Gorgeous Airbnbs in Elafonisi: Top Vacation Homes near Crete’s Pink Sand Beach!

GREECE - CRETE - CHANIA - ELAFONISI BEACH

Sharing is caring!

The most popular beach in Crete is Elafonisi. A beautiful pink sand beach that everyone wants to visit. However, Elafonisi is quite off the beaten track. The seaside resort is about 70 kilometers from Chania and more than 200 km from Heraklion… that’s a 3-hour drive!

In this article, we will make things easier for you. In fact, if you stay in Elafonisi you can enjoy wonderful days by the sea cutting driving times.

These are some of the best holiday homes in Elafonisi, Crete, choose the one where you’d like to stay!


Disclaimer: Posts include affiliate links to products or services. I might earn a commission if you make a purchase.


Where to Stay in Crete: Best Airbnbs in Elafonisi

Airbnbs in Elafonisi

ARE YOU PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO CRETE LAST MINUTE?

Be sure to book accommodation and tours in Crete ahead of time to ensure availability!

📍 Top tours I recommend on the island:
Full-day Samaria Gorge trek (#1 tour in Crete!)
Boat cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa (top-selling tour!)
Ticket to Knossos Archaeological Site (top tour in Heraklion)

🛌 These are three convenient hotels in Crete:
Lyttos Beach (beachfront in Hersonissos, near Heraklion)
SanSal Boutique Hotel (near Chania Old Town with a pool!)
Grecotel Lux Me White Palace (beachfront in Rethymnon)

Remember that the best way to get around Crete is by car. Check rental car rates for Crete here.

If you don’t have the time to choose a rental home in Elafonisi or you’d rather stay at a hotel, check these two great places that we have personally used many times.

  • Elafonisi Resort Kalomirakis is located right at the entrance of the beach, where the paved road ends. Prices are fair and the bungalows are really cute, among olive groves, and lemon trees, and the views are super pretty.
    The breakfast options were abundant, but that’s usually not included in the price of the room. It’s definitely a quiet place, with a nice garden for children. Rooms include a comfortable kitchenette and air conditioning.
  • Glykeria is another popular place, it’s located on the main road of the village, a few hundred meters from the beach. The place has a magnificent view of the sea and is often fully booked early in the season.
    They also have a pretty interesting restaurant worth dinner. We’ve also visited many times, both at sunset for a drink and later for dinner too. 

You might want to read how to visit Aspri Limni, Kedrodasos Beach, and Elafonisi in a Day!

Most Beautiful Vacation Homes & Airbnbs in Elafonisi

Greece - Crete - Elafonis

Boundless extensions of soft pink sand, a crystal clear sea, and a solitary landscape are three of the main characteristics of Elafonisi, one of Crete’s most popular beaches.

It’s not easy to reach the area if you’re not an experienced driver or if you’re not really comfortable driving through the mountains.

Oftentimes, visitors to Elafonisi complain that they are forced to leave early so as not to drive those mountain roads after dark… they not only miss the spectacular sunsets on Elafonisi but also the experience of staying in one of the most tranquil villages in Crete.

Want to know how to get there? Check this guide to learn How to Get to Elafonisi Beach.

Elafonisi - Crete

Because, yes… Elafonisi is indeed a popular beach that tends to get crowded, but once the hordes of tourists are gone, the place turns into a peaceful oasis home to one of the most majestic landscapes on the island!

One of the best ways to solve this issue is to stay close by. However, given its isolated nature, there are not many hotels in the area.

You might also be interested in Falassarna Beach.

No worries! Home rental opportunities come to the rescue. Here I’ve listed the most beautiful and convenient Airbnbs in Elafonisi. Take a look and book a stay in heaven!

Villa Evenos, Chrisoskalithissa, Elafonisi

GREECE - CRETE - ELAFONISI - VILLA EVENOS
(Courtesy Villa Evenos).
  • Why you should stay: This is a beautiful villa with traditional Cretan traits, such as the stone walls, and the wooden roofs. It’s big and comfortable, and the views are stunning.
  • Location: When you open your windows every morning, you can admire the views of the sea, and the imposing Chrisoskalithissa Monastery in the distance. Villa Evenos is conveniently close to Elafonisi, and it’s also great for those who want to explore other beaches such as Kedrodasos and Aspri Limni, all of them close to the property.
  • Facilities: The house is big with all the needed comforts for a family stay or for a group of friends. There’s also a nice swimming pool you can enjoy on your way back from the beach.

White Lake Villa Holiday House
(Close to Aspri Limni and Elafonisi)

GREECE-CRETE-CHANIA-ELAFONISI-WHITE-LAKE-VILLA
(Courtesy White Lake Villa).
  • Why you should stay: This is a perfect place to stay for a tranquil holiday with an amazing garden with a pool and every comfort you need.
  • Location: White Lake Villa is only 4 km from Elafonisi Beach, and it’s a fantastic place to stay, ideal for families with kids, for a group of friends, or for two couples.
  • Facilities: In this property, you’ll be able to enjoy a roomy living room with a comfortable kitchen as well as two bedrooms and two bathrooms. A sofa converts into a bed to host one more traveler. The private pool is a nice touch that makes the whole stay even more relaxing and enjoyable.

Dermitzogianni Elafonisi Holiday Home

Dermitzogianni Holiday Home Elafonisi, Crete, Greece
(Courtesy Dermitzogianni Villa).
  • Why you should stay: To enjoy life the local way surrounded by all the comforts you could imagine… and as a plus, great views!
  • Location: Dermitzogianni Elafonisi Holiday Home is very close to the pink sand beach, about 2.7 mi from Elafonisi.
  • Facilities: For guests to enjoy at the property there is a fully equipped kitchen with all the facilities you need for a stress-free vacation. The villa features a master bedroom located in a loft with a bathroom, as well as a single bed in a separate room. On the ground floor, there is another bed and a large bathroom. Having dinner at night on their veranda is nothing short of amazing!

Xasteria, Chrisoskalitissa

Xasteria Chrisoskalitissa - Elafonisi - Crete - Greece
(Courtesy Xasteria).
  • Why you should stay: To take advantage of a well-located accommodation, beautifully designed, comfortable, and with great sea views.
  • Location: A very pleasant complex to stay in just minutes from Elafonisi pink sand beach. Recently renovated, with modern furniture and new appliances. The super helpful host adds to the experience as well.
  • Facilities: There’s a gorgeous outdoor area for sitting and soaking in the views. There are great tavernas and shops not far from the property. As a plus, accessible, free parking for guests.

Check this thorough guide to Elafonisi Beach.

Anny’s Homes

Annys Home Elafonisi - Crete -Greece
(Courtesy Anny’s Homes).
  • Why you should stay: Because who wouldn’t want to enjoy a swimming pool in full privacy?
  • Location: Perfectly located, no more than 2 minutes from several other beaches in the area, other than Elafonisi. The position is quiet and comfortable to visit Elafonisi, Aspri Limni, and Voulolimni beaches as well as exploring the Chrisoskalithissa Monastery.
  • Facilities: The newly-built homes boast modern and comfortable furniture, a relaxing garden, a pool area, fantastic views, and direct access to the lagoon.
  • Details: Guests love freshly baked pastries every other day, salads from their own garden, and many more details that can transform a regular stay into an unforgettable experience. There are a few good local restaurants nearby as well as a couple of convenience stores.

Elafonisi Villa Above the Beach

Airbnbs in Elafonisi
(Courtesy Elafonisi Villa Above the Beach).
  • Why you should stay: Discover the most authentic landscapes of the legendary southern coast of Crete staying at this gorgeous place right above the beach.
  • Location: Simple and yet super comfortable, with a unique veranda offering 360° views of the beautiful coast and the Cretan mountains, this villa is only minutes from the fantastic pink sand beach of Elafonisi, and from the magnificent Kedrodasos beach.
  • Facilities: The sun terrace features a nice tub, a barbecue, and wooden oven, and a wonderful space to sit and rest surrounded by great garden views. There’s private parking and available activities in the area include hiking, diving, and fishing. The air-conditioned villa has 2 bedrooms and a kitchen with a dining area.

You can also explore other beaches in the region of Chania.

Iliovasilema Apartments

Iliovasilema Apartments - Elafonis - Crete - Greece
(Courtesy Iliovasilema Apartments).
  • Why you should stay: This is a great place, with stunning views, comfortable facilities, a top location, and super friendly hosts.
  • Location: The flats are located very close to the beach of Elafonisi, Aspri Limni, and Kedrodasos. There are also several traditional tavernas in the area.
  • Facilities: This apartment is praised for being super comfortable, clean, and with all amenities, you could wish for. Hospitable hosts will make your stay really incredible. For your comfort, the fully-equipped kitchen even features an espresso machine!
Airbnbs in Elafonisi
(Courtesy Iliovasilema Apartments).

This is one of the best rental homes in Elafonisi!

Sea Lake Holiday House

Airbnbs in Elafonisi
(Courtesy Sea Lake Holiday House).
  • Why you should stay: To enjoy a unique, relaxing environment just minutes from some of the best beaches in Crete!
  • Facilities: The place is very well equipped with everything you need for a self-catering stay not far from the most secluded beaches in the south. The villa features great outdoor living with plenty of space and is perfect for families with kids too.

Which are your favorite Airbnbs in Elafonisi?

🏖️ Please, help us protect the beaches in Crete. Respect the environment and don’t leave any trash behind.

Read more about Crete

More Resources to Enhance Your Crete Adventure

I’ve got some excellent travel resources to make your adventure unforgettable! Start by checking out my ultimate guide to planning your trip to Crete, packed with helpful essential information. Remember to explore the articles on prices in Crete, common mistakes to avoid, and insider secrets for an unforgettable experience.

Once you’re ready to pack, use this comprehensive Crete packing list to ensure you have everything you need for a fantastic vacation. Explore the best places to visit on Crete Island, discover my tours and activities, be amazed at Crete’s incredible beaches, and check out the best times to experience its beauty.

If you are exploring specific areas like Heraklion or Chania, I’ve got detailed guides to help you make the most of your time. Stay tuned for our upcoming articles featuring the top things to do and detailed itineraries for your Crete getaway!

Suggested Accommodation in Chania

No time to read all my accommodation guides? Check out these hotels in the city:

More Useful Travel Resources

  • Check out all the digital travel guides I’ve specifically written about Crete. They are affordable and practical to check from your mobile.
  • Look for cheap flights with CheapOAir or find convenient ferry tickets with Ferryhopper.
  • Welcome Pickups offers a convenient pre-paid airport transfer service, while Discover Cars is my favorite engine for finding a rental car on the island.
  • Need cash? I’ve been using Wise in Crete for ages! It’s one of the best cards for overseas travel.
  • Finally, to book adventures, tours, and cultural experiences, I always recommend Get Your Guide.

Pin this Top Guide to Book the Best Rental Home in Elafonisi for Your Next Crete Adventure!

airbnbs in elafonisi


About me:

Gabi Ancarola | The Tiny Book

Gabi Ancarola

I moved to Crete in 2016. During these years, I learned so much about the island! In Crete, I juggle being a solo mom, hosting culinary tours, and writing for several travel media. I’ve written for Greek Reporter, published travel guides about Greece, co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete, and had more glasses of frappe than any regular person could ever handle.

Sharing is caring!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *