Just close your eyes and imagine: Long stretches of golden sand; crystal clear, turquoise and blue waters; a hot, scorching sun; secluded coves and idyllic sunsets…We bet that this is what paradise must look and feel like!
With your summer holidays just around the corner-but not quite here yet-daydreaming is all you can do in the meantime. To whet your appetite a little further, at cozy, family style Oscar Suites & Village, arguably the best hotel in Platanias, just 9 km from the historic town of Chania; we have compiled a list of the 10 most astonishing beaches in the region. After all at Oscar Suites & Village best hotel in Platanias, we aim to please. And to this end we place a great emphasis on insider’s intel: In fact our staff goes the extra mile to provide our guests with exclusive tips and information for just about everything. This essential lowdown does make a world of difference in our guests’ stay; and it is, accordingly, one of the reasons that make Oscar, the best hotel in Platanias.
1.Balos Beach
One of the most iconic beaches in Chania, Crete; boasting an exotic, majestic setting, with white sand and rocky formations, you won’t find elsewhere. Bear in mind that it gets crowded; so it is best to visit early in the morning. A good idea is to reach it by boat from Kissamos port and thus also get to see Gramvousa with its Venetian castle.
2.Kedrodasos Beach
A true oasis with white sand and juniper trees; ideal for nature lovers and campers. This is a virgin, unorganised beach in the Chania prefecture; so make sure you bring your own supplies. As per the shade; it shall be taken care of by the cedars. Reaching it requires a bit of walking, but the sight will reward you aptly.
3. Elafonissi Beach
As Kedrodasos, it is also a Natura 2000 protected area. It has pink shells on the beach and on the seabed and characteristically turquoise, crystal clear waters. Since it is a sight not to be missed, it gets exceedingly crowded. Avoid the central part of the beach; it is worth making the extra effort to walk a bit further until you uncover a more private spot.
4. Falassarna Beach
A much awarded beach in the Chania prefecture with fine, pale pink sand and blue-green waters; which, along with Balos and Elafonisi, is systematically featured in the “best beaches of the world” lists. In fact it consists of five consecutive beaches; the most popular -and packed- is Pachia Ammos. Boasting an array of beach bars and water sport facilities; it is a paradise for windsurfers and party animals, alike. Head towards its north if you’re looking for a bit of privacy and seclusion or if you like small coves; go south to discover an amazing sea bed.
5. Kalogeros (monk) Beach
Named after its characteristic monk-shaped reef, it is an idyllic, isolated beach, unbeknown to most; with amazing waters and fine pebbles. There are also a few trees and a cave where you can find shade and shelter. It is accessible only by boat; or for the truly fit, via an hour’s swim from Agia Roumeli.
6. Afrata Beach
A well protected, pebbly beach, 1 km east from the homonymous coastal village. Blending the wild beauty of Rodopou Cape with the calmness and tranquility of the peaceful bay, Afrata is a favorite of the locals. It has umbrellas and two canteens for the essentials.
7.Glyka Nera (sweet waters) Beach
A secluded beach in the south of the Chania prefecture that is named after the sweet water that comes from the mountains above and the springs scattered throughout its pebbly terrain. The water is potable, so you’ll get to see the famous Cretan goats descending from the steep cliffs to drink it. There is a small taverna and a couple of umbrellas; but otherwise the scenery is quite unspoiled and certainly imposing. You may reach it by boat from Sfakia or Loutro; or If you’re feeling more adventurous; through a rough hiking trail.
8.Marathi Beach
At a short drive from Chania, you’ ll find the so called “lovers beach”. In effect it consists of two organised beaches with serene, pale blue waters and a southeastern orientation, affording glorious sunsets. There are many restaurants and tavernas, if you get hungry; while opposite
there is the small island of Old Souda (Palaiosouda), which is popular among diving enthusiasts.
9.Gavdos
An inimitable, once in a lifetime, experience is in store, should you decide to visit the African seascapes of Agiannis and Lavrakas in Gavdos. Scattered cedar trees; pale, soft sand; unparalleled, transparent waters; and a distinctly bohemian vibe. These are this island’s trademarks which indeed paint an unforgettable, idyllic picture. It requires an approximately three hour boat trip from Sougia, Paleochora or Sfakia, but the stunning scenery will certainly recompense you.
10. Agia Marina- Platanias
Last but not least in our Chania’s 10 most astonishing beaches list, is none other than Agia Marina- Platanias. Home to Oscar Suites & Village best hotel in Platanias, it is one of the premier choices in Crete- and not unjustly. Boasting a 20 km long, sandy stretch; azure blue, calm and warm waters- in fact awarded with a blue flag– and a plethora of trendy beach bars and restaurants; it is a beautiful, organized beach with sun loungers and umbrellas. Agia Marina -Platanias in Chania also offers ample opportunities for all sorts of athletic activities including windsurfing, paragliding and jet ski and is frequented by families; sports enthusiasts; as well as the hip set of party goers.
Spend some carefree days touring Chania’s astonishing beaches. At the end of your escapades, your spacious and elegant studios and apartments; or your luxury private Jacuzzi Suite, at Oscar Suites & Village best hotel in Platanias, shall be waiting to welcome you; restore you and revive you. After all tomorrow is another day; and you certainly have some exploring to do!
