Elounda BeachElounda Beach is one of the prettiest, cleanest beaches in Crete. Elounda is a well protected bay, sitting behind the Kolokytha Peninsular and Spinalonga Island, 10 kms from Agios Nikolaos on the north coast of eastern Crete. Protected by Cape Agios Ioannis, the waters are tranquil and calm. There are buses every hour from Agios Nikolaos. This bay has become famous for the many luxury resorts dotted along the water's edge, and some high value properties. As a result, the beach facilities, although public, are very well maintained and the shopping, tavernas and boutiques are very stylish.
The beach is kept clean and environmentally sound, so that it has been awarded a Blue Flag. Floating like a mermaid is easy in these crisp waters! It is not hard to imagine the Goddesses and sea nymphs swimming playfully here. Wildlife abounds in the islets off the coast, and nearby cliff edges, where birds including Eleanora's Falcon, an endangered raptor, hunts and nests. Other birds found nearby are Martins, Swifts and Eagles. The mountains hide ancient sites and turbulent histories of Kriti. This bay reminds us that life is full of unexpected treasures…
Exposed above the water are beautiful mosaic floors showing details of godesses and dolphins. The treasures from this site can be seen at the Archaeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos and in the Louvre in Paris. Today above the ground can also be seen the remains of windmills. To get to the ruins, walk to the east from the village centre for about 2 kms. See the map below: View Elounda in a larger map
The Elounda Palm Boutique Hotel is featured on our beach accommodation page as it is only 500 metres from the beach. Return from Elounda Beach to We Love Crete Homepage |
