Bathed by the waves of the Sea of Crete and the Libyan Sea, the beaches along the island’s west coast stand out as some of the most beautiful across Europe. With their pink sands, azure waters, and tawny rock formations set against a lush background of palm trees, this stretch of coastline showcases the vibrant hues of the Mediterranean in an array of expansive bays and secluded coves.
The Lagoon of Balos
Undoubtedly, the most stunning beach in Western Crete is found at the Ballos peninsula, which juts prominently outward from the northwest tip of Crete, connected to the mainland solely via a stretch of unspoiled white sands. This natural lagoon primarily showcases turquoise waters that seem to appear suddenly amidst the dry terrain of the Grambousa Peninsula following a hike over from there. However, reaching this idyllic spot can be more convenient; simply take a boat journey either from Chania or from the small harbor town of Kastelli Kissamos.
The Falassarna light show
Extending over a vast sandy coastline, Falassarna Bay faces westward. Although swimming here can be enjoyed throughout the day, the true magic unfolds as evening approaches. At this hour, the beach transforms into a picturesque scene, gazing upon the sunset. The sky erupts into nearly surreal hues of orange, which shimmer across the clear blue waters, blending into gradients of violet and lilac. This spectacle reaches its peak with a vibrant display of emerald tones.
The blush-colored shores of Elafonisi
The waters of the Libyan Sea lap against the southwest tip of Crete, where its unmatched azure hues gently embrace the coastline.
refined salmon-hued sand of Elafonisi beach
There isn’t another beach quite like it, making this stretch of sand well-deserving of its acclaim as one of the finest in Europe. As evening descends, the sky transforms into a soft rosy hue with an array of delicate pastels.
The harsh burnt sienna of Seitan Limania
The query circulates with unease.
Chania
Which route will lead you to Devil’s Port? This secluded bay, called Seitan Limania in Greek, is tightly enclosed at the end of a passage between imposing cliffs. It appears unexpectedly amidst this dizzying terrain where wild goats wander; its vivid turquoise waters cut through the reddish-brown rocks like a snare laid by the devil himself.
The lush emerald hues of Preveli
The emerald waters of a river meander through the Preveli gorges, eventually merging with the sea amidst a serene palm forest along the Libyan coastline. This scene seems plucked directly from an adventurous film set under different skies somewhere tropical. Yet, it is actually one of Crete’s most striking shores. Accessible via a precipitous path descending from a monastery perched above the beach, which watches over this lush haven like a sentinel.