Ilingas Beach: A Secluded Beach near Sfakia in South Crete!

Ilingas Beach is a small, secluded beach located 1 kilometre (0.6 miles) west of Chora Sfakion in the southern part of Chania, western Crete. Nestled at the end of Kavi Gorge, Ilingas Beach features crystal-clear turquoise waters that create a soothing ambience, perfect for relaxation and water activities. One of the remarkable aspects of Ilingas Beach is its natural beauty and surroundings. Surrounded by big mountains and with a backdrop of scenic landscapes, Ilingas Beach offers breathtaking views that captivate visitors.

Ilingas Beach caters to a variety of interests and preferences. Whether lounging on the shore, taking a refreshing swim in the calm waters or exploring the underwater world through snorkelling, there is something for everyone. The beach’s clarity and calmness make it an excellent spot for snorkelling, allowing visitors to discover a vibrant array of marine life beneath the surface.

For those seeking shade from the sun, a couple of caves are located on the eastern side of the beach. These caves offer a natural refuge and a chance to cool down while admiring the beauty of the surroundings. Additionally, the beach provides loungers, umbrellas, showers and toilets, ensuring comfort and convenience for beachgoers.

Access to Ilingas Beach is relatively easy, with a short, easy-to-walk paved road leading from the main road connecting Chora Sfakion with Anopolis. The beach is also conveniently located near various accommodations, allowing visitors to enjoy a relaxing beach getaway. Nearby attractions such as Chora Sfakion, Frangokastello Beach and Glyka Nera Beach offer additional options for exploration and sightseeing.

Find below a table with the main features of Ilingas Beach.

What is Ilingas Beach?

Ilingas Beach is a coastal gem located 1 kilometre (0.6 miles) west of Chora Sfakion in the southern part of Chania. The name “Ilingas” derives from the gorge leading to the beach. Nestled at the end of Kavi Gorge, this beach features stunning waters and a blend of gravel and pebbles.  Its crystal-clear, calm waters create a soothing atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and aquatic activities. Additionally, Ilingas Beach is known for being nudism-friendly, attracting naturist lovers. Its remote location and the lack of crowds make it an appealing destination for those seeking a peaceful escape. The beach offers several amenities, including loungers, umbrellas, a beach restaurant, showers and toilets. One of the highlights of Ilingas Beach is the presence of two caves along the shoreline, providing shelter from the blazing sun. Visitors can explore these caves, adding an element of adventure to their experience. With its breathtaking scenery, inviting waters and the opportunity for snorkelling and spearfishing, Ilingas Beach offers a unique and memorable coastal retreat in Crete.

Where is Ilingas Beach located?

Ilingas Beach is located in the southern part of Chania, in western Crete. It is approximately 74 kilometres (46 miles) from Chania City and is a 1.5-hour drive from Rethymno. The beach stretches on the coast of Crete Island and the easiest way to get to the beach is by car or bike. If this option is not applicable, the second best solution is to use a taxi to drive directly to the beach, however it can be expensive, especially if staying far away from the beach. Public transport is also possible, but in this case, visitors need to check the correct route to Ilingas Beach with the locals. Consider that the bus stop is usually at some distance and access to the beach requires travelling on foot.

How does the Ilingas Beach Map look?

Find below on the image a map of Ilingas Beach.

What are the activities at Ilingas Beach?

Ilingas Beach offers a range of activities to enjoy during the visit. One of the main activities is swimming in the crystal-clear blue waters. The calm and inviting nature of the water creates a soothing mood, perfect for a refreshing dip. Additionally, snorkelling is a popular activity at Ilingas Beach. The underwater world is captivating, with lively marine life and clear visibility. Exploring the underwater wonders through snorkelling allows visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the area’s marine ecosystem. Furthermore, for hiking lovers, there are opportunities to embark on scenic hikes in the surrounding areas. The nearby Kavi Gorge, which leads to the beach, provides an adventurous hiking experience amidst breathtaking natural landscapes.

When is the best time to visit Ilingas Beach?

The best time to visit Ilingas Beach is during the late spring, summer and early fall months. These months offer ideal weather conditions for enjoying the beach and the crystal-clear waters of South Crete. The late spring (May and June) and early fall (September and October) provide pleasant temperatures, with warm and sunny days perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The summer months (July and August) are the peak tourist season in Crete, including Ilingas Beach. During this time, the beach may be more crowded as tourists flock to the island to enjoy the beautiful weather and coastal attractions. If a less crowded experience is preferred, visiting Ilingas Beach during the late spring or early fall months would be a better choice. The weather is still favourable, but there tend to be fewer tourists, allowing visitors to enjoy the beach in a more relaxing setting.

What are the nearby attractions in Ilingas Beach?

Listed below are the best attractions near Ilingas Beach:

• Chora Sfakion: Chora Sfakion is a charming coastal village just 1 kilometre (0.6 miles) east of Ilingas Beach. Chora Sfakion features a harbour, traditional taverns serving local cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere. It is also a popular starting point for hiking and exploring the surrounding areas.
• Frangokastello Beach: Frangokastello beach is situated approximately 17 kilometres (10.5 miles) west of Ilingas Beach. Frangokastello Beach is famous for its Venetian castle, Frangokastello, which overlooks the beach. The beach features soft golden sand and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.
• Glyka Nera Beach: Glyka Nera Beach is also known as Sweetwater Beach. Glyka Nera is located approximately 3 kilometres (1.8 miles) west of Ilingas Beach. It is known for its unique feature of freshwater springs emerging from the pebbles, allowing visitors to enjoy refreshing dips in both freshwater and seawater. Impressive cliffs surround the beach and offer stunning natural beauty.
• Kavi Gorge: Kavi Gorge is located on the island of Crete in Greece. It is situated west of the coastal village of Chora Sfakion, cutting through the Lefka Ori mountains. At the southern end of Kavi Gorge is Ilingas Beach, which sits at the mouth of the gorge. Ilingas is known for its turquoise waters, white pebbles, and impressive sea caves. Kavi Gorge provides easy access to Ilingas Beach via a short walking path from the main road connecting Chora Sfakion and Anopoli. Ilingas is considered one of the most beautiful and accessible beaches in southern Crete thanks to its location at the exit of Kavi Gorge.
• Samaria Gorge: Samaria Gorge is the most famous gorge in Crete, located in the regional unit of Chania. It was created by a river running between the White Mountains and Mt. Volakias. The name “Samaria” comes from the small church of Ossia Maria, built in 1379. The gorge is 16 km long and 150 m wide, making it a breathtaking natural wonder. It is home to over 450 species of plants and animals, making it a World Biosphere Reserve. Samaria Gorge has a rich history, serving as a natural defense during the Greek War of Independence. It has become a popular tourist attraction and a Greek National Park since 1962.
• Loutro: Loutro is a remote seaside village located 71km south of Chania. The ancient city of Phoenix was situated in Loutro. Later, it was popularly known as the ‘winter’ port for Chora Sfakion, as the small island at its entrance and enclosed bay created a natural harbor for the ships to take refuge during bad weather conditions. It has a small beach right in front of it and a long beach to the east side called Keramos. The beaches are amazingly well-organised and calm. Moreover, one can visit close by beaches of Likos, Finikas, and Marmara.
  
• Marmara beach: Marmara beach is located along the southern coast of Crete, in Greece. The beach is 167 km away from the island’s capital, Heraklion, and 94 km from Chania. There is one taverna in the area; otherwise, it’s mostly just locals and tourists. Marmara beach is the perfect place to have a relaxing time and take in the stunning view of the coastline. Situated on the edge of a cliff, the beach offers visitors a chance to relax in the sun or take a dip in the clear blue waters. Marmara beach has no roads leading into or out of it, and the only two ways to get to the beach are on foot or by boat.
• Filaki beach: Filaki beach is a gorgeous pebble beach is one of the official nudist beaches in the island of Crete. It is located 3 kilometers away from the village of Chora Sfakion, this beach is the crown jewel of the south coast of Crete. The beach boasts sheer magnificence with its rock formations found under the water. Filaki Beach is a perfect naturist beach for you to enjoy your day and soak in that sun.
• Ammoudi beach: Ammoudi beach offers serenity and basic tourist facilities. It is alternatively called Sfakiano Ammoudi, due to the proximity to Sfakia village. Ammoudi beach is located 75 kilometres from Chania and 1.5km from Chora Sfakion. This area is famous for its several pebble beaches adjacent to each other. If you are staying in Chora Sfakion, you can easily take a small walk to the beach. The second-best option you can go for is calling a taxi. You’ll have more time flexibility, and tourists can avoid overcrowded buses, especially during the high season.
• Agios Charalambos beach: Agios Charalambos beach is located on the south coast of Crete, in Chania region. It is a small beach with crystal clear waters and white sand. The beach is surrounded by a small cove and a few rocks, making it a great spot for swimming and snorkelling. Agios Charalambos beach can be found 1.5 kilometres east of Chora Sfakion and 75 kilometres south of Chania. Due to the large number of beaches adjacent to each other in this area, it is easily accessible via public transport too.

How do you get to Ilingas Beach?

To reach Ilingas Beach, visitors have two options. The first option is to take a boat from Chora Sfakion, which is situated about 1 km east of the beach. Daily boat services are available, connecting Chora Sfakion to nearby beaches like Loutro, Glyka Nera and Agia Roumeli. The boat ride lasts approximately 10 minutes and costs around 5 euros per person. Alternatively, visitors can choose to walk from Chora Sfakion. There is a short and easy-to-walk paved road that starts from the road connecting Chora Sfakion with Anopolis. The walk offers picturesque views of the sea and the mountains and takes about 20 minutes to reach the beautiful Ilingas Beach.

The second option is to reach Chora Sfakion with a rental car, visitors can drive east on the main road, passing through charming villages and scenic landscapes. They should follow the signs guiding them to Chora Sfakion, where parking areas are available to safely leave the rental car. Driving in Crete offers visitors a chance to admire the mountains and olive groves, so they should drive carefully and enjoy the adventure. Renting a car provides the opportunity to explore the region at their own pace and make the most of their visit to Chora Sfakion.

What are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete?

Listed below are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete.

• Insurance: Car rental insurance is important, as it protects a passenger against the cost of damage when renting a car. Crete car rental includes insurance for collision damage waiver and a driver’s credit or debit card is required as a guarantee.
• Driver’s age: The legal age requirement when driving in Crete is 18. The driver must have a valid driving licence and essential documents like an ID or passport.
• Driver’s gender: Both women and men can drive in Crete. As long as the driver is of the legal age of 18, driving is permitted in Crete, regardless of gender.
• Car type: Travelling with groups or family members requires a much bigger car. Car rental companies in Crete offer a variety of vehicles to choose from. Selecting a smaller car is best when driving in Crete. The reason for that is that some Greek roads are narrow. The car type is one important factor in how to choose the right car to rent in Crete.
• Documents needed for renting a car: One important document required for renting a vehicle is a valid driving licence. A credit or debit card may also be presented, including a passport or an ID card.

How much does a car rental in Crete cost?

Crete is best travelled using a rented vehicle. Tourists may quickly get to Crete’s top destinations using a rented car. Crete car rental costs vary depending on the number of persons, itinerary, car type, destination and duration. Crete’s average car rental price is around €30 to €40 per day. A car rented for a whole week will cost an average of €250. Renting a vehicle for the weekend will cost around €78. Crete car rental rates differ depending on the car type. Car rental companies offer a variety of cars depending on customers’ liking. Most car rental shops in Crete provide an online booking system whenever customers want to book a car. Simply follow the process and instantly book a vehicle on their website. Before availing of a rental car service in Crete, check and secure all the requirements.

How much does it cost to get to Ilingas Beach?

Ilingas Beach does not have an admission fee, which is free for all to access. However, certain amenities may incur additional costs. If renting sunbeds and umbrellas, they may have a rental fee of around 3 to 5 euros. Additionally, if planning to dine at the beach restaurant or purchase food from nearby stalls, the cost is typically €10 to €20, depending on the individual preferences and choices. Parking at Ilingas Beach is available directly on the beach and may have a parking fee. It’s advisable to check with the parking attendant or signage at the location for any applicable parking charges.

Where to stay near Ilingas Beach?

Listed below are the best hotels to stay near Ilingas Beach:

• Ilingas Hotel: Ilingas Hotel offers everything guests need for a comfortable stay, including clean rooms, delicious food and a pleasant environment. The staff is super nice and friendly, making guests feel welcomed. Ilingas Hotel is easily accessible by car, with good road conditions and ample parking. Guests can even embark on a scenic 45-minute walking trip to Sweet Water Beach, following a trail by the cliff, but suitable walking shoes are recommended.
• Sofia’s Lovely Rooms: Sofia’s Lovely Rooms located in the central part of Chora Sfakion provides cosy accommodations with balcony or terrace options. Each unit is well-equipped with amenities like air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, fridge, electric kettle and more. The rooms come with a private bathroom featuring quality amenities. The accommodation also offers a serene private garden for relaxation. Vrisi Beach is just 100 metres away and Illingas Beach and Ammoudi Beach are both 2 kilometres (1.2 miles) away from the property.
• Xenia Hotel: Xenia Hotel is a few steps away from Vrissi Beach and less than 1 kilometre (0.6 miles) from Ilingas Beach. Xenia Hotel provides a private beach area and free Wi-Fi throughout the property, along with complimentary private parking. It offers family rooms and some units feature balconies with sea views. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast during their stay. Ammoudi Beach is 1.4 kilometres (0.8 miles) away and Chania International Airport is the nearest airport, located 70 kilometres (43.4 miles) from the hotel. An airport shuttle service is available for guests’ convenience.

Where to eat near Ilingas Beach?

Listed below are the best restaurants in and near Ilingas Beach:

• Ilingas Taverna: Located within Ilingas Hotel, Ilingas Taverna offers excellent food with a local flavor in a serene seaside setting. The food is home-cooked and has a great atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to escape tourist crowds. The staff is very pleasant and accommodating. The taverna provides plenty of vegetarian options for those who enjoy cheese. It has a large parking area that gets busy during peak hours but becomes empty in the evening when beachgoers leave. The taverna is wheelchair accessible as it is on the same level as the parking, with some manageable gravel.
• Girogiali Grill House: Girogiali Grill House is just 5 minutes away from Ilingas Beach, Girogiali Grill House offers excellent pita gyros, tsatsiki and Greek salad with generous portions. The cozy place has a nice sea view and the pita is super delicious. Vegetarian options are also available. The staff is friendly and the grill house is a cozy and kid-friendly spot to enjoy Greek food.
• Cafe Restaurant Ostria: Cafe Restaurant Ostria offers delicious and hearty meals at a reasonable price. The Chicken Souvlaki is a must-try and the overall quality of the food is unmatched. The service is amazing and the staff is attentive and friendly. Cafe Restaurant Ostria also boasts an artsy and crafty design with a unique and panoramic view that captivates visitors. If you happen to pass by this place, don’t miss the opportunity to dine there and experience the delightful food and ambiance.

Is Ilingas Beach worth visiting?

Yes, Ilingas Beach is worth visiting. Its mesmerising waters, picturesque views and calm ambience offer a truly captivating beach experience. The beach’s natural beauty, including the pebbles, crystal-clear water and surrounding mountains, creates a stunning backdrop for relaxation and exploration. Whether you prefer swimming, snorkelling or simply enjoying the serenity of the surroundings, Ilingas Beach provides a natural setting. Additionally, nearby attractions, such as Chora Sfakion and Frangokastello Beach, further enhance the appeal of visiting Ilingas Beach.

Is Ilingas Beach safe?

Yes, Ilingas Beach is safe for visitors. It is a popular beach destination in Crete and attracts locals and tourists. The beach is known for its calm and clear waters, making it suitable for swimming and water activities.

Do you need to book in advance to visit Ilingas Beach?

No, you do not need to book in advance to visit Ilingas Beach. It is a public beach that can be accessed freely without any prior reservation or booking. However, if planning to stay at nearby accommodations or dine at restaurants nearby, make reservations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. All the best beaches in Crete are accessible to visitors without any entrance fee.

Are children permitted at Ilingas Beach?

Yes, children are permitted at Ilingas Beach. The beach is open to all visitors, including families with children. It provides a family-friendly environment where children can enjoy playing in the sand, splashing in the calm waters and exploring the natural surroundings.

What visitors say about Ilingas Beach?

Ilingas Beach is consistently described as having stunningly crystal clear and blue waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Many Ilingas Beach reviews highlight the calm, relatively uncrowded atmosphere even during peak times, making it a great beach to relax at. The natural beauty of the rocky beach lined with caves that provide shade is frequently praised. People appreciate the convenience of easy parking and a hotel restaurant at the top of the beach for food and amenities. The service at the small beach bar built into a cave is complimented as friendly. Reviews indicate it’s an excellent beach for families and people of all ages with enough space that different groups can enjoy their own experiences. Words like “magical”, “hidden gem”, and “perfection” capture people’s delight in discovering and spending a day at this picturesque beach. The ease of access balanced with the feeling of an unspoiled, secluded paradise make Ilingas Beach a highly recommended destination for beachgoers seeking stunning natural scenery and a peaceful atmosphere.

What are the best activities to do in Crete?

In Crete, there are plenty of exciting activities to indulge in. One of the best ways to explore the island’s natural beauty is through hiking. With scenic trails like the famous Samaria Gorge and the majestic White Mountains, you can immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes. For those who prefer a different mode of transportation, cycling is a fantastic option. Rent a bike and pedal your way through picturesque villages, coastal roads, and countryside paths. If you’re looking for a unique experience, horseback riding allows you to discover the charm of Crete’s countryside, riding through olive groves, vineyards, and traditional villages.

Thrill-seekers can try their hand at rock climbing, with various climbing spots suitable for all levels of experience. Canyoning is another exhilarating activity, where you can descend through waterfalls, swim in crystal-clear pools, and marvel at stunning rock formations. For water enthusiasts, rafting offers an adrenaline-pumping adventure as you navigate through rapids. Bird watching is a popular activity in Crete, with a wide variety of bird species to spot in their natural habitats. Sailing along the coastline allows you to enjoy the island’s crystal-clear waters, secluded beaches, and breathtaking sunsets.

Exploring the hidden underground world of Crete through caving is a fascinating experience, with stalactites, stalagmites, and unique rock formations to admire. Sports enthusiasts can engage in activities like tennis, golf, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and scuba diving. For those seeking a different kind of thrill, air sports like paragliding and skydiving offer a unique perspective of the island.

During the winter months, you can even enjoy snow sports like skiing and snowboarding in the mountains of Crete. Embark on an off-road exploration adventure by renting a 4×4 vehicle and discovering the rugged terrain and hidden gems of the island. Don’t miss the chance to visit the charming old towns of Crete, such as Chania, Rethymno, and Heraklion, where you can wander through narrow streets, admire Venetian architecture, and soak in the rich history. Lastly, immerse yourself in the island’s ancient history by visiting archaeological museums and sites, where you can learn about the fascinating Minoan civilization and explore ancient ruins. With so many things to do in Crete to choose from, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

How was the preservation of Ilingas Beach?

Ilingas Beach is carefully preserved, maintaining its natural state and preserved beauty. The beach’s remote location and limited accessibility have helped minimise human impact and maintain its natural condition. The beach retains its natural charm with no commercial infrastructure or facilities in the immediate vicinity. Regular clean-up efforts by local authorities ensure that the beach remains clean and litter-free. Visitors are encouraged to play their part in preserving the beach by respecting the environment, taking their litter and leaving no trace behind.