Why You Need a Family Beach Checklist in Chania
Chania is one of the best places in Crete for family beach days — calm waters, sandy shores, and plenty of nearby tavernas. But beaches here are very different from one another. Some are stroller-friendly with toilets and shade, while others have stairs, rocky access, or no facilities at all.
This checklist is designed as a practical support guide you can reuse for every family beach in the Chania region — especially if you’re traveling with toddlers, young kids, or grandparents.
What to Pack for a Family Beach Day in Chania
Beach Essentials (Always)
- High-SPF sunscreen (reef-safe if possible)
- Wide-brim hats for kids
- UV-protective rash guards
- Microfiber towels (dry fast, lighter than cotton)
- Reusable water bottles (tap water in Crete is safe)
For Babies & Toddlers
- Swim diapers
- Light blanket or beach mat
- Small pop-up shade or umbrella if the beach has no trees
- Wet wipes and spare clothes
Snacks & Food
- Fruit, crackers, sandwiches
- Insulated lunch bag with ice packs
- Cash for beach canteens or tavernas (not all accept cards)
Shade in Chania: What to Expect
Natural shade is limited on many beaches around Chania. Organized beaches usually offer umbrellas and sunbeds, but availability can be limited in July and August.
If shade is important for your family, prioritize beaches with:
- Beach bars and organized sunbeds
- Tamarisk trees near the shoreline
- Nearby tavernas where you can take breaks from the sun
Toilets & Changing Facilities
Public toilets are not guaranteed on all beaches. In Chania, toilets are usually available:
- At organized beaches with beach bars
- Inside nearby tavernas (expected if you order something)
- At city beaches and popular family beaches
Remote or wild beaches almost never have toilets or showers — plan accordingly if traveling with children.
Parking Tips for Families
Parking conditions vary a lot around Chania beaches.
- Easy parking: city beaches and long sandy beaches near towns
- Limited parking: popular beaches in high season
- Not family-friendly: beaches with cliff roads or steep descents
Arriving before 10:00 AM or after 17:00 greatly improves your chances of easy parking, especially in summer.
Strollers & Accessibility
Not all beaches in Chania are stroller-friendly. Before choosing a beach, check:
- Is the access flat or via stairs?
- Is the sand soft or mixed with pebbles?
- Is parking close to the beach?
Many family-friendly beaches allow you to park within a few minutes’ walk from the shore.
Best Time of Day for Family Beach Visits
- Morning (08:30–11:00): calm sea, cooler temperatures, easier parking
- Late afternoon (17:00–19:30): softer sun, fewer crowds
Midday sun can be intense, especially for young children.
Local Insight — by Zurab Peikrishvili
As a parent living in Crete, I’ve learned that the perfect family beach day isn’t about the “most famous” beach. It’s about shade, easy parking, calm water, and knowing where the nearest toilet is. With kids, comfort always beats Instagram views.
