Elounda Beaches

Overview

Elounda, located on the captivating coast of Crete, Greece, offers a truly sophisticated beach experience. Visitors will discover a wonderful variety of shores, from soft sandy stretches ideal for families to charming pebble coves. The waters here are renowned for being crystal clear and calm, perfect for swimming. Elounda is known for its luxurious and tranquil atmosphere, making it a prime choice for a relaxed getaway rather than a bustling party scene.

Among Elounda's standout shores, Kolokytha Beach is a stunningly scenic cove with inviting turquoise waters. For a memorable day trip, Voulisma Beach offers a breathtaking expanse of golden sand. In the nearby village, Plaka Beach is a charming pebble option with clear waters and picturesque views of Spinalonga island. If you're seeking a more secluded experience, Dianiskari Beach provides a tranquil hidden cove. Elounda's main town beach, often referred to as Paralia Schisma Elountas, is a popular and easily accessible sandy spot, known for its calm, shallow waters.

The diverse coastline around Elounda ensures there's a perfect spot for every preference, whether you're looking for expansive sandy beaches or intimate pebbly coves. Beyond these highlights, many other beautiful beaches await your discovery. Our guide features a longer list of beaches in the area, helping you explore all the seaside treasures Elounda has to offer.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Is Elounda a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Elounda is considered family-friendly. The main Elounda beach, Paralia Schisma Elountas, is particularly suitable with its calm, shallow sandy waters, a playground, and good organization. Many resorts in the area also cater to families.

Paralia Schisma Elountas

What are the beaches like in Elounda – sandy or pebbly?

Elounda offers a mix. Paralia Schisma Elountas (Elounda's main beach) and Hiona beach are primarily sandy. Kolokytha beach is also a sandy cove. Plaka beach, located near Elounda, is known for its pebbles.

Paralia Schisma Elountas

Kolokytha

Plaka Beach

Can you swim in the sea in Elounda and what is the water like?

Yes, swimming is very popular in Elounda. The waters in the Bay of Mirabello are generally crystal clear, calm, and inviting, especially at beaches like Paralia Schisma Elountas, which is protected within a lagoon-like bay.

Paralia Schisma Elountas

When is the best time of year for a beach holiday in Elounda?

The prime beach season in Elounda runs from late May to September, offering warm, sunny weather and ideal sea temperatures for swimming. July and August are typically the hottest and busiest months.

How warm is the sea in Elounda in May or October?

In May, the sea temperature in Elounda is typically around 19-20°C (66-68°F), gradually warming up for the summer. By October, the sea remains pleasant for swimming, averaging around 22-24°C (72-75°F) after being warmed throughout the summer.

Are the beaches in Elounda crowded?

Elounda's main beach, Paralia Schisma Elountas, can get busy during the peak tourist season (July and August). However, Elounda generally maintains a more relaxed atmosphere compared to some other Cretan resorts. Quieter spots can often be found at smaller coves or by visiting beaches like Kolokytha, especially outside peak hours.

Paralia Schisma Elountas

Kolokytha

How do I get to Kolokytha beach? Is it difficult?

Kolokytha beach is accessible by car by driving along a scenic route past old salt pans, then onto a dirt track to a parking area near the chapel of St. Luke on the Spinalonga peninsula, followed by a 15-20 minute walk. Alternatively, many boat trips from Elounda include a swim stop at Kolokytha. The beach itself is unorganized, so you'll need to bring your own water and supplies.

Kolokytha

What are the beaches in Plaka like compared to Elounda's main beach?

Plaka, a village near Elounda, primarily features pebbly beaches with very clear water and typically a quieter, more traditional village atmosphere. Elounda's main beach, Paralia Schisma Elountas, is larger, sandy, and more organized with more facilities. Both locations offer views of Spinalonga island.

Plaka Beach

Paralia Schisma Elountas

Are there sunbeds and umbrellas for rent on Elounda beaches? What about facilities?

Yes, the main Elounda beach (Paralia Schisma Elountas) and Hiona beach are well-organized, offering sunbeds, umbrellas for rent, showers, and access to nearby tavernas and cafes. Plaka beach also has some organization. However, more secluded beaches like Kolokytha typically have no facilities.

Paralia Schisma Elountas

Plaka Beach

Kolokytha

Are there quiet or secluded beaches near Elounda?

Yes, while Elounda's main beach is popular, quieter options exist. Kolokytha beach offers a more secluded setting, though it is a common stop for boat tours. Smaller coves and beaches like Agia Paraskevi can be found along the coast towards Plaka, or on the Spinalonga Peninsula, which tend to be less crowded.

Kolokytha

Agia Paraskevi Beach

Is Elounda suitable for a luxury beach holiday?

Absolutely. Elounda is renowned for its luxurious resorts and sophisticated atmosphere, making it a prime destination for an upscale beach holiday. Many of these exclusive hotels feature their own private beach areas and premium amenities.

What's the vibe like at Elounda beaches? Is it a party place?

Elounda's beaches generally offer a relaxed, chic, and sophisticated atmosphere, appealing more to couples and families looking for tranquility and quality experiences. It is not known as a party destination like some other towns in Crete; the focus is more on unwinding and enjoying the scenic beauty.

Are there any beaches in Elounda with watersports?

Yes, Paralia Schisma Elountas, the main beach in Elounda, provides various watersports facilities. Visitors can typically find options such as pedal boats, jet skis, and other water-based activities. Driros beach is also noted for having a windsurf club.

Paralia Schisma Elountas

Do I need a car to access the beaches in and around Elounda?

Elounda's main beach (Paralia Schisma Elountas) is easily accessible on foot from the town center. To explore other beaches such as Kolokytha or those further along the coast towards Plaka, a car offers more flexibility. Plaka itself is also reachable by local bus or a small tourist train from Elounda. Boat trips are another popular way to access some of the more secluded coves.

Paralia Schisma Elountas

Kolokytha

Plaka Beach

Are Elounda's beaches affected by strong winds?

Elounda's main beaches, especially Paralia Schisma Elountas, are generally well-sheltered within the Bay of Mirabello and the Korfos lagoon, which often results in calm waters. While Crete can experience seasonal winds like the Meltemi, Elounda's geographical position frequently provides protection, making its beaches pleasant for activities.

Paralia Schisma Elountas