This simply breathtaking Cretan site is situated to the south of Chania, which is just five kilometres from the Monastery of Chrysoskalitisa. This often isolated islet has only the purest, clearest and most enticing of water lapping upon its sand, which in certain lights, takes on a welcoming pink hue, making it one of the World’s most beautiful beaches.

This unique warm glow that sand on Elafonisi Beach often projects is believed to be from the corals and other broken shells that get washed up on the shores of this pristine beach in their droves.

In fact that water gently caressing Elafonisi Beach rarely exceeds a metre in depth making it the perfect place for swimmers and families with children.

Although in spite being such a safe place for bathers of all ages and abilities, Elafinisi enjoys relative anonymity which is definitely part of its unique magnetism and charm.

With such shallow water, you would be forgiven if you thought that Elafonisi was a lagoon, a lagoon where bathing enjoyment is augmented even further with a small nearby island that is reachable only by swimming or, indeed, paddling. At the far side of the Elafonisi islet is a quant and tiny church and an old lighthouse, adding to the traditionalism and unspoilt atmosphere this exceptionally beautiful corner of Crete is blessed with.

There are many delightfully picturesque and secluded coves on one of the World’s most beautiful beaches to explore and discover on this untouched Cretan coastline, that cater for a plethora of coastal yearnings, including tranquillity and seclusion, bathing and relaxation, and naturalist and nudity.

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It is a protected area belonging to the program Natura 2000, and is filled with sand lilies and cedars. In this area, the protected turtles careta-careta find shelter and many other rare species of wild animals and plants and waste disposal is strictly prohibited, as well as camping and even to take some sand with you.

It is approximately 76 km from the city of Chania and the route is of particular interest due to the dramatic changes of scenery offered with deep gorges and steep cliffs.

Approaching the beach Elafonissi you encounter the breathtaking views it offers with its turquoise waters and pink sand that has been colored by the thousands of shells that have been crushed over time.

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