- Region
- Kissamos area, west Chania
- Distance
- About 20 km from Chania
- Beach
- Sand and fine pebbles
- Facilities
- Some umbrellas, showers, lifeguard tower
The beach
The coast here runs almost unbroken from the Rodopos peninsula towards Chania, with stretches in front of Skoutelonas, Minothiana and Rapaniana villages. Rapaniana's part is sand mixed with fine pebbles, with clean water.
It is far quieter than the resort beaches nearer Chania. Loggerhead turtles nest along this coast, so watch out for marked nests in summer.
When to go
Like most of the north coast, it is open to the wind and often wavy. Pick a calm morning for the best swim.
Getting there and nearby
Access is by paved road from the old national road between Chania and Kolymbari. Kolymbari, 1.3 km away, has fish tavernas, a small harbour and the Gonia monastery; Tavronitis beach is about 2.5 km east.
Questions before you go
Where is Rapaniana beach?
About 20 km west of Chania and 4 km east of Kolymbari, on the coast below Rapaniana village.
Is Rapaniana beach busy?
No, it is usually quiet compared with the resort beaches closer to Chania.
Is Rapaniana sandy?
It is a mix of sand and fine pebbles.
