Top 5 Beaches to Visit Near Chania, Crete in 2025
If you’re planning a trip to western Crete, one thing is certain: you’ll be spoiled for beaches. The Chania region is home to some of the most stunning coastlines in Greece — from exotic lagoons that look like they belong in the Caribbean to quiet, local coves that remain untouched by mass tourism. Whether you’re staying in a hotel, a traditional guesthouse, or a luxury villa in Chania, knowing where to go can make all the difference in shaping unforgettable seaside memories. Below are five of the very best beaches near Chania that promise sun, sea, and unforgettable scenery.
Best Beaches Near Chania
1. Balos Lagoon – Postcard Perfection
Balos Lagoon is one of those places that barely looks real — with shallow, glowing turquoise water, white sandbanks, and wild rocky backdrops. Located at the northwestern tip of Crete, this natural wonder is formed where the mainland meets the islet of Gramvousa. You can reach it either by hiking down from a mountain plateau or by taking a boat from the port of Kissamos.
The views are spectacular from both routes. For the best experience, arrive early in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid the heaviest crowds, and be sure to bring water, snacks, and sun protection, as facilities are limited. Balos is ideal for couples, nature lovers, and photographers, and it’s likely to become one of the highlights of your trip.
2. Elafonisi Beach – Pink Sands & Crystal Waters
Elafonisi Beach, located in the southwest of Crete, is a dreamlike destination known for its pink-tinged sands and calm, shallow lagoons. Protected as a natural reserve, it offers not only unique colors and water clarity but also a peaceful atmosphere even during the busy summer months. To get there, you’ll drive for about an hour and a half from Chania through dramatic mountain landscapes, winding past gorges and tiny villages.
Reef shoes are recommended, especially for exploring the rocky sections, and sunset at Elafonisi is pure magic. It’s a paradise for families with children, couples seeking a romantic escape, and anyone wanting to experience nature in its purest form.
3. Falassarna Beach – Wide, Wild & Windswept
Falassarna is a different kind of beauty — wild, open, and untamed. Located on the west coast of Crete, it stretches across a long bay of fine white sand and clear blue water, offering space to swim, sunbathe, and even surf on windier days. It’s about an hour’s drive from Chania and feels far removed from any sense of urban life.
Falassarna is home to a few relaxed beach bars, and in the evenings, the sunsets here are legendary. It’s a fantastic choice for couples, adventure seekers, and anyone wanting a change from the more crowded beaches near town.
4. Marathi Beach – Calm Waters Close to Town
If convenience and calm are what you’re looking for, Marathi Beach is hard to beat. Situated just 25 minutes from Chania on the Akrotiri peninsula, Marathi offers calm, shallow waters and soft sand, making it perfect for families with young children or travelers who prefer an easy beach day. Right on the beach, you’ll find traditional tavernas serving fresh seafood and Cretan dishes — ideal for a lazy lunch by the sea.
Arriving early is best, especially during summer weekends, as the beach is small and fills up quickly. Marathi is also great for morning swims or laid-back afternoons, making it a local favorite.
5. Afrata Beach – A Hidden Gem Near the Villa
Tucked away on the Rodopou Peninsula and just about 20 minutes from Kontomari, Afrata Beach is a peaceful little cove with clear water, smooth pebbles, and a genuinely relaxed vibe. It’s one of those places that tourists often miss, which makes it all the more charming. There’s a small taverna serving excellent local dishes, and the beach is a perfect spot for a quiet half-day trip.
Whether you want to swim, snorkel, or just enjoy the sound of the waves, Afrata is ideal for those who want to escape the crowds and soak in some Cretan calm.
Best Beaches Near Chania
How to Organize Your Beach Days in Chania
Organizing your beach days in western Crete is much easier when you’re based in the right location. Many travelers choose to stay in a villa near Maleme or Platanias, where you can quickly access the highway and easily reach all the major beaches — without having to navigate city traffic or crowded coastal resorts. It also gives you the flexibility to explore both the popular and lesser-known spots at your own pace.
Bonus Tip: Stay Close to It All at Giovanta Villa
If you’re looking for the perfect home base from which to explore all these incredible beaches, Giovanta Villa in the peaceful village of Kontomari is the ideal choice. Just a few minutes from Maleme Beach and a short scenic drive from Falassarna, Balos, and Elafonisi, the villa offers privacy, comfort, and authentic Cretan hospitality.
With five spacious bedrooms, a private pool, stunning sea views, a BBQ area, and all the amenities you could need, Giovanta Villa is perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends looking to combine exploration with relaxation. By booking directly through giovantavilla.com, you’ll enjoy the best rates and local tips from your hosts, George and Anna.
Best Beaches Near Chania
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after the wild, windswept beauty of Balos, the glowing pink shores of Elafonisi, or the quiet, local charm of Afrata, Chania offers something for every kind of beach lover. With the right planning — and the right place to stay — your beach holiday in Crete can be as restful or as adventurous as you want it to be.
And when you stay somewhere like Giovanta Villa, you’re always close to the sea, the sun, and the true spirit of the island. So pack your swimsuit, grab your sunscreen, and let the beaches of Chania do the rest.
Giovanta Villa, Chania Crete Greece – Best Beaches Near Chania for your summer holidays!
