- Region
- Apokoronas, Chania
- Distance
- About 25 km from Chania
- Beach
- Pebbles and stones
- Facilities
- None
The cove
Koutalas is small and secluded, with pebbles, stones and a lively rocky sea bed. Sea urchins are common, so wear water shoes.
Divers and snorkellers come for the clear water and the rocky coast nearby; others come for a quiet swim far from sunbeds.
Getting there
From Kokkino Chorio take the dirt road north towards the cape. A steep track drops to the cove with room for only about six cars, so most people park at the top of the hill and walk down a short way.
Bring water and snacks; the nearest tavernas are in Kokkino Chorio and Plaka, or in Almyrida, less than 5 km away.
The Elephant Cave
Nearby is the Elephant Cave, a partly submerged sea cave with red and white stalactites, named after fossil elephant bones found inside. It is visited by divers on guided trips, not by casual swimmers.
Questions before you go
How do I get to Koutalas beach?
Drive the dirt road north from Kokkino Chorio, then walk or drive down the steep track; parking at the bottom is very limited.
Are there facilities at Koutalas?
No. Bring water, snacks and shade.
Can you swim to the Elephant Cave?
It is a diving site, best visited on a guided dive with a Chania-area dive centre.
