Elafonisi, a few km south of Voulolimni

White Lake (Voulolimni): a natural sea pool near Elafonisi

Voulolimni, the 'White Lake' near Chrysoskalitissa: a calm natural rock pool connected to the sea, unorganised, a few km north of Elafonisi.

Photo: Elafonisi, a few km south of Voulolimni.

By TripToCrete · Updated 20 October 2026 · 2 min read

Quick answer: Voulolimni, often called the White Lake, is a natural rock pool about 1 km north-west of Chrysoskalitissa monastery, a few km north of Elafonisi. A narrow gap links it to the sea, so the water stays calm even on rough days.
Region
South-west Chania
Location
About 1 km from Chrysoskalitissa monastery
Type
Natural rock pool
Facilities
None
Elafonisi, a few km south of Voulolimni
Elafonisi, a few km south of Voulolimni.

What it is

Voulolimni is a crater-like basin ringed by jagged rocks, joined to the open sea by a narrow opening. It looks like a small lake beside the sea and is a sheltered place to swim when the west coast is wild.

There is no beach in the usual sense and no facilities. The rocks are sharp, so wear water shoes and take care getting in and out.

Getting there

Drive towards Chrysoskalitissa monastery on the road to Elafonisi; a short road leads almost to the shore near the monastery settlement. Park considerately and walk the last metres.

Combine it with

Visit Chrysoskalitissa monastery on its rock above the sea, then continue a few km south to Elafonisi. Tavernas in the Chrysoskalitissa area are handy for lunch.

Open the map location ↗

Questions before you go

Where is the White Lake in Crete?

Near Chrysoskalitissa monastery in south-west Chania, a few km north of Elafonisi.

Is Voulolimni calm when the sea is rough?

Usually yes, because it is enclosed and linked to the sea only by a narrow gap.

Do I need water shoes?

Yes, the edges are sharp rock.

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