Travel guides and locals recommend this world-class beach on Crete, as it is a secluded spot on the western edge of the Greek island.
Despite being more than three hours by car from the Crete capital, Heraklion ventures across the island and absorbs the best coastline with those approaching nearby Chania.
Like most beaches in Crete, Elafonisi is accessible by car and includes short meanderings that meander through dusty trucks. Therefore, it is recommended to take plenty of water and snacks outside the day to avoid expensive fees from nearby amenities.
When I ventured out there, I questioned the hype surrounding Elafonisi. Commercialized parking is branded with a banner that costs 5 euros a day, with forceful attendants taking you there.
A 10 minute walk from the top of a small cliff will temporarily restore that remoteness, but the beach is busy with sunbeds, umbrellas, two small beach bars and small toilet facilities at the entrance.
Even in early October, the beach was very busy with families and couples, creating a lively atmosphere that was remote and out of nowhere.
However, it only takes a few minutes to realize the true charm of this world-famous European beach. Looking at the muddy, warm lagoon sections that attract families due to their shallow depths, you can see a small island beyond the sandbar, which is internationally classified as a nature reserve.
Ellafonissi reaches the quiet side, not pink sand or fascinating waters, but eccentric “pilgrimage” through the sea.
It's quite a sight to see people embark on this journey from the busy main beach to a quiet section, with the winding up beach linens and bags steadily being held above their heads as the waves ripple over. It's there.
This entertaining trek through warm, knee-deep waters leads to an oasis with sand dunes, rare flora and Chrysoscaritissa Monastery perched on rocky hills.
The island is one mile long and ends with a rocky outcrop. Certain walks are laid out to protect rare plants, and of course, removing plants and animals from the island is prohibited and punished by a large fine.
Here, the beauty of the pink sand and turquoise oceans can be fully appreciated without distraction on the main beach.
The sturdy rocky bits adorn the coastline and provide visitors with privacy and shelter from the refreshing breezes that shrink from the hot weather. It is the perfect place to escape the masses and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
Elafonissi isn't just about relaxing on the warm, golden sand. You can indulge in snorkeling, explore vibrant underwater life, and even try your hand in windsurfing.
The wide, shallow lagoon is a shelter for the rare loggerhead sea turtles. However, they are very shy and difficult to find as the beaches are so popular. If you're lucky, it's a good idea to give them a wide berth, as it's a protected species.
Visiting Elafonisi early in the day is recommended to make the most of the weather, but those who are ventured later in the day will be rewarded with a picturesque sunset.
The view from the island when the sun sets over the west sea is truly spectacular, and visitors will repent to skip such a beautiful sight.
