Greece · Beach & Island

Elafonisi Beach Private Tour to Pink Sands from Chania

7 Hours Round trip from Pickup service provided in Chania. Easy pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Private tour from Chania to Elafonisi Beach
02 Visit Agia Sofia Cave and its impressive stalactites
03 Stop at Chrysoskalitissa Monastery with panoramic views
04 Relax on Elafonisi’s pink and white sands
05 Enjoy shallow lagoon waters ideal for swimming
06 Scenic drive through traditional Cretan villages
07 Traditional meal stop in Elos Village
08 Hotel pick-up and drop-off included

Discover one of Crete’s most beautiful coastal escapes on this private journey from Chania to Elafonisi Beach, famous for its pink-tinged sands, shallow turquoise waters, and striking natural scenery. Along the way, enjoy a scenic drive through traditional villages and dramatic landscapes before reaching the island’s south-west coast.

This full-day experience also includes cultural and spiritual stops at Agia Sofia Cave and Chrysoskalitissa Monastery, adding history and local character to your beach day. Round off the journey with time in Elos Village, where a traditional Cretan meal offers a relaxed and authentic finish before returning to Chania.

Discover one of Crete’s most beautiful coastal escapes on this private journey from Chania to Elafonisi Beach, famous for its pink-tinged sands, shallow turquoise waters, and striking natural scenery.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Hours

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

City Chania

Languages English, Russian

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Agia Sofia Cave

We’re going to visit Cave of Agia Sofia with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

Within 40 min of Chania we reach the tree-lined gorge of the Village of Topolia. There is a 300-meter-high wall and the little chapel of Agia Sofia built in a cave.

Here you will be able to explore the many stalactites and the unique view of the gorge. 'The Romanza' canteen is the place to refresh with an array of Cretan specialties and delights. You will spot the local men wearing traditional Cretan clothing from decades ago.

This stop lasts about 30 minutes and then we continue south.

Chrisoskalitissa Monastery

A visit to the Monastery of Chrisoskalitsa is a must. Tradition has it that one of the 90 stairs to the top is a Golden Stair, from where the monastery gets its name. It is said that only a person without sin can see the Golden Stair. The monastery is still cared for by its faithful nuns.

The surrounding view is exceptional. Located at 285 m above the sea level this place is truly sublime in its natural beauty, spirituality and history.

Remember that to visit this place you need to wear clothes that cover your knees and shoulders.

This stop takes half an hour, then we head straight to the beach.

Elafonissi Beach

We arrive at Elafonissi around noon. By far one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, Elafoissi is situated on the south-west coast. A tropical effect is created by its white and pink coral sands. Head to the right for shallow water in a small enclosed lagoon ideal for the children.

A walk through the lagoon to the islet is most worthwhile as you will discover this unique coastline.

This place is so unique with its unbelievable colors, and unique history. The coral sands and warm shallow waters attract swimmers, spear fishermen, and windsurfers from the world over.

Beaches are very well equipped. You can rent beach beds, umbrellas and have lunch here.

Elos Village

Our journey will end with a traditional meal at a Cretan tavern in the village of Elos.

Return to Chania area, travel time 1 hour 15 minutes.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Pickup service provided in Chania. 1 city · 7 Hours

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Pick-up/drop-off at your hotel.
Comfortable Vehicle with a professional driver.
Water from the springs of the White Mountains “Samaria”, in bottles.
Accompaniment by a local expert/escort.
Entrance fees to Chrysoskalitissa Monastery.
Beach towels and umbrellas.
All Fees and Taxes

What's Not Included

Personal expenses, drinks, lunch/dinner.
Customary tips to your drivers, guides, and escorts.

Know before you go

STROLLER OR PRAM ACCESSIBLE
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION NEARBY
INFANT SEATS AVAILABLE
Not wheelchair accessible
Not suitable for pets
Infants must not sit on laps
To visit the Monastery, you must wear modest clothes: for women – a skirt/dress under your knees and covered shoulders. For men – trousers, T-shirt with long sleeves.
Important to have; Sun Cream (a lot!), Sunglasses and Hat, Long-Sleeved Shirt for Sensitive skin, Swim Suit, and a Beach Towel! Money for drinks, lunch/dinner.
Elafonisi is a Natura 2000 protected area, it is strictly forbidden to remove any plants, animals, shells, and sand from the area.
If any participant suffers from any severe allergy (e.g. to bee stings, food allergies/intolerances) or has medical/health issues we need to be aware of, it is important to let us know in advance. This is clearly a safety measure, personal information is by no means violated and we exercise all discretion.
Moysidis Travel is covered by Professional Liability Insurance. Each participant is advised to take out health/travel insurance before travelling to Crete.
Private pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, villa, cruise, or any other point in the region of Chania. Pick-up time is flexible and upon your final confirmation. Rethymno & Heraklion and other cities on Crete upon request*.