Elafonisi Beach: Crowned the Best Beach in the World 2025.
- Ioannis Deiktakis
- Apr 29
- 3 min read
A Paradise of Pink Sands and Turquoise Waters, Anchored by Timeless Cretan Hospitality.
In 2025, the global travel community has spoken — and the verdict is clear. Elafonisi Beach, located on the southwestern tip of Crete, Greece, has officially been crowned the Best Beach in the World. With its iconic pink sands, crystal-clear lagoon waters, and untouched natural surroundings, Elafonisi has captured the imagination of travelers seeking both beauty and serenity.
A protected natural reserve and a symbol of sustainable tourism, Elafonisi isn’t just a beach — it’s a sensory sanctuary where the Aegean’s wild elegance meets ancient Cretan soul.
Why Elafonisi Beach Stands Above the Rest
Elafonisi (sometimes spelled Elafonissi) consistently ranks among the most beautiful beaches globally, but in 2025, it outshone all contenders due to its:
Unique pink-hued sands, created from crushed coral and seashells
Shallow, translucent lagoons ideal for all ages
Protected natural ecosystem home to rare flora and migratory birds
Pristine, eco-conscious tourism policies that keep the beach unspoiled
Accessibility combined with seclusion, offering both comfort and a feeling of discovery
Elafonisi's charm lies in its contrasts — it is both wild and welcoming, remote yet reachable. The beach stretches out into a peninsula, with natural pools and sandbanks that shift with the tide, creating an ever-changing landscape.
How to Get There
Elafonisi Beach is about 75 km southwest of Chania, the second-largest city in Crete. The most scenic way to get there is by car, taking the winding road through the Topolia Gorge, where dramatic cliffs, olive groves, and small villages offer a preview of Crete’s natural beauty.
Driving time from Chania: ~1 hour 45 minutes
Public transportation: Seasonal buses operate from Chania and Kissamos during summer months
Private tours and shuttle services are also available from Kaliviani and other nearby villages
For travelers arriving by air, Chania International Airport (CHQ) offers connections from major European cities, especially during the tourist season (April–October).
Where to Stay: Kaliviani Traditional Hotel — The Quintessential Cretan Retreat
While Elafonisi Beach is an unmatched daytime destination, the perfect stay is found just under an hour away in the tranquil village of Kaliviani, near Kissamos. There, the Kaliviani Traditional Hotel has earned its place as the premier accommodation choice for 2025 visitors to Elafonisi.
Why Kaliviani Traditional Hotel?
A harmonious blend of authentic Cretan architecture and modern comforts, the Kaliviani Traditional Hotel is a haven for those who want to experience genuine island hospitality in a serene setting.
Key highlights:
Elegant, traditionally styled rooms with stone walls, wooden ceilings, and modern amenities
Homemade breakfast with local products served on a sea-view terrace
Proximity to top beaches including Elafonisi, Balos Lagoon, and Falasarna
Warm, personalized service from hosts who treat guests like family
Free Wi-Fi, parking, and assistance with local tours and excursions
The village of Kaliviani also offers authentic tavernas, walking trails, and a peaceful atmosphere — a perfect contrast to the buzzing beaches.
Location: Kaliviani, Kissamos, Chania, Crete Website: www.kaliviani.com Tel: +30 6980060354 Email: info@kaliviani.com
"Staying at Kaliviani felt like discovering a secret — peaceful, charming, and perfectly positioned for exploring the treasures of western Crete."— Travel & Leisure Guest Review, March 2025
Beyond the Beach: What to See and Do
While Elafonisi itself is the crown jewel, the surrounding region offers a mosaic of experiences:
Balos Lagoon: Another world-famous beach just 25 minutes from Kaliviani
Topolia Gorge: A dramatic canyon with hiking trails and viewpoints
Chrisoskalitissa Monastery: Just 5 km from Elafonisi, this cliffside monastery offers panoramic views and a touch of Cretan spirituality
Local wineries and olive oil farms: Perfect for day trips and tastings
Boat tours to hidden beaches and sea caves
When to Visit Elafonisi
The ideal time to visit is May through October, with the shoulder months of May, June, and September offering the best balance of warm weather and fewer crowds. The pink sands are visible year-round, but particularly striking under full sun.
Sustainable Travel Tip
As a protected Natura 2000 site, Elafonisi is a delicate ecosystem. Visitors are encouraged to:
Stick to marked paths
Avoid removing sand or plants
Carry reusable water bottles and avoid plastic waste
Conclusion: The Beach That Defines 2025
Elafonisi Beach is not just a destination — it is a symbol of what travel in 2025 represents: natural beauty, sustainability, cultural depth, and personal renewal. Paired with a stay at Kaliviani Traditional Hotel, this journey becomes an unforgettable blend of luxury and authenticity.
If you're planning one extraordinary beach escape this year, make it Elafonisi — where the water is as warm as the welcome.
