Is Gerani Chanion good for a family beach holiday?
Yes, Gerani Chanion is considered a good destination for family holidays. The beach is 2.5 km long with sand and clear water. It offers many amenities such as umbrellas, showers, beach bars, water sports, and lifeguards, making it suitable for families. Some hotels in the area also have facilities like children's pools and animation clubs.
What is the beach like in Gerani Chanion? Is it sandy?
Gerani beach is a mix of sand and pebbles. The upper parts of the beach are sandy, while there are small pebbles where the beach meets the sea and a few meters into the water. Some sources describe it as having lovely sand and clear water, while others mention coarse sand and pebbles. It's generally a wide beach.
Can you swim at Gerani beach and what is the water like?
Yes, you can swim at Gerani beach. The water is generally described as clear and blue. However, the water can be wavy and tends to deepen rather quickly, so families with young children should be cautious. The beach has been awarded a Blue Flag, indicating good water quality and safety.
Is Gerani beach crowded or quiet?
Gerani beach is generally considered quiet and less crowded, especially compared to its busier neighbor, Platanias. It offers a more tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. While there are organized sections with amenities, there are also less crowded, unorganized spots along the coast for those seeking more seclusion.
What kind of accommodation is available near Gerani beach?
There is a range of accommodation near Gerani beach, including larger resort hotels with extensive facilities, smaller family-run hotels and apartments, and villas. Many are located directly on or very close to the beach, offering convenient access.
Are there sunbeds and umbrellas for rent at Gerani beach, and what facilities are available?
Yes, Gerani beach has sections with sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent. Other facilities include showers, beach bars, water sport services, and lifeguards in the organized parts. Some hotels along the beach also provide these amenities for their guests, sometimes free of charge.
What is the best time of year to visit Gerani Chanion for a beach holiday?
The best time to visit Gerani Chanion for a beach holiday is during the summer months, from June to September. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, and the sea temperature is ideal for swimming and water activities.
Are there any concerns about sea turtles at Gerani beach?
Yes, Gerani beach is a nesting ground for the Caretta caretta (loggerhead) sea turtles, particularly from May to September. Visitors should be careful when walking on the sand, especially during the nesting and hatching season, as there might be buried turtle nests. Some nests may be marked for protection.
How does Gerani beach compare to Platanias beach?
Gerani beach is generally quieter and less developed than the nearby Platanias beach, which is known for being busier with more nightlife and tourist facilities. Gerani offers a more tranquil atmosphere, while Platanias is livelier. Gerani's beach is also described as wider and potentially wavier and more exposed than Platanias. You can walk between the two, or it's a short bus ride.
How do I get to Gerani Chanion from Chania town or Chania airport?
Gerani is about 13-14 km west of Chania town. You can reach Gerani from Chania by public bus (KTEL), which runs regularly and takes about an hour. Driving by car takes around 20 minutes. From Chania airport (CHQ), you can take a bus (which may involve a change in Chania town) with a total journey time of about 1.5 to 2 hours, or a taxi/private transfer which takes about an hour.
Are there places to eat and drink directly on or near Gerani beach?
Yes, there are several tavernas, cafes, and beach bars located near and along Gerani beach, as well as within the hotels fronting the beach. You can find options for food and drinks without having to venture far from the sea.
Is Gerani Chanion a good destination for a quiet, relaxing beach holiday?
Yes, Gerani Chanion is well-suited for a quiet and relaxing beach holiday. It's known for its peaceful atmosphere, especially when compared to more bustling nearby resorts. The long, spacious beach allows for finding uncrowded spots, and the village itself is more laid-back.
Should I wear beach shoes at Gerani beach?
It might be comfortable to wear bathing shoes at Gerani beach. While there is sand, there are also pebbles, particularly along the waterline and a few meters into the sea. Some visitors might find beach shoes more comfortable for walking in these areas.
Is Gerani beach affected by winds?
Gerani beach, being on the north coast of Crete, can be exposed to northerly winds (like the Meltemi in summer), which can sometimes make the sea wavy. However, some sources suggest its coarse sand composition helps it remain largely unaffected by these winds, maintaining its tranquility.
What is there to do in Gerani village besides the beach?
Gerani village itself is relatively small and quiet, with a focus on the beach. Kato Gerani (lower Gerani, by the coast) has tavernas, cafes, and some shops. Pano Gerani (the older village inland) offers a more traditional Cretan atmosphere. The area is also good for walks, and you can easily visit nearby villages like Platanias for more amenities and nightlife, or explore the wider Chania region.
