Best Beaches in Crete: Falassarna, Elafonissi, and Balos!
Crete has a lot of stunning beaches. There are many breathtaking coastal spots. We explored a lot of beaches during our stay. In this article, we will introduce you to three must-visit beaches in Crete: Falassarna, Elafonissi, and Balos.
1. Falassarna Beach
Our first stop from the start at Rethymno is the tranquil Falassarna Beach. Located about 100km west of Rethymno, it’s a peaceful beach with crystal-clear waters. The drive takes roughly one and a half hours. During the journey, you will get some stunning views over the scenery. The road is paved all the way to the parking area (free in October 2022). Compared to other beaches, Falassarna is remarkably serene and a much quieter option compared to the other two beaches mentioned here. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a delicious lunch at Taverna Mouraki, which offers fantastic views over the region.
2. Elafonissi Beach
From Falassarna, there may be two options to choose for a one-day itinerary: head back and go to Balos Beach or continue south to Elafonissi. We chose Elafonissi, which is set in a lagoon-like bay with clear, calm waters. Though it’s a popular destination and often crowded, the beauty of Elafonissi makes it worth the visit. The scenic drive to this beach takes about 1.5 hours over winding roads, covering only about 50 km. Parking is free (at least at our time of visit), but drive cautiously to avoid potholes near the end. For a more secluded experience, walk through the water to the island nearby.
3. Balos Beach
Balos Beach, another gem on the western side of Crete, was unfortunately not part of our trip due to time constraints. The beach is accessible mainly via a long unpaved road, which might deter some visitors traveling by car. However, numerous boat tours from popular tourist hubs like Rethymno make it easier to visit. Given more time, we would have certainly included Balos in our itinerary.
By exploring these stunning beaches in Crete, Falassarna, Elafonissi, and Balos, you’ll experience the island’s incredible natural beauty and diverse coastal landscapes.
For those planning their Crete adventure, make sure to check out our detailed day trips Crete and our Google Maps travel guide Crete, which includes all the beautiful beaches we visited.
