- Region
- Platanias coast, west of Chania
- Distance
- 9 km west of Chania
- Beach
- Long sand, shallow water
- Facilities
- Sunbeds, lifeguards, showers, Blue Flag
The beach
The seafront is a chain of connected sandy beaches. At the western end small artificial piers break the waves; to the east the sand runs unbroken toward Stalos. The seabed is shallow and sandy, which suits children on calm days.
Because the coast faces north, the summer meltemi can bring waves and occasional currents. Lifeguards are posted on the main stretches; check the flags.
Thodorou islet
The rocky island opposite is Thodorou (Agioi Theodoroi), a protected reserve for the Cretan wild goat, the kri-kri. Landing is prohibited, so enjoy it as the view that frames every sunset from the beach.
Staying in Agia Marina
The resort strip has hotels, apartments, beach bars and tavernas, and the coastal road carries frequent buses into Chania. That makes Agia Marina a practical base if you want sand on the doorstep and the old town 20 minutes away.
Sea turtles nest on this coast between May and September. Keep away from marked nests and do not leave umbrellas or rubbish on the sand overnight.
Nearby
A small folklore museum lies about 600 m from the beach. In Platanias, 1.8 km west, you can visit German tunnels dug during the Second World War.
Questions before you go
Is Agia Marina beach good for children?
Yes on calm days: the sand is soft and the water shallow. On windy days the north-facing shore gets waves, so stay near the lifeguards.
Can you visit Thodorou island?
No. Thodorou is a protected reserve for kri-kri goats and landing is prohibited.
Is there a bus from Chania to Agia Marina?
Yes. Frequent KTEL buses run along the coast road west of Chania through Agia Marina to Platanias and beyond.
