Summer is synonymous with holidays and you may be dreaming of a beautiful beach getaway - especially after the wet weather we’ve been experiencing here recently. While some of the world’s best beaches are found in the likes of the Caribbean and the Maldives, there’s certainly a few which can rival them right here in Europe.
One Greek beach in particular offers a slice of the Caribbean without the expensive long-haul plane ticket. With gorgeous white sand - which sometimes has a pink hue - and crystal-clear waters, Elafonisi beach has been described as “one of the best beaches in the world.”
Located on the south-west coast of the island of Crete, the beach can be reached by a direct bus from Chania or by renting a car - the drive takes around an hour and a half. Skyscanner shows tickets from Manchester Airport to Chania, with the cheapest one priced at £57 in July, with returns available from £63.
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With powder soft sand and shallow waters it’s easy to see why Elafonisi is so popular. Get there early enough and you’ll be able to secure a parasol to lounge under as you look out at the turquoise waves gently lapping on the shore. If not, make sure you bring your own as it can get busy.
The beach is famous for its pink-hued sand which is created due to the erosion of seashells. Although the pinkness can vary, if you are lucky to see it during your visit it is stunning and very Instagrammable.
Thanks to its gently sloping sand the beach is perfect for little ones and ideal for snorkelling. The beach is actually connected to a nearby island sharing the same name and at low tide it’s even possible to walk across the sandbar between them.
As well as snorkelling or paddling in the water, the area is popular for windsurfing, paddle boarding and kayaking and there’s a watersport equipment rental shop at the far end of the beach. For those who prefer to stay dry you can hire a sunbed on the beach - although you’ll need to make sure you get there early.
Elafonisi has gained popularity in recent years thanks to its gorgeous scenery. One visitor wrote on TripAdvisor: “A must see in Crete and a fantastic drive to get to it. Beach has wonderful pink sand and you should not miss it if you are in Crete. I’ve been to many beaches all over the world and this is one of the very best.”
Another reviewer said: “One of the most beautiful beaches I’ve seen. Beautiful beach with its famous pink sand. This beach gives you Caribbean vibes with its turquoise and crystal clear water.” A third called it “the Caribbean in Europe”.
There’s a couple of beach cafes nearby where you can grab a refreshment from and there’s public toilets too. If you want to stay right by the beach there are a couple of accommodation options nearby including the Elafonisi Resort by Kalomirakis Family which starts from £100 a night. Alternatively hotels in Chania cost around £60 - £70.
