Best Beaches in Chania (2025 Guide): Top Places You Shouldn’t Miss
Updated July 2025 • by Zurab Peikrishvili • CreteTales.com
Located on the western coast of Crete, Chania is home to some of the most diverse and impressive beaches in Greece.
From world-famous lagoons like Elafonisi and Balos to quiet southern shores and family-friendly city beaches, the region offers
a beach for every travel style.
This guide brings together the best beaches in Chania — places chosen not just for their beauty, but for real travel value:
accessibility, swimming conditions, atmosphere, and the kind of experience they offer.
Arriving to West Crete by plane? Start with the
Chania Airport (CHQ) complete guide
to plan transport.
If you’re heading to town first, use:
CHQ → Chania City Center.
Planning a beach-focused holiday? Car rental is usually the smartest move:
Car rental at Chania Airport (CHQ).
Map & Geography of Chania Beaches
Most of Chania’s famous beaches are spread across the north-western and south-western parts of the region.
The northern coast is easier to access and more developed, while the southern coast rewards visitors with wild landscapes and fewer crowds.
A car makes exploring much easier, although several beaches near Chania Town are reachable by public transport.
If you’re traveling with kids and want calmer water + facilities, also see:
Family-Friendly Beaches in Chania.
Best Beaches in Chania — Quick Overview
Elafonisi Beach
Famous for its pink sand and shallow turquoise water, Elafonisi is one of Crete’s most iconic beaches.
Ideal for families, but very popular in summer.
Read the full Elafonisi Beach guide →
Balos Lagoon
A spectacular natural lagoon with white sand and vivid blue water.
Accessible by boat or via a dirt road and hike from Kissamos.
Read the full Balos Lagoon guide →
Falassarna Beach
A long, open beach on the west coast, known for sunsets, space, and strong sea energy.
Popular with swimmers, surfers, and photographers.
Read the full Falassarna Beach guide →
Seitan Limania Beach
A dramatic narrow cove between steep cliffs with striking turquoise water.
The path down is steep, but the scenery is unforgettable.
Read the full Seitan Limania guide →
Agia Marina Beach
One of the closest organized beaches to Chania Town.
Soft sand, shallow water, and excellent facilities make it ideal for families.
Read the full Agia Marina guide →
Marathi Beach
A calm, sheltered bay with shallow water — perfect for children and relaxed swimming.
Read the full Marathi Beach guide →
Stavros Beach
A circular bay surrounded by rocky hills, famous for its appearance in the film Zorba the Greek.
Read the full Stavros Beach guide →
Glyka Nera (Sweet Water Beach)
A remote southern beach accessible by hike or boat, known for freshwater springs flowing into the sea.
Read the full Glyka Nera guide →
Sougia Beach
A long pebble beach on the south coast, popular with travelers seeking peace, space, and nature.
Read the full Sougia Beach guide →
Kedrodasos Beach
A wild beach near Elafonisi, surrounded by juniper trees and untouched landscapes.
No facilities — bring supplies.
Read the full Kedrodasos Beach guide →
| Plan your beach days | Use these guides |
|---|---|
| Best Beaches Near Chania Airport | Closest “first swim” options — ideal for short trips or arrival day. |
| Car Rental at CHQ | The best way to reach Balos / Elafonisi / Falassarna efficiently. |
| Chania Family Beach Day Checklist | Parking, shade, toilets, what to pack — practical beach survival. |
| Family-Friendly Beaches in Chania | Calm water, facilities, easy access — best picks with kids. |
Tips for Visiting Beaches in Chania
- Renting a car gives you access to the most scenic and remote beaches.
- Bring water and food for southern and wild beaches.
- Arrive early in July and August to avoid crowds.
- Check wind conditions — they affect swimming on open west-facing beaches.
Where to Stay for Chania Beaches
- Close to beaches: Agia Marina, Platanias, and Stalos
- Nature & quiet: Sougia and the south coast
- City life & nightlife: Chania Town with day trips
For a practical base decision (Old Town vs beach areas vs resort zones), see:
Where to Stay in Chania.
If you also want the city evenings and walking routes, use:
Things to Do in Chania.
Final Thoughts
Chania offers one of the most complete beach regions in the Mediterranean.
Whether you prefer famous lagoons, family-friendly shores, or remote southern beaches,
you’ll find a place that fits your travel rhythm.
This guide serves as a starting point — each beach is explored in depth through dedicated local guides,
real experience, and on-the-ground insight.
