Elafonisi – Just an endless summer playground
Crete is one of the most popular Greek islands, but did you know that on the southwestern corner of this beautiful island you can find another one?
Well, maybe it is more of a long, thin piece of land that usually has its top separated from the body and gives the illusion of an island. Still though, the scenery is majestic and definitely worth visiting.
Elafonisi in Greek actually means β€Deer Islandβ€, but don’t let the name fool you, there are no deer in the area. Actually you have to drive 1.5 hours from the nearest town, which is Chania. The whole β€islandβ€ of Elafonisi is protected from Natura, due to the rich and rare wildlife is has. This is the place where the careta careta turtles live, along with other endangered species.
Fact: You are not allowed to cut any of the flowers or plants there. You can’t even take some sand with you in a bottle.
The area is known for the unique beaches with white sand and turquoise waters that make many people think they are on the Caribbean. Β The sand in many parts takes a pink color because of the thousands of broken shells. In the part of Elafonisi where the land breaks apart, the water underneath is not even 1 meter deep. This creates a lagoon, ideal for kids to play around. You can also walk across the other side if you walk.
The east side of the beach, in front of the lagoon, is fully organized and this is where most of the visitors stay. Besides that part though, there many other beaches across the island that are even more beautiful - if that is possible - yet not so many people visit them. So, if you are interested in relaxing, reading a book and feeling like you are alone in paradise, we just found you the perfect spot!
Crete is one of the most popular Greek islands, but did you know that on the southwestern corner of this beautiful island you can find another one?
Well, maybe it is more of a long, thin piece of land that usually has its top separated from the body and gives the illusion of an island. Still though, the scenery is majestic and definitely worth visiting.
Elafonisi in Greek actually means β€Deer Islandβ€, but don’t let the name fool you, there are no deer in the area. Actually you have to drive 1.5 hours from the nearest town, which is Chania. The whole β€islandβ€ of Elafonisi is protected from Natura, due to the rich and rare wildlife is has. This is the place where the careta careta turtles live, along with other endangered species.
Fact: You are not allowed to cut any of the flowers or plants there. You can’t even take some sand with you in a bottle.
The area is known for the unique beaches with white sand and turquoise waters that make many people think they are on the Caribbean. Β The sand in many parts takes a pink color because of the thousands of broken shells. In the part of Elafonisi where the land breaks apart, the water underneath is not even 1 meter deep. This creates a lagoon, ideal for kids to play around. You can also walk across the other side if you walk.
The east side of the beach, in front of the lagoon, is fully organized and this is where most of the visitors stay. Besides that part though, there many other beaches across the island that are even more beautiful - if that is possible - yet not so many people visit them. So, if you are interested in relaxing, reading a book and feeling like you are alone in paradise, we just found you the perfect spot!
