Well known for its beautiful pink sands, Elafonisi is a stunning beach located on the western side of Crete. It is certainly worth visiting on a day trip to see the beautiful turquoise waters and pink sand, and this post talks about how to get there, things to bear in mind and places you might want to stop at en route.
As we visited in the middle of August, which was obviously the peak season, it was rather busy! The crowds can to an extent take away some of the serenity of the place, however we really enjoyed our time at the beach and found it beautiful and worth visiting. We also did a few stops on the way back- first at the nearby Chrysoskalitissa Monastery, and then at the Cave of Agia Sofia which is right on the road leading back to Chania.
Getting to Elafonisi
Elafonisi is around a 90 minute drive from Chania if travelling by your own car, but you can also get coaches from Chania, and even a public bus (check out the Cretan Ktel bus website here).
We found the drive to be relatively straight forward, however there are parts of the drive which are very windy but scenic. We found ourselves sandwiched between a couple of coaches for some time, and unable to overtake given the roads were quite narrow and busy! We would advise you set off to get to Elafonisi in good time, and to try avoid the numerous coaches and groups of visitors arriving at around 11am or so.
Walk to the beach in Elafonisi
Pink sand at Elafonisi
Elafonisi Beach
Once you arrive at Elafonisi beach, there is organised, paid for parking which is handy, but it is around 1/1.5km from the beach itself. Whilst there are some toilets nearby, given the entire area is a national park, there are no supermarkets or permanent buildings on the beach.
There are however some stalls selling basic food and cold drinks, but you may want to bring some snacks and drinks with you. We found the beach to be well organised- there were beach chairs/loungers and umbrellas (paid for), which you can rent during your visit. Otherwise you can find a spot find along the beach and put down a beach towel if you’d prefer.
Elafonisi itself is a small island which can be reached from the mainland by foot by walking through the shallow water, which is incredibly warm and very pleasant. We spent a lot of time in the water, some time sunbathing and also quite a bit of time walking around Elafonisi itself.
Views across Elafonisi beach
Chrysoskalitissa Monastery
Driving back from Elafonisi, we decided to make a number of stops. First, we did a small detour to the Chrysoskalitissa Monastery, which was only a 5 minute drive from Elafonisi and certainly worth the detour.
The Chrysoskalitissa Monastery is consecrated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mother. Previously, during the Venetian occupation, it was dedicated to Saint Nicholas.
Built high up on the rocks and overlooking the sea, the Monastery looks a bit like a fortress and offers incredible views all around. Compared to the crowds at Elafonisi, this was a welcome and serene escape, offering peace and quiet for reflection.
Chrysoskalitissa Monastery
Above: Candle holders at the Chrysoskalitissa Monastery
Left: Icons and religious books at the Chrysoskalitissa Monastery
We spent a little bit of time walking around the Monastery as there are a few things to visit: there was a folklore museum, and a small Byzantine museum which had some Holy items and items used in ceremonies and church services. The church itself was stunning and impressive and is dedicated to Saint Gregory the Theologian- definitely worth a visit and to light a few candles.
We gave a small donation for entry. You can find a few parking spots directly outside the monastery, and it is open from 7.30am to 7.30pm.
The church at the Chrysoskalitissa Monastery
Inside the church at the Chrysoskalitissa Monastery
Cave of Agia Sofia
Another stop we made en route back from Elafonisi was at the Cave of Agia Sofia, located on the road halfway between Elafonisi and Chania.
The Cave itself is up the side of the road. There are a few parking spots by the side of the road- just cross the road with care. You can then climb some steps and then follow the path which leads you straight to the entrance of the cave itself. Entry is by donation. From here you have stunning views back over the road and the gorges- it is certainly worth stopping here to take in the view before you enter the cave. As you can see from the photo below the setting is stunning!
Views from the Cave of Agia Sofia
Steps leading up to the Cave of Agia Sofia
Entrance to the cave of Agia Sofia
The Cave of Agia Sofia is one of the largest in Crete, dating back to Neolithic times according to some of the objects found inside. In the cave, you can find the chapel to Agia Sofia which is incredibly beautiful.
You can also walk a little around the cave to look at the stalagmites and stalactites- just mind your step as it is rather dark in places. Overall the cave has a very spiritual atmosphere, and we would definitely recommend stopping by here whilst driving to Elafonisi or on the way back.
The Chapel inside the Cave of Agia Sofia
Stalagmites and stalactites in the cave of Agia Sophia
Overall, we would definitely recommend a day trip to Elafonisi if visiting Crete. We really enjoyed our visit, and even if crowded, it makes for a beautiful day out.
To find out more about other day trips and things to do we would recommend in Crete, check out our other blogs posts here.
Elafonisi beach
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