Crete has wonderful, exotic beaches that will impress you with their beauty, standing in a stunning landscape. Some of them are located in the wider area of Chania, so if you visit Chania Town, be prepared for excursions in the whole prefecture to explore this astonishing beaches and spend unforgettable moments by the sea.
1. Balos Lagoon
Balos amazes its visitors at first sight. White sand, turquoise waters and the feeling that you are swimming in a lagoon make this place an internationally awarded beach. You can reach Balos by boat from Kissamos.
2. Falassarna
Falassarna is also located in a close distance to Kissamos Town. It is a long sandy beach, family-friendly thanks to its shallow waters, soft sand and touristic facilities that include umbrellas and sunbeds. Near the beach, you can visit the archaeological site of Ancient Falassarna.
3. Elafonissi
Elafonissi is considered to be one of the best beaches worldwide. It is a beautiful beach with white and pink sand and exotic waters. Cedar trees reach the coastline creating an impressive scenery. The beach is not organised, and only a few cantinas can be found there, but camping is allowed behind the beach.
4. Frangokastello
Located 80 km from Chania Town, Frangokastello Beach is a very interesting spot thanks to its location in front of a Venetian Castle. It is an organised beach, with sundbeds, umbrellas, fish taverns and a few hotels.
5. Pahia Ammos
Pahia Ammos is a golden sandy beach with water sports facilities. It is located on the southern side of Chania prefecture, near the small town of Paleochora.
6. Agia Marina
Agia Marina is a popular tourist resort in a very close distance to Chania Town (9 km). It is fully organised, with water sports facilities, diving club and many beach bars. If you want to spend a day near Chania Town, in a scenery full of entertainment and young people, the beach of Agia Marina is the place to be.
7. Agioi Apostoloi
Agioi Apostoloi is the alternative to Agia Marina, if you are looking for a beach close to Chania Town. Only 3 km from there, Agioi Apostoloi is a calmer beach and the perfect place to relax. It is organised and has also a diving club, but what will impress you is its beauty, although it is located so close to Chania Town.
8. Foinikas
Foinikas is the ultimate spot for those searching privacy and alternative, off the beaten path, places to explore. Unspoiled by mass tourism, located 80 km from Chania Town, Foinikas is accessible only on foot from the village of Loutro. However, it is worth the try due to the amazing scenery and the peace you will find there.