Top 10 beaches in Crete near Chania
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Crete, a mythical island in the Aegean Sea, is known for its breathtaking scenery, rich history and, above all, its magnificent beaches. If you stay at our Divine Villa in Akrotíri, Greece, you'll be lucky enough to be close to some of the most beautiful beaches in Crete!
Whether you're looking for secluded beaches for relaxation or lively spots for water sports, Crete has it all.
Here's our selection of the 10 best beaches in Crete to discover during your stay, with a particular focus on those less than 30 minutes from the villa and the must-see ones a little further afield.
BEACHES IN CRETE NEAR CHANIA (LESS THAN 30 MINUTES AWAY)
Seitan Limania Beach
Distance from the villa: 15 min by car
Seitan Limania is a small cove hidden between steep cliffs. Accessible by a relatively short but steep hike, this beach offers incredibly clear waters and an impressive wilderness setting.
Highlights :
- Wild and natural setting
- Crystalline waters
- Perfect for adventurers
Recommended activities :
- Hiking
- Snorkeling
Marathi Beach
Distance from the villa: 20 min by car
Marathi beach is ideal for families thanks to its shallow, calm waters. Lined with tavernas, it's the perfect place to spend a quiet day by the sea while sampling delicious local specialties.
Highlights :
- Shallow, calm waters
- Perfect for families
- Taverns nearby
Recommended activities :
- Swimming
- Tasting of local dishes
Loutraki Beach
Distance from the villa: 20 min by car
Loutraki is a picturesque little beach with clear, calm waters. It's a perfect place to relax, with beautiful views and amenities nearby.
Highlights :
- Clear, calm waters
- Peaceful atmosphere
- Nearby amenities
Recommended activities :
- Swimming
- Relaxation
Stavros Beach
Distance from the villa: 15 min by car
Stavros beach, made famous by the film “Zorba the Greek”, is a charming spot with shallow waters and a traditional taverna nearby.
Highlights :
- Fine sand and shallow water
- Quiet atmosphere
- Cultural connection (Zorba the Greek)
Recommended activities :
- Swimming
- Dinner by the sea
Kalathas Beach
Distance from the villa: 10 min by car
Kalathas is a popular beach with golden sands and crystal-clear waters. It's an excellent option for families and water sports enthusiasts.
Highlights :
- Golden sand and clear waters
- Ideal for families
- Water sports activities available
Recommended activities :
- Swimming
- Water sports
MUST-SEE BEACHES IN CRETE (A LITTLE FURTHER AWAY)
Elafonissi Beach
Distance from the villa: 1h30 by car
Elafonissi is famous for its unique pink sand and crystal-clear waters. This heavenly beach is perfect for a relaxing day under the Cretan sun. You can also explore the neighboring island of Elafonissi, accessible on foot at low tide. One of the most beautiful beaches in Crete, if not the most beautiful...
Highlights :
- Pink sand
- Shallow waters ideal for families
- Preserved natural landscape
Recommended activities :
- Snorkeling
- Hiking in the nature reserve
Balos Beach
Distance from the villa: 1h45 by car + 20 min by boat
Balos is a spectacular lagoon located on the Gramvousa peninsula. Accessible by boat or by hiking, this beach is famous for its shallow turquoise waters and white sand.
Highlights :
- Postcard landscapes
- Warm, shallow water
- Ideal for children
Recommended activities :
- Boat excursions
- Marine wildlife observation
Falassarna Beach
Distance from the villa: 1h20 by car
Falassarna is one of Crete's largest beaches, offering miles of golden sand and crystal-clear waters. It's the ideal place for sunbathers and swimmers.
Highlights :
- Large spaces to relax in
- Clear waters perfect for snorkeling
- Spectacular sunsets
Recommended activities :
- Snorkeling
- Windsurfing
Preveli Beach
Distance from the villa: 2h by car + 30 min walk
Preveli Beach, also known as Palm Beach, is surrounded by a forest of palm trees and crossed by a river. This exotic setting offers a unique and memorable experience.
Highlights :
- Palm forest
- Fresh and salt water
- Breathtaking natural setting
Recommended activities :
- Hiking
- River swimming
Vai Beach
Distance from the villa: 3h by car
Located in the far east of Crete, Vai is famous for its large palm forest, the largest beach in Crete and Europe. This sandy beach is perfect for a relaxing day away from the crowds.
Highlights :
- Unique palm forest
- Turquoise water
- Peaceful atmosphere
Recommended activities :
- Swimming
- Exploring the palm forest
CONCLUSION
Crete offers an incredible diversity of beaches, each with its own charm and attractions. By staying at our Divine villa in Akrotíri, you have access to these magnificent beaches and much more.
Que vous soyez à la recherche d’une aventure palpitante ou d’un lieu de détente paisible, les plages en Crète répondront à toutes vos attentes. Profitez de votre séjour et découvrez tout ce que cette île merveilleuse a à offrir.
References
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Top 10 beaches near Chania, Crete
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