BEACHES IN WESTERN CRETE

VISIT OUR FAMOUS EXOTIC BEACHES.

BY BOAT OR BUS!

Sea & Sun 

Looking for that perfect sandy beach in Crete? Visit Crete’s absolut top beaches! Even if you appreciate the culture and all the lovely food here, having a fantastic beach experience is still on top of the list for most of our summer visitors. On the west coast we have world famous beaches such as Balos and Elafonissi, both child friendly with shallow waters. Falassarna beach is a bit closer to Chania and perfect if you want to find a beach closer by. The south coast has also a lot of beautiful places to see such as Previlli, Sougia and Paleochora, book one of our Private Excursions to get the best experience. If you like a bit more action check out our boat excursion for a day with Sea & Sun, and fun!

 

Top Beaches in Crete

LOUTRO - NEW 2025!

BOOK HERE!

Loutro - a favorit on the south side
SEA AND SUN - FULL DAY  The journey to Loutro is an unforgettable experience, offering breathtaking views of Crete’s rugged southern coast. Loutro is accessible only by boat or on...
From EUR 38
Book Now!
Destination Platanias Elafonissi Tour - BESTSELLER - 30 Eur

Elafonissi Tour - BESTSELLER - 30 Eur

SEA AND SUN - FULL DAY. Visit Crete’s most loved beach, Elafonissi! A magical place on the southwest coast with crystal clear waters and beautiful pink sand. One of Europe’s top beaches. Book now!  DETAILS OF YOUR TRIP You will be picked up by the bus at your pick up point. The drive will go through Western Crete and the village of Topolia where we will have the a 30 minute stop for refreshments/breakfast or a visit in a small stalactite cave called Agia Sofia. We will reach Elafonisi about 11:15 and we will stay there about 3,5 to 4 hours. You will have a plenty of time to walk through the shallow water to discover the beautiful area of Elafonisi, to sunbathe and to swim in the crystal clear water. A fantastic place which often is called as "The Cretan Maldives”. As we return with the bus, there will be a stop in a local village for late lunch for approx. one hour. The guiding in the tour is in English. Schedule: 08:00-09:05 Pick-Ups On the way a stop at Agia Sofia Cave (30 min) 11:15 Arrival at Elafonisi 15:15 Departure from Elafonisi On the way a stop at local village for late lunch (approx. 1 h) 18:30-19:00 Arrival at your hotel Children tickets from 3 y/o up to 12 y/o.

FromEUR 30
Book Now
Destination Platanias BALOS LAGOON TOUR

BALOS LAGOON TOUR

BALOS LAGOON Cruise - FULL DAY - WITH TRANSFER One of Crete’s top beaches! Visit one of Europe's most beautiful beaches, Balos Lagoon with crystal clear waters and white sand, with a stop at the Gramvousa island. A wonderful boat cruise with all the comforts on board.  Details of your trip Total cost of the excursion: Adults 58€ The total price for an adult is 58€. An adult will pay 33€ upon booking and the remaining amount 25€ will be paid in cash at bus to the guide. Children 32.50€ The total price for a child age 3-11,99 yrs is 32.50€. A child will pay 20€ upon booking and the remaining amount 112.50€ will be paid in cash at bus to the guide. Children under 3 yrs are free of charge.   Your day starts with being picked up from your hotel or at one of the specific pick up points. On the bus the guide is going to give you all the necessary information about the cruise. The ferry is waiting for you when you arrive at the port of Kissamos. There is a self-service point on board where you can buy meals, snacks and drinks. You can freely choose your seat either on the outside deck or inside. From the port, it is less than an hour's sea journey to Balos lagoon. You have possibility to swim in the crystal clear waters and enjoy sunbathing at the beach or on board. The break at Balos beach is 2,5 hours. It is only 20 minutes from Balos to the island of Gramvousa. There will be 1 hour and 45 minutes break on the island where you can stay ashore for a swim, hike up to the Venetian fortress of Gramvousa or stay on the ferry. From the island of Gramvousa, there is a direct return to the port of Kissamos-Kastelli. During the boat trip, it's a great opportunity to admire the scenery from the sea when the sun is already behind you. The ferry is arriving at 17:45 to the port and the return time in Chania is approximately by 19:00. The facilities on ferry accepts only credit cards, no cash! Notice! To see the Gramvousa fortress you need to walk uphill a couple of hundred of meters to reach the top of the island.

FromEUR 33
Book Now
Destination Platanias Falassarna

Falassarna

SEA AND SUN - FULL DAY Falassarna Beach is located in the western part of Cape Gramvousa. It is one of the most famous beaches in Greece, which has been awarded as the best beach of Crete and one of the 10 best beaches in Europe in the past.  DETAILS OF YOUR TRIP Falassarna spans a huge area and consists of five consecutive beaches, with the two most central being the most favorite. With its crystal-clear water and white sandy beaches, Falassarna is the perfect place to unwind and relax. Falasarna is also famous for its majestic sunset, which is considered the best in all Crete because of its unhindered horizon view. Visitors who choose to explore them in the afternoon literally watch the sun dive in the sea. Timetable: 08:00-09:20 Pick-Up 10:15 Arrival at Falassarna Beach Optional visit on foot to Ancient Falassarna 15:00 Departure from Falassarna Beach 15:40-16:45 Arrival at your hotel

FromEUR 30
Book Now
Destination Platanias Boat Tour 3h - Platanias

Boat Tour 3h - Platanias

SEA AND SUN - 1/2 DAY  Make sure you join up Captain Argiris and his crew for a 3 hour boat trip. Discover Platanias seaside with swimming and jumping from the boat, learn a few things from the crew and see some history that's hidden on the seabed…  Details of your trip Tips! Kindly make your reservation as soon as possible or at least 3 to 5 days in advance. You will be greeted by the Captain and his friendly crew at the small harbour of Platanias. Life jackets are available for anyone who would like. The boat will head out to the island of Agios Theodori and if the weather allows they will take you around the hole island. Then it's time for the first stop, go for swimming just by the shore of the island and from here you might see the famous Kri Kri goats. The amazing service minded team of the boat will take good care of you and show you some hidden treasures of the sea, share some of their knowledge of the wildlife and show them to you. If you have any questions don't hesitate to ask, they are more then happy to answer you. The boat will continue a bit further down and make another stop and here you can see a old war plane that crashed during the world war II. During the ride home to the harbour you will have the view of the busy coastline of Platanias. This trip has been very loved by its visitors and many choose to do it one more time at their next visit to Platanias. Notice:  If weather conditions are very bad, the trip will be cancelled and you will get 100% refund on your payment. 

FromEUR 30
Book Now
Destination Platanias Boat Trip To Magical Menies Beach

Boat Trip To Magical Menies Beach

BOAT CRUISE & SEA AND SUN - 1/2 DAY. Menies is a secluded beach many kilometers from the nearest village, untouched by man. On our way to this paradise we will stop at caves for you to explore and to swim in crystal clear waters. We welcome you to a 4 hour boat trip to enjoy the sea and the sun! Transfer Included!  Boat trip to magical Menies We start our adventure from the harbour of Kolympari taking you to the beautiful beach of Menies also known as Diktyna located on the northeastern shores of Cape Rodopos. The beach is in a small bay where the Foundas Gorge ends. It's a lovely secluded beach with pebbles and crystal clear waters, the usual winds blowing in the area doesn't reach this paradise.The wild beauty will win you over for sure!  On our way to the beach we will make a stop at caves in Chironisia Bay giving you the chance to swim and explore the shores of this charming area. We will guide you to places of historical and geographical importance of Crete, we will for example show you the monastery of St. George, dating from 530 BC, and the remains of the ancient port.  Menies beach is several kilometers away from the nearest village and it has not been altered by man in any shape or form. It is a virgin landscape that awaits you! A perfect place to swim and relax in the company of the amazing nature of Crete. Timeline Morning Tour (Afternoon hours): 09:00 - 10:05 Pick up with transfer bus (13:15-14:20) 10:10 Arrival at Kolimbari harbour (14:25) 10:15 Boat departure the harbour (14:30) 10:55 Arrival at Menies Beach for swim (15:10) 12:55 Boat departure from Menies (17:10) 13:05 Short stop at the Rodops cave for photoshooting (17:20) 13:20 Arrival in our second swim stop: Chironisia bay (17:35) 14:00 Departure from hironisia bay (18:15) 14:20 Arrival in the harbor of Kolymbari (18:30) 14:30 - 15:30 Drop off at the hotels (18:35-19:20)   Duration: 4 hours   Notice: If weather conditions are very bad, the trip will be rearranged. If it's cancelled, you will get a 100% refund on your payment.

FromEUR 38
Book Now
Destination Platanias Glass Bottom Boat Trip - 2 hours

Glass Bottom Boat Trip - 2 hours

BOAT TRIP AND SEA & SUN - 2 hours Discover what's underneath the surface of the sea from above! Join the glass bottom boat trip!   DETAILS OF YOUR TRIP  Take a few hours break from the beach and join a glass bottom boat trip. A perfect excursion for all of the family, even the smallest children will enjoy this trip. This tour will make shorter stops for swimming it's just a joyful ride to see the beautiful cost of Platanias and all the magic that hides underneath the surface of the mediterranean sea. Sit back and relax and see the beautiful scenery. Captain Argiris and his well experienced team will share with passion and love their knowledge about the sea and the treasures it holds. Discover the fish and wildlife underneath the surface without even getting wet. If you are looking for an easy going activity this is perfect for You! Tips! Make your reservation at least 3 to 5 days in advance. Notice:  If weather conditions are very bad, the trip will be rearranged. If it's cancelled, you will get 100% refund on your payment.

FromEUR 25
Book Now

SUP - Boarding Tour Chania
SEA AND SUN - OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES - 1/2 DAY - Nea Chora, Chania. Explore Chania on a SUP board! Do you want to have fun, enjoy the sun and crystal clear waters on a SUP board? Come join us on our ...
From EUR 55
Book Now!
Destination Platanias PADI Discover Scuba Diving

PADI Discover Scuba Diving

For beginners - Adults and Children - 1/2 DAY. Have you ever wondered what it’s like to breathe underwater and feel weightless?  If you want to find out but aren’t quite ready to take the plunge into a certification course, Discover Scuba Diving gives you the opportunity to try it first.  Our goal is to provide our customers with an adventurous Diving activity, one that will remain unforgettable. We will do our best for you to enjoy your Scuba Diving experience in a safe and relaxing manner. PADI Discover Scuba Diving PADI Discover Scuba Course (min. age 10) Have you ever wondered what it’s like to breathe underwater and feel weightless?  If you want to find out but aren’t quite ready to take the plunge into a certification course, Discover Scuba Diving gives you the opportunity to try it first.   If you decide to take this diving course, you will be provided with PADI Discover Scuba Diver e-Learning Manual which includes all the required paperwork, theory and a certification verifying you have completed the course.  When transferred from your pick up point to the dive center and after completion of the paperwork, you will be all suited up, your scuba unit will have already been prepared for you to continue your instruction in beginning with different skills.  We will transport you with our boat to the dive location. When your instructor is satisfied with your performance of the skills, exercises and your comfort level being underwater, you will then enjoy your dive to a maximum dive depth of 12 meters for 30-45 minutes. (Instructor – student ratio is 3:1) When you complete this course, you will be transferred to your original pick up/ drop off point.  After this diving experience, you are now ready for the next level of courses, the Scuba Diver or the Open Water Course. For Children: Bubble Maker PADI Bubble Maker course (ages 8-10) A PADI program which introduces scuba diving as an activity to children ages 8-10.This is a great opportunity and an incredible experience for children to try out diving in Chania’s safe waters.  They are introduced with the use of the specialized equipment which is tailored to children and followed by an actual dive with a PADI instructor at a maximum depth of 2 meters.  This course is offered one-on-one (one child with one PADI instructor).  

FromEUR 110
Book Now
Destination Platanias SNORKELING - For all ages

SNORKELING - For all ages

SNORKLING - 1/2 DAY  Join a snorkeling trip starting from Chania! The guiding, equipment, transportation and light snack are all included in the price. Snorkling with licensed Padi Diving guides When you arrive at the diving center, you will need to fill in the necessary paperwork and you will receive snorkeling equipment (mask, fins, snorkel and short wetsuit). The guide gives a short theory session showing how to use the snorkeling equipment and informs you about the safety in snorkeling sites. One of the fast RHIB boats takes you for a 20-25 minute journey to the first snorkeling spot. Before going to the second place, there will be a stop for a light snack. • Level: none (ability to swim) • Minimum age: none • Duration: 10.00-14.00, 14.00-19.00 (Pick up transfer starts approx one hour prior activity) • Small group

FromEUR 76
Book Now
Destination Platanias SUP - boarding tour at Marathi Beach - Transfer included

SUP - boarding tour at Marathi Beach - Transfer included

SEA AND SUN - OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES - 1/2 DAY - Transfer included!  Enhance your traveling experience and get your body moving. Come and see the western coast of Crete on a SUP board. Paddle around the most crystal clear, turquoise watersand discover the amazing spot that not even the locals know, guided by our experienced SUP instructors.  Stand Up Paddling After an introductory course on the basic paddling techniques, how to stand up, turn and stop, we set course within the bay, explore the caves that lie hidden across the coastline, swim, take pictures and enjoy what is considered to be the highlight of our guests’ vacations in Crete. We will provide you with all equipment to safely enjoy sup boarding around our coastline and record all these unique memories with our action cameras. All footage will be send to you as reminiscent of this unequalled experience. There is absolutely no need for prior paddling experience, we make sure you feel confident and ready to go within the first few minutes! Our tour is specially designed to please all levels of paddlers, from first timers to pros. While previous paddle boarding experience isn’t necessary and our instructors are certified in water rescue and first aid, participants should still know how to swim.  Dress according to the weather, preferably in clothing that’s comfortable to move in and can tolerate getting wet. A hat/cap and sunscreen are recommended on sunny days. A second change of clothes, that will be kept out of the water, within our premises, during the tour, is also recommended.    

FromEUR 74
Book Now

From Falassarna to Balos Beach - with Speed Boat
Sea & Sun -  HALF DAY Join us a trip to Balos Beach witch starts from Falassarna.  A 11 meters long Speed Boat is waiting to take you from Falassarna to Bal...
From EUR 10
Book Now!

Falassarna Sunset
SEA AND SUN - HALF DAY  Why to choose Falassarna afternoon? Watch the amazing sunset. Have fun and choose between a variety of water sports (at extra cost). Swim in the crystal-clear waters ...
From EUR 30
Book Now!

BALOS

Book Now!

BALOS BEACH

Balos beach is often called ”tigani” (a frying pan) by the locals due to its shape. It is located in the end of the Gramvousa peninsula and can be reached by jeep or by boat. Most of the visitors choose a boat trip, because the road is unpaved , there’s not much place for parking and you have to walk the last 2 km until you reach the beach. A boat trip is simply more relaxing and this way you have the possibility to visit Gramvousa island and also enjoy the amazing view of the Balos lagoon. Absolutely one of the top beaches in western Crete!

 

Private Jeep Tour To Balos Lagoon
LOCAL EXPERIENCE - ADVENTURE - FULL DAY This premium safari road trip is an authentic experience to visit Balos Lagoon in privacy and comfort, since you don't have to schedule your entir...
From EUR 400
Book Now!

ELAFONISSI

A perfect day filled with Sun & Sea

BOOK NOW

ELAFONISSI

Elafonissi beach is the most well known beach in Crete and approximately 2 hour drive from Platanias. Thousands of visitors want to experience this beautiful fine sandy “pink” beach which is often referred to as the “Cretan Maldives”. Elafonissi beach is part of Natura 2000 –program due to its unique nature and therefor under the nature protection. However you will find all the basic services by the beach like showers, toilets, sunbeds and umbrellas as well as simple cantinas for snacks and drinks. One of the Top 10 beaches in the world!

 

Elafonissi - PRIVATE TOUR
SEA AND SUN - PRIVATE TOUR - 7hours Visit Crete’s most loved beach, Elafonissi! A magical place on the southwest coast with crystal clear waters and beautiful pink sand. One of Europe&rsquo...
From EUR 190
Book Now!

FALASSARNA

Falassarna beach is approximately 45 min drive from Platanias village to the west. This shallow and fine sandy beach is ideal for small children and known for having the most beautiful sunsets in the whole island. You will find a few small mini markets and taverns very close to the beach and even small hotels for accommodation. On the beach you have the possibility to rent sunbeds and umbrellas and participate in different water activities. You can visit Falassarna by local bus or by renting a car.

 

 

  • Country Road Trip with Winery
    Have you ever wondered how it is behind the popular holiday area? Take a path thru Cretan lifestyle in the countryside and visit a winery! DETAILS OF YOUR TRIP Our guided country tour will take...
    From EUR 65
    Book Now!

  • FREE Guided village walk
    Is it your first time in Platanias or maybe you have visited the village already several times but stayed mainly at your hotel? Join us for a small Monday tour around the village!  DET...
    From EUR 0
    Book Now!

  • Honey and Cheese Tastings
    Join us for a unique tasting trip which you can only find with Destination Platanias! We will introduce you to the real Cretan tastes, honey and cheese, straight from the local producer. DE...
    From EUR 65
    Book Now!

  • Mountain Road Trip
    Mountain stories! Experience the beautiful White mountains of Crete and enjoy the amazing Cretan sceneries. DETAILS OF YOUR TRIP Our road trip will start with colourful sceneries through the or...
    From EUR 65
    Book Now!

  • Olive oil and Wine Tastings
    Traditional and classic road trip with private guidning! Taste the green gold, the awarded Cretan olive oil, with us and give a hug to one of the oldest olive tree in the world! DETAILS OF YOUR ...
    From EUR 65
    Book Now!

  • Village Road Trip
    A picturesque upper village of Platanias, narrow country roads, chapels and churches, orange and avocado farms... Our Guided Village Road Trip in Platanias has it all! DETAILS OF ...
    From EUR 59
    Book Now!

Find activities

DESTINATION PLATANIAS

- WE PLAN & YOU ENJOY!