Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos)

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The Glaros beach, a coastal front for the village of Kato Daratsos in the Kidonia province, is situated 5 kilometres to the west of Chania city, within the Makris Tihos area. It’s flanked by Kalamaki on its western side and the Agii Apostoli beaches to its east. A narrow land strip, terminating at the cape home to the Holy Apostles’ church, separates it from the Agii Apostoli’s western beach.

Boasting of fine sand and abundant tamarisk trees for those seeking shade instead of renting umbrellas, Glaros beach is a popular destination due to its proximity to Chania city. It’s exposed to the northern winds, which means if the waves get too high, you can relocate to the sheltered bays of Agii Apostoli nearby.

Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos) Map

Get directions to Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos) 

Most frequent asked questions

What is the location of Glaros beach?

Glaros beach is located in Kato Daratsos, a village in the municipality of Chania, on the island of Crete, Greece.

Is Glaros beach suitable for families with children?

Yes, Glaros beach is suitable for families with children as the water is shallow and calm, and there are lifeguards on duty during the summer season.

Are there any water sports activities available at Glaros beach?

Yes, there are water sports activities available at Glaros beach, including jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.

Is there a promenade or a boardwalk at Glaros beach?

Yes, there is a promenade at Glaros beach where visitors can take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the view of the sea.

Are there any restaurants or cafes near Glaros beach?

Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near Glaros beach where visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the view of the sea.

Is Glaros beach accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, Glaros beach is accessible for people with disabilities as there are ramps and special facilities available for them.

Is there a parking area near Glaros beach?

Yes, there is a parking area near Glaros beach where visitors can park their cars for a fee.

What is the water colour of the Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos)?

The water colour of the Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos) is blue.

What type of sand is found on the Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos)?

The Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos) has sand as its sand type.

How deep is the water at the Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos)?

The water at the Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos) is shallow.

What is the surface of the sea like at the Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos)?

The sea surface at the Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos) is usually wavy.

What is the crowd like at the Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos)?

The Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos) has normal crowds.

What facilities are available at the Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos)?

The Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos) has accommodation options, food/water nearby, umbrellas/beds, sports, lifeguard, and showers.

How can I access the Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos)?

The Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos) can be accessed through bus services and a paved road.

Is there any other information available about the Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos)?

No other information is available about the Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos).

Things to do near Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos)

Find below list of things to do near Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos):

  • Lazaretta

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.

  • Lazaretta

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.

  • Lazaretta

Explore the Old Port of Chania on Agioi Theodoroi and Lazaretta Island on a history-lover’s boat cruise. Learn about the history of Venetian occupation, and see a German plane wreck from WWII. Take time to relax on the beach and swim.
This activity takes you to two islands connected with ancient mythology and the history of the Venetian occupation. Heading west from the Old Port of Chania, your first stop will be Agioi Theodoroi, an island that was used historically to defend the coast of Crete.
Nowadays, it’s a protected area and haven for kri-kri, an elegant and endangered Cretan goat. Your group will drop anchor close to a German airplane wreck (completely destroyed) dated from WWII, and give you the opportunity to dive into the water to see it for yourself.

After approximately 20 minutes, you’ll head on to the second stop on the same island, inside a small gulf with a nice view and a high possibility of seeing the kri-kri goats. The duration of this stop will be approximately 30 minutes.
Head on to Lazaretto (or Lazaretta) island, a small island opposite Nea Xora. Clear waters rich in marine life combined with two beautiful sandy beaches make this the best place to end your trip.
Enjoy options to swim or relax on the beach until the boat leaves back for Chania. On the way back, you’ll get panoramic views of the Old Venetian Harbour with its famous lighthouse and walled fortresses—an excellent view of what the city looks like from the sea.

  • Lazaretta

Grab a paddleboard and journey to the secluded island of Lazareta on this SUP trip from Chania. Experience a water activity that is easy and suitable for everyone. An instructor will teach you the basics of stand-up paddle boarding so you’ll feel confident during the trip.
After learning the basics, follow your instructor to the picturesque oasis, the island of Lazareta, located in front of New Chora beach in the center of Chania. Discover the small beaches of the island and hear about the history that dates back to the Venetian period in the 16th century.
You’ll have time to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters and see a variety of fish. While you’re relaxing in the sun, you can enjoy the breathtaking view above the town, where the White Mountains open wide and big behind.

  • Chania

Enjoy an adventure on a semi-submersible boat, immersed in nearly 1.5 meters of water. This modern version of a glass-bottom boat can accommodate up to 12 passengers and 1 crew member. Enjoy views of the sea bottom while looking through large glass windows, safe and dry in your comfortable seat.

See marine life, such as the loggerhead sea turtle, bottom feeders, and a variety of fish. Take in panoramic views of the old harbor with its original Venetian structures and its lighthouse. Within the 35 minutes of the tour, you spend about 25 minutes going all around the old port, and 10 minutes more outside of it (until the rocky wave thruster).

Join this incredible journey on a semi-submarine vehicle for a closer look at the magical underwater world. Gain a better understanding of the significance of the sea environment.

  • Chania

Embark on a guided hike in the Samariá Gorge on a day trip from Rethymno or Chania. Get your daily dose of exercise, enjoy the panoramic views and take a swim.

Discover the longest gorge in Europe, an area of stunning natural beauty. See its many flowers and herbs and the crystal-clear spring waters that flow from the mountains.

Following an early morning pickup from the nearest point to your accommodation in Rethymno or Chania, travel through the mountains passing the plateau of Omalos.

Arrive at some wooden stairs at the start of Samariá Gorge. You can opt to start the walk straight away or get some breakfast at the taverna before you begin. Hike for approximately 6-7 hours and experience the magnificent landscape on a 16-kilometer walk.

Once you have finished the hike, there will be ample time for a swim and lunch at a taverna in Agia Roumeli.

Stays near Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos)

Find below the list of hotels near Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos):

  • 10 / 10
  • Ir. Avgoula

Boasting sea views, Isalos Seafront Villa I Sea fragrance features accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around a few steps from Glaros Beach. This beachfront property offers access to a terrace, free private parking and free WiFi.

This air-conditioned villa has 3 bedrooms, a satellite flat-screen TV, a dining area, a kitchen with a dishwasher, and a living room. Towels and bed linen are offered in the villa.

The villa offers a barbecue. Guests can enjoy the outdoor swimming pool and garden at Isalos Seafront Villa I Sea fragrance.

Popular points of interest near the accommodation include Kalamaki Beach, Iguana Beach and Municipal Garden. The nearest airport is Chania International, 17 km from Isalos Seafront Villa I Sea fragrance, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

from

€63

/night

    • 50 m
    • 9 / 10
    • Saridaki Zois 5

    Alisahni Home 1 is a beachfront property located in Kato Daratso, 60 metres from Glaros Beach and 600 metres from Kalamaki Beach. It has a terrace, garden views and free WiFithroughout the property.

    The apartment with a balcony and sea views features 1 bedroom, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a toaster, and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are featured in the apartment.

    Snorkelling and fishing can be enjoyed nearby.

    Popular points of interest near the apartment include Iguana Beach, Municipal Garden and Fransiscan Monastery of Agios Fragkiskos. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 17 km from Alisahni Home 1.

    from

    €94

    /night

      • 80 m
      • 9.6 / 10
      • Saridaki Zois 3, 73100 Galatas

      Alisahni Villa & Suite features quiet street views, free WiFi and free private parking, located in Kato Daratso, 60 metres from Glaros Beach.

      The apartment provides guests with a terrace, inner courtyard views, a seating area, a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and a private bathroom with walk-in shower and a hair dryer. A toaster, a fridge and stovetop are also provided, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.

      Snorkelling can be enjoyed nearby.

      Popular points of interest near Alisahni Villa & Suite include Kalamaki Beach, Iguana Beach and Municipal Garden. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 17 km from the accommodation.

      from

      €135

      /night

        • 80 m
        • 10 / 10
        • Glaros Beach, Agioi Apostoloi

        Located within the Agioi Apostoloi district in Kato Daratso, Glaros Luxury Villa has air conditioning, a balcony, and garden views. It features a garden, mountain views and free WiFithroughout the property.

        The villa is equipped with 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.

        The villa offers a hot tub. Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at Glaros Luxury Villa.

        Popular points of interest near the accommodation include Glaros Beach, Iguana Beach and Kalamaki Beach. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 18 km from Glaros Luxury Villa.

        from

        €89

        /night

          • 90 m
          • 9.1 / 10
          • Kato Daratso

          Just 50 metres from Glaros Beach in Kato Daratso, the whitewashed Astra is set amidst a flower-and-tree garden. It offers self-catering accommodation and a snack bar with outdoor area. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.

          All studios and apartments open to a garden-view balcony and offer a seating area and safe. Each has a kitchenette with a fridge, cooking hobs and coffee maker.

          Astra Apartments Hotel is located 4.5 km from Chania Town with its Venetian lighthouse. Souda Port is around 12 km and Daskalogiannis International Airport is 18 km away. Free public parking is possible on site.

          from

          €45

          /night

            • 100 m
            • 9.5 / 10
            • Glaros Beach

            Iolkos Hotel Apartments is 50 metres away from the sandy Glaros Beach in Kato Daratso. It features self-catered accommodation with free Wi-Fi and a balcony overlooking the Cretan Sea or the garden. Restaurants and shops are within a 3-minute walk.

            A kitchenette with cooking facilities, fridge and coffee maker is included in all the air-conditioned units at the Iolkos Hotel Apartments. Each comes with a satellite TV and safety box.

            Staff can arrange car rental to explore the beaches of Chrisi Akti and Agioi Apostoloi within a 5-minute drive. The scenic town of Chania is just 6 km away. Chania Airport is at 20 km while Souda Port is at 12 km. The bus to Platanias and Agia Marina stops only 50 metres from the Iolkos.

            from

            €54

            /night

              • 110 m

              Beaches near Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos)

              Find below list of beaches near Glaros beach (Kato Daratsos):

              • 540 m
              Kalamaki beach – Chania is located 0.5 km away.

              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.

              • Kalamaki beach - Chania
              • Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue
              • 660 m
              Agii Apostoli beaches is located 0.7 km away.

              The Agii Apostoli, also known as the Holy Apostles, is home to two breathtaking beaches situated merely 3km west of Chania. The first beach, nestled next to the eastern edge of Glaros beach, boasts soft sand, full amenities, and ample parking, making it easily accessible. The beach is shielded from winds by a small peninsula to its west, which also houses a picturesque park ideal for leisurely walks and the iconic chapel of the Holy Apostles, the namesake for the surrounding area.

              A stone’s throw to the east, a second equally enchanting semicircular cove emerges, featuring stunning green-hued waters and fine sandy beaches. The awe-inspiring rock formations that flank the beach only add to its allure. Adjacent to the eastern end of this beach, a small pine grove stretches out towards Chrissi Akti.

              Both coves can be accessed either by bus from Chania or by foot. Additionally, Agii Apostoli is perfect for cyclists and pedestrians alike, thanks to the expansive paved road. With an array of high-grade hotels nearby, accommodation options are plentiful in the area.

              • Agii Apostoli beaches
              • Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue
              • 1.3 km
              Chrissi Akti beach is located 1.3 km away.

              Situated 2.5km west of Chania city and just east of Agii Apostoli, you’ll find the glistening Golden Beach, or Hrissi Akti as it’s known in Greek. It’s essentially two sandy beaches separated by a rocky outcrop. The western cove is the primary Golden Beach, while the eastern one is the quieter Aptera beach. The west bay is the more popular of the two, boasting excellent facilities such as umbrellas, lifeguards, showers, cafes, water sports and more. Its fine golden sand and shallow waters are particularly appealing to families with young children, and there’s even a playground nearby.

              Aptera beach, on the other side of the rocky divide, offers a more tranquil experience. It’s less developed and has the remnants of the Aptera Beach hotel which was abandoned in the late 90s due to financial difficulties. This beach is perfect for those looking for solitude and is conveniently close to Chania.

              The entire Agii Apostoli area is dotted with small parks filled with pine and eucalyptus trees. Access to Golden Beach is easy, either by bus from Chania or by foot.

              • Chrissi Akti beach
              • Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue
              • 2.4 km
              Lazaretta islet is located 2.4 km away.

              Lazaretta islet, situated across Nea Chora, functioned as a leprosarium for the Venetians in the 17th century, similar to most islets in Crete’s cities. Its moniker is derived from Lazarus, whom the Roman Catholic Church recognizes as the lepers’ patron saint.

              Historically, it has been identified as a burial site, presumably for patients, and the site still exhibits the remnants of buildings that the Turks demolished in 1645 to install a sizeable cannon to assist their siege of Chania’s stronghold at the harbour entrance. In certain areas, fragments of bombs dropped during the German military operations in World War II can still be observed.

              The islet is home to a Saint Nicholas shrine, constructed by a local man in 1954. This man suffered a sunstroke on the island but was able to swim to Nea Chora and survive. The island features a small sandy beach, favored for snorkeling and often visited by local diving schools and seafaring tour boats. In the 1950s, long-distance competitive swimmers frequently selected Lazaretta as their starting point for races, with the inner harbour of Chania serving as the finish line.

              • Lazaretta islet
              • Rocks in places, Sand
              • Shallow

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