Elafonisi Lagoon

Elafonisi Lagoon is a must-visit beach in Crete, known for pink and white sand, turquoise water and a small islet you can walk to. Drive from Chania in around 1.5 hours or join a bus tour. You can hike, visit the lighthouse chapel and try watersports. For a quieter swim, head to the island coves or Kedrodasos Beach. Bring shade, sunscreen and shoes for the hot sand.

• Elafonisi Lagoon is one of Crete’s must-visit beaches, with pink and white sand and clear turquoise water.
• You can drive from Chania in around 1.5 hours, and parking is free.
• Popular things to do include walking to the islet, visiting the lighthouse chapel, hiking and trying watersports.
• For quieter swimming, head to the small island coves or nearby Kedrodasos Beach.
• Bring shade, sunscreen and suitable shoes because it can be windy, exposed and very hot underfoot.

In the south-west of the island, you’ll spy the candy floss-pinks of Elafonisi Lagoon. The sand here has been almost dip-dyed this colour by shells that have washed up on the shore over countless years. The aquamarine water is oh-so-inviting, but why not wander along this stunning stretch to get the full picture?