If you want to go to the beach while visiting Chania city, you may not see the best available in the Chania prefecture, but you will still enjoy clean water, sunshine, and mesmerizing sea views.
From the harbor, walk about one kilometer west to find the beaches of Nea Chora. There are excellent amenities to make your stay unforgettable. If you are lucky to be there during the Sardine Festival, you get to sample free fish and experience music and fun like a local. Try a traditional fish taverna close to the beach if you miss the festival.
East of the harbor, in the historic Bedouins district, you’ll find Kum Kapi, another beach that doesn’t require you to leave the city. It’s a sandy, unorganized beach with excellent swimming conditions in calm blue waters.
The locals love a seawater pond in Halepa. Named Kouloura, this natural pool surrounded by rocks, offers very clear water and good swimming conditions. The rocky terrain and minute stretch of sand make sunbathing impossible, but the scenic views are worth taking in.
Chrissi Akti, or the Golden Beach, is a 2.5 kilometers drive west of Chania. Easily accessible, this beach comprises two areas; one well organized with sunbeds, umbrellas, tavernas, and the other less popular as it lacks amenities. You will also find lifeguards on duty, a playground for children, watersports, and excellent swimming conditions on the west bay in shallow water.
Agii Apostoli lies west of Chania, about three kilometers drive. It is excellent for swimming and sunbathing and offers all the amenities you need for a pleasant day in the sun, including loungers, umbrellas, lifeguards on duty, watersports, and much more. The scenic beach takes its name from the Church of Holy Apostles nearby, which is worth seeing if you find a spare moment.
The top beaches in the Chania prefecture require a day trip to each. These are Balos, Falasarna, and Elafonissi. If you are on the island for a long time, they should be at the top of your bucket list.