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Macherida, a small beach, is situated 14km northeast of Chania and 1km west of Chorafakia village, in close proximity to Tersanas. Its name is derived from the Greek word “machairi” meaning “knife,” inspired by the knife-like appearance of a rocky cape at its northern end. Another theory suggests it was named after the Gladiolis italics flower, known as “macherida” in Greek.
The bay, facing southwest, is typically calm. At the heart of the bay lies a beautiful beach with white sand and turquoise water, enclosed by sharp rocks. The water clarity here is exceptional due to the sea currents that frequently change direction, sweeping away any rubbish. While the beach isn’t developed, there has been some residential construction in the vicinity in recent years. Macherida beach, with its seclusion, is a popular spot for nudists and is one of the preferred beaches for the gay community in Chania.
The surrounding coastline serves as a unique habitat for various wild species. Close to the main road, amidst the rocks, is the Macherida pond that resembles a crater with saltwater springs. This provides a sanctuary for water snakes, turtles, and seagulls. The city bus route to Stavros passes through Tersanas and runs close to Macherida beach.
Maherida Beach is located in the Akrotiri peninsula, about 20 km northeast of Chania, Crete.
Yes, Maherida Beach is suitable for swimming. However, visitors should be aware that there are no lifeguards on duty.
The best time to visit Maherida Beach is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny.
No, there is no natural shade available at Maherida Beach. Visitors are advised to bring their own umbrellas or sunshades.
Yes, there is a small parking area available near the Maherida Beach. However, it can get crowded during peak season.
No, there are no restaurants or cafes near Maherida Beach. Visitors are advised to bring their own food and drinks.
Yes, Maherida Beach is suitable for families with children. However, visitors should be aware that there are no facilities available for children, such as playgrounds or changing rooms.
Yes, there are several hotels and apartments available near Maherida Beach, in the nearby villages of Stavros and Kalathas.
The water colour of the Maherida Beach is turquoise.
The Maherida Beach has white sand.
The water at the Maherida Beach is shallow.
The sea surface at the Maherida Beach is usually calm.
The Maherida Beach is usually quiet.
The Maherida Beach has accommodation options and food/water nearby.
The Maherida Beach can be accessed through bus services and a paved road.
Yes, the Maherida Beach is nudism friendly.
The Maherida Beach is ideal for snorkeling and spearfishing.
Find below list of things to do near Maherida Beach:
Classic Sail Yacht 40feet long*
Full Day PRIVATE Cruise out of the old venetian harbor of Chania
Check in: 10am
Check out: 5pm
Description: A Sailing cruise around the gulf of Chania will give your vacations a different view of the city! We set sails every morning at 10am in the Old Venetian Harbour of Chania making a cruise around the gulf of Chania. We will make two stops, anchoring for swimming and relaxation, one at the nearby island of Ag.Theodori which is a protected area of “Natura” as it hosts many birds as well as the wild Cretan goat named “KRI-KRI”, and the second stop will be in a secluded beach named “Maherida” and has beautiful turquoise waters. During the stops we will offer you traditional Cretan snacks, season fruits, drinks from the open bar and of course lunch that will be prepared onboard. snorkelling equipment will be provided as well to those who wish to explore the seabed!!! At about 5pm we will be back to the old Venetian port for disembarkation!!!
Destination: Sailing around the gulf of Chania making stops for swimming and relaxation, anchoring at Maherida bay and the nearby island of Ag.Theodori.
Icluded: snacks (Cretan traditional dakos), fruits, drinks (soft drinks, beverages, wine and bottled water) and lunch onboard (home-made cooked, based on the local Mediterranean cuisine)
Must have: Have with you, your swimsuits, sea towels and your very best mood. Leave the rest to us!!!
*Maximum participation 8people
We start our van tour from Chania at the pick up point that we have both agreed on. We then start going towards Ag. Triada the first monastery that you will be able to visit. You can spend some time there and then we continue our tour to Gouvernetou Monastery where you can also have the chance to visit and buy local products from the monks. You can even follow a path called The Bear’s Path that leads you to a cave. It’s quite interesting and you will be delighted by the view of the sea! Then, upon request, we can even take you to Marathi beach or Seitan Limani for a swim or eat at the local restaurants.
Start your trip to Elafonissi Beach with a convenient pickup from your accommodation in Chania. Then, sit back and enjoy the views as you make your way towards the southwestern part of the island.
Once you arrive at your destination, you get to choose how to spend your free time here. Lie back and soak up the sun on the beach or go for a walk and admire the rare flowers that grow in the sand dunes.
Explore the lagoon that connects the tiny islet to dry land and take advantage of the SUP board and snorkeling equipment included in your day trip. (SUP is available from May the 1st).And if you’re feeling parched, enjoy some of the complimentary water, juice, and fresh fruit provided.
Finally, once your day at the beach comes to an end, hop back aboard your private vehicle for a comfortable return journey to your accommodation in Chania.
We are an authorized company employing professional drivers for your safety and comfort. We primarily handle transfers to and from the airport, but we also cater to private excursions and transportation for weddings or other events. Our drivers are trained to serve you with professional courtesy. Our mission is to provide discreet, quality transportation with a driver at competitive prices, managing all requests with a high level of responsibility and responsiveness, whether it’s a simple transfer from the airport/port or a multi-day exclusive VIP transfer. Upon your arrival at the airports or ports of Crete, our driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals exit to offer you cool and refreshing water. They will escort you to the vehicle and provide you with wet wipes. You can then sit comfortably and enjoy the journey to the hotel. Our vehicle is equipped with USB and Type-C ports, as well as free Wi-Fi.
We are an authorized company employing professional drivers for your safety and comfort. We primarily handle transfers to and from the airport, but we also cater to private excursions and transportation for weddings or other events. Our drivers are trained to serve you with professional courtesy. Our mission is to provide discreet, quality transportation with a driver at competitive prices, managing all requests with a high level of responsibility and responsiveness, whether it’s a simple transfer from the airport/port or a multi-day exclusive VIP transfer. Upon your arrival at the airports or ports of Crete, our driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals exit to offer you cool and refreshing water. They will escort you to the vehicle and provide you with wet wipes. You can then sit comfortably and enjoy the journey to the hotel. Our vehicle is equipped with USB and Type-C ports, as well as free Wi-Fi.
Make the most of your time in Chania and discover the wonders of the Old City on this Segway tour through the Kasteli and Splantzia districts. Meet your friendly guide at the local partner’s office and get kitted out with the necessary Segway gear then set out onto the charming streets of Chania where adventure awaits.
Head into the Eastern part of Chania’s Old City and discover the remainders of the Ottoman rule as you explore the Turkish neighborhoods here. Glide along traditional cobble streets and narrow alleys while learning about the fascinating history of the districts throughout the ages. Along the way, see the most iconic sights and landmarks, including the impressive Venetian walls and Koum Kapi.
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Find below the list of hotels near Maherida Beach:
Boasting a beachfront location, Tersanas Beach Lodges is located in Tersanas village. It offers self-catering accommodation and free WiFi in all areas. Terzana Beach lies within 350 metres and Stavros Beach is 2 km away.
Overlooking the Cretan Sea, all air-conditioned studios at Tersanas Beach Lodges open out to a balcony. Each includes a TV and a kitchenette with hobs, fridge and coffee machine. A safe and iron are also provided. The private bathroom features a shower or bath.
The scenic town of Chania is 14 km away and Souda Port is at a distance of 5 km. A small, family and naturist friendly beach is found 10 meters from the property. Machairida naturist beach can be found within 150 meters from the property. Free private parking is provided in the premises.
from
€49
/night
Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, Lake and Sea Villa is set in Tersanas. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The villa has 5 bedrooms, 5 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 barbecue. If you would like to discover the area, cycling is possible in the surroundings and Lake and Sea Villa can arrange a car rental service.
Maherida Beach is 300 metres from the accommodation, while Tersanas Beach is 700 metres from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 7 km from Lake and Sea Villa.
from
€45
/night
Set in Tersanas and only 500 metres from Maherida Beach, Villa Afeidia offers accommodation with mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking. The property was built in 2021 and has air-conditioned accommodation with a patio.
The villa with a terrace and sea views features 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 2 bathrooms with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are featured in the villa.
The villa offers a hot tub. Guests can enjoy the infinity pool and garden at Villa Afeidia.
Tersanas Beach is 1.2 km from the accommodation, while Sunset Beach is 2.4 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 8 km from Villa Afeidia.
Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a pool with a view, pool view and a patio, What a view villa!!! is located in Chania Town. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The villa is equipped with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
A continental breakfast is available daily at the villa.
A kids pool is also available at What a view villa!!!, while guests can also relax in the garden.
Maherida Beach is 700 metres from the accommodation, while Tersanas Beach is 1.4 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 8 km from What a view villa!!!.
from
€385
/night
Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, Villa Aliki is situated in Chania Town. This property offers access to a balcony, ping-pong, free private parking and free WiFi.
The villa features 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
The villa offers a barbecue. A car rental service is available at Villa Aliki, while cycling can be enjoyed nearby.
Maherida Beach is less than 1 km from the accommodation, while Tersanas Beach is a 18-minute walk from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 8 km from Villa Aliki.
from
€194
/night
Featuring a terrace with unobstructed Cretan Sea views, Villa Kiara is a self-catering accommodation located in Livadi Village. Tersanas Beach is within 20 metres, while free WiFi access is available in all areas.
The modern villa includes a spacious living room with a fireplace and flat-screen TV. There is a kitchen with a dishwasher, a microwave and dining area. An extra bathroom is also included.
A restaurant is just 20 metres away, and grocery stores and cafes are 1 km from Kiara. Souda Airport is located 6 km from the property. Free private parking is possible on site.
from
€224
/night
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Find below list of beaches near Maherida Beach:
Tersanas is a charming coastal village situated 13km northeast of Chania, tucked away in a small cove on the west side of Cape Akrotiri. While it serves as the harbour for the neighbouring village of Chorafakia, Tersanas is a well-developed area and a popular holiday destination.
The beach at Tersanas is nestled within a natural harbour that faces southwest. With its white, fine sand and crystal-clear shallow waters, it’s a small beach that can get crowded, especially on weekends. Visitors can take advantage of the available sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and snack bars. Its calm waters and proximity to tourist facilities make it perfect for families, and there are buses from Chania that stop at Tersanas.
The seaside village of Kalathas is located 12km northeast of Chania city, in a natural bay at Cape Akrotiri, which is open to the north winds. Current Kalathas is a relatively new village, which has been inhabited by residents of Chania who wanted to live away from the city centre.
The beach in front of the village is beautiful, with fine sand and shallow crystal clear water. Opposite Kalathas, there is a small island which you can easily reach by swimming.
The beach is very well organized with umbrellas, water sports, restaurants, hotels, lifeguards, mini markets, etc.
West of the main bay, beyond the rocky end, there is a secluded sandy bay. This is not organized and is ideal for those who do not like crowded places.
Tip: If you continue towards the far right of the beach, you will find a rather remote beach with usually hardly any people should you wish to avoid the crowded part of the beach.
Stavros beach is situated 17km northeast of Chania on the farthest point of Cape Akrotiri, is known for its distinct, camel-shaped mountain, Vardies. This towering landmark gained recognition in the film “Zorba the Greek” as the backdrop for Anthony Quinn’s iconic Sirtaki Dance in 1964. Once a quaint fishing hamlet, Stavros has since transformed into a bustling tourist hub, complete with numerous hotels and top-tier tourist facilities. The area’s popularity is further boosted by its two stunning beaches.
The primary beach lies to the village’s east, nestled at the base of the Vardies mountain and adjacent to the scenic harbour. It forms a protected, semi-circular lagoon with pristine white sands and shallow, turquoise waters. The contrast between the rugged mountain and the tranquil beach provides a unique and enchanting swimming experience. As anticipated, the beach is well-equipped with all the necessary amenities.
200 meters northwest of the main beach, you’ll find Stavros’ secondary beach, a mix of sandy stretches and rocky areas. It’s less developed and cleaner than its counterpart, but its exposure to the elements can lead to wavy seas. The peninsula separating the two beaches holds historical significance, housing remnants of an ancient quarry that provided limestone for Chania’s Venetian-era Walls (13th- 17th century).
Beyond beaches, Stavros offers an array of other services including accommodation, eateries, mini markets, shops, cafes, and regular bus connections to Chania city.
Agios Onoufrios, a serene seaside village located 8km north of Chania and close to Kounoupidiana, is a hidden gem worth visiting.
The beach of Agios Onoufrios is quiet and sandy, and well protected from the winds, as it is located in a deep bay, along with a picturesque small port. Although not well-organized, it’s a popular spot for locals who come for the picturesque landscape and traditional taverns. The only downside is the fuel tanks located northwest of the beach, which break the peaceful atmosphere.
Despite this, the beach is equipped with sunbeds, parasols, showers, changing rooms, and a lifeguard service. For sports enthusiasts, there are two volleyball courts available. Overall, Agios Onoufrios is a great destination for those looking for a quiet beach away from the crowds.
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