Seitan Limania Beach

The basics

Seitan Limania Beach is hidden at the base of a canyon and easily overlooked—the beach is less than 65 feet (20 meters) wide, so is easy to miss. Despite its size and seclusion, it’s becoming more and more popular, so visit early or in the off-season. A 20-minute walk down the canyon’s walls gets you to the beach, where you’ll feel inclined to believe in Greek gods—this spot is truly heavenly.

Things to know before you go

• There are no facilities at the beach—be sure to bring water and make a restroom stop beforehand.

• The path down to the beach is easy to decipher but steep and slick. Wear shoes with good traction.

• Taxis can get you here, but it’s expensive. It’s easiest to have a rental car.

• The parking lot is on a hill; use your e-brake to make sure your car doesn’t slide.

How to get there

Seitan Limania Beach is about 13 miles (22 kilometers) from Chania, one of Crete’s three main towns and the hub of the island’s northwest side. The parking lot at the top of the cliff that hides Seitan Limania Beach at its base—find it just past Saint Raphael Church, in northeast Chania. From the parking lot, the beach is visible (and great for photographs) and you’ll see a rocky path down. Most folks take 15–20 minutes to trek carefully down the canyon wall to the sand.

When to get there

Seitan Limania Beach is growing in popularity, and since it’s so small with limited parking, crowds can be an issue. To get this idyllic spot more to yourself, come early in the morning or during spring, fall, or winter. If you do visit in summer, consider visiting toward the end of the day to catch the late-evening sunset.

It’s the GOAT

While this beach may be the “Greatest Of All Time,” it’s also got actual goats—the animal. They won’t harm you, but they will steal your food. If you’re bringing snacks, make sure they’re in a tough, resealable container that isn’t easily tampered with. And though it should go without saying, don’t mess with or feed them. Just let them star in your photos.