Travel guides and locals recommend this world-class beach in Crete, partly due to its secluded location on the Greek island’s western tip.
Despite being more than three hours by car from Crete’s capital, Heraklion, hordes of tourists venture across the island to soak up the best of the coastline, along with those staying closer in nearby Chania.
Like most of Crete’s beaches, Elafonisi is accessible by car and involves a short, meandering walk down a dusty track. So, it’s advisable to take plenty of water and snacks for a day out to avoid overpriced fees from nearby amenities.
I questioned the hype over Elafonisi when I ventured there, as the drive there quickly dispels any romantic notions of untouched paradise. Commercialised car parks are branded with €5-a-day banners and pushy attendants usher you in.
The 10-minute walk down from the top of the small cliff briefly restores its remoteness, but the beach is busy with sunbeds, umbrellas, two small beach bars, and some small toilet facilities at the entrance.
Even in early October, the beach was very busy with families and couples, creating a bustling atmosphere that was far from secluded.
But it only takes a few minutes to realise the true charm of this world-renowned European beach. Once you look past the murky, warm lagoon section that attracts families due to its shallow depths, you see the small island beyond the sandbar, which is internationally classified as a nature reserve.
Elafonissi isn’t about the pink sand or the inviting waters but the quirky “pilgrimage” through the sea to reach the quieter side.
Watching people embark on this journey from the crowded main beach to the tranquil section is quite a sight, with rolled-up beach linens and bags held steadily above heads as the waves ripple through.
This amusing trek through the warm, knee-deep waters leads to an oasis with dunes, rare flora, and the Chrysoskalitissa Monastery, which is perched high on a rocky hill.
The island is a mile long and ends in a rocky outcrop. Specific walks are laid out to protect its rare plants, and, of course, removing any plants or animals from the island is forbidden and punishable by big fines.
Here, the beauty of the pink sand and turquoise waters can be fully appreciated without the distractions of the main beach.
Rugged rocky bits decorate the coastline, providing visitors privacy and shelter from the refreshing winds that take the edge off the hot weather. It’s the perfect spot to escape the masses and soak in the area’s natural beauty.
Elafonissi isn’t just about lounging on the warm, golden sand, enjoyable as that is. You can indulge in snorkelling, explore the vibrant underwater life and even try your hand at windsurfing.
The wide, shallow lagoon shelters rare loggerhead sea turtles. However, they are difficult to spot because they are very shy, and the beach has become so popular. If you do get lucky, it’s advisable to give them a wide berth as they are a protected species.
Visiting Elafonisi early in the day is recommended to get the best of the weather, but those who do venture later in the day will be rewarded with a picture-perfect sunset.
The views from the island as the sun sets in the western sea are truly spectacular and visitors would be remiss to skip such a beautiful sight.
