Shallow turquoise water and pink-tinted sand in a protected area.
Address: Elafonisi, Chania 730 12
Elafonisi is a small island connected to Crete by a sandbar and shallow lagoon you can wade across. Crushed shells give parts of the sand a pink colour.
The warm, shallow water is ideal for children. The island and its dunes are a protected nature reserve, home to rare plants and nesting sea turtles.
June to September.
Early morning or late afternoon, avoiding midday crowds.
Can be windy; the lagoon stays calm.
Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.
Yes, in places, from crushed shells.
Yes, the lagoon is shallow and warm.
No, it is a protected area.
