Looking to visit pink beaches in Crete? This guide has got you covered! The tranquil, pink sands of Cretan beaches are one of the many marvels that make the island a popular tourist destination.
This phenomenon of pink sand forms when crushed coral and tiny fragments of red shells mix with white sand and is becoming increasingly rare.
The pink sand is not as vast or vibrant as photos online might have you believe. The pink sands are most visible from right along the shoreline, and not along the entire beach.
It’s still super cool and unique, and I highly recommend visiting at least one pink sand beach on your trip to Crete!
The most widely known and accessible pink beaches in Crete are Elafonisi, Falasarna, and Balos.
I visited Elafonisi and Falasarna during my Crete trip and cannot wait to share my firsthand experiences with you!
1. Elafonisi
Location: Kissamos
Elafonisi is one of the most postcard-worthy destinations in Crete and is one of the top photos you see when doing an image search for Crete online.
And this is for good reason! In addition to its pink sands, Elafonisi is famous for its crystal-clear waters and shallow lagoons. My favorite part was admiring the mountainous views over the clear, blue water. It felt luxurious!
It’s super easy to take a day trip from Chania to Elafonisi, so you have your pick at how you want to get there.
Several $ 15-day tours are available which is a great price, but comes at the cost of hoards of crowds.
Alternate options to get there include renting a car or going with a small tour group.
I loved my experience with Sea By Bus because they picked us up three hours before the large coach bus tours began, so we had the morning at Elafonisi to ourselves.
I would recommend this tour for this reason alone, but it also made a stop at Falasarna Beach. (The two-in-one combo plus a visit to the largest olive tree in the world is what drew me in).
Umbrellas with beach chairs are available for rent.
⭐Click here for more popular day trips from Chania
2. Falasarna
Location: Kissamos
Falasarna Beach is a lot bigger than Elafonisi Beach. It is more popular among locals and not as touristy. It is still pretty crowded, but more spacious, so you can find your own spot to settle in along the long stretches of sand.
The best time to visit is late spring or early autumn when the weather is warm, and the crowds are thinner. There’s ample parking available nearby.
Umbrellas with beach chairs are available for rent.
3. Balos Beach
Location: Kissamos
Located at the northwestern tip of Crete, Balos Lagoon features beautiful pink sand against turquoise water.
The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer crowds.
Parking can be limited, so it’s advisable to arrive early or consider taking a boat trip from Kissamos, where you can also enjoy the gorgeous Crete coastline.
The shallow lagoons are perfect for swimming, especially for families with young kids.
Tip: Take the iconic photo opp at the hilltop above Balos.
Greece Beach Packing List
Conclusion
Visiting Balos, Falasarna, and Elafnosi beaches are some of the best things to do near Chania.
They are one of the many things that make Crete worth visiting!
From the vibrant pink sands of Balos to the more laid-back vibes of Falasarna, each beach offers a unique experience perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying the crystal-clear waters.
Remember to plan your visits during the shoulder seasons for ideal weather and fewer crowds, and don’t hesitate to explore other local attractions along the way.
Whether you’re looking to relax or embark on adventures, Crete’s beaches are sure to provide an unforgettable getaway.
Happy travels!
