Elafonisi beach (some people also call it Elafonissos or Elafonissi) is something like an island and a peninsula because to reach the island you have to walk through the sea.

It is located on the southwest end of the prefecture of Chania, Crete, about 70km from the city of Chania. Elafonisi is a place of exceptional natural beauty, and it has been included in the Natura 2000 Protection Program.

Someone could say that nature made its wonder in Elafonisi. What characterizes the area of Elafonissos and makes it such an exotic place, are the little sand islets formed, the shallow turquoise waters of the sea, which at a point looks like a lagoon, and certainly the fine white sand, pinkish at several spots because of the crushed shell powder.

Elafonisi became the most popular beach in Crete and not without a reason! It’s astonishing turquoise waters alongside the wonderful sunset it offers, make the landscape unique and breathtaking.

Parking & Access (2024 Update)

Cars can no longer drive directly to Elafonisi Beach. Visitors must park in designated parking areas and walk to the beach.

Parking Options

– Elafonisi Mega Parking – 650m from the beach, ~8-10 min walk (€5/day, toilets available).
– Lafonisi Parking – 850m from the beach, ~12-15 min walk (€5/day, toilets available).

A well-maintained path leads from the parking areas to the beach. Visitors with disabilities and families with small children may be allowed closer access. Plans for electric shuttle vehicles are in progress but not available yet.

If you do not like crowded places, you can always choose to skip the first organized part of the beach and walk towards the Elafonisi island. You can find an isolated, quiet place to sit and enjoy your day at this beautiful beach.

The most crowded hours for Elafonisi are between 12:00 and 17:00.

Elafonisi is the nearest beach to our house. It is a 10 km distance and you will need 10-15 minutes to get there.