read from grinarides who have consistently parked in the water and parked them for distances etc.
Automatically translated
Written 8 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Does Elafonissi beach have toilet facilities ????
Written 2 July 2023
Yes. There are facilities located near the entrance at the beach level. Cost is 2 Euro per person. There are also changing rooms on the beach with no charge.
Written 3 July 2023
Gentile Martina,
Si c'è un area dove ci sono bagni e docce.
Written 27 June 2023
Hi, we are arriving Chania next week and want to visit elafonisi. What’s the easiest way to get there ? By boat possibly? Ideally having available toilet for the route !
Written 26 June 2023
I'm not sure their is a boat. We drove. It was about 1 1/2 hours and is pretty windy. Their are also drive services that will take you.
Written 27 June 2023
I am travelling to Crete in August and looking to visit the beach. Is there much to do whilst at the beach? I am not one for lying on a sun bed all day but want to visit as it looks beautiful. Would I be better off just visiting after 4pm when most people have left? Is it still worth visiting in the evening rather than during the day?
Written 13 May 2023
Hi.
To begin from, I think you are my "type of animal" - I am not a fan of idle sunbathing either.
The area around the beach is picturesque enough and you can have a walk to some local landmarks (remains of lighthouse and old little church), after crossing strip of water and getting to the Elafonissi island. It is not a long walk, however some (including myself) may find it better than sitting on the beach. If you decide to have a walk, be sure that you have proper shoes - the first part of walk is easy (just on the beach) but you may need to go cross some rocky areas, before reaching the end of island.
As to the time of visiting the place: August is probably the most unfortunate month (unless you enjoy crowded places) - in order to reduce the misery, I highly recommend later hours for visiting the place. You will still enjoy sun and sea but will be able to avoid (hopefully) the hordes of noisy people.
Written 14 May 2023
bonjour j aimerais savoir si c est possible de faire elafonissi Matala en bus ?
Written 1 May 2023
Bonjour ce depons où se trouve votre hôtel. Il y a un bus que vous pouvez prendre depuis La Canée à 9h00 tous les matins, ce qui prend environ 2 heures pour se rendre à la plage. Il quitte la plage lors de son voyage de retour à 16h
Written 1 May 2023
We're staying in the Royal and imperial belvedere hotel in hersonissos and we're wondering how to get to and from elafonisi beach on a day trip.
Thanks.
Written 11 January 2023
Did a day trip from Chania to Paleochoro and Elafonisi.
Departing at 8.45am from Chania to Paleochoro in a 2 hours bus ride. After a fabulous lunch at Galaxy Family Restaurant, we head for Elafonisi in a taxi for €20.
Catching the last bus at 4pm back to Chania.
Written 12 January 2023
Staying in Agia Marina. Bring a ca and wondering which it the best for an early visit 8am-12 noon…Balos or Elafonisi?
Written 11 September 2022
Would advise taking the boat, its cheaper, quicker and v relaxed. Why tyer yourself walking. Not even worth the car trip or even walking
Written 13 September 2022
Bonjour, est ce que l’on pourrait me confirmer s’il y a bien une route praticable qui rejoint Elafonissi et Paleochora SVP ? (Route sans repasser par le nord de l’île) Si c’est le cas, combien de temps faut il pour rejoindre les 2 villes ? Merci pour vos réponses
Written 1 August 2022
I took a bus from the city center in Chania. It dropped off right at the parking lot which was a 3 minute walk to the beach. Actually driving to the beach isn't recommended because of the roads being so narrow and winding.
Written 4 August 2022
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