Private Tour
Elafonisi Beach - Private Tour to Pink Sands from Chania
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
The highlight of our journey - Elafonissi Beach, is translated from Greek as Deer Island. However, there are no Deers, but there’s pink sand and turquoise waters, creating perfect conditions for relaxation and swimming.
One more place that we’re going to visit on our way is Cave of Agia Sofia with impressive stalactites and stalagmites as well as Hrisoskalitissa monastery. Located at 285 m above the Sea level this place is truly sublime in its natural beauty, spirituality, and history. Remember that to visit this place, you need to wear clothes that cover your knees and shoulders.
Our route to this place goes through picturesque road. You’ll be able to see amazing nature of Crete some traditional villages that will should you unique Cretan lifestyle. We can also stop for a tasting of olive oil and thyme honey. Our journey will finish with traditional meal at a tavern.
Don't miss this unique opportunity to create unforgettable memories and experience the true magic of the island.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
To visit the Monastery, you must wear modest clothes: for women – a skirt/dress under your knees and covered shoulders. For men – trousers, T-shirt with long sleeves.
Important to have; Sun Cream (a lot!), Sunglasses and Hat, Long-Sleeved Shirt for Sensitive skin, Swim Suit, and a Beach Towel! Money for drinks, lunch/dinner.
Elafonisi is a Natura 2000 protected area, it is strictly forbidden to remove any plants, animals, shells, and sand from the area.
If any participant suffers from any severe allergy (e.g. to bee stings, food allergies/intolerances) or has medical/health issues we need to be aware of, it is important to let us know in advance. This is clearly a safety measure, personal information is by no means violated and we exercise all discretion.
Moysidis Travel is covered by Professional Liability Insurance. Each participant is advised to take out health/travel insurance before travelling to Crete.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Beach towels and umbrellas.
Water from the springs of the White Mountains “Samaria”, in bottles.
All Fees and Taxes
Accompaniment by a local expert/escort.
Comfortable Vehicle with a professional driver.
Entrance fees to Chrysoskalitissa Monastery.
Pick-up/drop-off at your hotel.
Personal expenses, drinks, lunch/dinner.
Customary tips to your drivers, guides, and escorts.
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
What To Expect
Agia Sofia Cave
We will start our excursion by exploring the Cave of Agia Sofia, renowned for its breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites. Just a short 40-minute drive from Chania, we will arrive at the picturesque village of Topolia, nestled within a tree-lined gorge. Towering 300 meters above us is the impressive wall of the gorge, with the charming little chapel of Agia Sofia nestled within a cave. Take some time to marvel at the intricate stalactite formations and soak in the stunning views of the gorge. At 'The Romanza' canteen, you can indulge in a variety of authentic Cretan specialties and treats. Keep an eye out for local villagers dressed in traditional Cretan attire, providing a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage. After spending approximately 30 minutes at this stop, our journey southward continues, promising more unforgettable experiences along the way.
Chrisoskalitissa Monastery
Exploring the Monastery of Chrisoskalitsa is an essential part of our excursion. Legend has it that among the 90 steps leading to the summit lies a Golden Stair, bestowing the monastery with its name. It is believed that only those free of sin can perceive this elusive staircase. Today, the monastery continues to be tended to by devoted nuns. The panoramic vistas from the monastery are truly breathtaking. Perched 285 meters above sea level, this site exudes a sense of tranquility, boasting a harmonious blend of natural splendor, spirituality, and historical significance. Please keep in mind that appropriate attire, covering both knees and shoulders, is required for entry into the monastery. After spending half an hour soaking in the monastery's ambiance, we will proceed directly to the beach, eager to continue our journey of discovery.
Options
For Up to 10 persons
Mercedes Sprinter
Pickup included
For Up to 6 persons
Mercedes Vito Van
Pickup included
For Up to 4 persons
Pickup included
Reviews
17 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
We had a wonderful day...
Mark L,
Sep 20, 2025
- Viator
5.00We had a wonderful day visiting the beach. Because it was just the two of us, our guide was able to accommodate our preferences and schedule. This became essential as it became too windy to stay long at the beach. The only recommendation I have is to have the tour include rental of beach lounges and umbrellas for each guest, rather than the portable ones brought by the driver. The cost of a private car is already high, including the beach rentals should not be a problem.
Pink sand beach ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Kelly S,
Jul 8, 2025
- Viator
5.00George ( our driver) and Christina arrived promptly at our port, so we could start our day nice and early. The vehicle was extremely comfortable for our family of 5, plenty of room and air con, which was a definite must for such a hot day. Christina was very knowledgeable and we learnt lots on the journey. The journey took about an hour and a half. We were offered stops on the way but declined as we were keen to get to the beach early. We were dropped off close by and had the opportunity to visit a shop/ cafe if we wanted. George offered us towels, beach mats and sun umbrellas to take with us if we wanted. He then left us there with our guide Christina leading us to the beach, she gave us plenty of top tips about the beach, the cabanas etc we managed to get the last cabana available which was 30 Euros for the day, so in the end we didn’t need the beach mats and umbrella’s George gave us- but considering we got to the beach way before 10, I would say always take them because there are very few available on the beach. If we did it again , we wouldn’t have got the Cabana and just used what George gave us because Christina had such good knowledge of the beach and took us away from the crowds to were the pink sand was much more vivid , and there were very few people in that area- thats were her local knowledge was paramount. Christina left us and arranged to meet us back at our Cabana at a specific time. The beach was beautiful, nothing like i’d ever seen before but it gets sooo busy- the area Christina showed us was much more secluded and peaceful and definitely had a lot more pink sand. We met George where he dropped us off, we had time to grab a drink and snacks and on the journey back, visited a pretty monastery and the cave of Sofia. We were offered complimentary bottled water throughout the journey and nothing was too much trouble. We were also offered to stop at a bee hive/ honey stop but declined - 5 stars from us, would highly recommend- The trip was around 8 hours but it would have been longer had we stopped at all of the offered stops- we were just nervous about getting back to the ship on time- in the end we had hours to spare!! Tip- the beach has lots of wifi issues to pay for items, so cash is best.
Great experience touring...
Eric H,
Jun 26, 2025
- Viator
5.00Great experience touring the island! Our hosts were super accommodating and made modifications based on our interests. This was a phenomenal day and I highly recommend it!
Amazing day! Outstanding...
Kimberly M,
Jun 25, 2025
- Viator
5.00Amazing day! Outstanding tour guide Christina who gave us an excellent review of Crete history and local cultural information. Our driver was also very fun and generous in sharing information on local food, culture and traditions. We enjoyed all 3 stops at the cave, spectacular beach and monastery. We stopped on the way back a a fun seaside cafe for drinks and dessert. Very fun day!
Perfect day in crete
Geoffrey Y,
Jun 30, 2023
- Viator
5.00Guide was fantastic. Transitions were seamless. She picked the perfect spot on the beach where you could really appreciate the pink sand. This is a fabulous beach and I highly recommend it when visiting western Crete. The Cave and gorge were also beautiful. My seven year old son had a fantastic time. Lunch was delicious. We can’t thank you enough for this wonderful day.
Related Experiences
Operated by MOYSIDIS TRAVEL