Quick search
CTRL+KQuick search
CTRL+K
These images are powered by
Agia Marina, a charming coastal town, lies just 9km west of the city of Chania. It’s one of Chania’s most sought-after holiday spots, boasting numerous hotels and a full range of tourist amenities. The town’s name is derived from the local Agia Marina church, which holds its festival on July 17th.
Agia Marina is renowned for its stunning chain of sandy beaches. To the west, near the Platania port, there are several small, man-made piers where swimming is possible. To the east, the beach extends to Stalos, offering a long stretch of sand. A variety of services are available along the seashore, typical of a well-appointed beach.
Around 1.5km south of the town, you’ll find the Nerospilia cave, home to spectacular stalagmites and stalactites. Unfortunately, public access is not permitted due to its location on private property. This cave was a place of worship during the Middle Minoan era. While in Agia Marina, don’t miss a visit to the local folklore museum.
Facing the beach of Agia Marina is the protected island of Thodorou, designated as a nature reserve. It’s a sanctuary for the endangered Cretan wild goats, relocated here from the White Mountains, near Samaria Gorge. While approaching the island is generally forbidden, limited boat tours are sometimes available with special permission from the Forest Service. The island’s small sandy beach in the tiny cove, which doubles as the harbour, offers wonderful views of Agia Marina.
Yes, Agia Marina beach is suitable for families with children as the water is shallow and calm.
Yes, there are various water sports activities available at Agia Marina beach, including jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.
Yes, you can rent beach chairs and umbrellas at Agia Marina beach for a fee.
No, there is no designated area for nudists at Agia Marina beach.
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near Agia Marina beach where you can enjoy a meal or a drink with a view of the sea.
The water colour of the Agia Marina beach – Chania is blue.
The Agia Marina beach – Chania has sand as its sand type.
The water at the Agia Marina beach – Chania is shallow.
The sea surface at the Agia Marina beach – Chania is usually wavy.
Yes, the Agia Marina beach – Chania is a crowded place.
The Agia Marina beach – Chania offers accommodation options, food/water nearby, umbrellas/beds, sports, lifeguard, showers, and a Blue Flag.
The Agia Marina beach – Chania can be accessed through bus services and a paved road.
Yes, there is tree shade available at the Agia Marina beach – Chania.
Yes, there is a seaturtle nesting point at the Agia Marina beach – Chania.
Find below list of things to do near Agia Marina beach – Chania:
Set sail from Kolymvari and start your trip with a welcome on board. Get to know the team and get briefed by your captain about the safety rules.
Navigate toward one of the most picturesque bays in the area, among the Agioi Theodoroi islands. Stop to swim, snorkel, play with inflatables, or try stand-up paddleboarding.
Enjoy a Mediterranean dinner onboard with vegetarian options available. Savor delicious seafood, and local and imported drinks. Cruise back to Kolymvari while surrounded by sweeping scenery.
Explore the island of Kri-Kri (Thodorou island) onboard a cruise around Crete. Sail around stunning gulfs, secluded small islands, and enjoy the turquoise blue waters.
Begin your cruise in the morning. Sail around Thodorou Island, located near Chania, opposite Agia Marina beach, and see the surrounding secluded islands in the area.
Discover Cretan wild goats (kri-kri). Enjoy the calm and tranquil sea. The coastline of the island and the wreck of a German aircraft from WW2 are perfect places for snorkeling.
Head to Kolymvari port, Chania and be greeted by a crew member who will escort you to the vessel. Hop aboard and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea along with some light snacks. Then, after a short safety briefing, set sail towards the Agioi Theodoroi islands.
Sit back and relax as you make your way to the islands, where you can take advantage of a selection of fun activities. Go for a swim, try your hand at snorkeling, or use the SUP boards to go paddling.
If you prefer a more laid-back experience, this cruise also offers the ideal opportunity for some relaxed sunbathing.
A special entertainment area with board games provides some extra fun for those traveling with kids and if your little one needs a nap, the boat has some comfortable cabins at the ready.
Take a break to refuel with lunch aboard the catamaran. The menu is prepared using local, organic products and includes salad, pasta, seafood, and chicken.
Enjoy local white wine, beer, and soft drinks with your food, and savor a selection of homemade sweets and fresh fruit to round out the meal. A kid’s menu of chicken nuggets or pasta ensures that your little ones will be satisfied too.
Finally, benefit from some more free time before making your way back to the marina in Kolymvari where your cruise comes to an end.
Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating the rich culture and traditions of Crete! Set in the charming village of Kefalas in Apokoronas, our Authentic Cretan Night offers a unique experience filled with delicious food, live music, and traditional dance.
Pick-up Service:
Begin your evening with the convenience of a pick-up service . Relax as you are transported to Taverna Ortaki , nestled in the heart of Kefalas .
Arrival and Welcome:
Upon arrival, step into the warm embrace of Cretan hospitality. The welcoming atmosphere sets the tone for an unforgettable night filled with cultural delights.
Dinner with Cretan Flavors:
Indulge in a sumptuous Cretan dinner crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu showcases the diverse and mouthwatering flavors of Cretan cuisine, offering a culinary exploration of the region.
Live Music Performance:
Immerse yourself in the soul-stirring melodies of live traditional Cretan music. Local musicians, often featuring instruments like the lyre and laouto, create an authentic ambiance that transports you to the heart of Crete.
Traditional Dance Show:
Be mesmerized by a spirited traditional dance performance, where skilled dancers adorned in vibrant costumes showcase the unique dances of Crete. The rhythmic beats and lively movements tell stories of the island’s rich cultural heritage.
Audience Engagement:
Feel the energy of the performance and join in the fun! The friendly atmosphere encourages audience participation, allowing you to experience the joy of traditional Cretan dances firsthand.
Dessert Delights:
Conclude your gastronomic journey with delectable Cretan desserts, adding a sweet note to your evening. Indulge in treats like baklava or loukoumades, savoring the perfect end to your culinary experience.
Closing and Departure:
Bid farewell to the gracious hosts and fellow guests, leaving with cherished memories of an authentic Cretan night. If you arranged for transportation, enjoy a comfortable drop-off back to your accommodation.
Embark on a cultural odyssey at Taverna ORTAKI , where every element of this Cretan night has been thoughtfully curated to offer an immersive and unforgettable experience. A perfect blend of music, dance, gastronomy, and warm hospitality awaits you.
Enjoy a boat cruise from the old port of Chania Town to the islands of Thodorou and Lazaretta. Captain Nestor will take care of you, especially the children, fetching starfish and octopus, and helping you explore the world underwater.
At the natural reserve of Thodorou island, also known as “Goat Island”, Nestor takes you around to spot the wild Kri Kri goat, stopping for a while at the decaying wreck of a World War II German airplane. From there you continue to the island of Lazaretta where you can relax and enjoy a picnic on the beach, swim or just chill out on the boat gazing through the window to the depths below. The boat will return later to the port of Chania.
The boat departs from the Old Venetian Harbor and heads out onto the Gulf of Chania. Pass by the island’s famous lighthouse, which was built by the Venetians in the 16th century and later modified by the Egyptians in 1839.
The boat continues to sail west towards Lazaretta Island, a small island close to Chania which provides the best views of the sunset across the Kissamos Mountains. The island has a vast history that predates the Venetian occupation. Listen to your guide share lively commentary about the history of the island and its former inhabitants as you watch the sunset and the sky change color.
Relax on deck as you marvel at the sunset against the Kissamos Mountains or take a short swim, then enjoy a traditional Greek raki. As the boat begins the return journey back to Chania, admire the harbor’s glistening lights reflecting against the water as evening turns to night.
Find below the list of hotels near Agia Marina beach – Chania:
Located 100 metres from Agia Marina Beach, Manos Beachside Apartments offers air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi.
Each unit is equipped with a fridge, stovetop, a coffee machine, as well as a kitchenware and kettle. Some of the units include a satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchenette with a toaster, and a private bathroom with a shower and a hair dryer.
A car rental service is available at the apartment.
Popular points of interest near Manos Beachside Apartments include Stalos Beach, Platanias Beach and Platanias Square. The nearest airport is Chania International, 22 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€59
/night
Built right next to a sandy beach with crystal clear water, Elia Agia Marina Hotel offers accommodation in Agia Marina Nea Kydonias. The hotel boasts an outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant.
Every room at this hotel is air conditioned and is fitted with a flat-screen TV. Certain units have views of the sea. Every room comes with a private bathroom. For your comfort, you will find slippers and free toiletries.
Greek, international and Mediterranean cuisine can be enjoyed at the on-site restaurant, while the snack-bar offers a variety of beverages and snacks.
You will find room service at the property. Guests will find a restaurant and a supermarket within 100 metres of the property. Chania Town is 8 km from Elia Agia Marina Hotel, while Elafonisi is 44 km from the property. Chania International Airport is 19 km away.
from
€162
/night
Set in Agia Marina Nea Kydonias, a few steps from Agia Marina Beach, Elia Agia Marina Resort offers accommodation with a fitness centre, free private parking, a garden and a shared lounge. Offering a restaurant, the property also has a terrace, as well as a sauna and a hot tub. The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service and free WiFi throughout the property.
At the resort, the rooms have a balcony. Every room has air conditioning and a flat-screen TV, and certain units at Elia Agia Marina Resort have a sea view. The units will provide guests with a wardrobe and a kettle.
A buffet breakfast is available every morning at the accommodation.
Elia Agia Marina Resort offers a hammam.
Stalos Beach is less than 1 km from the resort, while Platanias Beach is 2 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 22 km from Elia Agia Marina Resort.
Located in Agia Marina Nea Kydonias, 300 metres from Agia Marina Beach, Abella Hotel provides accommodation with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and a shared lounge. Providing a bar, the property is located within 600 metres of Stalos Beach. The accommodation features room service, a concierge service and luggage storage for guests.
The hotel will provide guests with air-conditioned rooms with a wardrobe, a coffee machine, a fridge, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, a terrace and a private bathroom with a shower. Every room is fitted with a kettle, while some rooms will provide you with a patio and others also provide guests with city views.
Platanias Beach is 2 km from Abella Hotel, while Platanias Square is 2.1 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International, 22 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€55
/night
Just 50 metres from Agia Marina Beach in Chania and within a short walk from restaurants and mini markets, Thodorou features a pool and a bar amidst its blossomed garden. The family-run property offers self-catering accommodation with a private balcony.
Enjoying views over the garden and the pool or partial views over the Cretan Sea, the rooms of Thodorou have a kitchenette with fridge, cooking hobs and kitchenware. Each unit is equipped with a private bathroom with shower.
The on-site bar serves drinks and coffees throughout the day.
Thodorou is located 8 km from scenic Chania Town and within 16 km from Souda Port. Chania International Airport is at 20 km, while the famous beach of Platanias is 2 km away. Free private parking is possible on site.
from
€55
/night
Situated on the beach of Agia Marina, Thodorou Village features an outdoor swimming pool, garden and sun terrace. All studios include a balcony overlooking the pool. The property is 500 metres from bars and restaurants.
All studios include free WiFi and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. The kitchen features a fridge. The bathroom has a shower and hairdryer. Air conditioning is available on request and at extra charge.
Guests can relax on the snack bar or the sun loungers offered by the pool. Alternatively, they can visit the city of Chania, 10 km away, with the Archeological Museum.
Thodorou Village is 25 km from Chania International Airport. The property offers free parking on site.
from
€57
/night
Find below list of beaches near Agia Marina beach – Chania:
Situated 7km west of Chania, nestled between Kalamaki and Agia Marina, lies Stalos. This well-developed location magnetizes a significant amount of tourists each summer. The coastal region of Stalos, known as Kato Stalos, boasts a stunning sandy beach that is not only well-equipped but also provides all necessary touristic amenities. This makes it a yearly recipient of the coveted blue flag award.
Situated 150m to the south is Pano Stalos, a charming traditional village that is enveloped by lush green hills and striking rock formations.
Stalos serves as a perfect holiday destination due to its proximity to the city of Chania and its ability to cater to all the needs of its visitors. There are also frequent bus services to the city of Chania.
The name ‘Stalos’ is steeped in Cretan mythology, believed to be derived from Talos, a bronze giant who guarded the island from enemies by circling it thrice daily. Legend has it that Talos had his base in Stalos. However, it is more likely that the name ‘Stalos’, originates from the Greek verb stalizo, meaning to stop for rest. This is where local shepherds would halt with their flocks for rest, hence the English word ‘stall’ shares the same Greek roots.
Platanias, a coastal hamlet situated 11km west of the city of Chania, has seen a significant surge in tourism in recent years, transforming it from a quaint village into a bustling suburb of Chania. Its close proximity to the city, coupled with its stunning beach and frequent bus services from Chania, have made it the most favoured beach near the city. The original village, nestled on a hillside, offers a breathtaking view of the sea and the islet of Thodorou.
The beach in Platanias is an attractive stretch of sandy shore dotted with hotels of varying class and standard tourist facilities. Beachgoers can avail of all the amenities typical of well-organized beaches, including beach bars, umbrellas, showers, snack bars, lifeguards, and water sports. On the eastern side of the local harbour, near Agia Marina, swimmers can enjoy several small, man-made coves. In the summer, the area’s nightclubs come alive, hosting thousands of both Greek and foreign party-goers who dance until daybreak.
The coastal resort of Kalamaki, situated 6km west of Chania city, serves as the beachfront extension of Galatas village. Nestled within a rich, fertile plain adorned with citrus and olive groves, Galatas once relied heavily on agriculture; however, tourism now drives the region’s economy.
Kalamaki marks the western end of an extensive beach that begins 1km eastwards at Agii Apostoli. Its attractive shoreline features fine sand and gentle waters, offering a well-equipped and organized beach experience. Facilities include beach umbrellas, showers, lifeguard services, accommodation, dining, beach bars, and water sports. Additionally, a tiny, secluded cove exists next to the beach’s western edge, set apart from the main beach by a slim sand strip. Regular city bus services from Chania center provide easy access to Kalamaki.
Galatas is the birthplace of Mikis Theodorakis, a distinguished modern Greek composer and activist, who suffered poisoning under the military dictatorship that seized Greece in April 1967. He was also a nominee for the Nobel Peace Prize. During the Turkish Occupation, Galatas was a Christian-inhabited village, while the nearby Daratsos was occupied by Ottomans.
Glaros Beach
Glaros Beach, characterized by its spacious bay stretching from Holy Apostles to Kalamaki, boasts soft sand and crystal-clear, shallow waters. Tamarisk trees providing natural shade line the beach, contributing to its status as one of Chania’s most popular beaches. However, its northern exposure means it can get windy, making the sheltered coves of Holy Apostles a suitable alternative. Its excellent facilities, stunning beach, and convenient access to and from Chania make Glaros an ideal holiday destination.
Situated 13 km west of Chania city, nestled between Maleme and Platanias, lies the quaint coastal village of Gerani. The village is nestled in a lush valley filled with olive and citrus groves, which were once the primary source of income for the villagers. Today, tourism drives the economy of Gerani.
Stretching across 2.5 km, Gerani’s beach is known for its beautiful sand and crystal-clear water. The beach is equipped with numerous amenities such as umbrellas, showers, beach bars, water sports facilities, and lifeguards, making it an ideal destination for family vacations. Several tamarisk trees provide shade, and for those preferring less crowded spots, there are unorganized parts of the coast. However, visitors must tread carefully, as the sandy beach serves as a nesting ground for the Caretta caretta turtles from May to September.
The village of Gerani got its name from a simple water-pumping method used in the village. The method involved the use of a wooden fork and a horizontal piece of wood, with a rope tied at one end to a bucket and a counterweight at the other end.
Historically, Gerani is thought to be the site of ancient Kydonia, according to some scientists. It is also believed that the village once housed a temple dedicated to Goddess Vritomartis, the Cretan counterpart of Goddess Artemis.
The village witnessed a battle against the Turks in 1867, where the Cretan rebels emerged victorious. However, fearing retaliation, the locals asked the rebels to leave, leading to the Turks returning and causing havoc. Gerani also holds significance as the place where famed Cretan novelist John Kondilakis started his teaching career in 1885-1886. The school where he taught, located in Pano Gerani, still stands today.
© All rights reserved. Crete Locals
