Overview
Elafonisi Beach is a stunning pink sand beach located on the southwestern coast of Crete. The beach is famous for its unique pink hue, which is the result of crushed shells and coral mixing with the white sand. It is a protected nature reserve and a paradise for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Elafonisi Beach is significant for its unique pink sand and its designation as a protected nature reserve. It is also a popular spot for snorkeling and swimming in crystal-clear waters.
Location
Address
Elafonisi Beach, Kissamos, Chania
Neighborhood: Southwestern Crete
Coordinates
35.275900, 23.635100
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
June to September
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild
- • spring wildflowers
- • mild temperatures
summer
hot
- • warm waters
- • extended daylight
autumn
mild
- • fall colors
- • clear waters
winter
cold
- • peaceful solitude
- • winter walks
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Bring swimsuit
- Pack water/sunscreen
- Check weather forecast
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: low
- • strong currents
- • sun exposure
Medical facilities: first aid available
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, cards
Currency
EUR
Typical Costs
Dress Code
swimwear, comfortable beachwear, flip-flops or barefoot, inappropriate clothing
Booking Tips
- • 1 week
- • official website
- • 48 hours
- • not applicable
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Crete Explorer
Size: 30 MB
Features: Map, Beach Info, Weather
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: local cafes
Charging Stations: none
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Chania International Airport
Distance: 55 km
Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 35 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Unique natural beauty
Historical Significance: Area has a rich history of shipwrecks and legends
Insider Tips
- Best food at local tavernas
- Free parking early morning
Local Recommendations
- • Try local tavernas
- • Ask for guide Nikos
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Greek, English, German
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Pink Sands
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide shots
Result: Stunning pink sand
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Balos Lagoon
Distance: 15 km
Walking: not walkable
Type: Beach
Gramvousa Island
Distance: 10 km
Walking: not walkable
Type: Island
Topolia Gorge
Distance: 20 km
Walking: not walkable
Type: Hiking
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early"
- "Bring plenty of water"
- "Explore nearby attractions"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (5)
Explore Elafonisi: Guided Tour from Chania
Elafonisi Beach Trip from Rethymno
Elafonisis Pink Paradise and Cretan Mountain Charms
Elafonissi from Chania
Private tour to Elafonissi Beach from Rethymno
Quick Info
Available Tours
83
Rating
4.8 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
free