Marathi beach

These images are powered by

Situated 17km east of Chania and 5km east of the Creta Naval Base in Souda Bay, Marathi beach can be found on the southeastern coast of Akrotiri. The beach is a well-known resort in the Chania area, drawing a large number of visitors each summer, particularly families and the elderly.

Marathi boasts two exquisite sandy beaches with shallow, calm waters, perfect for children. These beaches are well-shielded from wind due to their southern orientation and offer a stunning view of the Drapanos Cape and the White Mountains. A small pier, which serves as a harbor for fishing boats and small ferries, separates the two beaches. The area is well-equipped with all essential amenities for a comfortable visit.

Opposite Marathi beach, about 500m away, lies the small island known as either Marathi or Palia Souda (Paleosouda). One can swim to reach the island, which is home to a small pine forest. Its western coast is steep, making it a popular destination for scuba divers.

Venturing northwards along the beach road, you will stumble upon the ruins of the Roman town known as Minoa, believed to have been a seaport city of Aptera. The archaeological site, also referred to as the Small Palace of Minos (although it doesn’t date back to the Minoan Times), reveals remnants of buildings and baths likely related to an ancient harbor, military facilities, and a mansion. Notably, a semicircular wall can still be seen on the beach.

Heading northwest from here, after passing a section of the beach frequented by ducks, we come upon the church of St. Spyridon. This spot offers a beautiful seascape perfect for wedding or christening ceremonies.

In contrast, if we head southwest from the port, we reach the end of the harbor’s pebbly beach known as Sosorides. This beach is a local favorite, known for its serene, unfussy atmosphere. Sosorides can be accessed via a paved road that begins a few meters before Marathi when approaching from Chania.

Marathi beach Map

Get directions to Marathi beach 

Most frequent asked questions

What is Marathi beach?

Marathi beach is a beautiful beach located on the eastern coast of the Greek island of Crete.

What is the best time to visit Marathi beach?

The best time to visit Marathi beach is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny.

Is Marathi beach suitable for swimming?

Yes, Marathi beach is suitable for swimming as the water is clear and calm.

Are there any water sports activities available at Marathi beach?

Yes, there are water sports activities available at Marathi beach, including jet skiing, paddleboarding, and snorkeling.

Is there any accommodation available near Marathi beach?

Yes, there are several accommodation options available near Marathi beach, including hotels, apartments, and villas.

Is Marathi beach family-friendly?

Yes, Marathi beach is family-friendly as it has shallow waters and a playground for children.

Are there any restaurants or cafes near Marathi beach?

Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes near Marathi beach, serving traditional Greek cuisine and international dishes.

Is Marathi beach accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, Marathi beach is accessible for people with disabilities, with wheelchair ramps and accessible toilets available.

What is the water colour of the Marathi beach?

The water colour of the Marathi beach is blue.

What type of sand is found on the Marathi beach?

The Marathi beach has sand.

How deep is the water at the Marathi beach?

The water at the Marathi beach is shallow.

What is the surface of the sea like at the Marathi beach?

The sea surface at the Marathi beach is usually calm.

What is the crowd like at the Marathi beach?

The Marathi beach has normal crowds.

What facilities are available at the Marathi beach?

The Marathi beach has accommodation options, food/water nearby, umbrellas/beds, sports, lifeguard, showers, and a Blue Flag.

What are the access options for the Marathi beach?

The Marathi beach can be accessed by bus services, paved road, and is handicap friendly.

Is there any other information available about the Marathi beach?

No, there is no other information available about the Marathi beach.

Things to do near Marathi beach

Find below list of things to do near Marathi beach:

  • Marathi Bay

From Marathi, you can visit the beaches of Seitan Limania, Kalami, Kalyves, Almyrida, Kera and almost all the bay of Souda. We will of course give you a detailed briefing on where to go, which places to visit, where the best beaches are etc (and also where to be careful of rocks!) upon arrival (we will show you on a local map, there is also the same map on the boat). We will then also give you a detailed briefing on the boat and show you how everything works.

  • Marathi Bay

Navigate Marathi and Loutraki’s calm waters on the northwest side of Chania. Get up on your paddle board and follow your guide to breathtaking coastal locations. Admire incredible rock formations, and enjoy the chance to swim in the refreshing crystal-clear water.
Suitable for anyone above the age of 15 years old, in this tour we teach the basic paddling techniques, how to turn, stop and stand up until our guests grow confident on their boards, while for the connoisseurs of SUP, we offer tips and tricks to advance their skills!
We then start our aquatic adventure within our small, wind-shielded bay, colouring our guests’ time with us, with the most vivid Greek blue.
This guided tour takes a route along the scenic waterfront of Marathi Bay, giving you 360° views of imposing rock formations, inviting you to dive into the transparent, bright sea and teach you all about the fascinating yet fragile Mediterranean ecosystem.
We often spot sea turtles, and we always see a variety of sea urchins, native as well as invasive fish.
In this 2 hours venture, full of surprise elements, you will have ample time to swim, sunbathe, talk, make new friends, take pictures and videos and just relax under the Cretan sun!
It is so easy! Let this innovative, fun and playful tour be the highlight of your vacations!

  • Marathi Bay

Join us on a Fully Private Sail, ALL INCLUSIVE east out of the bay past a Venetian Fortress standing for 800 yrs on the waterline, on a small uninhabited island, a treasure of history with excellent photography. Anchor to take a refreshing jump-in swim and some unique photos at the pebbled beach of the scenic white chapel of A’giannis.

Follow the coast on the wind and marvel at views of the Ottoman fort high up on the hills and the fort of the Idjedin prison just below it. Continue past the seaside villages of Kalyves and Almyrida, around the Isle of Karga before reaching the lighthouse on the peninsula of Drapano. Again, if the gods of the winds are with you the boat will anchor in a tiny, secret cove for another quick swim.

The wind will dictate if the boat sails northeast to a very small cove with beautiful sandy waters or otherwise northwest around another small island to a beautiful lagoon. Either way, the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) will be in view, serving as the backdrop to the cruise. After dropping anchor, enjoy a swim or snorkel and play in crystal clear turquoise waters while a freshly cooked Cretan/Spartan 3 course lunch is prepared with Greek specialties, local homemade ingredients, sauttéed vegetables, fresh salad, mama’s olives, goat cheese and fresh bread with wine and beer to refresh with dessert of fresh local yogurt with sweet fruits.

Following a relaxing meal sail back to the port as the sun starts to set, arriving back by around 5:30 PM. Even if you’ve never sailed before, have a go at taking control of the boat with expert supervision for a roughly 30 nautical mile trip.

  • Souda Bay

Sail with us from Kolimvari Port along the gorgeous north coast of Chania on our large and comfortable sailing yachts and discover the island of Agioi Theodoroi, home of the famous Kri-Kri goats.
Our journey begins from the port of Kolimvari.
As we start, after a short safety briefing, you can admire the beautiful coastline and enjoy the feel of sailing.
About 1 hour later we arrive to our swim stop in the beach of Agioi Theodoroi island where you can enjoy the crystal waters and our water activities such as snorkeling and stand-up paddle boarding. While at anchor in the bay our crew will be happy to offer you any piece of equipment for our water activities and serve you plentiful drinks so, please don’t hesitate to request it from them.
About 2 hours later our delicious Mediterranean menu is served and includes Greek salad and several appetizers, while the main course is shrimp pasta (we also offer vegetarian and gluten free versions of the menu upon request). You can also accompany your meal with the finest wine, beer, ice tea or soft drinks. For dessert you can taste our special fruit mixture of local and tropical fruits. About 1 hour later we will set sails to head back to the port after a day full of great memories.
You can choose between the morning or the afternoon cruise with the sunset view.

  • Souda Bay

This private tour unfolds the history behind the battle of Crete in Chania: A certified Historian/ Archaeologist specializing in Contemporary History is ready to guide you through the line of events that led to the Battle of Crete and the mysteries of the Archaeological remains of the battlefields.

We start our tour at the Airport of Maleme, a site that was of vital importance for the Axis forces, and played a crucial role during World War Two. A tour of hill 107 is being carried out, as well as a visit to the German War Cemetery. We stand in grief, due to the sheer size of human losses and afterwards we visit two different abandoned German lockouts in an undisclosed location.

A visit to a private war museum lets us understand how the battle was being carried out, and we learn about unknown facts about the battle of Crete due to our Historian Guide’s expertise and rare archive photos that were found after tedious research.

The British Commonwealth Nations (Such as Australia, New Zealand and Great Britain) played a vital role in the Battle of Crete, and we pay great respect to our allies, by visiting the British Commonwealth Allied Cemetery. We learn about the history of the allied cemetery in Souda Bay as we overlook the spectacular views of the bay on which “Lest We Forget”* is a common phrase.

A small coffee/ lunch break at a beautiful riverside with overgrown vegetation will help us to talk about questions and inquiries. Afterwards, we continue our tour to an undisclosed location to inspect battlefield Archeology and the untouched history of the Battle of Crete to an abandoned German Bunker. We learn about the daily war routine, as well as the military equipment, regimes and ammunition used by both the Axis Forces and the Allies during the second world war.

  • Souda Bay

Discover the hidden gems and secret beaches of Souda Bay and Akrotiri, with the brand new 5.50 walkaround boats, built in 2023, with engines
YAMAHA 30/40 Hp.

Travel with your family or friends and enjoy the crystal blue-green waters and the sandy beaches that will encounter you on your way.

We provide you with snorkeling equipment and gear for fishing, waterproof cameras to take underwater pictures, and fridge to store your food and drinks.

You do not need a license to drive the boat.

The ANTONIS BOATS team will provide you with useful information and instructions to familiarize yourself with the areas and the boat so that you’ll be ready for your cruise.

We can also provide you with a captain upon request.

The boats have all the necessary safety equipment (according to the law) and meet all the requirements to have a safe trip. They also have satellite tracker for extra security and life vests.

Our boats have a maximum capacity of 6 people and are suitable for friends, couples and families with children.

You can charter the boat for a 4-hour or 7-hour cruise.

Send us a message and we hope to see you on board soon!

Stays near Marathi beach

Find below the list of hotels near Marathi beach:

  • 10 / 10
  • Marathi Chania

Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, Villa Palena is located in Chania Town. This property offers access to a balcony, pool at the pool table, free private parking and free WiFi.

The villa is equipped with 7 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with pool views.

The wellness area at the villa is comprised of a sauna, a hot tub and a hammam. Guests at Villa Palena can enjoy table tennis on site, or cycling in the surroundings.

Loutraki Beach is 1.4 km from the accommodation, while The Holy Monastery of Agia Triada is 7.6 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 4 km from Villa Palena.

from

€115

/night

    • 220 m
    • 9.1 / 10
    • Μαράθι

    Boasting mountain views, Seaside, relaxing family house with playground! Villa Lavrys 4 features accommodation with a patio and a coffee machine, around 2.1 km from Loutraki Beach. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony, ping-pong, free private parking and free WiFi.

    The holiday home features 2 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.

    The holiday home offers a picnic area. A outdoor play equipment is also available at Seaside, relaxing family house with playground! Villa Lavrys 4, while guests can also relax in the garden.

    The Holy Monastery of Agia Triada is 8.2 km from the accommodation, while House-Museum of Eleftherios Venizelos is 15 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 4 km from Seaside, relaxing family house with playground! Villa Lavrys 4.

    from

    €119

    /night

      • 340 m
      • 9.6 / 10
      • Μαράθι Χανιά

      Boasting mountain views, Seaside, relaxing family house with playground! Villa Lavrys 3 offers accommodation with a patio and a coffee machine, around 2.1 km from Loutraki Beach. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony, ping-pong, free private parking and free WiFi.

      The villa has 2 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.

      The villa offers a picnic area. A outdoor play equipment is also available at Seaside, relaxing family house with playground! Villa Lavrys 3, while guests can also relax in the garden.

      The Holy Monastery of Agia Triada is 8.2 km from the accommodation, while House-Museum of Eleftherios Venizelos is 15 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 4 km from Seaside, relaxing family house with playground! Villa Lavrys 3.

      from

      €119

      /night

        • 350 m
        • 9.6 / 10
        • Kato Marathi Chania 73100 Villa

        Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, sea view and a balcony, Seafront Villa Longobardi is situated in Chania Town. This beachfront property offers access to a terrace, free private parking and free WiFi.

        Boasting a DVD player, the villa has a kitchen with a dishwasher, an oven and a microwave, a living room with a seating area and a dining area, 4 bedrooms, and 3 bathrooms with a walk-in shower and a bath. Towels and bed linen are available in the villa.

        The villa offers a barbecue. If you would like to discover the area, diving, fishing and hiking are possible in the surroundings and Seafront Villa Longobardi can arrange a car rental service.

        Loutraki Beach is 1.3 km from the accommodation, while The Holy Monastery of Agia Triada is 7.5 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 4 km from Seafront Villa Longobardi.

          • 690 m
          • 9.2 / 10
          • 35°29'51.8"N 24°09'59.7"E

          Offering a terrace and garden view, Cap Bleu Seafront Holiday Home is located in Marathi, 7.3 km from The Holy Monastery of Agia Triada and 14 km from House-Museum of Eleftherios Venizelos. The air-conditioned accommodation is 300 metres from Loutraki Beach, and guests benefit from complimentary WiFi and private parking available on site.

          The apartment with a patio and sea views features 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 1 bathroom with a shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the apartment.

          A car rental service is available at the apartment.

          Archaeological Museum of Chania is 15 km from Cap Bleu Seafront Holiday Home, while Saint Anargyri Church is 16 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International, 5 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

          from

          €213

          /night

            • 990 m
            • 9.5 / 10
            • Loutraki

            Located in Marathi, Mare Nostrum Villas I features a restaurant and a beach bar. It offers villas with private pools and views over Souda Bay. Free WiFi is available throughout.

            The villas will provide you with a TV, air conditioning and a balcony. There is a full kitchen with a dishwasher and a microwave. Private bathrooms come with a bathtub or shower and free toiletries.

            Guests benefit from discounted rates at the restaurant and beach bar of Mare Nostrum located on Loutraki Beach, just 30 metres away.

            Activities in the surrounding area include snorkelling and canoeing. Souda Airport is located 5 km from the property. Free private parking is available on site.

              • 1.1 km

              Beaches near Marathi beach

              Find below list of beaches near Marathi beach:

              • 1.1 km
              Loutraki beach is located 1.1 km away.

              The coastal retreat of Loutraki can be found 16km to the east of the city of Chania, nestled near the American military base in Souda. Loutraki, along with the nearby Marathi, are the two primary tourist hotspots in the eastern region of Akrotiri.

              Loutraki boasts a tranquil beach with fine, soft sand and crystal clear, shallow waters, making it an ideal spot for children. The beach is well-maintained and equipped with all the standard tourist facilities, all under the cool shade provided by the trees along the beach. Visitors can hire umbrellas, dine in local taverns, rent rooms for their stay, and partake in a variety of water sports.

              Additionally, there is a large parking area available for visitors, which is shaded by tall eucalyptus trees.

              • Loutraki beach
              • Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue
              • 5.0 km
              Kalami beach is located 5.0 km away.

              The village of Kalami is situated 15km to the east of Chania city, nestled on the southern shore of Souda Bay and in close proximity to Megala Chorafia village. It boasts a breathtaking panorama of the bay and Souda fort. Moreover, it’s near the ancient city of Aptera and the Turkish forts of Intzedin and Aptera.
              A mere 500m north of the village, a delightful beach adorned with rounded pebbles and deep water is found. At the beach’s east end, there’s a small harbour housing various boats. The beach is a favourite spot among the locals, although it’s yet to be fully organized. There are a handful of umbrellas and tamarisk trees scattered about. The village and the surrounding region offer a few accommodation and dining options.

              • Kalami beach
              • Fine Pebbles, Sand
              • Normal
              • Blue
              • 5.6 km
              Seitan Limania Beach is located 5.6 km away.

              Seitan Limania beach (which translates to “satan harbours”), is situated 22km northeast of Chania and 2km east of the village of Chordaki. This intriguing location is on the eastern side of Akrotiri Cape. Named Seitan Limania due to the untamed landscape, steep cliffs, and powerful sea currents perceived as dangerous, it features three parallel, narrow, well-sheltered coves.

              The northern cove is home to the breathtaking Stefanou beach, with its deep, azure waters. The beach is decorated with fine pebbles and sand, carried from a nearby quarry through the Diplohahalo canyon. To the right and left of the cove, towering marble rocks stand guard, protecting the beach from inclement weather. Its reputation has grown quickly since 2010 when an asphalt road made it more accessible; during peak season, it can get crowded, so arriving early is advised.

              How to get to Seitan Limania beach

              The road leading to Seitan Limania beach is a bit curvy and steep, but it should not be a problem for those who have driven on mountain roads before. The road has been recently paved, and during the drive, one can enjoy the natural beauty of Crete. The asphalt road descends abruptly and ends at a parking area near the beach. It is essential to put the handbrake on when parking the car and use stones to secure the tires.

              To reach the beach, park the car near the church of Agios Spyridon and walk for 10-15 minutes down the path. Wearing trainers is recommended as the path can be slippery, and flip-flops should be avoided.

              Seitan Limania beach does not have any amenities, which is why it is not crowded, but it is essential to bring water (at least a litre per person), sunscreen, towels, food, drinks, and entertainment such as headphones or a book.

              The beach is magnificent, with soft sand and crystal clear blue waters, and one can also encounter friendly goats.

              • Stefanou beach
              • Fine Pebbles
              • Deep
              • Deep blue
              • 5.8 km
              Kalives beaches is located 5.8 km away.

              The coastal resort of Kalives is situated 19km west of Chania, along the southern edge of Souda Bay. This charming village is nestled in a verdant valley where several rivers meander. Its name, which translates to “Huts” in Greek, is thought to have originated from the primitive structures erected by farmers for summer overnight stays. The rivers of Xidas and Mesopotamos flow near the village’s eastern boundary. The combination of these rivers with the sea’s many springs results in a cooler sea temperature.

              Adjacent to the Xidas river, both east and west, are two sandy beaches with shallow waters, exposed to northern winds. Named Xidas and Maistrali respectively, these beaches are well-equipped with standard tourist amenities. A petite, picturesque bridge at Xidas river’s mouth connects these two beaches. The scenic harbor of Kalives neighbors Maistrali and is connected to Chania through regular bus services. The area also houses banks, post offices, clinics, shops, and more.

              North of Kalives, at the mouth of the Kiliaris river, lies the serene beach of Kiani Akti or Glaros. The Kiliaris river, which carries water from the White Mountains, maintains a year-round flow, a rarity in Crete. This results in cooler seawater near the river.

              Kalives’ geographical position and fertile soil have made it a place of habitation since ancient times. It is believed to be the location of the ancient city Amfimatrion. Notable historical events include the construction of the Castel Apicorno fortress in 1206 and the village’s destruction by the pirate Barbarossa in 1538. The village is also close to the ancient city of Aptera and the Ottoman forts of Intzedin and Aptera.

              The harbor houses a German cannon concealed in a cave on the other side of a mountain. A small window at the tunnel’s end offers breathtaking views of the cliffs and sea. This is merely one example of the German defensive structures scattered across the broader Apokoronas and Akrotiri Cape area.

              Visitors are encouraged to stroll through the village’s picturesque narrow streets, eventually reaching the village’s central square, home to a large plane tree and the Agia Paraskevi church. The church, adorned with frescoes, was constructed during the German Occupation in World War II.

              An old Venetian mill, one of Crete’s most complex, is located along the Mesopotamos river. Built from stone and kourasani (a mixture of mortar and ground tile), it is renowned for its durability.

              • Kalives beaches
              • Sand
              • Shallow
              • Blue

              © All rights reserved. Crete Locals