You can choose your trip depending on how you like to travel, how comfortable you feel about driving on roads you don’t know, and how much money you can spend on transport.

Traveling from Heraklion to Elafonisi can be expensive while renting a car can be quite a good idea. Renting your car is very convenient to visit places in the south or that are difficult to reach.

When it comes to Elafonisi, keep in mind that most tour buses leave way before you can see the sunset, an experience you don’t want to miss!

So forget about bus schedules, and discover the island by car!

Bus travel is really easy on the north coast of the island while getting to popular places in the south, including Elafonisi, can be more difficult.

If you’re ready to travel by bus, travel light, plan your schedule, and always allow extra time for unforeseen situations, like extra traffic.

If you visit Elafonisi Beach, you will certainly enjoy both the views on the road and this amazing pink sand beach.

How to Get from Chania to Elafonisi Beach

Living in Chania has given me the possibility to visit Elafonisi many times.

So this is an authentic guide by a local. I always enjoy going there in May or in September, but I’ve also taken friends in the middle of August, at the peak of the season! I do know what crowded roads to Elafonisi look like.

It’s the same three roads you can choose if you’re coming from Rethymnon and Heraklion because it’s always wiser to reach Chania first.

Let’s see them now!

How to Get to Elafonisi by Car

Hiring a car is probably the easiest way to get to Elafonisi. Driving gives great opportunities to discover the island.

It also gives you the flexibility to stop anywhere on the road to rest or admire the landscape.

If you’re doubtful about driving in Crete, check out this helpful guide about car rental and driving in Crete. Don’t forget to bookmark it before your trip.

How to Get to Elafonisi Beach Going Through Topolia Gorge

This is, hands down, the best way to get to Elafonisi! Departing from Chania, this road will take you to Elafonisi in a little bit more than an hour.

Driving times can double in August, so get on the road as early as you can to avoid heavy traffic.

This is also the road that buses take, so it can be considered the safest (and shortest).

The road to Elafonisi Beach going through Topolia Gorge is one of the most breathtaking road trips in Chania, with plenty of opportunities for photos of the Cretan mountains.

The canyon of Topolia starts near the village of Stroules, about 450 meters a.s.l. It ends in the village of Topolia, where the rock walls are very high and steep.

If you are interested in stopping in places such as Potamida or the Cave of Agia Sophia, this is the way you have to choose. You can read about these nearby places here. 

I suffer from extreme vertigo when I’m on the road in the mountains, but I’ve found that if instead of being a front-seat passenger I’m the one driving, I can go through Topolia in a breeze.

I’ve spoken with many visitors with the same condition, and all seem to confirm that driving helps.

How to Get to Elafonisi Beach Driving Along the Coast

This is a beautiful scenery road, that might take a little longer but is worth it for the spectacular landscapes.

It’s rather bendy too, and it’s the common way to go to Elafonisi if you are staying in Falasarna.

You will drive next to the sea and need to be aware of rocks that might fall from the mountains.

There are also goats and sheep blocking the road at times, so you need to be careful… and patient!

I find that this road is stunning for photography. However, it tends to feel long because bends do force you to slow down.

In general, the roads are doable with due care. You must be cautious because parts of the roads might not have safety barriers or signposts indicating danger.

When you reach Elafonisi by car, it’s a good idea to either spend the night in the village or to leave at least one hour before sunset, it’s always better to avoid these roads at night.

How to Get to Elafonisi From Paleochora

Elafonisi can also be reached by boat from Paleochora, certainly more relaxing than driving, but a bit more expensive.

Paleochora is a southern town about 30 minutes from Elafonisi, but the roads are in very bad condition. You can get to Elafonisi Beach by boat.

The service is worth considering if you’re staying in Paleochora.

Bear in mind that there is no port in Elafonisi.

The boat will leave you at a nearby docking area, a mole about 10 minutes from the beach. It’s also a good idea to check the prices with several boatmen before buying your ticket.

Booking your Boat from Paleochora

Boats usually leave at about 9 am or 10 am, but it’s always better to confirm with the local boatmen. It’s also a common practice to discuss the price if you’re traveling in a large group.

The boat usually returns at about 5 pm. You can get tickets close to the jetty in Paleochora or from the local taxi boats. Some boats can also take you to Kedrodasos, not far from Elafonisi.

Remember that the boat from Paleochora to Elafonisi operates between May and October. Check prices here.

How to Get to Elafonisi by Bus

At the time of writing, there is one direct bus to Elafonisi. It leaves from Chania Bus Station at 9 am (summer service).

Luggage restrictions: Passenger luggage must be placed in the luggage compartment of the bus. Each passenger can carry 2 pieces of luggage for free.

There is an extra charge for every extra piece of luggage. Small pieces (hand luggage, backpacks, etc.) can be taken on the bus but must be placed in the special luggage racks inside the bus.

WiFi: All buses offer a free Wi-Fi network service, powered by external GSM antennas and advanced free Wi-Fi routers. There is free Wi-Fi access inside the bus stations as well.

Discounts: Discounted rates are available for students, families with more than 3 children get a 50% discount on all routes.

People with disabilities have the same discount. Infants until 6 years old travel free of charge. Credit cards and debit cards are accepted to pay for all tickets.

Refunds: In case you pay a ticket and you don’t travel, the company gives the passenger a 70% refund of the ticket price or a refund of 50% in case of a cancellation within 8 hours before departure time.

More info: Information for passengers is available daily from early morning to late at night on the phone at 2810-246530.

How to Get to Elafonisi with Private Transfer & Private Tours to Elafonisi

Private transfer can be a good alternative to reach Elafonisi when traveling from other parts of the island, especially from Rethymnon and Heraklion if you want to save some money but still prefer the comfort of a car over the public bus.

Prices can be discussed beforehand, and you can even book the trip online before getting on the island. Prices vary depending on the transfer company and how many people are sharing the ride.

Private Tours to Elafonisi

It’s also a good idea to book a private tour. They can vary from just transport to the beach with free time, to other excursions with stops and activities too.

You can compare the best options down here and book in advance to secure your seat. Make sure to read every detail in order to book the option that’s best for you!

• Day Trip to Elafonisi Island from Chania – From €34 per person. BOOK HERE
• From Rethymno: Small-Group Tour – From €35 per person. BOOK HERE
• From Rethymno: Full-day Trip to Elafonisi with Sightseeing – From €54 per person. BOOK HERE
• From Heraklion: Day Excursion to Elafonisi – From €45 per person. BOOK HERE
• Full-Day Bus Trip to Elafonisi from Heraklion Area– From €55 per person – BOOK HERE
• Departing from Georgioupolis: Full-Day Trip to Elafonisi – From €30 per person – BOOK HERE
• Falasarna & Elafonisi Day Trip with Snacks, Fruits, and Wine – Check prices and BOOK HERE

How to Get to Elafonisi by Taxi

It’s also possible to reach Elafonisi by taxi from Chania, or from anywhere else on the island. Prices can be expensive but it is a very flexible option if you can afford the ride.

The trip can take about 1.5 hours from Chania, 2.5 hours from Rethymnon, and at least 3 hours from Heraklion (always depending on the traffic and the season).

The taxi ride can cost anything from €80 to €300 depending on your departing point.

It is always advisable to discuss and agree on the price with the driver before you get into the taxi. Taxis can be convenient if you’re sharing the cost with other travelers.
How are you planning to visit Elafonisi Beach this season?

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

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