Operates every Monday, Wednesday and Friday during April
Daily from May till October
Starting time 08:00 – 09:20 – Ending time 17:00 – 18:00
Stay in Elafonisi 4 hours / Stay at Elos village (possible stop) for optional lunch 1 hour approximately
Other Choices: Departure from Heraklion – Departure from Rethymno
Elafonisi is located 76km west of Chania in the southwestern most point of Crete. Elafonisi is an oblong, which often”breaks” in two parts by water giving the impression of being a separate island and a “Natura 2000” protected area. The island is full of dunes with sand lilies and junipers (like-cedar trees). The endangered turtles Caretta-Caretta and several rare animals nest on the island and it is strictly forbidden to remove any plants, animals from the area. Exotic beach with white sand and turquoise waters, reminding of the Caribbean, are formed on either sides of the peninsula. The sand is pinkish in many places, taking its color from thousands of broken shells.
Near the “breaking” point of the peninsula, the water does not exceed 1m, creating a small lagoon, ideal for children. You can easily cross the lagoon in order to reach the “island”, having your stuff with you, because the water is very shallow there. The eastern side of the beach, in front of the lagoon, is well organized and has the most people. There are umbrellas, showers, lifeguards, snack bars and changing rooms. TripAdvisor website has rated Elafonisi as the 1st Best Beach in the world for 2025.
Timetable:
| 08:00 – 09:20 | Pick-up |
| 09:45 – 10:15 | Coffee break |
| 11:15 | Arrival at Elafonisi |
| 15:15 | Departure from Elafonisi & 1 hour possible stop at Elos village for optional lunch |
| 17:00 – 18:00 | Arrival at Chania |
The timing of the program will be approximate, depending on traffic and weather conditions as well as the unexpected overcrowding.
Included:
✅ Pick-up & Drop-off service (mainly from hotels at Agia Marina, Agioi Apostoloi, Chania City, Gerani, Halepa, Kalamaki, Kolymbari, Maleme, Platanias, Stalos, Tavronitis is provided. If pick up from your hotel is not possible you will be picked up from the closest pick up point)
✅ Transport by air-conditioned luxury bus
✅ English-speaking guide
Not Included:
❌ Personal expenses
Discounts:
Children up to 2 years old free of charge and travelling on parents’ lap.
Children 3 – 12 years old 50% discount.
Cancellation policy:
For cancellation up to 2 days prior to arrival no cancellation fees
For cancellations 1 day prior to arrival 100% cancellation fees
Notes:
Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive a separate e-mail from our team with your activity voucher and detailed pick-up information. Please remember to check your spam or junk folder as well.
For clarifications please send us a mail at online@travelid.gr or contact us at +30 2810 335 227
We are at your disposal from Monday to Friday 09:00 am till 20:00 pm and Saturday 09:00 till 15:00 pm
The tour departs from predesignated pick-up points in Chania, confirmed upon booking. We provide comfortable, air-conditioned coach transport for the entire journey.
The journey takes approximately 1.5–2 hours, passing through the scenic Topolia Gorge and picturesque villages of Western Crete.
The distinctive pink hue comes from crushed coral shells mixed with white sand. The color is most vivid near the islet and in the shallow tidal areas — perfect for memorable photos.
Yes! The small islet is connected to the main beach by a shallow sandbar (only 20–40 cm deep). Walking across is part of the unique experience and safe for all ages.
Elafonisi is one of the most family-friendly beaches in Crete. The shallow, calm waters are perfect for toddlers, and the unique pink sand creates a magical atmosphere for children.
We recommend: high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, aqua shoes, a beach towel, and plenty of water. Snack bars and a small shop are available at the beach.
