The top child friendly & safe family beaches in Chania

Crete is the ideal destination for family holidays.

Fun and safe family time on the beach is a number one priority for most parents when choosing their summer holidays. Crete is the ideal destination for family holidays as it has lots of choice for our little friends. It’s a paradise for both children and adults alike and what could be more fun than frolicking in the sun and sand safely? Below is our pick of shallow and calm waters without waves that children can run around freely and enjoy their time in the sun.

Elafonissi Beach
Once you reach the first turning, one thing is for sure – you and your kids will be left speechless! A truly heavenly landscape that you should definitely visit if you happen to be in southwest Crete. The area is ideal for families as the waters are incredibly shallow and create lagoons where children can play safely. As one of the biggest tourist attractions in Crete and voted one of best beaches in Europe, Elafonissi Beach is a wonderful day trip for the whole family and not to be missed.

Marathi Beach
One sea, two beaches. Always calm with no wind, Marathi beach overlooks the shores of Souda Gulf and Lefka Orifi (White Mountains) of Chania. Truly magical. If you feel hungry after swimming, you could relax at the beach taverns and enjoy Cretan specialties or refreshments right on the beach sand. Marathi is an ideal beach for families with children.

Kalyves Beach
Always protected from the wind, the beach of Kalyves is sandy all along its length, with shallow, clear water. This picturesque spot right next to the harbor of Kalyves is a lovely location to spend a sunny afternoon with the whole family. It is organized with umbrellas and you can play beach volley or even try the watersports on offer. A short walking distance from the beach are many taverns serving fresh fish and great treats for all.

Tersanas Beach 
Tersanas is a well hidden beach in a small gulf surrounded by an abundance of vegetation. Fine white sand, crystal clear waters and a beautiful natural landscape are the key elements of its beauty. The beach is approximately 13km away from the city of Chania. It is actually the port of Chorafakia village, located only 1km away from the beach. The beach is small and sandy with shallow green-blue waters. Its distinctive characteristic is the small natural port that surrounds the beach and protects it from the wind. Rich plantation on the sand offer guests a cool shelter under their shade.