The heavenly lagoons of Balos at Gramvousa peninsula and Elafonissi in the southwestern edge of the island, will make you feel awe! Between them, you can find the virgin beach of ancient Falassarna but also one hidden paradise: Kedrodasos and White Lake near Elafonissi. You want some African seascapes? Then, meet the Gavdos island and the Agiannis and Lavrakas beach.
Wherever you will go, you will see amazing beaches and secret treasures of the nature.
The lagoon of Balos/ Balos beach in Chania
One word, many feelings. Balos Lagoon. You will depart from the small port of Kastelli (Kissamos), west of Chania and a small boat, after passing by the islets of Agria and Imeri Gramvoussa, will take you to Balos Beach. Balos waters are so shallow and that’s why it’s an amazing beach for young children. At this beach, you can find crystal waters and white sand. It is an ideal destination for swimming and sunbathing.
Falassarna beach in Chania
If you are able to travel 59km west of Chania and 17km west of Kissamos, you will find the exotic beach of Falassarna. This beach won prizes for being the most beautiful beach in Crete and, of course, is one of the top ten beaches in Europe. There, you will see white sand and warm crystal clear waters. Falassarna beach is fully organized with umbrellas and loungers. Of course, at the beach, exists two bars and cafes so you can have your snack, your coffee and, when the sun goes down, your drink while you dancing to the beach parties.
Pachia Ammos beach in Paleochora, Chania
The beach of Pachia ammos in Palaiochora is so big and that is the reason of the feeling that is empty all the time. Ok, sometimes and especially on summer time, the beach is overcrowded but, you can swim very easy! One “bad” thing is that the beach exposed to northerly and westerly winds so there are often large waves. This is the best part for windsurfers! Just stay at the beach, drink your coffee and look them!
Kedrodasos beach in Chania
76km southwest of Chania and 1km east of the famous Elafonissi Lagoon, you will find another amazing beach, Kedrodasos (cedar forest). It is the totally source for naturists because you will find many cedar groves. You will characteristic this beach as one small paradise in Europe because it is a virgin beach, without any facilities nearby. Here, the wind is no problem because the beach is protected from the neighbor Elafonissos. If you see yellow and black signs, don’t be affraid. The European path E4 crosses the beach!
Glyka Nera beach in Sfakia, Chania
Sweet water or, in greek Glyka Nera, is one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete and that is because of the deep blue water, cooler and nice pebbles. Do you want to learn why we call this beach Glyka Nera? Well, this is called like this because of the fresh water that gushes from the pebbles. If you feel thirsty, you are able to drink water from the water springs. You will notice that the sea water is generally cold because of the springs.
Some Years ago, especially in 2003, the beach was ranked by London Times, one of the best 20 beaches in Europe. To reach Glyka Nera beach, you should drive 43km west of Chora Sfakion or 75 south of Chania. It is not so close but it’s worth visiting. There are several tamarisk trees on the Glyka Nera Beach which are offering valuable shade. Also, there exists one small taverna on a rock that sells food, cold beverages and also beds! Glyka Nera beach, worth your visit!
Frangokastelo beach in Chania
Famous for the local Venetian castle on the beautiful beach, the legendary ghosts of Drosoulites and for its shallow turquoise waters, Frangokastelo beach is one of the most famous beaches of Crete, located in a small valley south of the White Mountains. It is also far away from Chania (80km) but it is located only 13km east of Chora Sfakion. West of the main beach, you will find the long beach of Vatalos which is sandy and has pebbles and rocks in parts. If you are able to walk for 10 minutes at east, you will find the magnificent beach of Orthi Ammos which is famous for the large sand dunes. Also, if you want to eat or drink something, even more if you want to stay somewhere, there are many rooms, restaurants, cafes and shops in the area.