Elafonisi Beach lies at the far southwestern tip of Crete (Chania region), famous for pink-tinged sand created by crushed foraminifera shells set against a shallow, crystal-clear turquoise lagoon. Tripadvisor's Travellers' Choice named it the world's best beach for 2025, which also means it draws big summer crowds. Because the water is so shallow, visitors can wade across the lagoon to the small islet opposite, making it a favourite for families. It is a Natura 2000 protected reserve, so it is best visited with a light-footprint, leave-no-trace mindset.
The signature pink sand from crushed foraminifera shells, most vivid right at the waterline
A shallow, knee-deep turquoise lagoon you can wade across to reach the opposite islet
Protected sand dunes with rare coastal flora such as sea daffodils and juniper
A designated nesting habitat for the endangered loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta)
Panoramic views over the lagoon and islet from the low hill behind the beach
Good to know
RulesThis is a Natura 2000 protected area. Taking pink sand, shells or plants is illegal and can be fined. Do not enter roped-off dune or nesting zones, and keep to the marked paths.
MannersAs a sea-turtle nesting beach, sunbeds and umbrellas are cleared at dusk. Avoid going onto the beach or using lights (flash, lanterns) at night, and carry out all your rubbish.
SeasonIn the July-August peak, the car parks fill before 9am. June and September are the sweet spot, with lighter crowds and comfortable water temperatures of around 24-26 C.
SafetyThere is almost no natural shade and the sun is very strong - bring a hat, sunscreen, water and water shoes. The lagoon is shallow, but on windy days the channel to the islet can develop a current, so watch young children.
SafetySince 2025 cars can no longer drive right up to the beach; from the designated car parks it is roughly a 600-1,500 m walk. Wear comfortable footwear and consider a baby carrier rather than a stroller.
CautionThere is currently no entrance fee for the beach itself. Be wary of on-the-spot overcharging for 'official' parking or entry; private lots run about 5 EUR/day - check the posted rate. Confirm all prices before you go.
Practical info
The beach is about 76 km from Chania town (roughly a 90-minute drive via the Topolia Gorge), and in summer (about June-September) a KTEL Chania bus runs the roughly 2-hour route, departing around 9am and returning around 4pm (about 8-10 EUR one way). There is currently no beach entrance fee and sunbeds/umbrellas are paid rentals, but bus times, parking charges and rental prices change seasonally, so confirm the latest details before visiting.
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