Marathi Beach
Chania, Crete
Comprising two sandy stretches extending from either side of a pier, Marathi Beach overlooks the vivid blue waters of Souda Bay and the White Mountains of Chania. The beach is well sheltered from the elements, meaning the waters are waveless and calm. Traditional tavernas near the sand serve fresh fish to hungry beachgoers.
The Basics
Marathi Beach is a prime sunbathing and swimming destination. Some Crete sightseeing cruises anchor at the beach, giving participants free time to stretch out on the sand, enjoy a typical Cretan meal at the nearby tavernas, or splash around in the shallow waters. Stand-up paddleboarding tours also pass through Marathi Beach, as do scuba diving tours, which typically focus on dive sites near the pine-topped island of Palia Souda, about 1,640 feet (500 meters) offshore.
Things to Know Before You Go
Marathi Beach is a must for families, with shallow, swim-friendly waters.
Sun umbrellas and loungers can be rented on the beach for a small fee.
Several beachside tavernas here serve traditional Cretan dishes and Greek fare.
How to Get There
Marathi Beach is situated on the Akrotiri peninsula on Crete’s west coast, about 11 miles (18 kilometers) from the city of Chania. Local KTEL buses travel between Chania and the beach several times a day during the summer season.
When to Get There
Marathi Beach is popular among local Greek families, who often flock here on the weekend. To see it at its quietest, go midweek instead. The best months to visit are between June and October, when the sea is typically warm enough for swimming.
Ancient Minoa
Northeast of the beach lies a small ancient archaeological site known as Minoa. Featuring ruins dating back to the Roman era, the site is thought to have been under the control of the ancient city of Aptera, situated on the far side of Souda Bay, and to have served as one of its two ports during ancient times.
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