Kalathas – Beach and orientation for your trip

Kalathas Beach is a useful landmark for finding your way around Kalathas. It lies on the west coast of the Akrotiri Peninsula, about 11 kilometres northeast of Chania, and is the beach of the village of the same name, which sits at a higher elevation. When choosing your accommodation, you can distinguish this specific beach connection from the attractions in the wider destination of Chania. Consider whether your trip will focus mainly on time by the sea, connections to the city, or a broader look at Chania.

The beach and paths by the water

Kalathas Beach has fine sand. Sun loungers and umbrellas, lifeguard services, and a beach bar are among its facilities. Facilities and services may change; check the current situation locally.

A small, picturesque island lies 200 metres offshore and can be reached by swimming. At the western edge of the main beach, a path passes rock formations and leads to a smaller, secluded beach. The options therefore differ in how you get there: swim to the island or follow the path at the western edge to reach the smaller beach.

Getting there from Chania

Regular city buses from Chania reach the beach; you can also travel by taxi, car, or bicycle. If you plan to take the bus, check the current timetable before setting out, as transport services may change.

Chania: urban history and archaeology

In the wider destination of Chania, urban history and archaeology offer a different focus from the beach. The Old Town’s historic lanes are lined with Venetian mansions, old hammams, minarets, and churches. Chania’s Venetian Harbour was built in the 14th century for trade and protection against pirate attacks. Chania’s Δημοτική αγορά is a landmark for locals and visitors.

One archaeological highlight is the permanent exhibition at the Archaeological Museum of Chania. It spans three rooms on the ground floor and one on the upper floor, presenting archaeological evidence from the Chania regional unit spanning several centuries.

Other landscapes and history in the wider Chania area

Akrotiri has small coves and beaches suited to relaxation and tourism. In the peninsula’s northern hilly area, nature remains largely undisturbed by human activity. The landscape features rich, partly endemic flora, as well as land and sea caves with endemic invertebrates.

The wider destination of Chania also includes the historic village of Theriso. During the 1905 Revolution, it served as the base of the Cretan insurgents under Eleftherios Venizelos. The Historical and Folklore Museum of Theriso is housed in the former headquarters building of Eleftherios Venizelos and the Theriso Movement of 1905. The village can be reached through the six-kilometre-long Eleftherios Venizelos Gorge.

Discover more destinations: Pemonia, Mouzouras, Polirrinia, Dramia, Emprosneros, Neriana, Sternes, Tzitzifes

View the wider travel guide: Chania.